Player Notes

Anthony Becht (Ari - TE)

Dec 14 - Becht was not targeted as a receiver on Monday.

Recommendation: Following a rare touchdown catch in Week 9, Becht has been targeted twice in five games. This is a good reminder that he is a minimal part of the Arizona offense.

Anquan Boldin (Ari - WR)

Dec 14 - Boldin caught five passes for 40 yards in Monday's loss at San Francisco. He also lost a fumble.

Recommendation: This wasn't the Cardinals' night -- they committed seven turnovers and starting quarterback Kurt Warner was under constant pressure. Boldin had 98 or more receiving yards in three of his previous four contests. We expect him to return to that form in Week 15 at Detroit and in Week 16 at home against the Rams.

Steve Breaston (Ari - WR)

Dec 14 - Breaston only made one reception for 15 yards in Monday's loss to the 49ers.

Recommendation: He received a decent number of targets (six), but that doesn't erase the fact that Breaston has produced very little over the last four weeks. He has six catches for 49 yards in those four contests and he is increasingly being marginalized by the Cardinals, who are relying more on the run and less on three-receiver sets.

Tim Castille (KC - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Tim Castille has 12 touches on offense for 50 yards since joining the team on Nov. 17. Castille figures to get more and more opportunities with the ball as the Chiefs try to limit the number of touches for Jamaal Charles.

Dec 13 - Castille had four carries for nine yards in Sunday's loss to the Bills.

Recommendation: Castille was the only running back other than Jamaal Charles to receive a carry on Sunday. There's no clear handcuff to Charles right now, but Charles is proving capable of handling a full workload.

Early Doucet (Ari - WR)

Dec 14 - Doucet made two receptions for a team-high 41 yards in Monday's loss at San Francisco.

Recommendation: He saw a little more playing time than usual because Larry Fitzgerald (knee) briefly left the contest. Fitzgerald returned to the game and, unless he is hurt more seriously than it appears, Doucet shouldn't play a large role in Week 15. Prior to Monday night, he only had nine catches for 102 yards this season.

Dec 14 - Doucet made two receptions for a team-high 41 yards in Monday's loss at San Francisco.

Recommendation: He saw a little more playing time than usual because Larry Fitzgerald (knee) briefly left the contest. Fitzgerald returned to the game, and unless he's hurt more seriously than it appears, Doucet shouldn't play a large role in Week 15. Before Monday night, he only had nine catches for 102 yards this season.

Larry Fitzgerald (Ari - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Larry Fitzgerald will be limited in practice this week and likely questionable for the game. Fitzgerald suffered a right knee sprain and bone contusion last week in San Francisco. He missed one series and an MRI reveal no structural damage to the knee. If Fitzgerald can't play, Steve Breaston will start, and Jeheme Urban likely will be activated.

Dec 15 - Fitzgerald (sprained right knee) will undergo an MRI on Tuesday, the Cardinals' official site reports.

Recommendation: He suffered the injury during Monday's game and only missed one series. It sounds like the Tuesday MRI is precautionary. We're optimistic that Fitzgerald will be able to play his normal role in Week 15 at Detroit.

Dec 15 - WR Larry Fitzgerald tweeted on Tuesday that his right knee is sore but undamaged. Fitzgerald suffered the injury in the third quarter but returned to action. He was scheduled to undergo an MRI on Tuesday to make sure there is no damage.

Dec 15 - Fitzgerald has a bruised bone and a sprained right knee, leaving his status uncertain for the Arizona Cardinals' game Sunday at Detroit.
Advice: The Cardinals said an MRI on Tuesday determined the extent of the injury but showed no more significant damage. Fitzgerald was hurt on the third play of the third quarter of Monday night's game at San Francisco when the 49ers' Dashon Goldson landed on his leg on a deep pass attempt. Fitzgerald was helped off the field, then went to the locker room. He returned to the game with 3:23 to play.

Dec 14 - Fitzgerald only made two catches for 22 yards in Monday's loss at San Francisco. He came out of the game briefly due to a sprained right knee, according to the ESPN game broadcast.

Recommendation: The fact that Fitzgerald returned to action bodes well for his Week 15 status. This simply wasn't the Cardinals' night. Starting quarterback Kurt Warner was under constant pressure and the Cardinals committed seven turnovers. We're expecting much better things in Week 15 at Detroit and in Week 16 at home against the Rams.

Dec 13 - Fitzgerald, who is averaging fewer than 65 receiving yards per game in his last five contests against San Francisco, could be in for better things on Monday because 49ers cornerback Nate Clements (shoulder) will not play this week, the Cardinals' official site reports.

Recommendation: Clements has done a pretty good job against Fitzgerald over the last three seasons and he usually gets help from a safety. Naturally, Clements' absence bodes well for Fitzgerald this week, but you would have to own an outstanding alternative to consider benching Fitzgerald this or any week. Despite the low yardage totals, Fitzgerald has five touchdowns in his last five games against the 49ers.

Tim Hightower (Ari - RB)

Dec 14 - Hightower (thumb) is active for Monday’s game against the 49ers.

Recommendation: Hightower will be part of the Cardinals’ usual timeshare with running mate Beanie Wells. San Fran’s stout run defense held Hightower to just 15 yards on eight carries in the first meeting, though he was able to hit them for 121 yards as a receiver.

Dec 14 - Hightower (right thumb) only carried twice for three yards in Monday's loss at San Francisco. He added two receptions for 13 yards. For a second straight week, Hightower lost a fumble in the first quarter.

Recommendation: His fumbling problems are significantly cutting into his workload. Hightower has fumbled five times this season and he has committed costly turnovers in back-to-back games. His teammate Chris Wells is also prone to fumbles (he also lost one on Monday), but Wells seems to be opening a lead over Hightower on the Cardinals' depth chart. Wells rushed 15 times for 79 yards and a touchdown on Monday and he added one reception for 24 yards.

Dec 12 - Hightower (thumb) fully participated in Saturday's practice, the Cards' official site reports.

Recommendation: He should be able to play on Monday night against San Francisco if you need him. Hightower has averaged 9.4 fantasy points per game over the last four weeks, so you can probably do better even in a flex spot for most leagues, especially when you consider that 110 of his 252 rushing yards during that span came against the Rams in Week 11.

Lance Long (KC - WR)

Dec 13 - Long had two catches for minus-6 yards and one carry for minus-1 yard in Sunday's loss to the Bills.

Recommendation: We're pretty sure it's not a good thing when you lose yards every time you touch the ball. Long can't be trusted in any format, especially with Dwayne Bowe set to return from suspension next week.

Ben Patrick (Ari - TE)

Dec 14 - Patrick was not targeted as a receiver on Monday.

Recommendation: He has four targets and three receptions for 57 yards and zero touchdowns in his last four games. This is a good reminder that Patrick and the rest of the Cardinals' tight ends are not a big part of Arizona's offense.

Leonard Pope (KC - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Leonard Pope got his highest level of attention in the Chiefs' passing game since he joined the team in early October. He caught four passes for 45 yards against the Bills, more action than the previous two games combined. Pope now has 15 catches for 115 yards on the season.

Dec 14 - TE Leonard Pope continues to increase his presence in the passing game, as he's now getting more than 90 percent of the snaps at the position with the first offense. QB Matt Cassel threw five times to Pope against Buffalo, and the tight end grabbed four balls for 45 yards. Pope now has 15 catches for 115 yards and a touchdown since joining the team.

Dec 13 - Pope had four catches for 45 yards in Sunday's loss to Buffalo.

Recommendation: Pope remains the Chiefs' top tight end, but he's been highly inconsistent this year, topping 20 receiving yards just twice. You can probably find a better option.

Neil Rackers (Ari - K)

Dec 16 - K Neil Rackers is expected to miss a game or two with because of a pulled right groin muscle. The injury has bothered Rackers for several weeks and he aggravated it last week against the 49ers. The Cardinals signed Mike Nugent to replace him temporarily.

Dec 15 - K Neil Rackers is struggling through a groin injury and the Cardinals might have to bring in another kicker later in the week. Rackers has tried to play through it but his kickoffs have lacked explosion and a 48-yard field goal barely cleared the crossbar.

Dec 15 - Rackers seemed limited by his groin injury during Monday's game, the Cardinals' official site reports.

Recommendation: Cameras caught him wincing during pregame warmups and his kickoffs were unusually short throughout the game. On the plus side, Rackers booted a season-long 48-yard field goal, so he was able to rise to that opportunity. It doesn't seem like there's much cause for concern here.

Dec 14 - Rackers (groin) is active for Monday’s game against the 49ers.

Recommendation: As expected, Rackers will be fine on Monday as the Cardinals look to lock up the NFC West.

Dec 14 - Rackers (groin) made a season-long 48-yard field goal in Monday's loss at San Francisco. His only extra-point try was blocked.

Recommendation: Rackers and the Cardinals will play in climate-controlled venues for the remainder of the regular season. He is a solid if unspectacular fantasy option; Rackers hasn't missed a field goal attempt since Week 2.

Dec 12 - Rackers (groin) was limited in practice for the third straight day on Saturday, the Cards' official site reports.

Recommendation: He'll be fine to kick on Monday night against the Niners, as he's officially listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 14.

Kurt Warner (Ari - QB)

Dec 15 - Warner threw two interceptions in the opening half after going 130 passes without a pick as Arizona lost 24-9 to San Francisco on Monday night.
Advice: Warner followed the best four-game stretch of his career with a dud _ going 16 of 29 for 178 yards and getting sacked four times. Warner joined Johnny Unitas as the only quarterbacks to post a passer rating of at least 120 in four straight games.

Dec 15 - QB Kurt Warner came up far short in his quest to finish with at least a 120 quarterback rating in five consecutive games, something no one has done in NFL history. Only Warner and Johnny Unitas did it four consecutive times. Warner had a passer rating of 44.9 last week against the 49ers.

Dec 14 - Warner completed 16-of-29 passes for 178 yards and two interceptions in Monday's loss to San Francisco. He also fumbled twice (one lost).

Recommendation: Warner committed six turnovers in Week 8 but bounced back with 12 touchdown passes and only one turnover in his next four games. That hot streak came to an end on Monday as Warner and the Cardinals looked out of sync all night. Overall, Warner remains a desirable fantasy option and he has two great matchups coming up (at Detroit and home versus St. Louis).

Beanie Wells (Ari - RB)

Dec 14 - Wells rushed 15 times for 79 yards and a touchdown in Monday's loss to the 49ers; he added one reception for 24 yards. On the downside, Wells lost a fumble in the fourth quarter.

Recommendation: For a second straight week, Wells' teammate Tim Hightower played sparingly after losing a fumble in the first quarter. Despite his own fumble (which continued a disturbing season-long trend), Wells seemed to open an advantage over Hightower on the Cardinals' depth chart Monday.

Dec 14 - Wells rushed 15 times for 79 yards and a touchdown in Monday's loss to the 49ers; he added one reception for 24 yards. On the down side, Wells lost a fumble in the fourth quarter.

Recommendation: For a second straight week, Wells' teammate Tim Hightower played sparingly after losing a fumble in the first quarter. Despite his own fumble (which continued a disturbing season-long trend), Wells seemed to open an advantage over Hightower on the Cardinals' depth chart on Monday.

Dec 12 - Wells seems to have fumbled six times this regular season, although he officially has three fumbles, according to the Cardinals' official site.

Recommendation: Wells and Tim Hightower, who are splitting carries roughly 50/50, have both had fumbling problems this season. That, along with their different styles and Arizona head coach Ken Whisenhunt's love of a two-back system, is preventing either player from gaining a significant advantage on the depth chart. The two players have very similar rushing stats this season (Wells has 517 yards on 121 carries and Hightower has 535 yards on 119 carries). Hightower seems to have an edge near the goal line (he has six touchdowns to Wells' four) and as a receiver (51 catches to Wells' nine). Hightower has fared better over the last two weeks (105 yards on 17 carries plus four receptions for 31 yards, compared with Wells' 21 carries for 48 yards and one reception for 21 yards).

Troy Bergeron (Atl - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Troy Bergeron was signed to the 53-man roster from the practice squad.

Dec 14 - WR Troy Bergeron, on the Falcons' practice squad, will likely take Brian Finneran's place on the roster. He's bounced back and forth from the practice squad to the roster.

Brian Finneran^IR (Atl - WR)

Dec 16 - Finneran was placed on injured reserve with a torn PCL, ending his season.
Advice: Finneran has long struggled with knee injuries. He played in 10 games this season after missing 2006 and 2007 because of knee injuries. Finneran had 11 catches for 111 yards this season.

Dec 14 - WR Brian Finneran suffered a knee injury against New Orleans on Sunday and was placed on injured reserve. Finneran tore the posterior cruciate ligament in his left knee. Finneran missed the 2006 and 2007 seasons after several surgeries on his right knee. He came back and played in all 17 games last season. He had 10 catches for 97 yards and also contributed on special teams this season.

Dec 14 - Finneran left Sunday's loss to the Saints with a knee injury after making a nice catch late in the third quarter, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Recommendation: Finneran had two catches for 25 yards prior to his exit. That yardage total was a season-high, which underscores why he is no longer on the fantasy radar.

Dec 14 - Finneran left Sunday's loss to the Saints with a knee injury after making a nice catch late in the third quarter, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports.

Recommendation: Finneran had two catches for 25 yards before his exit. That yardage total was a season-high, which underscores why he is no longer on the fantasy radar.

Dec 14 - The Falcons have placed Finneran (knee) on injured reserve, the team's official site reports.

Recommendation: Look for the Falcons to add some wideout depth in the coming days, with Finneran's status with the team going forward up in the air, as the four year-deal he signed in 2006 is up after this season.

Dec 14 - The Falcons have placed Finneran (knee) on injured reserve, the team's official site reports.

Recommendation: Look for the Falcons to add some wideout depth in the coming days, with Finneran's status with team going forward up in the air as the four year-deal he signed in 2006 is up after this season.

Tony Gonzalez (Atl - TE)

Dec 14 - Gonzalez made six catches for 50 yards in the Falcons' loss to the Saints on Sunday.

Recommendation: Typical work from Gonzalez, who continues to lead the Falcons in receptions with 75, and is second on the team to Roddy White with five touchdown passes. From the looks of things, Gonzalez has the potential to have many great years ahead with Atlanta.

Michael Jenkins (Atl - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Michael Jenkins has 43 receptions for 548 yards (12.7 avg.).

Dec 15 - WR Michael Jenkins (ankle) returned against the Saints and had three catches for 82 yards, including a 50-yard touchdown reception.

Dec 14 - Jenkins caught three passes for 82 yards and a TD in Sunday's 26-23 loss to the Saints.
Advice: Jenkins is third on the Falcons with 43 receptions. His career high is 53 in 2007.

Dec 14 - Jenkins (ankle) caught three passes for 82 yards, including a 50-yard touchdown, during the Falcons' loss to the Saints on Sunday.

Recommendation: Jenkins has had two good fantasy starts with Chris Redman as the starting quarterback. He may be worth another start next week if Matt Ryan (toe) sits out again, since it appears Jenkins has a seemingly better rep with Redman than with Ryan. You shouldn't be worried about his ankle injury either after that 50-yard scamper.

Dec 13 - Jenkins (ankle) is active for Sunday’s game against the Saints.

Recommendation: The Falcons need this game badly, so it’s no surprise that Jenkins will play despite his gimpy ankle. Although his last game was his best of the year (seven catches, 80 yards in Week 12 vs. Tampa Bay), he remains a marginal option best left for deeper leagues.

Dec 13 - WR Michael Jenkins posted his best receiving game of the season, finishing with three receptions for 82 yards and one touchdown. Jenkins' 50-yard touchdown is his longest since the 2008 season opener, when he took Matt Ryan's first career pass 62-yards for a touchdown against Detroit.

Dec 11 - Jenkins (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New Orleans, the Falcons' official site reports.

Recommendation: Jenkins has been productive over the last two weeks (13 catches), but he's still only a fringe option in most leagues, and the ankle injury doesn't make him any more appealing. Be sure to check back with us on Sunday if you plan to use him.

Ovie Mughelli (Atl - RB)

Dec 16 - FB Ovie Mughelli has five receptions for 44 yards.

Jerious Norwood (Atl - RB)

Dec 13 - Norwood and Jason Snelling will get the bulk of the workload for the Falcons on Sunday against New Orleans with Michael Turner (ankle) out.

Recommendation: The two backs split the workload fairly evenly last week, and we can expect to see a similar distribution on Sunday, with Snelling likely getting most of the goal-line work.

Dec 13 - Norwood had nine carries for 33 yards in Sunday's 26-23 loss to New Orleans.

Recommendation: Norwood failed to make a catch and was outproduced by Jason Snelling, who had 10 carries for 37 yards with a touchdown and four receptions for 65 yards. Norwood's speed is a tremendous asset, but he often isn't a great fantasy option because he doesn't get enough carries or any of the goal line work.

Chris Redman (Atl - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Chris Redman spread the passes around to eight different receivers against the Saints.

Dec 14 - QB Chris Redman, who had five passes batted down over his previous two games, didn't have one batted down pass against the Saints.

Dec 14 - Redman passed 23-of-34 for 303 yards, one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's losing effort to the Saints. He started for the second week in a row for the injured Matt Ryan (toe).

Recommendation: Redman came through on his sleeper status as the Falcons gave the undefeated Saints arguably their toughest test of the season. The Falcons are about out of the playoff picture at this point, so depending on what they wish to do with Ryan's injury, Redman may be back in action again next week against the Jets. Be sure to monitor Ryan's status throughout the week, but keep Redman on your roster if you're thin at quarterback.

Dec 13 - QB Chris Redman threw for 303 yards and connected with wide receiver Michael Jenkins for a 50-yard touchdown. The touchdown pass was the longest for Redman since he threw a 55-yarder in the 2007 season finale against Seattle.

Dec 13 - Redman will start Sunday against the Saints in place of the injured Matt Ryan.

Recommendation: There are reasons to like Redman as a sleeper this week: he’ll likely be playing from behind, and the Falcons figure to lean more heavily on the pass without the services of Michael Turner to lean on. But he’ll also be working against a ball-hawking Saints secondary, so use him with caution if you’re looking for a discount QB option.

Matt Ryan (Atl - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Matt Ryan (turf toe) is not likely to play for the third week in row. It normally takes turf toe injures 8 to 12 weeks to heal.

Dec 14 - QB Matt Ryan (turf toe) worked out with the trainers, but he has only been doing secretive work in closed walkthrough sessions.

Dec 13 - QB Matt Ryan (turf toe) was inactive for the second consecutive week against the Saints.

Dec 13 - Ryan (toe) is inactive for Sunday’s game against the Saints.

Recommendation: Ryan’s toe must be causing significant discomfort to force him out of a game the Falcons desperately need to keep their playoff hopes alive. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that team doctors strongly advised Ryan not to play, which essentially sealed the deal.

Dec 13 - Ryan (toe) is considered unlikely to start Sunday against the Saints, according to NFL.com's Jason La Canfora.

Recommendation: Barring a late change here, it looks Chris Redman will get his second consecutive start. Fortunately, for anyone who has to consider Ryan this week, the Falcons kick off early on Sunday.

Dec 13 - Ryan (toe) is inactive for Sunday’s game against the Saints.

Recommendation: Ryan’s toe must be causing significant discomfort to force him out of a game the Falcons desperately need to keep their playoff hopes alive. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports that team doctors strongly advised Ryan not to play, which essentially sealed the deal. CBS' Charley Casserly reported that Ryan is close to returning, however. If the Falcons stay in the playoff chase, that would help matters for Ryan owners.

Dec 11 - Ryan (toe) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Saints after missing practice all week, the Falcons' official site reports.

Recommendation: Ryan again went through the team's walkthrough on Friday, but did not practice. He'll be a game-time decision, so you'll need to check back with us Sunday morning if you are considering using him this week.

Jason Snelling (Atl - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Jason Snelling is getting plenty of action this season with iinjuries to Michael Turner (high right ankle sprain) and Jerious Norwood (concussion, hip flexor). Through 13 games, he has already set new career highs in carries (86), rushing yards (339), receptions (23), receiving yards (227) and total touchdowns (four rushing and one receiving). Against the New York Giants in Week 11, Snelling established a career-high with 76 yards on 25 carries (3.03 avg.). Snelling has a knack for making plays when he touches the ball. In his collegiate career at the University of Virginia, Snelling recorded 310 touches (235 rushing and 75 receiving), 115 of which went for first downs.That's an average of one first down for every 2.7 touches. He is producing similar results this season with the Falcons. In 109 touches (86 rushing and 23 receiving), Snelling has registered 36 first downs (24 rushing and

Dec 13 - RB Jason Snelling scored a touchdown on a 4-yard rush. It was Snelling's first score in three games and his fourth of the season.

Dec 13 - Snelling rushed for 37 yards with a touchdown and caught four passes for 65 yards in Sunday's 26-23 loss to New Orleans.

Recommendation: Snelling received 10 carries compared to nine for Jerious Norwood and was easily more effective as a pass catcher (Norwood did not have a reception). Snelling's touchdown came from four yards out and it's pretty clear that he'll be used at the goal line until Michael Turner (ankle) returns.

Dec 13 - Snelling and Jerious Norwood will get the bulk of the workload for the Falcons on Sunday against New Orleans with Michael Turner (ankle) out.

Recommendation: The two backs split the workload fairly evenly last week, and we can expect to see a similar distribution on Sunday, with Snelling likely getting most of the goal-line work.

Michael Turner (Atl - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Michael Turner (sprain high right ankle) re-injured his injured ankle against Tampa Bay. He will try to go at less than 100 percent after not playing the last two games.

Dec 14 - RB Michael Turner (ankle) worked out with the trainers Monday. He could be cleared to return to practice Wednesday.

Dec 13 - RB Michael Turner (ankle) was inactive for Sunday's game against New Orleans.

Dec 13 - Turner (ankle) is not expected to play Sunday against the Saints, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Recommendation: With Atlanta's playoff hopes hanging in the balance, the Falcons are expected to be without both Turner and Matt Ryan. We'll verify this news once the inactives are released, but look for Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling to handle the rushing duties.

Dec 13 - Turner (ankle) is inactive for Sunday’s game against the Saints.

Recommendation: In a game Atlanta likely needs to win to keep its playoff hopes alive, the Falcons will be without both Turner and Matt Ryan. Jerious Norwood and Jason Snelling will handle the running back duties.

Dec 13 - Turner is inactive for the Falcons' game against New Orleans on Sunday due to an ankle sprain.
Advice: With Turner out due to the nagging injury, Jerious Norwood will start in his place.

Dec 11 - Turner (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New Orleans after missing practice all week, the Falcons' official site reports.

Recommendation: Turner will be a game-time decision, so you'll need to monitor this one closely if you hope to use him. Fortunately, the Falcons play in the first wave of kickoffs, so you'll have time to make adjustments depending on his status.

Eric Weems (Atl - WR)

Dec 16 - Weems is facing a charge of driving under the influence last month near Atlanta.
Advice: Weems, from Ormond Beach, Fla., and Bethune-Cookman College, has six catches for 50 yards and two touchdowns. He is the team's top return specialist with 41 kickoff returns for 1,072 yards and 20 punt returns for 198 yards.

Roddy White (Atl - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Roddy White leads the team in receiving yards with 915 on 67 receptions (13.7 avg.). He also has a career-high eight touchdowns.

Dec 14 - White (knee) had just two catches for 41 yards in the loss to the Saints on Sunday.

Recommendation: White was a minor factor in a must-win game for the Falcons, but it doesn't appear that this nagging knee injury will keep him off the field. Unless there is a miraculous series of events, the Wild Card log jam created by the NFC East about takes the Falcons out of the playoff picture. Nevertheless, White is having another great season, and leads the Falcons with eight receiving touchdowns.

Dec 13 - White (knee) is active for Sunday’s game against the Saints.

Recommendation: White’s 127 targets are second only to Andre Johnson (130) in the entire NFL, making him one of the safest WR choices in fantasy football. Start him with confidence in a game the Falcons need desperately.

Dec 13 - White (knee) is active for Sunday’s game against the Saints.

Recommendation: White’s 127 targets are second only to Andre Johnson (130) in the entire NFL, making him one of the safest WR choices in fantasy football. Start him with confidence in a game the Falcons desperately need.

Dec 11 - White (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New Orleans, the Falcons' official site reports.

Recommendation: This is standard operating procedure for White. He's been on the injury report for weeks and hasn't missed a game.

Mark Clayton (Bal - WR)

Dec 13 - Clayton (knee) will not play Sunday against the Lions, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Recommendation: The report adds that Clayton's knee will be re-examined this coming week and could sideline him for another couple of weeks. As a result, Kelley Washington and Demetrius Williams should see additional playing time Sunday and perhaps beyond.

Dec 11 - Clayton (tweaked right hamstring) did not practice for the third consecutive day Friday and is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Lions, the Baltimore Sun reports.

Recommendation: He's too risky too use Sunday. As a result of Clayton's likely absence, look for Kelley Washington to see an expanded role opposite Derrick Mason this weekend.

Yamon Figurs (TB - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Yamon Figurs would handle the kick return duties if WR Sammie Stroughter is unable to play with a back strain.

Joe Flacco (Bal - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Joe Flacco continues to flourish at home. In seven games at M&T Bank Stadium, he has thrown eight touchdowns and four interceptions for a 96.3 passer rating.

Dec 14 - Flacco complete 13-of-20 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 48-3 drubbing of the Lions.

Recommendation: Flacco looked better in all aspects than he did last week, but against a woeful Detroit team it's difficult to say how good he really was.

Dec 14 - Flacco completed 13-of-20 passes for 230 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's 48-3 drubbing of the Lions.

Recommendation: Flacco looked better in all aspects than he did last week, but against a woeful Detroit team it's difficult to say how good he really was.

Dec 14 - Flacco went 13 for 20 for 230 yards and a touchdown before leaving in the fourth quarter of Sunday's 48-3 win over the Lions.
Advice: Flacco has thrown for a career-high 3,111 yards. He had 2,971 as a rookie in 2008.

Justin Harper (Bal - WR)

Dec 13 - WR Justin Harper was signed to the active roster from Ravens practice squad.

Dec 12 - Harper has been signed off the Ravens practice squad, reports Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun.

Recommendation: As Hensley also speculates, it looks like Harper will take the gameday spot of injured wide receiver Mark Clayton - at the bottom of the depth chart though.

Todd Heap (Bal - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Todd Heap has been held to two or fewer catches in three of his past four games. He is fighting through a rib injury.

Dec 14 - Heap recorded two receptions for 38 yards during Sunday's win over Detroit.

Recommendation: Heap didn't see many targets his way with Joe Flacco only throwing 20 passes. He should see a few more against the Bears next week, a team with a little bit more of a pulse than the Lions, but he is still a middling option at tight end.

Derrick Mason (Bal - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Derrick Mason scored his sixth touchdown of the season, which is his single-season best in five seasons with the Ravens. He scored seven touchdowns in his final season with the Tennessee Titans (2004).

Dec 14 - WR Derrick Mason was still feeling the effects of scoring his touchdown after the game. The wide receiver caught a 12-yard pass from quarterback Joe Flacco on a slant route at midfield and, although he got sandwiched between cornerback Phillip Buchanon and strong safety Marvin White, Mason stayed on his feet and raced the remaining 50 yards into the end zone. Mason got the wind knocked out of him, but returned to the game without missing a play. "I took a good shot in the chest, and it kind of caught up with me once I got into the end zone," Mason said. "And now that my body is settling down, I'm kind of feeling it now. I'll deal with it throughout the week and by Sunday, it will be gone."

Dec 14 - Mason had five receptions for 94 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's blowout win over Detroit.

Recommendation: After putting up just 13 yards last week against a very good Packers defense, Mason had a nice day against the woeful Lions. He is still Joe Flacco's favorite target, and as of late Mason's normally consistent numbers have varied wildly depending on his quarterback's performance.

Le'Ron McClain (Bal - RB)

Dec 14 - McClain had six carries for 32 yards and a touchdown during Sunday's win over Detroit.

Recommendation: It was the most carries McClain has had since Week 1. Most of the carries came in the second half while the Ravens' rout was on, however, and he remains a poor fantasy option in any league.

Willis McGahee (Bal - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Willis McGahee is the second option behind Ray Rice but remains a force in the red zone. He has scored four touchdowns in his past three games (a span of 21 carries).

Dec 14 - McGahee added touchdown runs of 6 and 19 yards in Sunday's 48-3 win over Detroit.
Advice: McGahee's last two-TD game was in Week 3 against Cleveland. He needs two touchdowns to match his career high of 13.

Dec 13 - McGahee had 12 carries for 76 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns in Sunday's 48-3 win over Detroit.

Recommendation: Ray Rice had over 200 yards from scrimmage with most of that coming early, so McGahee got some work in the second half with the game in hand. While no one can expect Baltimore to blow out teams every week, McGahee has worked his way back into the running back rotation, at least to a certain degree.

Ray Rice (Bal - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Ray Rice is averaging 90.6 yards rushing in seven home games this season. This week's opponent, Chicago, has allowed an opposing running back to gain at least 85 yards in each of the past five games.

Dec 15 - RB Ray Rice gained a career-best 166 yards rushing on just 13 carries (a 12.8-yard average). He also ended a three-game drought by scoring a rushing touchdown.

Dec 14 - RB Ray Rice gave the Ravens a scare when he got hit hard in the chest and left Sunday's 48-3 rout of the Detroit Lions early in the second half. Ravens coach John Harbaugh said Monday it was a precautionary move to pull Rice five plays into the second half. Rice could have played if the game was closer, according to Harbaugh. "We just felt like at that time, it was a good time to get him out," Harbaugh said. "We have good backs, so it worked out." Against the Detroit Lions, Rice busted through arm tackles, stiff-armed defensive backs and stutter-stepped around defenders in the open field, totaling a career-best 219 yards (166 yards rushing, 53 yards receiving) and one touchdown. Rice produced two 50-plus yard runs, a 30-yard catch and images of a Hall of Fame running back. "He reminds me of a lot of guys, but the way he spins out of tackles, the one guy we saw come through here years ago was Barry Sanders," linebacker Ray Lewis said. "He springs like a cat, and he has a heart like a lion."

Dec 14 - Rice, who suffered a chest injury Sunday, will be re-evaluated Monday, but the injury is not considered serious, the Baltimore Sun reports.

Recommendation: We'll let you know if that assessment changes, but so far there is no indication that Rice's Week 15 status is in any danger.

Dec 14 - Rice ran for a career-high 166 yards and a touchdown, and the Ravens enhanced their playoff hopes Sunday with a 48-3 victory over the hapless Detroit Lions.
Advice: Rice reached a personal high with 219 total yards and topped the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the first time in his career. He has 1,041 yards on the ground and a team-high 68 catches for 652 yards.

Dec 13 - RB Ray Rice rushed for 166 yards rushing and had 53 yards receiving Sunday but he left five plays into the second half with a chest injury. It's unknown how serious Rice is hurt.

Dec 13 - Rice ran for 166 yards, including a 59-yard touchdown, and added four receptions for 53 yards in Sunday's 48-3 win over Detroit.

Recommendation: Rice could have put up some ridiculous numbers, but he wasn't used at all in the fourth quarter with the game in hand. Willis McGahee ran for 76 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns, but Rice owners should not fret too much as most of McGahee's damage came in garbage time.

Dec 13 - Rice ran for 166 yards, including a 59-yard touchdown, and added four receptions for 53 yards in Sunday's 48-3 win over Detroit.

Recommendation: Rice could have put up some ridiculous numbers, but he wasn't used at all in the fourth period with the game in hand. Willis McGahee ran for 76 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns, but Rice owners should not fret too much as most of McGahee's damage came in garbage time.

L.J. Smith (Bal - TE)

Dec 13 - Smith (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Lions.

Recommendation: With Smith banged up and Todd Heap remaining healthy, the time is running out for Smith to make a fantasy impact this season.

Dec 11 - Smith (ankle) did not practice for the third consecutive day Friday and is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Lions, the Baltimore Sun reports.

Recommendation: Forget about Smith as long as he is banged up and Todd Heap is not.

Kelley Washington (Bal - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Kelley Washington (ankle) didn't practice Wednesday. He is questionable for Sunday.

Dec 15 - WR Kelley Washington started for injured Mark Clayton (hamstring) but didn't make a catch. He hasn't caught more than one pass in a game since Nov. 1 against Denver.

Dec 14 - WR Kelley Washington could make his second straight start if Mark Clayton (hamstring) is sidelined again. Washington didn't have a catch in his first start of the season.

Demetrius Williams (Bal - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Demetrius Williams would start Sunday against the Bears if WR Mark Clayton (knee) and WR Kelley Washington (ankle) are out.

Dec 15 - WR Demetrius Williams came off the bench and caught two passes for 45 yards, including a 34-yarder that set up fullback Le'Ron McClain's 3-yard touchdown. "We really need Demetrius to be a player," coach John Harbaugh said. "I think missing all of last year with the (Achilles tendon) injury, kind of going through training camp and getting healthy early in the season and fighting through that and kind of getting himself back, he has practiced really well for about five or six weeks. And it's funny how that works. You practice really well for a few weeks, maybe the coaches get a little confidence in you, you get a little confidence in yourself, and then you start making some plays. He's a guy that can go up and make a play. We needed him to do that."

Dec 14 - Williams had two receptions for 45 yards during Sunday's blowout win over the Lions.

Recommendation: With Mark Clayton (right hamstring) on the sidelines, Williams slid over into the Ravens third receiver slot. He didn't record a reception until the rout was on, however. He is not worth a flier on the waiver wires, especially with playoffs now underway.

Dec 14 - Williams had two receptions for 45 yards during Sunday's blowout win over the Lions.

Recommendation: With Mark Clayton (right hamstring) on the sidelines, Williams slid over into the Ravens third receiver slot. He didn't record a reception until the rout was on, however. He is not worth a flier on the waiver wires, especially with the playoffs now underway.

Lee Evans (Buf - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Lee Evans continues to struggle through his worst season as a pro with 32 catches for 485 yards. He has just one 100-yard game in his last 22 and just one 40-yard catch in his last 18 games.

Dec 13 - Evans caught just one ball for 11 yards in Buffalo's win over Kansas City on Sunday.

Recommendation: He's played every game and still hasn't eclipsed 500 receiving yards on the season. He does have five TD grabs, but Evans is being wasted in this offense and has a whopping five catches over his last four weeks. Yuck.

Ryan Fitzpatrick (Buf - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Ryan Fitzpatrick will start his fifth game in a row against New England on Sunday. He's 2-2 since replacing Trent Edwards but has failed to top 100 yards passing the last two weeks.

Dec 14 - Interim coach Perry Fewell confirmed Monday that Fitzpatrick will again start at quarterback in Week 15 against the Patriots, BuffaloBills.com reports.

Recommendation: Fitzpatrick hasn't passed 100 passing yards in either of the last two games, so even with a good matchup (which isn't really the case this week) the fantasy playoffs are no time to get cute and use Fitzpatrick. We know of one owner who used him in what was supposed to be a juicy matchup against the Chiefs this week, and sat Eli Manning in a supposedly tough matchup against the Eagles.

Dec 13 - Fitzpatrick threw for just 86 yards in Buffalo's win over Kansas City on Sunday, completing 12 of 20 passes.

Recommendation: He did enough to win the game and did have a nine-yard TD toss to Terrell Owens, but it wasn't real pretty for either quarterback. Since the Bills won the game, we'd imagine they'll be sticking with Fitzpatrick for another week.

Dec 13 - Fitzpatrick threw for just 86 yards in Buffalo's win over Kansas City on Sunday, completing 12 of 20 passes.

Recommendation: He did enough to win the game and did have a nine-yard TD toss to Terrell Owens, but it wasn't real pretty for either team's quarterback in this one. Since the Bills won the game, we'd imagine they'll be sticking with Fitzpatrick for another week.

Dec 13 - QB Ryan Fitzpatrick had another tough day throwing as he completed 12 of 20 passes for just 86 yards with one interception and one TD. He also lost a fumble.

Fred Jackson (Buf - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Fred Jackson's 99 yards rushing in last Sunday's win over the Chiefs was his second best game of the season. He ran for a career-high 163 yards against Tampa Bay in Week 2. His 176 carries for 731 yards are new career single-season highs.

Dec 14 - Jackson finished with 99 yards on 20 carries in Sunday's win over the Chiefs. He also caught three balls for 23 yards.

Recommendation: Jackson did an excellent job fighting for extra yardage all day long. Teammate Marshawn Lynch had 12 carries, so even though Jackson remains the lead back there's still a time-share going on here, as the Bills are not going to relegate Lynch to a strict reserve role. Things will get tougher for Jackson in the coming weeks, as the Bills get the Patriots, Falcons and Colts, all teams with better run defenses than the lowly Chiefs.

Dec 13 - RB Fred Jackson just missed his second -- and the Bills' second -- 100-yard game of the season. He finished with 99 yards on 20 carries and also had three receptions for 23 yards.

Justin Jenkins (Buf - WR)

Dec 11 - Jenkins (knee) is out for this week's game in Kansas City, BuffaloBills.com reports.

Recommendation: The Bills will take a hit on special teams with his absence, but the offense won't be affected.

Rian Lindell (Buf - K)

Dec 14 - Lindell kicked three field goals in a 16-10 win over the Chiefs on Sunday.
Advice: His 36-yard field goal with 8:01 left put Buffalo ahead. He missed one field goal but still improved to 23 of 27 this season.

Shawn Nelson (Buf - TE)

Dec 13 - Nelson suffered an ankle injury in Sunday's win over Kansas City but did return late in the game, BuffaloBills.com reports.

Recommendation: Nelson caught two balls for 19 yards and continues to play a minimal role in the passing game even though he's the No. 1 tight end.

Dec 11 - Nelson, who was added to the injury report Thursday with a shoulder injury, is listed as probable after practicing fully Friday, BuffaloBills.com reports.

Recommendation: He'll play this week in Kansas City, though he's yet to reach 35 receiving yards in a game during his rookie season.

Terrell Owens (Buf - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Terrell Owens said goodbye to one of his NFL records last week: most catches in a game. Denver's Brandon Marshall caught 21 against Indianapolis. Owens caught 20 on Dec. 17, 2000, while playing for San Francisco vs. Chicago. A gracious Owens said Marshall deserved to break the mark. "He's just been a hard worker. They always said that he was the 'Baby T.O.,'" said Owens.

Dec 15 - WR Terrell Owens enters Sunday's game against New England needing four catches to reach 1,000 for his career. Only five players in NFL history have hit that milestone with Jerry Rice No. 1 with 1,549 receptions.

Dec 14 - Owens had two catches for 15 yards in Buffalo's win over the Chiefs on Sunday.
Advice: Owens did have a touchdown -- his fourth of the season -- but against was minimally involved in the offense after seeing more action last month. He's caught five passes for 46 yards the last two games.

Dec 13 - WR Terrell Owens had only two catches for 15 yards, but one was for a touchdown, the 146th of his career, moving him into sole possession of fourth place on the NFL's all-time list.

Dec 13 - Owens had just two catches for 15 yards in Sunday's win over the Chiefs, but did manage to grab a nine-yard TD catch.

Recommendation: The touchdown, his fourth of the season, was probably enough to provide a decent pop for owners who needed to use him as a No. 2 or No. 3 receiver this week. In other news, Owens says that in addition to the Bills, he'd be interested in possibly returning to the 49ers next season. Oh, how we'd pine to see the day Mike Singletary gets unhappy with T.O.'s antics.

Dec 13 - Owens and the Bills face a Kansas City defense on Sunday that ranks 28th against the pass.

Recommendation: This sets up as a good matchup for T.O. in what's been an overall disappointing season. The weather isn't too bad, the Chiefs have young and vulnerable cornerbacks, and Owens has received 28 targets in the three games since interim coach Perry Fewell took over. If you need to use him in a playoff week, perhaps he can make up for some of the season's earlier disappointments.

Jake Delhomme (Car - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Jake Delhomme (broken finger) did not practice on Wednesday. While he's getting closer to returning to practice it makes no sense to rush him back at this point.

Dec 15 - QB Jake Delhomme has missed the last two weeks with a broken finger on his right hand. Coach John Fox said he still doesn't know if Delhomme will return to practice this week. Nor would he say if Delhomme would get the starting job back if he's deemed healthy enough to grip the football.

Dec 14 - Delhomme (finger) could return to practice on Wednesday, the Charlotte Observer reports.

Recommendation: Head coach John Fox hasn't tipped his hand regarding the plans for Delhomme, calling his former quarterback day-to-day. Matt Moore started for the second straight week in the loss to New England on Sunday, but there are no guarantees that Delhomme will be given another look with the starting job before season's end.

Dwayne Jarrett (Car - WR)

Dec 13 - Jarrett (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against New England.

Recommendation: With just 12 catches in 11 games to date, it would be a huge gamble to bank on a Jarrett breakout Sunday.

Dec 11 - Jarrett (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against New England despite practicing all week, the Panthers' official site reports.

Recommendation: We imagine he'll play given that he practiced all week, but he has a slim chance of making a significant fantasy impact.

John Kasay (Car - K)

Dec 15 - K John Kasay tried a 53-yarder on Sunday and came nowhere close to putting it through the uprights. It landed in the end zone.

Matt Moore (Car - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Matt Moore, outside of a pair of nice long completions to Steve Smith -- including one for a 41-yard touchdown on Sunday -- hasn't done much to jumpstart Carolina's passing game in the past two games. Carolina has managed just 26 points in the past two games, including just 10 on Sunday against New England."Yesterday we hit a little spurt where the command of the offense was, well, it was not there," Moore said. "And that's on me completely. I take full responsibility for that." When asked if he was referring to the three penalties for an illegal shift, Moore replied, "Yeah, part of it was that. There were just a lot of things. We don't need to go into detail. There are things that need to be fixed on my part. And I'm going to try my best to do that." Moore has five career starts under his belt. Last week Moore said he needed to be more aggressive after going with a run play near the goal line instead of throwing a fade route. Panthers coach John Fox said Moore has room to improve."I think there are a lot of things we still need to work on," Fox said. "I think he did some things (well) and there are some things he can improve on --- typical of a young quarterback." Fox said his perception of Moore hasn't changed. "It's kind of been the same," Fox said. "Everything I've talked about before -- he's an athletic guy; he's got good mobility; he can make all the throws. I think he has a strong arm. He's shown an ability to throw the deep ball. There's some game mechanics and execution that we need to continue to improve, and I think that has a chance to happen with experience." So far this season Moore has completed just 56.5 percent of his passes for 425 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions. As for his evaluation of his own play Sunday, Moore shrugged and said, "It was alright. There are plays to be made, but also some good plays, I thought. It was OK. Nothing great, (but) nothing too bad." Fox said he still doesn't know if Jake Delhomme will return

Dec 14 - Moore completed 15-of-30 passes for 197 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's loss to New England.

Recommendation: He had nearly identical numbers to those of Tom Brady on the other side, but the Panthers' offense didn't run the ball enough (24 attempts) to consistently move downfield. Jake Delhomme (finger) could return to practice on Wednesday, but the Panthers have no chance at the playoffs following Sunday's loss and it may be a better long-term decision to continue starting Moore.

Dec 13 - Moore completed 15-of-30 pass attempts for 197 yards with a touchdown in Sunday's 20-10 loss at New England.

Recommendation: Moore hasn't been able to generate many points over the last two games, but at least he protected the ball on Sunday and took only two sacks. Moore was able to hook up with Steve Smith on a long pass play for the second straight week as he tossed a 41-yard score in the first quarter. Jake Delhomme (finger) may not play again this year as he is having trouble gripping the ball, so Moore could end up finishing out the year.

Muhsin Muhammad (Car - WR)

Dec 14 - Muhammad (knee) caught three passes for 29 yards in Sunday's loss to New England.

Recommendation: Retirement appears to be just a few weeks away for Muhammad, who could potentially stick around the league in a depth role if he intends to play in 2010. Other than Steve Smith, the Panthers don't appear to have receivers on their roster that are likely to be in the picture when the 2010 season begins.

Dec 13 - Muhammad (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against New England.

Recommendation: Muhammad’s production has been sporadic this season, but the Patriots’ secondary has been beatable of late, so he has a chance to hook up with QB Matt Moore this week.

Dec 11 - Muhammad (knee) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against New England, the Panthers' official site reports.

Recommendation: Muhammad has a pretty good matchup against a reeling Patriots secondary, so if you're digging in the bottom of the barrel for receiver options, he might have deep sleeper value.

Dante Rosario (Car - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Dante Rosario made a great catch near the sidelines on Sunday against New England despite double coverage.

Dec 14 - Rosario caught three passes for 26 yards in Sunday's loss to New England.

Recommendation: Even with the Panthers' switch to Matt Moore at quarterback over the last two games, the team's tight ends haven't become a larger part of the offense. Depending on the potential coaching changes during the offseason, a significant roster makeover could be on the horizon. Rosario could be a top-10 tight end if he ever gets the consistent targets, but that doesn't appear to happening anytime soon.

Dec 14 - Rosario caught three passes for 26 yards in Sunday's loss to New England.

Recommendation: Even with the Panthers' switch to Matt Moore at quarterback over the last two games, the team's tight ends haven't become a larger part of the offense. Depending on the potential coaching changes during the offseason, a significant roster makeover could be on the horizon. Rosario could be a top-10 tight end if he ever gets the consistent targets, but that doesn't appear to be happening anytime soon.

Steve Smith (Car - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Steve Smith hauled in a 41-yard touchdown catch and nearly broke 100 yards receiving last week, something which used to happen all the time but hasn't much this year.

Dec 14 - Smith caught two passes for 83 yards and a TD in Sunday's loss to the Patriots.

Recommendation: Panthers quarterback Matt Moore didn't take many shots downfield on Sunday, but he connected with Smith on one of them in the losing effort. Smith will see a heavy dose of Antoine Winfield in Week 15, giving him a tough matchup when the Panthers host the Vikings on Sunday night.

Dec 13 - WR Steve Smith caught a 41-yard touchdown pass from Matt Moore when he had rare one-on-one coverage.

Jonathan Stewart (Car - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Jonathan Stewart now has a toe injury to worry about along with his Achilles. Stewart's status this week is up in the air, but he sounds like he'll be able to play.

Dec 15 - RB Jonathan Stewart is having problems with his toe again, something that nagged at him for most of the 2008 season.

Dec 14 - Stewart (Achilles) also suffered a toe injury of undisclosed severity in Sunday's loss to the Patriots, the Rock Hill Herald reports.

Recommendation: We'll away further word on his status for Week 15 later in the week, but we probably won't know much until at least Thursday, since Stewart has regularly missed Wednesday practices this season because of the Achilles injury anyway.

Dec 14 - Stewart (Achilles) also suffered a toe injury of undisclosed severity in Sunday's loss to the Patriots, the Rock Hill Herald reports.

Recommendation: We'll await further word on his status for Week 15 later in the week, but we probably won't know much until at least Thursday, since Stewart has regularly missed Wednesday practices this season because of the Achilles injury anyway.

Dec 13 - Stewart (Achilles) is listed as active for Sunday's game against New England.

Recommendation: DeAngelo Williams is back, so Stewart won't have the starting gig as he did last week, but he'll still see his share of touches.

Dec 13 - Stewart (Achilles) had just seven carries for 29 yards in Sunday's 20-10 loss at New England.

Recommendation: DeAngelo Williams (ankle) returned from a one-game absence and finished with 13 carries for 82 yards. Stewart is capable of producing even as the second option in the running game, but it's hard to expect too much when Williams is healthy.

Dec 11 - Stewart (Achilles) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against New England, the Panthers' official site reports.

Recommendation: DeAngelo Williams is also probable, so Stewart won't have top-dog status like he did last week, but he's fully expected to play.

DeAngelo Williams (Car - RB)

Dec 15 - RB DeAngelo Williams averaged 6.3 yards per carry against the Patriots but only ran 13 times.

Dec 14 - After missing the previous game with an ankle injury, Williams played against the Patriots and finished with 82 yards on 13 carries.
Advice: The ankle injury didn't appear to impact him this week. He's rushed for 1,104 yards and seven touchdowns. It's his second straight 1,000 yard rushing season.

Dec 13 - Williams (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against New England.

Recommendation: Look for Williams and Jonathan Stewart to resume their usual pattern of sharing carries Sunday against New England.

Dec 13 - Williams (ankle) rushed for a team-high 82 yards on 13 carries in Sunday's 20-10 loss at New England. Williams also had two receptions for 15 yards.

Recommendation: Carolina jumped out to a quick 7-0 lead, but they weren't able to hold that advantage or feature Williams, who was very effective on a per play basis. Jonathan Stewart had only seven rushes for 29 yards, so that should ease the mind of Williams' owners who were wondering how the carries were going to be distributed after Stewart's big game last week.

Dec 11 - Williams (ankle) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against New England, the Panthers' official site reports.

Recommendation: Williams and Jonathan Stewart are both probable and will likely resume their usual pattern of sharing carries on Sunday. The Patriots have a pretty tough run defense, but Williams should be safe to start.

Devin Aromashodu (Chi - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Devin Aromashodu, who had eight catches for 76 yards in his first Bears start last week, will get significant playing time even if Devin Hester (calf) is able to play Sunday.

Dec 15 - WR Devin Aromashodu had eight catches for 76 yards last week, starting on place of Devin Hester (calf). Hester is expected back this week, but Aromashodu will see more playing time than he did in the first 12 games, when he had two catches for 16 yards.

Dec 14 - WR Devin Aromashodu stepped up with eight catches for 76 yards and a 10-yard TD grab in his second NFL start and first for the Bears.

Dec 13 - Aromashodu caught eight passes for 76 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's loss to the Packers.

Recommendation: Aromashodu saw more playing time with Devin Hester out with a calf injury and took full advantage. Coming into the game, Aromashodu had just two catches for 16 yards on the season, but led the team on Sunday in both catches (eight) and targets (12). If Hester is able to return next Sunday, Aromashodu will probably be relegated to a backup role again, though he likely earned a larger role in the team's offense with his impressive performance on Sunday.

Dec 13 - WR Devin Aromashodu, starting his first NFL game in place Devin Hester (calf), caught eight passes for 76 yards and a 10-yard TD, his first in the NFL.

Dec 11 - With Devin Hester (calf) expected to miss Sunday's game against the Packers, Aromashodu should get more reps at receiver, Chicago Breaking Sports News reports.

Recommendation: If Hester does miss the game, Aromashodu will be the team's No. 3 wideout behind Johnny Knox and Earl Bennett. Even with his elevated status, don't expect much out of Aromashodu this week against a tough Packers secondary.

Earl Bennett (Chi - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Earl Bennett had his worst game of the season with one catch for six yards but still leads the Bears with a 13.2-yard average and is second with 605 yards.

Dec 14 - WR Earl Bennett had just one catch for six yards, even though No. 1 receiver Devin Hester (calf) was out of the lineup.

Dec 13 - Bennett caught just one pass for six yards in Sunday's loss to the Packers.

Recommendation: Bennett had an opportunity to shine Sunday with Devin Hester out with a calf injury, but instead put up his worst stat line of the season. Meanwhile, Johnny Knox (five catches for 83 yards and a touchdown) and Devin Aromashodu (eight catches for 76 yards and a touchdown) both had big days.

Dec 12 - With Devin Hester (calf) expected to miss Sunday's game against the Packers, Bennett should see more action, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Hester is listed as questionable on the injury report, but did not practice this week and is not expected to play in Sunday's game. If Hester is inactive, Bennett and Johnny Knox will be the team's starting wideouts. Bennett, who caught his first touchdown of the season last week, makes for a reasonable play this week, but it's tough to get too excited given the Bears' struggling passing game and the Packers' stingy pass defense.

Desmond Clark (Chi - TE)

Dec 14 - TE Desmond Clark, who has been phased out of the passing game, had his first catch in four weeks after being inactive with a neck injury for the previous three games. In the Bears' last seven games, Clark has just three catches for 22 yards.

Jay Cutler (Chi - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Jay Cutler's 22 interceptions are the most by a Bear since Bill Wade had 24 in 1962.

Dec 15 - QB Jay Cutler has thrown 10 of his league-worst 22 interceptions in the past five games, and just five TD passes. He has not thrown for more than 209 yards in any of the past four games.

Dec 14 - Culter was 23 of 36 for 209 yards with two TDS and two interceptions in Sunday's 21-14 loss to Green Bay.
Advice: Tied for the league lead entering the game, Cutler now has 22 interceptions after getting picked off twice.

Dec 13 - QB Jay Cutler's seesaw season continued with two TD passes, two interceptions and a 74.9 passer rating. The TD passes were picture perfect; the interceptions dreadful.

Dec 13 - Cutler completed 23-of-36 passes for 209 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions in Sunday's loss to the Packers.

Recommendation: Not a bad stat line from Cutler against a tough Packers secondary, especially given that Cutler hadn't broken 200 yards passing in three weeks and hadn't thrown for multiple touchdowns in a month. On the down side, Cutler reassumed the league lead in interceptions with 22 on the season.

Matt Forte (Chi - RB)

Dec 13 - Forte had 12 carries for 51 yards and four catches for 17 yards in Sunday's loss tot the Packers.

Recommendation: Though Forte didn't put up big numbers, he outperformed backup Kahlil Bell, who ran for just nine yards on four carries. Forte has a tough road ahead, with upcoming matchups against Baltimore and Minnesota, who rank second and sixth against the run, respectively.

Dec 13 - Forte had 12 carries for 51 yards and four catches for 17 yards in Sunday's loss to the Packers.

Recommendation: Though Forte didn't put up big numbers, he outperformed backup Kahlil Bell, who ran for just nine yards on four carries. Forte has a tough road ahead, with upcoming matchups against Baltimore and Minnesota, who rank second and sixth against the run, respectively.

Devin Hester (Chi - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Devin Hester (calf) missed practice Wednesday and is day to day.

Dec 15 - R Devin Hester missed his first game of the season with a strained calf, but he is expected back this week against the Ravens.

Dec 14 - Hester (mild left calf strain) is expected to remain sidelined when the Bears return to practice on Wednesday, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Hester's injury is not considered to be anything more serious than a calf strain, but while this is not regarded as a long-term injury, his Week 15 status is still cloudy.

Dec 13 - WR Devin Hester (calf) is inactive Sunday.

Dec 13 - Hester (calf) is officially listed as inactive for Sunday’s game against the Packers.

Recommendation: Hester’s calf would have significantly limited his explosiveness, so there was little reason to rush him back this week. Earl Bennett could benefit from more targets with Hester out.

Dec 13 - Hester (calf) is not expected to play Sunday against the Packers, NFL Network's Jason La Canfora reports.

Recommendation: The Bears reason that Hester's speed and explosiveness would be compromised by the calf injury, and he could make the injury worse by playing through it. Look elsewhere for WR help this week.

Dec 11 - A calf strain is expected to keep Hester out of Sunday's game against the Packers, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Supporting that is that as the Bears warmed up for Friday's practice, Hester remained on the sideline. We'll let you know how he is officially listed on the team's injury report, but find a Week 14 substitution for him in the meantime.

Dec 11 - Hester (calf) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Packers after missing practice all week, the Bears' official site reports.

Recommendation: He's listed as questionable, but seems very unlikely to play after missing practice all week. Plan to be without him on Sunday.

Johnny Knox (Chi - WR)

Dec 14 - Knox had five receptions for 83 yards and a TD in Sunday's 21-14 loss to Green Bay.
Advice: Knox, a rookie, is second on the Bears with five TD receptions.

Dec 13 - Knox caught five passes for a team-high 83 yards, including a 19-yard touchdown, in Sunday's 21-14 loss to Green Bay.

Recommendation: Knox saw more snaps because Devin Hester (calf) was unable to play on Sunday. Knox showed some big-play potential early in the season, so he's certainly capable of these types of outings. If Hester is unable to play again next week, Knox would obviously merit starting consideration for many fantasy teams.

Dec 12 - With Devin Hester (calf) expected to miss Sunday's game against the Packers, Knox should see more action, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Hester is listed as questionable on the injury report, but did not practice this week and is not expected to play in Sunday's game. If Hester is inactive, Knox and Earl Bennett will be the team's starting wideouts. Neither receiver makes for a great start this Sunday against a stingy Packers' pass defense, but if you have to start a Bears' wideout, go with Bennett, who has been the more consistent producer this season.

Dec 12 - With Devin Hester (calf) expected to miss Sunday's game against the Packers, Knox should see more action, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Hester is listed as questionable on the injury report, but did not practice this week and is not expected to play in Sunday's game. If Hester is inactive, Knox and Earl Bennett will be the team's starting wideouts. Neither receiver makes for a great start this Sunday against a stingy Packers pass defense, but if you have to start a Bears wideout, go with Bennett, who has been the more consistent producer this season.

Greg Olsen (Chi - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Greg Olsen's two catches for 14 yards in Week 14 give him 17 receptions in the past four game but for only 102 yards, an average of 6.0 yards per catch.

Dec 13 - Olsen caught just two passes for 14 yards in Sunday's loss to the Packers.

Recommendation: In his last two games, Olsen has just four catches for 15 yards. Moreover, Olsen hasn't caught a touchdown since going off for three touchdowns in Week 9. Though the third-year tight end is still on pace for a career year, he couldn't have chosen a worse time for fantasy owners to go into a production slump.

Cedric Benson (Cin - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Cedric Benson went over the 1,000-yard mark last week for the first time in his career. He has tied a team record for most 100-yard games in a season (five).

Dec 14 - Benson rushed for 96 yards against Minnesota on Sunday, giving him 1,065 yards and his first 1,000-yard season.
Advice: Benson failed to record a touchdown, but he continues to look good since returning from a one-week absence due to hip problems.

Dec 13 - RB Cedric Benson had 96 yards on 16 carries and went over the 1,000-yard mark for the first time in his five-year career.

Dec 13 - Benson ran for 96 yards on 16 carries in Sunday's 30-10 loss at Minnesota.

Recommendation: There were reports that Benson and Larry Johnson were going to share carries in this game, yet Johnson had only three rushes for four yards. Benson had a nice 42-yard run, but was held in check otherwise, although the Vikings feature a very stingy rush defense.

Dec 13 - Benson will reportedly share carries with Larry Johnson on Sunday against the Vikings, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: Steve Wyche of the NFL Network was the original source of the report. Benson received 36 carries against the Lions last week, compared to Larry Johnson's two carries, but the Bengals are likely looking to keep Benson fresh for the playoffs.

Andre Caldwell (Cin - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Andre Caldwell has been held without a touchdown for the last four games. Earlier in the season he had the game-winners against Pittsburgh and Baltimore.

Dec 13 - Caldwell grabbed four passes for only 25 yards in Sunday's blowout loss at Minnesota.

Recommendation: Caldwell was a superstar compared to the team's second receiver, Laveranues Coles, who failed to make a catch. It's probably a good idea to avoid both players, however, as Carson Palmer threw for just 94 yards on Sunday and really hasn't been that productive this season.

Laveranues Coles (Cin - WR)

Dec 14 - WR Laveranues Coles, who was the team's biggest free agent acquisition of the offseason, was held without a catch for the second time this season.

Dec 13 - Coles failed to make a catch in Sunday's 30-10 loss at Minnesota.

Recommendation: Even though Carson Palmer threw for only 94 yards, it's somewhat surprising to not see Coles record a reception. Cincinnati's third receiver, Andre Caldwell, had four catches for 25 yards, so he easily outproduced Coles. Neither player can really be recommended, however, with the Bengals' passing game ineffective most of the year.

Chris Henry^IR (Cin - WR)

Dec 17 - Charlotte-Mecklenburg police say Cincinnati Bengals receiver Chris Henry has died, one day after suffering serious injuries upon falling out of the back of a pickup truck in what authorities describe as a domestic dispute with his fiancee.
Advice: Police say Henry died at 6:36 a.m. Thursday. Henry was 26. Away from the team because of a broken forearm, Henry was rushed to the hospital Wednesday after being found on a residential road. Police say a dispute began at a home about a half-mile away, and Henry jumped into the bed of the pickup truck as his fiancee was driving away from the residence. Police said at some point when she was driving, Henry "came out of the back of the vehicle."

Dec 16 - Police say Cincinnati Bengals receiver Chris Henry has suffered serious injuries after falling out of the back of a pickup truck during a domestic dispute with his fiance. Police say Henry jumped into the bed of the pickup truck as his unidentified fiance was driving away from a home. The domestic dispute continued and Henry eventually fell out of the truck.
Advice: Charlotte-Mecklenburg police said in a statement that Henry was found in the road Wednesday in Charlotte "apparently suffering life-threatening injuries." Henry was transported to Carolinas Medical Center, where his condition was not immediately known. Henry broke his left forearm during a win over Baltimore on Nov. 8, had surgery and was placed on season-ending injured reserve.

J.T. O'Sullivan (Cin - QB)

Dec 13 - QB J.T. O'Sullivan got in his second game of the season late in the fourth quarter with the Bengals down by 20. He completed his first pass as a Bengal and was 1 of 3 for 9 yards.

Chad Ochocinco (Cin - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Chad Ochocinco is 63 yards away from going over 1,000 yards in receiving for the sixth time.

Dec 13 - Johnson (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Vikings.

Recommendation: Feel free to roll with him as the Bengals head to the Metrodome.

Dec 13 - Johnson (knee) had only three receptions for 27 yards in Sunday's loss at Minnesota, although he did score on a 15-yard pass.

Recommendation: The touchdown saved Johnson owners from what would have been an awful game. Carson Palmer had yet another mediocre outing, going 15-of-25 for just 94 yards, so things do not look great in general for Cincinnati's passing attack.

Dec 11 - Johnson (knee) was limited at practice Friday, but is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Vikings, the Bengals' official site reports.

Recommendation: Check back with us Sunday to be sure, but we expect Johnson will be fine this weekend.

Carson Palmer (Cin - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Carson Palmer has failed to pass for over 200 yards in three of the last five games.

Dec 13 - QB Carson Palmer was 15 of 25 for 94 yards and a touchdown Sunday. Only five of Palmer's attempts went downfield (in the air for 10 yards or more) and six were screens. It's only the fourth time in 78 regular-season starts that Palmer has had less than 100 yards.

Dec 13 - Palmer threw for just 94 yards with a touchdown in Sunday's 30-10 loss at Minnesota.

Recommendation: The Vikings boast a strong overall defense, but Palmer's ineffectiveness from a statistical standpoint is an on-going trend. Losing Chris Henry (forearm) in November was a big blow for Cincinnati's passing game, although the team still has a couple of weapons. Whether it's personnel, scheme or poor play from Palmer, the veteran quarterback simply isn't the same fantasy option he used to be.

Charles Ali^NA (Bal - RB)

Dec 13 - FB Charles Ali was waived by Baltimore.

Dec 12 - Ali has been waived by the Ravens, reports Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun.

Recommendation: A roster spot was needed to fill out their injured wide receiver corps.

Joshua Cribbs (Cle - WR)

Dec 17 - Cribbs says the Cleveland Browns have told him they want to have a new contract in place by the end of the season.
Advice: Cribbs wouldn't say who specifically, only that ``the team'' told him over the bye week they wanted to get something done this year. Cleveland was off the weekend of Nov. 8. Cribbs has three years left on his existing deal, but believes he merits a raise now. By far the most dynamic player on the Browns roster, Cribbs has blossomed into an integral part of the offense after building a reputation as a special teams star his first four years in the NFL.

Dec 16 - WR Josh Cribbs could make a bigger move to running back, according to coach Eric Mangini. Whether the change would occur before the Browns play the Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday isn't something Mangini is going to reveal. Cribbs has carried the ball 42 times this season. That is two more carries than he had in his first four seasons in the league combined. Most of the carries have come with Cribbs taking direct snaps in the Wildcat formation. Said Mangini: "There's some merit to getting in multiple receiver groups, being able to motion him back into the backfield and use him as a running back that way."

Dec 14 - Browns coach Eric Mangini said he's willing to explore using Josh Cribbs, Cleveland's versatile playmaker, more in a traditional running back role.
Advice: Cribbs ran for 87 yards out of the wildcat formation in last Thursday's win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, who came in with the NFL's top-ranked rushing defense. Cribbs also returns kickoffs and punts, plays gunner on special teams and at wide receiver. Mangini said Monday he would not be opposed to Cribbs playing running back.

Braylon Edwards (NYJ - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Braylon Edwards had three receptions for 37 yards, including a 19-yarder. He and QB Kellen Clemens hadn't worked together in practice until the week leading up to the game.

Dec 14 - Edwards had a modest three catches for 37 yards in Sunday's victory at Tampa Bay.

Recommendation: The Jets are a blue-collar team with a conservative offense, which makes Edwards a risky play for the balance of 2009. He's a possible No. 3 receiver or flex option against Atlanta in Week 15, depending on how desperate your situation is.

Brady Quinn (Cle - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Brady Quinn has done one important thing since taking over as the starter four games ago: not throw an interception. Quinn has thrown 145 consecutive passes without being intercepted.

Dec 13 - QB Brady Quinn has played four straight games without throwing an interception.

Robert Royal (Cle - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Robert Royal began the season as a starter, but dropped passes and a finger injury have relegated him to the backup role. With Evan Moore catching so many passes, Royal probably will be used more as a blocking tight end.

Martin Rucker (Phi - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Martin Rucker was signed to the Eagles' active roster from the practice squad. A fourth-round pick by Cleveland in 2008, Rucker joined Philadelphia's practice squad in September. He caught two passes as a rookie.

Deon Anderson (Dal - RB)

Dec 13 - Anderson (knee) is active for Sunday’s game against the Chargers.

Recommendation: He’ll be in his usual fullback spot against the surging Chargers.

Miles Austin (Dal - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Miles Austin needs just one receiving yard to reach 1,000 this season. His 999 yards thus far in 2009 are good for 10th in the league. He has had 918 yards and nine touchdowns in the last nine games.

Dec 13 - WR Miles Austin scored his 10th touchdown of the season against the Chargers to make him just the seventh Cowboys receiver to reach 10 touchdowns in a season. Bob Hayes did it five times and Terrell Owens three times. Michael Irvin just did it once.

Martellus Bennett (Dal - TE)

Dec 14 - Because Bennett was not symptom-free from his concussion this past Saturday, he will miss this weekend's game against New Orleans, the Dallas Morning News reports.

Recommendation: On the positive side of things for Bennett is that coach Wade Phillips indicated that there is a chance the tight end could practice some this week.

Dec 11 - Bennett (concussion) will not play Sunday against San Diego, the Dallas Morning News reports.

Recommendation: As a result, rookie John Phillips should see additional time behind/along with starting TE Jason Witten.

Nick Folk (Dal - K)

Dec 16 - K Nick Folk will retain the kicking job after a brief battle with kickoff specialist David Buehler. Wade Phillips hopes the pressure of the competition will ignite a change in the slumping kicker. He has missed nine field goals this season, including six of his last nine. "Again, that was something different that we felt like we needed to do," Phillips said. "Something maybe to kick-start (Folk)."

Dec 15 - K Nick Folk won the first round of the battle with David Buehler for his job on Tuesday, although it wasn't much of a contest. Folk made just two of four kicks, while Buehler, the team's kickoff specialist, missed all three of his kicks. Folk has missed six of his last nine kicks, which is why there is a concern in the first place. It looks like he will keep his job because Buehler is no competition. The Cowboys are hoping he can break out of his slump."Well, I mean, that's what I would presume right now,'' coach Wade Phillips said. "We're still working with Nick. He's obviously been a good kicker, but for whatever reason, he's been in a slump lately. Can he come out of it? I think he can. We'll just have to see. David is working more on field goals, but he's a ways away." Folk is 11-of-12 on kicks inside the 40-yard line. He is 4-of-11 from 40 to 49 yards. "I'm just trying to get back to where it's a good rhythm for me and a good operation,'' Folk said.

Dec 13 - K Nick Folk's job is on the line after he missed a field goal against the Chargers. It was ninth miss of the season after missing just seven in his previous two seasons combined. He has missed one in each of the last five games. The Cowboys are going to bring in other kickers for a look this week. They might even consider rookie kickoff specialist David Buehler.

Tony Romo (Dal - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Tony Romo has held up his end of the bargain in December despite the Cowboys 0-2 start. Romo's passer rating for the Chargers game was 111.7, marking the third straight game with a rating over 100.0 -- the second time this season he has had such a streak. It also ties his second-longest streak of games with a 100.0 rating-or-better. For his career, he now has 29 games with a rating over 100.0.

Dec 13 - QB Tony Romo finished the Chargers game with a quarterback rating of 111.7. It marked his third straight game with a rating over 100.0 -- the second time this season he had such a streak. It also ties his second-longest streak of games with a 100.0 rating or better. Romo has now gone three straight games without an interception, tying the longest streak of his career.

Correll Buckhalter (Den - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Correll Buckhalter had a great game against Oakland earlier this season, with 108 yards. However, he has an ankle injury that could keep him sidelined at least this week. Even if he plays he could be limited.

Dec 14 - Buckhalter (ankle) was on crutches after Sunday's game, the Colorado Springs gazette reports.

Recommendation: Buckhalter indicated that the issue was the same sort of ankle injury that caused him to miss a game earlier this season, but to the other foot. Based on that statement, we'll initially consider him iffy for Week 15.

Dec 13 - RB Correll Buckhalter left Sunday's game on crutches with an ankle injury. Buckhalter said it is the same type of ankle injury he had earlier in the season that cost him a game, but to a different foot.

Dec 13 - Buckhalter suffered an ankle injury Sunday against the Colts and is doubtful to return, the Broncos' official site reports.

Recommendation: Knowshon Moreno will get the bulk of the workload with Buckhalter out.

Jabar Gaffney (Den - WR)

Dec 13 - Gaffney had three catches for 48 yards on Sunday against Indianapolis.

Recommendation: Gaffney continues to be low on the Broncos' receiving list and is hardly worth any fantasy consideration.

Daniel Graham (Den - TE)

Dec 14 - TE Daniel Graham caught one pass for 6 yards, which follows a pattern. Graham has not been a big part of the pass game with RT Ryan Harris out of the lineup because he has more blocking responsibilities. Harris is out for the rest of the season.

Dec 13 - Graham had one catch for six yards on Sunday against Indianapolis.

Recommendation: Graham will pick up an occasional touchdown, but in reality, Sunday's numbers are about what you should expect.

Peyton Hillis (Den - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Peyton Hillis, who has 12 carries all season, has become a hot topic in Denver. Hillis led the Broncos in rushing last year after being forced into the lineup at halfback because of injuries. Hillis has played mostly fullback this year, although he is among the team's options at tailback. He has been fourth most of the year behind LaMont Jordan, but recently moved up to third. Hillis became a fan favorite, but hasn't played much under a new coaching regime. Last week after Correll Buckhalter got hurt in the first quarter, Hillis got only one carry despite Knowshon Moreno having a tough game. "He's not in the doghouse," coach Josh McDaniels said. McDaniels pointed out that Moreno and Buckhalter have played well this season, so he has no desire to change the formula on normal downs. But many have wondered why Hillis hasn't been the short-yardage back. Moreno was stopped on a third-and-one and a pair of fourth-and-ones against Indianapolis, and the 240-pound Hillis never got a chance to run the ball in a short-yardage situation. McDaniels explained that after Spencer Larsen, the normal short-yardage fullback, got hurt on the opening kickoff, Hillis was the only fullback remaining. McDaniels also didn't place much blame on Moreno for the failed conversions. "They've gotten short-yardage and goal-line conversions this year before, and I know this -- the back is the last thing I'm concerned about on short yardage," McDaniels said. "If you don't stop the penetration, which killed us yesterday in every single one of those situations, you can give the ball to Franco Harris or anybody else, they're not getting a yard."

Dec 14 - RB Peyton Hillis is apparently in the doghouse, but the Broncos don't have too many choices behind Knowshon Moreno if Correll Buckhalter misses some time with an ankle injury. Moreno played just about every down in the last three quarters after Buckhalter got hurt against the Colts.

LaMont Jordan (Den - RB)

Dec 15 - RB LaMont Jordan could be active for the first time since mid-November if Correll Buckhalter can't play. With Peyton Hillis' playing time on offense limited, Jordan could see a few carries behind Knowshon Moreno this week if he plays.

Dec 13 - Jordan (back) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Recommendation: Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter will once again lead the Broncos' rushing attack.

Brandon Marshall (Den - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Brandon Marshall has eight games with at least 10 catches in his career. That is the most of any player in NFL history through his first four seasons.

Dec 15 - WR Brandon Marshall will get plenty of attention from defenses the rest of the season. Indianapolis was fine allowing him to catch 21 passes, because none were big gains. Other teams will likely try to force the Broncos to spread the ball more.

Dec 13 - Marshall set an NFL record with 21 receptions in Sunday's 28-16 loss at Indianapolis. Marshall finished with 200 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

Recommendation: Marshall was targeted early and often and was the only Denver pass catcher to record more than three receptions. Marshall broke the single-game record of 20 catches, formerly held by Terrell Owens which he set in 2000 as a member of the San Francisco 49ers.

Dec 13 - WR Brandon Marshall had a NFL record 21 receptions in a loss to the Colts on Sunday. He had 200 yards and two touchdowns, and now has 86 catches on the season. Nobody else on the Broncos has more than 34.

Dec 13 - Marshall set an NFL record with 21 receptions in Sunday's 28-16 loss at Indianapolis. Marshall finished with 200 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

Recommendation: Marshall was targeted early and often and was the only Denver pass catcher to record more than three receptions. Marshall broke the single-game record of 20 catches which had been held by Terrell Owens since 2000.

Dec 13 - Marshall has broken Terrell Owens' NFL record for receptions in a game with 21 in Sunday's loss to the Colts. Marshall finished with 200 yards and two touchdowns and bettered his team record of 18 catches, set on Sept. 14, 2008 against San Diego.
Advice: Owens caught 20 passes for San Francisco on Dec. 17, 2000. "I went to my receiving coach (Adam Gase) before the game and I told him, 'I think this is going to be the best game I've ever played,'" Marshall said. "Just because of the environment, the situation of playing the Colts. I believe big players step up in big games, and this was a big game for us."

Knowshon Moreno (Den - RB)

Dec 13 - Moreno had 23 carries for 63 yards and three catches for 13 yards on Sunday against Indianapolis.

Recommendation: Correll Buckhalter left the game with an injury, so Moreno may see even more action that he's been getting as of late. While he is the top back for the Broncos, a few extra carries could certainly benefit fantasy owners.

Dec 13 - Moreno had 23 carries for 63 yards and three catches for 13 yards on Sunday against Indianapolis.

Recommendation: Correll Buckhalter left the game with an injury, so Moreno may see even more action than he's been getting as of late. While he is the top back for the Broncos, a few extra carries could certainly benefit fantasy owners.

Kyle Orton (Den - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Kyle Orton had a pretty quiet game the first time the Broncos faced the Raiders, completing 13 passes for 157 yards. The Broncos rushed the ball 45 times for 215 yards in that game. The plan might not be much different, especially with Denver running the ball more often as the weather gets cold.

Dec 13 - QB Kyle Orton had a pretty good game in the loss to the Colts. He completed 29 of 41 passes for 277 yards and a pair of touchdowns. He was able to get Brandon Marshall the ball 21 times for 200 yards.

Dec 13 - Orton (ankle) completed 29-of-41 passes for 277 yards, two touchdowns and one interception on Sunday against Indianapolis.

Recommendation: A good game overall for Orton, who connected with Brandon Marshall an NFL record 21 times. Orton's ankle injury seems to be behind him and the team is trusting his arm more and more.

Dec 13 - Orton (ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Colts.

Recommendation: Orton's ankle doesn't appear to be limiting him any longer, but the Broncos face a tough matchup in Indianapolis this week.

Matt Prater (Den - K)

Dec 15 - K Matt Prater missed a field goal against Indianapolis. The Broncos have no complaints about Prater's work this season, considering that was his first miss since Oct. 19. He hit 10 field goals in a row after Denver's Week 7 bye.

Dec 13 - Prater was 1-of-2 on field goals and 1-of-1 on extra points on Sunday against Indianapolis.

Recommendation: Not a great game for Prater, who had been pretty steady over the last four weeks.

Eddie Royal (Den - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Eddie Royal has played in every game this year and has been the Broncos' starting receiver, but he has five games in which he had 10 or fewer yards receiving. If teams start to focus on taking Brandon Marshall away, Royal will have to be more productive if the offense is to be successful.

Dec 13 - WR Eddie Royal had one catch for 3 yards against the Colts, as he continues his quiet season.

Dec 13 - Royal had one catch for three yards on Sunday against Indianapolis.

Recommendation: Brandon Marshall had an NFL record 21 catches on Sunday, which didn't leave much for Royal, although the second year receiver has hardly put up numbers worthy of fantasy consideration this season.

Tony Scheffler (Den - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Tony Scheffler caught one pass for 14 yards against the Raiders in the first meeting this year. With Denver likely to employ a run-heavy attack, Scheffler is unlikely to see many passes this week.

Aaron Brown (Det - RB)

Dec 14 - With Kevin Smith out for the season, Brown figures to be in line for an expanded workload going forward.

Recommendation: Veteran Maurice Morris is also on hand, but we could well see a time-share, with the 2-11 Lions likely to want to evaluate what they have in Brown down the stretch, especially since Smith is no lock to be ready to open the 2010 season.

Dec 13 - Brown had just one carry for 12 yards in Sunday's loss to the Ravens.

Recommendation: That said, Kevin Smith may miss some time, which could result in an expanded workload for Brown and/or Maurice Morris going forward.

Daunte Culpepper (Det - QB)

Dec 15 - Culpepper will start Sunday if rookie Matthew Stafford (shoulder) is unable to play, the Detroit Free Press reports.

Recommendation: The Lions haven't said much on Stafford's availability, but there's been some noise calling for Drew Stanton to get a chance over Culpepper. Head coach Jim Schwartz put an end to those rumors, however, on Monday saying emphatically that Culpepper will be the man if Stafford can't play.

Dec 14 - Culpepper, starting in place of injured rookie Matthew Stafford, was 16 for 34 for 135 yards and two interceptions in Sunday's 48-3 loss to Baltimore.
Advice: Culpepper has completed 53.5 percent of his passes with one TD and four inteceptions this season.

Dec 13 - Culpepper completed less than 50 percent of his 34 pass attempts and threw two interceptions Sunday against Baltimore.

Recommendation: Culpepper certainly didn't do much in what amounted to an audition for 31 other teams for the 2010 season. It's unclear if Matthew Stafford (shoulder) will return to the field next week, but Culpepper should be avoided if at all possible down the stretch.

Casey FitzSimmons^IR (Det - TE)

Dec 16 - The Lions placed FitzSimmons on injured reserve with a concussion.
Advice: FitzSimmons suffered the concussion last month and hadn't returned to practice. He's a free agent after this season. He played in 12 games in his seventh season with the Lions and had 18 catches for 128 yards.

Dec 16 - TE Casey Fitzsimmons (concussion) was placed on injured reserve.

Dec 11 - FitzSimmons (concussion) has been ruled out of Sunday's game against the Ravens, the Lions' official site reports.

Recommendation: The decimation of Detroit's tight-end depth chart continues. Will Heller and Dan Gronkowski will share the snaps.

Jason Hanson (Det - K)

Dec 15 - K Jason Hanson has missed a field goal in each of his last seven games with an attempt.

Will Heller (Det - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Will Heller caught only two passes for 16 yards against the Ravens, even though TE Brandon Pettigrew (knee) is on injured reserve and TE Casey Fitzsimmons (concussion) was out of the lineup.

Calvin Johnson (Det - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Calvin Johnson was limited in practice.

Dec 15 - WR Calvin Johnson continues to struggle to get the ball as defenses concentrate on him. He was targeted 12 times against the Ravens, but he came down with only four catches for 37 yards.

Dec 13 - Johnson caught four passes for 37 yards Sunday against the Ravens.

Recommendation: Johnson and the rest of the Lions' receivers suffered with Matthew Stafford (shoulder) on the shelf and Daunte Culpepper under center. No word yet on whether or not Stafford will return this coming week.

Maurice Morris (Det - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Maurice Morris is likely to pick up most of injured Kevin Smith's carries.

Dec 14 - With Kevin Smith out for the season, Morris is in line for an expanded workload going forward.

Recommendation: At 2-11, the Lions could decide to see what they have in rookie Aaron Brown, but Morris is in line for added work in any case and is worth a pickup by those still playing who need to add some running back depth.

Dec 13 - Morris had three carries for 11 yards and caught two passes for nine yards in Sunday's loss to the Ravens.

Recommendation: What makes Morris worth noting this week is that Kevin Smith was carted off the field, which could result in Morris and Aaron Brown seeing an expanded workload next week and perhaps longer.

Jake Nordin (Det - TE)

Dec 13 - TE Jake Nordin was signed to the active roster from Lions practice squad.

Dec 12 - Nordin was signed from the Lions practice squad, according to Adam Caplan of Scout.com.

Recommendation: The Lions are struggling with injuries at the TE position and need a body.

Dec 12 - Nordin has been signed from the Lions' practice squad.

Recommendation: The Lions are struggling with injuries at the tight-end position and need a body. It's unlikely that he'll have a significant role in the game plan in Week 14.

Dennis Northcutt (Det - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Dennis Northcutt did not practice because of a groin injury.

Dec 15 - WR Dennis Northcutt caught three passes for 39 yards, while WR Bryant Johnson caught only one pass for eight yards. The Lions need more production out of their second and third receivers, but they have needed it all season and haven't gotten it.

Dec 13 - Northcutt caught three passes for 39 yards Sunday against the Ravens.

Recommendation: The Lions passing attack was abysmal with Daunte Culpepper under center, and Northcutt needs all the help he can get to be a fantasy asset. It's unclear if Culpepper will get another start next week.

Terrelle Smith^NA (Det - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Terrelle Smith was waived by Detroit.

Kevin Smith^IR (Det - RB)

Dec 16 - Smith left Sunday's game against the Baltimore Ravens with a left knee injury.
Advice: Smith caught a 15-yard pass from Daunte Culpepper, but crumpled to the ground in the open field after his left knee gave out. His leg twisted awkwardly just before he fell to the turf. Trainers attended to Smith, who was helped from the field and onto a cart. He gained 69 yards on 21 rushing attempts.

Dec 16 - RB Kevin Smith was placed on injured reserve with a left knee injury - at least a torn ACL.

Dec 15 - RB Kevin Smith suffered at least a torn ligament in his left knee against the Ravens and will have season-ending surgery. Schwartz doesn't want to give details until the doctors go in and determine the full extent of the damage.

Dec 14 - RB Kevin Smith will have surgery on his left knee. Coach Jim Schwartz said Smith has at least a torn ligament, but declined to give details. "He's got it bad," Schwartz said today. "I don't want to speak for doctors until they go in and they can analyze all those different things, because I've seen situations where it's been worse than expected or even better than expected. But it'll be a season-ending injury for him. Where it goes from there will depend on what happens when the doctors get in there and really see what's at stake and all. But I think anybody who saw it knows it's a severe knee injury." Smith's knee buckled as he tried to cut after a catch in the fourth quarter Sunday. "He'll be missed," Schwartz said. "He had some injuries early in the season. He was putting them behind him. We were pleased with the way he was playing."

Dec 14 - Smith, who was on crutches with a bulky brace on his left knee after Sunday's game, said he would undergo testing on the knee Monday, the Detroit Free Press reports.

Recommendation: Coach Jim Schwartz has already said the injury looked "significant," so we'd be very surprised to see Smith again this year. Moreover, there are whispers that Smith may have suffered an ACL tear and if that ends up being the case, his availability to start next season would be in question.

Dec 14 - Smith will undergo season-ending surgery on his left knee, the Detroit Free Press reports.

Recommendation: Coach Jim Schwartz indicated that Smith has at least a torn knee ligament, but didn't want to go into details until doctors perform the surgery and are able to determine the extent of the damage in his knee. With Smith out, Maurice Morris and Aaron Brown will be called upon to handle the Lions' rushing load down the stretch.

Dec 13 - RB Kevin Smith suffered an apparently serious left knee injury in the fourth quarter Sunday at Baltimore. Smith was on crutches with a bulky brace on his left knee in the locker room. He said he would undergo testing in Detroit, but that it didn't "feel real good." Coach Jim Schwartz said the injury looked "significant," his word for long-term.

Dec 13 - Smith was carted off the field Sunday after suffering what could be a serious left knee injury, the Detroit News reports.

Recommendation: Based on the reaction of his teammates and the look on his face as he left the field, this one doesn't look good for Smith, at least initially. If Smith ends up missing time, then Maurice Morris and Aaron Brown will be counted on to carry the ball for the Lions down the stretch.

Dec 13 - Coach Jim Schwartz acknowledged that Smith likely suffered a "significant" knee injury Sunday, the Detroit News reports.

Recommendation: Smith will have an MRI Monday, but with just three weeks left, this could be it for his 2009 season. In Smith's absence, the Lions will be forced to roll with a backfield combo of Maurice Morris and Aaron Brown.

Dec 11 - Lions offensive coordinator Scott Linehan believes Smith is nearly 100 percent after battling a shoulder injury for much of the season, the Detroit Free Press reports.

Recommendation: Smith injured the shoulder in late September and hasn't missed any time, but hasn't been as productive as we would have thought coming into the season. Smith has been very quiet on just how much the shoulder was bothering him, but if Linehan is to be believed, Smith could start putting up some numbers down the stretch.

Matthew Stafford (Det - QB)

Dec 13 - Stafford (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against Baltimore.

Recommendation: The Lions already named Daunte Culpepper the starter for the game earlier this week, but the team hopes that Stafford could be ready to play again by next weekend.

Dec 11 - Stafford (shoulder) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against Baltimore, the Lions' official site reports.

Recommendation: The Lions have already named Daunte Culpepper the starter for the game, so this is no surprise. Stafford may return in Week 15, but that won't be determined until next week.

Mason Crosby (GB - K)

Dec 14 - K Mason Crosby has misfired on a field-goal try in each of the last three games -- and all of the attempts have been from 43 yards or closer.

Dec 14 - Crosby was 2-for-3 on field goal attempts in Sunday's win over the Bears.

Recommendation: Crosby leads the league in field goal attempts with 32, but has made just 24. He's not in any immediate danger of losing his job, but the Packers will certainly look at some other options during the offseason.

Donald Driver (GB - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Donald Driver is in the midst of a late-season funk. Driver, the team's top pass catcher, was held Sunday to two receptions for a season-low 11 yards. Except for a seven-catch, 142-yard performance in the Thanksgiving Day win at the Detroit Lions, Driver has been limited to an aggregate 14 catches for 132 yards and one touchdown in four other games since mid-November.

Dec 14 - Driver caught just two passes for 11 yards in Sunday's game against the Bears.

Recommendation: While Driver had a disappointing day, he was targeted twice in the end zone so the potential was there for more points. The Packers have gone to TE Jermichael Finley more often the last two weeks, taking some chances away from the wide receivers.

Jermichael Finley (GB - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Jermichael Finley led the Packers in receiving for the second straight game, snaring five passes from Rodgers for 70 yards Sunday. Finley had seven receptions for 79 yards and a career-high two touchdowns in the previous game against the Baltimore Ravens. Since returning from a knee injury that sidelined him for three games at midseason, Finley has 22 catches for 228 yards and two touchdowns in four games.

Dec 14 - Finley caught five passes for 70 yards in Sunday's win over the Bears.

Recommendation: Finley didn't get a touchdown, but he led the Packers in receiving for the second week in a row. He's also getting plenty of red zone targets so expect more touchdowns to be coming.

Dec 13 - Finley (knee) is active for Sunday's game against the Bears.

Recommendation: Finley's knee is not expected to be a problem. Feel free to use him this week.

Dec 11 - Finley (knee) is probable for Sunday's game against Chicago, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's Greg A. Bedard reports.

Recommendation: Finley is coming off a tremendous Monday night football performance and won't be limited by the knee injury against the Bears.

Ryan Grant (GB - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Ryan Grant has quietly climbed to seventh in the league rankings for rushing yards with 1,068, his second straight season reaching the 1,000-yard benchmark. Grant is coming off a 20-carry, 137-yard performance and his first two-touchdown game of the season, highlighted by a season-long run of 62 yards for a touchdown on the Packers' first play from scrimmage.

Dec 14 - Grant rushed for 137 yards and two touchdowns against the Bears on Sunday.

Recommendation: Grant went over 1000 yards on the season for the second year in a row and has seven touchdowns. He doesn't catch many passes, but has been fairly consistent all season and is a decent second running back for a fantasy team.

Dec 14 - Grant rushed for 137 yards and two touchdowns against the Bears on Sunday.

Recommendation: Grant went over 1,000 yards on the season for the second year in a row and has seven touchdowns. He doesn't catch many passes, but has been fairly consistent all season and is a decent second running back for a fantasy team.

Dec 14 - Grant ran for 137 yards and two touchdowns, and the Packers beat the Chicago Bears 21-14 on Sunday after letting their lead slip away.
Advice: Grant broke off a season-long 62-yard touchdown on the Packers' first play from scrimmage and scored the go-ahead TD in the fourth quarter after Nick Collins intercepted Jay Cutler.

Dec 13 - RB Ryan Grant accounted for a chunk of the Packers' offensive production Sunday with 20 carries for 137 yards and his first two-touchdown game of the season. His 1-yard scoring plunge was the game-winner following Nick Collins' interception and long return. Grant had a 62-yard touchdown run on the Packers' first play from scrimmage, Green Bay's longest run in 2009. Grant has rushed for 1,068 yards, his second straight 1,000-yard season.

Greg Jennings (GB - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Greg Jennings also should be fine for the upcoming game at the Pittsburgh Steelers after he briefly left Sunday's game after taking a hit to a knee in the first quarter. Jennings had three catches for 56 yards, his third straight game without 100 receiving yards and the ninth time in the last 10 outings in which he hasn't hit the century mark. Jennings has only two touchdown catches in that 10-game stretch.

Dec 14 - WR Greg Jennings evidently is OK after he briefly left Sunday's game after taking a hit to a knee in the first quarter. Jennings wasn't named on coach Mike McCarthy's day-after-game injury list Monday.

Aaron Rodgers (GB - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Aaron Rodgers expects to be OK this week after he escaped what had the makings of a serious injury when he had his right leg bent backward on a low hit by Tommie Harris late in the 21-14 win at the Chicago Bears on Sunday. Rodgers finished the game, in which he threw for a season-low 180 yards and didn't have a touchdown pass for the first time this season.

Dec 14 - QB Aaron Rodgers expects to be OK this week after he was involved in what appeared to be a harrowing incident early in the fourth quarter of the Packers' 21-14 win at Chicago on Sunday. Rodgers' right leg bent awkwardly as he was hit low by the Bears' Tommie Harris on a successful two-point throw Rodgers made following Ryan Grant's go-ahead 1-yard touchdown run. Rodgers came off the field fine and finished the game.

Dec 14 - Rodgers completed 16 passes for 180 yards, but no touchdowns in Sunday's win over the Bears.

Recommendation: Rodgers' two lowest yardage games of the season have both come against the Bears. He has some favorable matchups over the last three weeks so expect some better production if you are in your league's playoffs.

Dec 14 - Rodgers completed 16 of 24 for 180 yards in Sunday's 21-14 win at Chicago.
Advice: Rodgers has completed 69.0 percent of his passes for 1,324 yards and nine TDs during the Packers' five-game winning streak.

Dec 13 - QB Aaron Rodgers' 180 passing yards Sunday marked a season low - he threw for 184 in the Packers' season-opening win over the Bears. Rodgers also didn't have a touchdown pass for the first time in 2009, ending a streak of 19 games with at least one scoring throw, dating back to November 2008.

David Anderson (Hou - WR)

Dec 15 - WR David Anderson has gotten more passes since TE Owen Daniels went down for the season with a knee injury. Anderson, 5-10, 196, has 32 catches for 326 yards - both career highs. In the offseason, Denver signed him to an offer sheet, but the Texans matched. He's been a valuable member of the special teams, and this season, he's become a factor in the passing game. Anderson has great hands, understands defenses and has a knack for getting into the open areas and catching the ball on the run.

Alex Brink^NA (Hou - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Alex Brink was among 10 player to hold tryouts with Cleveland on Monday.

Kris Brown (Hou - K)

Dec 14 - Texans head coach Gary Kubiak said he's concerned about Brown's struggles this season, the Houston Chronicle reports.

Recommendation: Brown missed two field goal attempts and had one blocked in Sunday's win over Seattle. He also mis-hit the opening kickoff of the second half. All this coming after the usually reliable kicker missed field goals that could have sent games against Indianapolis and Tennessee into overtime. "It's a little bit like some of the other things wrong with the team," Kubiak said. "He's erratic at times, and obviously he's got to get his consistency (back)." We'll see if Kubiak sticks with Brown for the rest of the way, a season in which he's made just 16 of 24 attempts.

Chris Brown (Hou - RB)

Dec 13 - Brown had a very disappointing outing in Sunday's 34-7 win over Seattle, rushing for just four yards on three carries.

Recommendation: Meanwhile, Ryan Moats had 10 carries for 43 yards with a touchdown and youngster Arian Foster added 88 yards from scrimmage on 17 touches. Foster got some work early in the game before it was a blowout, so for at least one week, Brown has fallen out of favor in coach Gary Kubiak's rotation. Foster is a big back, so it's possible that Brown could lose some goal line work over the final couple of weeks, assuming Kubiak liked what he saw in Foster.

Joel Dreessen (Hou - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Joel Dreessen suffered a bruised shoulder in the Seattle victory, but he had a season-high three catches for 22 yards. Since replacing the injured Owen Daniels, who still ranks second on the team with 519 yards despite missing the last five games, Dreessen has been used primarily as a blocker. Rookie Anthony Hill joined Daniels on injured reserve after suffering a torn anterior cruciate ligament in his knee. Dreessen and rookie James Casey are the only tight ends on the current roster.

Anthony Hill^IR (Hou - TE)

Dec 14 - Hill will miss the final three games of the season with a torn ACL, the Houston Chronicle reports.

Recommendation: The injury is the same as the one Hill suffered while at North Carolina State in 2007, so as coach Gary Kubiak said Monday, the young tight end "(has) got a long road ahead of him."

Dec 14 - Hill has a torn knee ligament and will miss the rest of the season.
Advice: The injury to Hill's left knee leaves Houston with two healthy tight ends in Joel Dreessen and rookie James Casey heading into Sunday's game at St. Louis. Hill, a fourth-round pick from North Carolina State, has appeared in five games this season and has one reception for nine yards. He missed some time early in October when he had the first confirmed case of swine flu in an NFL player this season.

Andre Johnson (Hou - WR)

Dec 14 - Johnson left the field briefly during Sunday's game against Seattle after being tackled in the first half, but was able to return soon afterward, the Houston Chronicle reports. "I just kind of hyper-extended my leg a little bit," Johnson said. "I had a little pain and when I hit the ground the wind kind of got knocked out of me."

Recommendation: This doesn't sound like anything to be too concerned about, but we'll check back Wednesday to see if Johnson is limited at all at practice. Despite the brief injury scare, Johnson was able rack up a whopping 11 passes for 193 yards and two TDs Sunday.

Dec 14 - Johnson caught 11 passes for 193 yards and two scores in Sunday's win over Seattle.

Recommendation: The big question entering the game was how would quarterback Matt Schaub's dislocated left (non-throwing) shoulder affect the Texans' passing game. The answer, not much. Johnson had his most productive game of the season, topping 100 receiving yards for the fifth time and getting into the end zone for his seventh and eighth time this season.

Dec 14 - Johnson left the field briefly during Sunday's game against Seattle after being tackled in the first half but was able to return soon afterward, the Houston Chronicle reports. "I just kind of hyper-extended my leg a little bit," Johnson said. "I had a little pain and when I hit the ground the wind kind of got knocked out of me."

Recommendation: This doesn't sound like anything to be too concerned about, but we'll check back Wednesday to see if Johnson is limited at all at practice. Despite the brief injury scare, Johnson was able rack up a whopping 11 passes for 193 yards and two TDs Sunday.

Dec 14 - Johnson had a season-high 193 yards receiving and two touchdowns to lead the Texans (6-7) to a 34-7 win over the Seattle Seahawks (5-8) on Sunday to break a four-game losing streak.
Advice: Johnson got things going for Houston, grabbing a 64-yard touchdown reception on the game's first play. It was the first time Houston had scored on the opening play of the game. His second score came on a 17-yard reception in the second quarter that pushed the lead to 24-0.

Ryan Moats (Hou - RB)

Dec 13 - RB Ryan Moats came off the bench to carry 10 times for a team-leading 43 yards against Seattle. Moats scored his fourth touchdown rushing.

Dec 13 - Moats ran for a team-high 43 yards on 10 carries and scored a short touchdown in Sunday's 34-7 win over Seattle. Moats also lost a fumble in the fourth quarter.

Recommendation: Not a bad outing for Moats, although he did not touch the ball again after his fumble. Chris Brown had just three carries for seven yards, but rookie Arian Foster had a strong outing with 88 yards from scrimmage on 17 touches. Foster got some work early in the game when it was relatively close, so it's not like he put up his numbers in garbage time. Coach Gary Kubiak comes from the school of Mike Shanahan, so he's often secretive about how he intends on using his running backs. With that said, it looks like Moats and Foster are the best options moving forward. Just keep in mind that Kubiak probably won't tolerate fumbling (he benched Steve Slaton earlier in the year) and Moats now has coughed up the ball in two of the last three games in which he's seen carries.

Matt Schaub (Hou - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Matt Schaub has excelled on the road, where the Texans are 3-3 this season. He's thrown for 1,906 yards and 12 touchdowns on the road. He has seven interceptions and a 99.5 rating.

Dec 15 - QB Matt Schaub is playing extremely well considering he has a running game that ranks 29th and averages 889.7 yards. He threw for 365 yards against Seattle. Playing with a harness to protect a left shoulder that was dislocated against Jacksonville, Schaub threw for 336 yards in the first half of the Seahawks game. He had one interception that wasn't his fault. A receiver slipped on his route. Schaub has started every game. He has 3,847 yards, a 68.5 completion percentage, 8.1 yards per attempt, 24 touchdowns, 13 interceptions and a 98.2 rating. He's been sacked 23 times. He's become the leader of the offense in his third season as the starter.

Dec 14 - Schaub (non-throwing shoulder) completed 29-of-39 for 365 yards and two touchdowns with an interception in Sunday's win over the Seahawks.

Recommendation: Schaub, playing with a dislocated left shoulder, set the tone early, connecting with Andre Johnson on a go route for a 64-yard touchdown pass on Houston's first play from scrimmage. In all, he completed passes to eight different receivers. If there was any complaint, it's that the Texans' offense sputtered to just 86 total yards, three points, four punts and two turnovers in the second half, but the game was securely put away.

Dec 13 - Schaub (left shoulder) is active for Sunday's game against the Seahawks.

Recommendation: Schaub will be wearing a brace on the injured shoulder, but it should not limit his ability to throw.

Dec 13 - QB Matt Schaub, playing with a special brace on his left shoulder that was dislocated at Jacksonville, completed 24 of 28 for 336 yards and two touchdowns in the first half against Seattle. The Texans dialed it down in the second half after they built a 24-7 halftime lead. Schaub has 3,847 yards, 24 touchdowns and 13 interceptions this season. He wasn't sacked against Seattle despite throwing 39 passes.

Dec 11 - Schaub (shoulder) practiced fully all week and is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Seahawks, the Texans' official site reports.

Recommendation: Assuming no setbacks, Schaub will be out there Sunday wearing a brace to protect his non-throwing shoulder, which he dislocated last weekend.

Kevin Walter (Hou - WR)

Dec 14 - Walter had two catches for 17 yards in Sunday's win over Seattle.

Recommendation: Walter had been used more in recent weeks, grabbing 20 passes in the previous four games after averaging a little more than three catches a week in his first six games. But 2009 has been a disappointment from a fantasy perspective. He has just one touchdown through 14 weeks, after finding the end zone eight times last season.

Joseph Addai^P (Ind - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Joseph Addai (knee) took part in Tuesday's practice. Addai is expected to start against the Jaguars.

Dec 13 - RB Joseph Addai averaged 4.2 yards per carry Sunday. Addai has rushed for 729 yards on 197 carries this season and has a team-leading nine rushing touchdowns.

Dec 13 - Addai had 12 carries for 67 yards and five receptions for 49 yards in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: Indy clinched the No. 1 seed in the AFC with the win, which means Addai may play sparingly in the final three games. The Indianapolis coaching staff has said they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs despite the chance to go undefeated. Mike Hart and Chad Simpson could get the bulk of the workload if Addai is pulled early in games.

Donald Brown^O (Ind - RB)

Dec 11 - Brown (chest) has been ruled out for this week's game against Denver, the team's official web site reports.

Recommendation: Chad Simpson and Mike Hart will back up Joseph Addai as a result, but Addai will likely continue to get almost all the carries.

Dallas Clark (Ind - TE)

Dec 14 - Clark caught five passes for 43 yards and a career-high three TDs in Sunday's 28-16 win over Denver.
Advice: Clark broke his own single-season team tight end records for receptions (82) and yards (902).

Dec 13 - TE Dallas Clark tied the franchise record with three receiving touchdowns in a game. He now has 82 catches for 902 yards and eight touchdowns this season. It marked his sixth multiple touchdown game and his first career three touchdown game. His eight TD catches marks the second most of his career (11, 2007).

Dec 13 - Clark had five receptions for 43 yards and three touchdowns in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: Clark is having a great season with 902 yards receiving and eight touchdowns, but he may not pile up stats at the same pace the final three games. Indy clinched the No. 1 seed in the AFC with the win, which means Clark may play sparingly in the final three games. The Indianapolis coaching staff has said they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs despite the chance to go undefeated.

Austin Collie (Ind - WR)

Dec 14 - Collie had three receptions for 43 yards, including a five-yard touchdown, in Sunday's win over the Bengals.

Recommendation: Indy clinched the No. 1 seed in the AFC with the win, which means the Colts may rest starters the next three games. The Indianapolis coaching staff has said they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs despite the chance to go undefeated. It's not clear if Collie or Pierre Garcon will be rested, but Collie carries that risk the final three games.

Pierre Garcon^P (Ind - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Pierre Garcon (knee) practiced Tuesday and is expected to start the Jacksonville game.

Dec 14 - Garcon had two receptions for 39 yards in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: Indy clinched the No. 1 seed in the AFC with the win, which means the Colts may rest starters the next three games. The Indianapolis coaching staff has said they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs despite the chance to go undefeated. It's not clear if Austin Collie or Pierre Garcon will be rested, but Garcon carries that risk the final three games.

Anthony Gonzalez^O (Ind - WR)

Dec 13 - Gonzalez (knee) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

Recommendation: No surprise here, as Gonzalez has yet to return to practice.

Mike Hart (Ind - RB)

Dec 13 - Hart had nine carries for 28 yards in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: With the Colts clinching the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs with the win, Indianapolis coaches have said they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs. Hart could be a running back to pick up as he may get significant carries in the final three games when Joseph Addai gets some rest.

Dec 13 - Hart had nine carries for 28 yards in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: With the Colts clinching the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs with the win, Indianapolis coaches have saiad they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs. Hart could be a running back to pick up as he may get significant carries in the final three games when Joseph Addai gets some rest.

Nov 26 - RB Mike Hart cleared waivers and was signed to the Colts' practice squad.

Peyton Manning^P (Ind - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Peyton Manning (glute) went through a full practice on Tuesday. He should start against the Jaguars on Thursday night.

Dec 14 - After throwing three early TDs, then three inexplicable interceptions, Manning led the Colts on a late TD drive to beat Denver 28-16, breaking NFL records for most consecutive regular-season wins (22) and most wins in a decade (114), plus wrapping up home-field advantage throughout the AFC playoffs.
Advice: Manning was 20 or 42 for 220 yards. He, who is 95 yards shy of reaching 4,000 for the 10th time in his career, is 467 yards from reaching 50,000.

Dec 14 - Indianapolis head coach Jim Caldwell said he'll play Manning and his starters Thursday against Jacksonville and treat it the same as previous regular season games this season. "We're going to approach it like we do any other game," he told the Indianapolis Star.

Recommendation: Caldwell and team president Bill Polian have said they plan to rest starters ahead of the playoffs with the No. 1 seed clinched despite the chance to go undefeated and with Indy's struggles in the past coming off a bye week. It looks like Manning will start and play a full game on Thursday, but the Colts will likely be quicker to pull him if he has the slightest injury or if the game gets out of hand.

Dec 13 - QB Peyton Manning surpassed Warren Moon for fourth in the NFL in passing yards. Manning now has 49,533 yards passing; Moon had 49,325 yards. Manning also recorded his 58th career game with three touchdowns passes and his 20th four-touchdown game. Manning is third in league history in games with four TD passes (22, Brett Favre; 21, Dan Marino).

Dec 13 - Manning was 20-of-42 for 220 yards with four touchdowns, but three interceptions in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: Indy clinched the No. 1 seed in the AFC with the win, which means Manning may play sparingly in the final three games. The Indianapolis coaching staff has said they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs despite the chance to go undefeated. We'll have to watch head coach Jim Caldwell's comments this week to see how much Manning will play. Manning won a game this week for the first time in his career while throwing three interceptions. He had been 0-for-11 when throwing three picks.

Dec 13 - Manning was 20-of-42 for 220 yards with four touchdowns, but three interceptions, in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: Indy clinched the No. 1 seed in the AFC with the win, which means Manning may play sparingly in the final three games. The Indianapolis coaching staff has said they'll rest players ahead of the playoffs despite the chance to go undefeated. We'll have to watch head coach Jim Caldwell's comments this week to see how much Manning will play Thursday against Jacksonville. Manning won a game this week for the first time in his career while throwing three interceptions. He had been 0-for-11 when throwing three picks.

Dec 13 - Manning (glute) is active for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

Recommendation: Roll with Manning without reservations this week, as the glute injury hasn't impacted his performance the last two weeks.

Dec 11 - Manning (glute) was a full participant in practice on Friday and is listed as probable against the Broncos, the team's official web site reports.

Recommendation: He's been listed with the injury each of the last three weeks of practice, but it hasn't shown any impact on his play the last two games.

Tom Santi^P (Ind - TE)

Dec 13 - Santi (hand) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

Recommendation: Hopefully you weren't considering Santi for your fantasy lineup.

Dec 11 - Santi (hand) was a full participant in practice on Friday and is listed as probable against the Bengals.

Recommendation: He fully practiced all week, so he should be set to play.

Adam Vinatieri^O (Ind - K)

Dec 15 - PK Adam Vinatieri (knee) is continuing his rehab after undergoing arthroscopic surgery last month. He hopes to be back in time for the playoffs.

Dec 13 - Vinatieri was inactive Sunday after being ruled out Friday.
Advice: Vinatieri has missed the last seven weeks with a knee injury.

Reggie Wayne^P (Ind - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Reggie Wayne (foot) practiced Tuesday. He has been bothered some by the sore foot but should be able to start against Jacksonville.

Dec 14 - Wayne (foot) had four receptions for 43 yards in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: After a strong start, Wayne has slowed down and has just 11 receptions for 110 yards over the last three games as opposing defenses have focused on shutting him down. And he may not produce much in the final three games with the Indianapolis coaching staff saying they plan to rest starters ahead of the playoffs rather than try to go undefeated now that the team has secured the No. 1 AFC seed in the postseason.

Dec 14 - Wayne (foot) had four receptions for 43 yards in Sunday's win over Denver.

Recommendation: After a strong start Wayne is having a slow end to the season as he has just 11 receptions for 110 yards the last three games as opposing defenses have focused on shutting him down. And he may not produce much in the final three games with the Indianapolis coaching staff saying they plan to rest starters ahead of the playoffs rather than try to go undefeated now that the team has secured the No. 1 AFC seed in the postseason.

Dec 13 - Wayne (foot) is active for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

Recommendation: He was a full participant in all the week's practices, so Wayne shouldn't be limited against the Broncos Sunday.

Dec 11 - Wayne (foot) fully participated in practice on Friday, but is listed as probable against the Bengals, the Colts' official site reports.

Recommendation: He's been able to fully practice all week, so this doesn't look like anything to worry about.

David Garrard (Jac - QB)

Dec 14 - Garrard struggled Sunday against Miami, completing a season-low 42.3 percent of his passes for 139 yards while not throwing for a touchdown.
Advice: Garrard completed a season-low 11 passes for a quarterback rating of 59.6. He has only 10 touchdowns this season.

Dec 14 - Garrard completed 11 of 26 passes for 139 yards in Sunday's loss to the Dolphins.

Recommendation: Sunday was one of Garrard's worst games of the season, surprising because of the favorable matchup and weather. With games coming up against Indianapolis and New England, Garrard should not be your fantasy playoff starter.

Dec 13 - QB David Garrard failed to get his team in the end zone even though he had the ball in Dolphins' territory three times in the last eight minutes. He had a 59.6 quarterback rating against the Dolphins and completed only 11 of 26 passes.

Torry Holt (Jac - WR)

Dec 14 - Holt had two catches for 71 yards in the Jags' loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.

Recommendation: Most of Holt's yardage came on a 63-yard pass, and he only had three targets. Throw in the fact that he hasn't caught a touchdown all year and that the Jags' next two games are against Indy and New England, and we wouldn't recommend him as a fantasy playoff play.

Greg Jones^O (Jac - RB)

Dec 15 - Jones (ankle) is expected to miss an extended period of time, including Thursday's game against the Colts, according to the Florida Times-Union.

Recommendation: Jones has barely seen the ball as the Jags' fullback this season, though his absence means one less blocker for Maurice Jones-Drew.

Dec 13 - Jones left Sunday’s game against the Dolphins during the fourth quarter with a right leg injury, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: This hurts the Jags' backfield depth/blocking more than it does fantasy owners, as Jones entered the game with just four carries and no TDs.

Maurice Jones-Drew^P (Jac - RB)

Dec 14 - Jones-Drew was held to 59 rushing yards Sunday but got his 14th touchdown of the season in the second quarter on a 1-yard run.
Advice: Jones is tied for the league lead in rushing touchdowns despite being held without one the previous two games.

Dec 14 - Jones-Drew ran for 59 yards and one touchdown in the Jags' loss to the Dolphins on Sunday.

Recommendation: Sunday was the fourth straight game in which MJD did not run for 100 yards, and with his next two contests coming against Indianapolis and New England, he may not help you as much as you would hope for your playoff weeks.

Dec 13 - RB Maurice Jones-Drew was held to 59 yards in 18 carries and has yet to top 100 yards for four games in a row.

Dec 13 - Jones-Drew (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Dolphins.

Recommendation: Feel free to roll with Jones-Drew as you normally would this week.

Dec 11 - Jones-Drew (knee) practiced fully Friday and is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, the Jaguars' official site reports.

Recommendation: It's safe to use Jones-Drew as usual this weekend, as there's probably no league shallow enough to bench him when he is healthy.

Mike Thomas (Jac - WR)

Dec 13 - Thomas (hamstring) is active Sunday against the Dolphins.

Recommendation: Mike Sims-Walker was listed as doubtful, but is suiting up Sunday. If he is limited or suffers any setbacks, Thomas would likely see added work against the Dolphins.

Dec 11 - Thomas, who is listed as probable with a hamstring injury, figures to see an expanded role Sunday against the Dolphins, with Mike Sims-Walker doubtful, the Florida Times-Union reports.

Recommendation: As a result, Thomas, who has quietly racked up 32 catches for 306 yards in 10 games thus far, could be a sneaky pickup this week if the free agent wideout selection in your league is otherwise barren.

Mike Sims-Walker^P (Jac - WR)

Dec 15 - Sims-Walker (calf) missed practice on Monday, according to the Florida Times-Union.

Recommendation: Sims-Walker has missed practice time for the last few weeks with this calf injury and ended up playing in each game. However, it should be noted that Sims-Walker's production has dropped significantly since suffering the calf injury.

Dec 13 - Sims-Walker (calf) had just one catch for six yards in Sunday's 14-10 loss to Miami.

Recommendation: Sims-Walker didn't practice at all late the week, thus it was somewhat of a surprise that he even played. The only silver lining is that David Garrard had a miserable game (11-of-26 for only 139 yards), so it's not like anyone did anything in the passing game for Jacksonville. Sims-Walker will have to get ready quickly this upcoming week as the Jaguars play Thursday against Indianapolis.

Dec 13 - Sims-Walker (calf) was active and in the starting lineup despite being listed as doubtful.
Advice: Sims-Walker leads Jacksonville with 52 receptions and 752 yards.

Dec 13 - The Jaguars don't expect any of their three doubtful players -- and that includes Sims-Walker (calf) -- to play Sunday against the Dolphins, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: Look for Mike Thomas to fill in at wideout for Sims-Walker on Sunday.

Dec 13 - Sims-Walker (calf) is active and expected to start against Miami, NFL Network reports.

Recommendation: He was listed as doubtful and not expected to play, so this is a surprise. Fantasy owners should be leery since it's not clear he'll be at full speed.

Dec 13 - Sims-Walker (calf) had just one catch for six yards in Sunday's 14-10 loss to Miami.

Recommendation: Sims-Walker didn't practice at all late in the week, thus it was somewhat of a surprise that he even played. The only silver lining is that David Garrard had a miserable game (11-of-26 for only 139 yards), so it's not like anyone did anything in the passing game for Jacksonville. Sims-Walker will have to get ready quickly this upcoming week as the Jaguars play Thursday against Indianapolis.

Dec 11 - Updating earlier reports, Sims-Walker, who strained his left calf during Wednesday’s practice, is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, the Florida Times-Union reports.

Recommendation: As a result, Mike Thomas will likely fill in for Sims-Walker Sunday.

Dec 11 - Sims-Walker (calf) didn't appear to be practicing Friday, the Florida Times-Union reports.

Recommendation: We'll see how Sims-Walker ends up being listed on Friday's injury report, but the red flags are out on this one, so plan accordingly.

Dec 11 - Sims-Walker (calf) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Dolphins, the Florida Times-Union reports.

Recommendation: Unlike some teams (hello New England, Indianapolis) with the Jags a questionable player really is questionable, so Sims-Walker's Week 14 status likely won't be confirmed until shortly before kickoff. Fortunately, the Jags play during the first wave of games Sunday.

Chauncey Washington (NYJ - RB)

Dec 14 - RB Chauncey Washington was signed by the Jets off the Cowboys' practice squad.

Dwayne Bowe (KC - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Dwayne Bowe returned from his four-game NFL suspension in good physical shape, and that has improved his chances of being able to get back on the field immediately. The Chiefs were granted a one-game roster exemption, but early indications are that Bowe will be available for Sunday's game against Cleveland.

Dec 15 - Coach Todd Haley did not comment Monday on whether Bowe would return to the starting lineup Sunday against the Browns, the Chiefs' official site reports.

Recommendation: Haley won't reveal that information yet, partially because he hasn't seen Bowe in four weeks and needs to assess Bowe's conditioning level. Physically, Bowe appears to have stayed in shape, but Wednesday's practice should reveal more.

Dec 15 - WR Dwayne Bowe returns to practice on Wednesday after serving his four-game NFL suspension for testing positive for performance enhancing drugs. Before he left, Bowe had 33 catches for 466 yards and four touchdowns. In the nine games before Bowe's suspension, the Chiefs had 13 TD passes. On the four Sundays without Bowe, the Chiefs had three touchdown plays in the passing game.

Dec 14 - WR Dwayne Bowe will return to the team this week after serving a four-week suspension for violating league rules on the use of performance-enhancing drugs. Chiefs coach Todd Haley was happy to see Bowe returned in decent shape from his unwelcomed vacation.

Dec 14 - Bowe's four-game suspension for violating the league's performance-enhancing drugs policy ends Monday, ESPN reports.

Recommendation: Bowe was a reliable producer before the suspension and may benefit from having Chris Chambers playing on the other side, which won't allow defenses to focus all their attention on Bowe. Kansas City's passing game has been struggling without him, but perhaps his return and a date with the 25th-ranked Browns pass defense can cure some of their woes.

Mark Bradley (KC - WR)

Dec 13 - Bradley had three catches for 35 yards in Sunday's loss to Buffalo.

Recommendation: Sunday marked the first time since mid-October that Bradley had more than one catch in game. He was targeted eight times by Matt Cassel, but that figure will likely drop once Dwayne Bowe returns from suspension next week.

Matt Cassel (KC - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Matt Cassel and his passing numbers have taken a dip in the Chiefs' current three-game losing streak. In his first nine starts, Cassel had a 12-6 ratio of TD passes to interceptions. Over the most recent three games, he has a ratio of 1-7 and he does not have a TD pass in the last two games, against four interceptions.

Dec 13 - QB Matt Cassel struggled for the second consecutive game, posting a 35.4 passer rating and throwing four interceptions while averaging just 5.2 yards per attempt against Buffalo. In games against the Broncos and Bills, Cassel was 36 of 72 for 308 yards, no TD passes and six interceptions. Cassel now has 13 TD passes and 13 INTs on the season.

Dec 13 - Cassel completed 26 of 43 passes for 224 yards and was intercepted four times in Sunday's loss to the Bills.

Recommendation: In fairness, only one of the interceptions was truly his fault, as two came on tipped balls and one was a jump ball on the final play of the game. Nonetheless, Cassel is in the midst of a brutal three-game slide: 55-for-103 (53 percent) for 486 yards, one touchdown and seven interceptions. He may regain some traction against the 2-11 Browns next week, but you'd need to be in dire straights to consider pinning your fantasy playoff hopes on him.

Jamaal Charles (KC - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Jamaal Charles has become the Chiefs' running game over the last five weeks, carrying 87 times for 453 yards with four TD runs. That's 69 percent of the carries, 84 percent of the rushing yards and 100 percent of the touchdown runs. In that time-frame, Charles has two 100-yard rushing games.

Dec 14 - Charles rushed for a career-high 143 yards against the Bills on Sunday.
Advice: Charles had 20 carries and scored a touchdown in the third straight games. Charles started a sixth straight game and has proven to be one of the Chiefs' most valuable players in the last few weeks.

Dec 14 - RB Jamaal Charles got 27 touches against Buffalo, which is about a half-dozen too many as far as the Chiefs are concerned. Because of the pounding the young back has taken over the past month, coach Todd Haley wants to keep Charles' involvement in the offense to about 20 snaps. Against the Bills, Charles was removed as the kick returner to save him the pounding there.

Dec 13 - RB Jamaal Charles had another big game for the Chiefs. Charles touched the ball 27 times on offense, producing 181 yards, including a 76-yard touchdown run. That's six touchdowns in the last five games for the second-year back. Since becoming the key man in the KC running game five games ago, Charles has 453 rushing yards, 117 receiving yards and 341 yards on kickoff returns. That's 115 touches for 911 yards and six touchdowns.

Dec 13 - Charles had 20 carries for 143 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's loss to the Bills. He added seven receptions for 38 yards.

Recommendation: Charles is quickly becoming a fantasy darling, averaging 5.3 yards per carry and scoring five touchdowns in six games since taking over for Larry Johnson in Week 9. He's proving that he can handle around 20 touches per game and should again be worth using against the 28th-ranked Browns run defense next week.

Brad Cottam (KC - TE)

Dec 13 - Cottam had one catch for 26 yards in Sunday's loss to Buffalo.

Recommendation: After going more than two months without a reception, Cottam has four catches in the last two games. He's still far too inconsistent to be worthy of consideration, even in deep leagues.

Larry Johnson (Cin - RB)

Dec 13 - Johnson will reportedly see more work in tandem with Cedric Benson Sunday against the Vikings, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: The report comes from Steve Wyche of NFL.com. Johnson's matchup isn't great here, but it looks like he'll at least have a chance to help out owners in a pinch on the heels of his quiet (two carries for fours yards) Week 13.

Dec 13 - Johnson was not used much in Sunday's loss at Minnesota, running for just four yards on three carries.

Recommendation: Meanwhile, Cedric Benson carried the ball 16 times for 96 yards, including a nice 42-yard scamper in the second half. There were reports that Johnson and Benson were going to share the workload on Sunday, obviously that did not happen. It's possible that Benson could be rested a bit down the stretch, meaning more work for Johnson, although Cincinnati hasn't clinched the division title yet or the all-important first-round bye.

Dantrell Savage (KC - RB)

Dec 13 - Savage (ankle) is officially inactive for Sunday's game against the Bills.

Recommendation: This is a bit of a surprise as Savage was listed as probable all week, but he probably wouldn't have gotten enough touches to warrant any serious consideration anyway.

Dec 11 - Savage (ankle) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Buffalo, the Chiefs' official site reports.

Recommendation: Savage may steal a small handful of carries from Jamaal Charles, but it won't be enough to make him a usable option even in deep leagues.

Ryan Succop (KC - K)

Dec 13 - Succop made one field goal (21 yards) and one extra point in Sunday's loss to Buffalo.

Recommendation: With Kansas City's passing game in a state of disarray, the Chiefs have struggled to move the ball, resulting in just three field-goal attempts in the last three games. Succop is a last-ditch fantasy option at best.

Javarris Williams (KC - RB)

Dec 13 - Williams was active for Sunday's game against the Bills but did not play.

Recommendation: The fact that the Chiefs gave backup fullback Tim Castille the backup running back duties over Williams should tell you about all you need to know.

Davone Bess (Mia - WR)

Dec 13 - Bess suffered an ankle injury Sunday against the Jaguars and his return is questionable, the Palm Beach Post reports.

Recommendation: More on the status of Bess, who is coming off a 10-catch effort last week, as it becomes available.

Dec 13 - Bess (ankle) had just three receptions for 22 yards in Sunday's 14-10 win at Jacksonville. Bess left the game with his ankle injury, but was able to return and had a short reception in the fourth quarter.

Recommendation: Tough break for Bess as he was coming off a monster game in Week 13. Bess is normally reliable in PPR formats, but he has just one touchdown on the season. The fact that Bess was able to return to Sunday's game is a good sign, at least for his chances to play next week.

Greg Camarillo (Mia - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Greg Camarillo notched his first 100-yard game this season and third of his career with seven catches for 110 yards, one yard shy of his career high set against the Broncos on Nov. 2, 2008.

Dec 13 - WR Greg Camarillo set a career high with a 110-yard receiving game on seven catches Sunday. Camarillo caught all seven balls thrown his direction, included several sliding grabs on the slippery turf at Jacksonville Municipal Stadium.

Dec 13 - Camarillo had 110 yards on seven receptions on Sunday versus Jacksonville.

Recommendation: This was Camarillo's best game of the season by far and it didn't come against the Patriots (a team he has done quite well against). This could be a signal that Camarillo's knee is starting to feel better. It's only been about a year since he underwent surgery to repair a torn ACL, and that surgery has been known to take over a year before you start to feel normal.

Anthony Fasano (Mia - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Anthony Fasano had re-emerged the last two weeks with 10 catches for 141 yards, but used mostly as a blocker Sunday he was shut out for the second time this season.

Dec 14 - TE Anthony Fasano, who had enjoyed a couple of strong games (10 combined catches for 141 yards his previous two outings), was shut out Sunday despite being targeted three times.

Dec 13 - Fasano did not have a catch Sunday against the Jaguars.

Recommendation: Just when it looked like Fasano had finally turned the corner on the 2009 season, he goes and lays an egg.

Ted Ginn Jr. (Mia - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Ted Ginn Jr. had just one catch for 12 yards and averaged 22 yards on three kick returns.

Dec 13 - Ginn had one reception for 12 yards, and one carry for 16 yards on Sunday.

Recommendation: You know you didn't have a good day when you're a starting wide receiver and you gain more yardage on the ground then through the air. At this rate it would be an upset if Ginn is still with the fish next season.

Brian Hartline (Mia - WR)

Dec 13 - Hartline had three receptions for 34 yards in Week 14 against the Jaguars.

Recommendation: A ho-hum game for Hartline as the passing game wasn't able to deliver any big plays. Hartline has some promise as a WR, but not as a big play number one wideout.

Dec 13 - Hartline had three receptions for 34 yards in Week 14 against the Jaguars.

Recommendation: A ho-hum game for Hartline as the passing game wasn't able to deliver any big plays. Hartline has some promise as a WR, but not as a big play No. 1 wideout.

Chad Henne (Mia - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Chad Henne ranks 39th out of 43 qualifying quarterbacks in fourth-quarter passer rating. His 48.9 rating in the fourth quarter is partly a result of the fact that seven of his nine interceptions this season have come in that period.

Dec 15 - QB Chad Henne completed 21 of 29 for 220 yards and is now 7-3 as a starter. He set a franchise record with 17 straight completions in the same game. It tied the record held by his predecessor, Chad Pennington, who matched that over two games last season. Henne added his first rushing touchdown of his career, a 1-yarder, in the second quarter. He did throw a bad interception at midfield that his defense had to bail him out on in the fourth quarter. And he didn't have a TD pass for the first time in five games.

Dec 14 - QB Chad Henne set a franchise record with 17 straight completions in the same game. He completed passes to eight different receivers, but he also was sacked twice and threw a bad interception at midfield that forced the defense to make yet another stop in a scoreless fourth quarter.

Dec 14 - Henne completed an impressive 72.4 percent of his passes, going 21 of 29 for 220 yards in a win over the Jaguars on Sunday.
Advice: Henne didn't throw a touchdown but had was able to move the ball, completing a team-record 17 consecutive passes at one point. For the season he's completing 58.8 percent of his passes for 2,067 yards.

Dec 13 - Henne finished 21-29 for 220 yards against the Jaguars on Sunday.

Recommendation: At one point Henne completed 17 straight passes. This was a big game for Henne and the Dolphins as the win now gives them the inside track at a wildcard berth. His overall numbers may not show it yet, but he is improving as a starting NFL QB as the season is moving along.

Dec 13 - Henne finished 21-of-29 for 220 yards against the Jaguars on Sunday.

Recommendation: At one point Henne completed 17 straight passes. This was a big game for Henne and the Dolphins as the win now gives them the inside track at a wildcard berth. His overall numbers may not show it yet, but he is improving as a starting NFL QB as the season is moving along.

Dec 13 - QB Chad Henne set a franchise record for consecutive completions in the same game (17). After starting 2 of 4 passing, Henne didn't miss again until late in the third quarter when he overthrew fullback Lousaka Polite in the right flat. Henne also scored on a 1-yard keeper, his first rushing score since his sophomore year at Michigan. He finished that season with a 7-yard run against Nebraska in the Alamo Bowl. Henne also had two rushing TDs as a freshman for the Wolverines.

Lousaka Polite (Mia - RB)

Dec 15 - FB Lousaka Polite gained 18 yards on four carries, including a third-and-1 and a fourth-and-1 that led to Ricky Williams' 1-yard TD run in the first quarter. He is now 12-of-12 in those short-yardage situations.

Ricky Williams (Mia - RB)

Dec 14 - Williams rushed for 108 yards and a touchdown in Miami's win over Jacksonville on Sunday.
Advice: Williams took the ball a season-high 28 times. He had 10 touchdowns this season and has rushed for 100 yards in four of the last five games now.

Dec 13 - Williams had 108 yards on 28 carries in Week 14.

Recommendation: Not the greatest of games for Williams. Sure he rushed for over 100 yards and a touchdown, but that came on 28 carries for an average of 3.9 YPC, and three of those carries he put the ball on the ground, losing one.

Bernard Berrian (Min - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Bernard Berrian was limited Wednesday because of a hamstring injury that has bothered him for much of the season.

Dec 15 - WR Bernard Berrian tied for the team lead with four receptions for 43 yards Sunday but his yardage totals continue to be far less than expected. This is likely due in large part to the fact that Berrian has battled hamstring injuries in both legs at different points this season. Berrian is third on the Vikings with 47 receptions for 485 yards and four touchdowns but is averaging 10.3 yards per catch. Last season, Berrian proved to be a big-play threat on a consistent basis averaging an NFL-leading 20.1 yards per catch.

Dec 14 - Berrian (hamstring) had four receptions for 43 yards in Sunday's win over the Bengals.

Recommendation: He led the Vikings in receptions and receiving yards with Percy Harvin out with migraine headaches. The overall Minnesota passing game was limited in the win, but Berrian showed more speed than he has in previous weeks. He could become a bigger factor in the offense if Harvin is out again this week.

Dec 13 - Berrian (hamstring) is active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Recommendation: Berrian has been dealing with hamstring soreness for about five weeks now, but it hasn't limited him during games.

Dec 11 - Berrian (hamstring) was limited in practice all week, but is listed as probable against the Bengals, the team's official web site reports.

Recommendation: He's practiced the last five weeks with a sore hamstring and has been able to play on Sunday, so he should be safe to start this week.

Percy Harvin (Min - WR)

Dec 14 - Harvin (migraines) wasn't on the sideline with the Vikings' other inactive players Sunday, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.

Recommendation: There's still uncertainty regarding Harvin's Week 15 status, but for what it's worth, teammate Sidney Rice said he spoke with Harvin on Saturday night, and passed along word that the rookie wideout was optimistic about playing this coming Sunday night against the Panthers.

Dec 14 - Harvin (migraines) wasn't on the sideline with the Vikings' other inactive players Sunday, the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.

Recommendation: There's still uncertainly regarding Harvin's Week 15 status, but for what it's worth, teammate Sidney Rice said he spoke with Harvin on Saturday night, and passed along word that the rookie wideout was optimistic about playing this coming Sunday night against the Panthers.

Dec 13 - Harvin (migraines) isn't expected to play Sunday against the Bengals, according to NFL.com's Jason La Canfora.

Recommendation: La Canfora is a pretty reliable source, so Harvin owners should make other plans for now. The Vikings kick off during the first wave of games Sunday, which would allow Harvin to be re-inserted if he ends up feeling better closer to game-time and suiting up.

Dec 13 - As expected, Harvin (migraines) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bengals, Chip Scoggins of the Minneapolis Star-Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Harvin was expected to be inactive so insert your backup plan into your fantasy lineup now.

Dec 11 - Harvin (migraines) was not present for practice on Friday, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. He had missed the two previous practices with the ailment.

Recommendation: He'll likely be a game-time decision on Sunday. However, Harvin has a history of migraine headaches, but has been able to play quickly after they end. If he's feeling fine on Sunday morning, he'll probably be safe to start.

Tarvaris Jackson (Min - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Tarvaris Jackson entered a game for the seventh time this season in relief of Brett Favre. It was the second consecutive time that he came in with the Vikings holding a substantial lead and did not throw a pass. Jackson has been the No. 2 quarterback behind Favre the entire season, leaving Sage Rosenfels as the emergency QB.

Garrett Mills (Min - TE)

Dec 13 - Mills is inactive for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Recommendation: Mills won't see much more than special teams action as long as Visanthe Shiancoe and Jimmy Kleinsasser are healthy.

Adrian Peterson (Min - RB)

Dec 14 - Peterson bounced back after a subpar performance against the Cardinals, rushing for 97 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the Bengals on Sunday.
Advice: Peterson had been held without a touchdown on 13 carries and 19 yards against Arizona. He had 26 carries Sunday and ran for his most yards in four games.

Dec 13 - Peterson (foot/ankle) is active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Recommendation: Peterson practiced Thursday and Friday after getting a rest Wednesday, but he should be safe to roll with this week.

Dec 13 - Peterson (foot/ankle) had 27 carries for 97 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's win over the Bengals.

Recommendation: The foot injury that limited him in practice last week didn't look like a worry and he bounced back after rushing for just 19 yards last week as the Minnesota running game got back on track. He set a franchise record with his 14th rushing touchdown of the season.

Dec 11 - Peterson (foot/ankle) was limited in practice on Friday and is listed as questionable against the Bengals, the team's official web site reports. However, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports his status as probable.

Recommendation: He missed Wednesday's practice, but returned the past two days. We're not hearing his status is at risk despite the questionable tag, but check his status before kickoff.

Sidney Rice (Min - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Sidney Rice tied Bernard Berrian for the team lead with four receptions for 39 yards and a touchdown against the Bengals. Rice continues to lead the Vikings with 67 receptions for 1,075 yards and five touchdowns and very well could be on his way to earning the first Pro Bowl berth of his three-year career.

Dec 14 - Rice had four receptions for 39 yards in Sunday's win over the Bengals.

Recommendation: The Minnesota passing game was held to under 200 yards as the offense was more effective on the ground, so Rice's stats were good given that context.

Visanthe Shiancoe (Min - TE)

Dec 13 - Shiancoe (ribs) is active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Recommendation: Shiancoe is safe to start against the Bengals this week.

Dec 11 - Shiancoe (ribs) was limited in practice on Friday, but is listed as probable against the Bengals, the team's official web site reports.

Recommendation: Shiancoe appeared to aggravate the injury in last week's loss, but he's been able to practice this week and should be safe to start this week.

Chester Taylor (Min - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Chester Taylor needs 52 yards rushing to break into the top 10 for running backs in Vikings history. Taylor has 2,744 yards as a Viking, trailing Terry Allen's 2,795 yards for 10th place.

Dec 15 - RB Chester Taylor gained 25 yards on five rushing attempts and caught two passes for 32 yards against Cincinnati. Taylor caught a 26-yard pass and then had a 17-yard run in the third quarter to set up a 1-yard touchdown run by Adrian Peterson. Taylor's 39 receptions rank fifth on the Vikings. Despite his often limited workload, he continues to be an extremely valuable backup to Peterson.

Bobby Wade (KC - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Bobby Wade's contributions to the Chiefs passing game have been minimal in the last four games, even with the absence of suspended teammate Dwayne Bowe. Wade had 13 catches for 107 yards during the last four weeks, or an average of three catches for 27 yards per game. Wade has not found the end zone in two months, last scoring on Oct. 4.

Dec 13 - Wade had four receptions for 34 yards in Sunday's loss to the Bills.

Recommendation: Wade's been plugging along at 20-40 yards per game over the last few weeks, making him worth consideration only in the deepest of leagues. Those meager numbers could drop even further once Dwayne Bowe returns from suspension next week.

Sam Aiken (NE - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Sam Aiken will be monitored closely as he looks to get back on the field after taking last week off due to an injury he suffered in Miami. Aiken is a big part of the Patriots' work on special teams and has also taken on the role of a No. 3 receiver.

Dec 13 - Aiken (shoulder) is inactive for Sunday's game against Carolina.

Recommendation: As a result, Julian Edelman should see work as the Patriots' No. 3 wideout this week.

Dec 11 - Aiken (shoulder) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina, the Boston Globe reports.

Recommendation: We suspect that he will be fine Sunday, but those who need to consider Aiken this week will want to verify his status prior to kickoff.

Tom Brady (NE - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Tom Brady will be happy to see the Bills this weekend. This will be his 16th start against Buffalo. He has won 14 of them, which is the most wins he has against any opponent during the regular season in his career. Brady also has won 10 in a row against the Bills, which is the longest win streak of his career against any opponent, and he's thrown 32 touchdowns against Buffalo, the most against any opponent.

Dec 15 - QB Tom Brady may be battling rib, shoulder and finger injuries, but he's healthy as ever in terms of winning home games. With Sunday's defeat of Carolina, Brady has won 22 straight home games, including postseason action.

Dec 13 - Brady is expected to play Sunday against Carolina through his rib, finger and shoulder issues, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Recommendation: Schefter is a reliable source and the fact that the Patriots did not add another QB to active roster bodes well, but it is still worth verifying Brady's status prior to kickoff.

Dec 13 - Brady (rib/shoulder/finger) is listed active for Sunday's game against Carolina, the Boston Globe reports.

Recommendation: Brian Hoyer is on hand in the event that Brady suffers a setback, but it's not a surprise that Brady is out there toughing it out, as the Patriots try to right the ship following consecutive losses.

Dec 13 - Brady (finger/shoulder/rib) completed 19-of-32 passes for 192 yards with a touchdown and an interception in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: Not vintage Brady, but he made it through the game okay and got the win. We'll have to see if he is limited in practice at all next week, but we'd expect Brady to be out there in Week 15 against the Bills.

Dec 13 - Brady (rib/shoulder/finger) is listed as active for Sunday's game against Carolina, the Boston Globe reports.

Recommendation: Brian Hoyer is on hand in the event Brady suffers a setback, but it's not a surprise Brady is out there toughing it out, as the Patriots try to right the ship following consecutive losses.

Dec 13 - Brady (finger/shoulder/rib) completed 19-of-32 passes for 192 yards with a touchdown and an interception in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: Not vintage Brady, but he made it through the game OK and got the win. We'll have to see if he is limited in practice at all next week, but we'd expect Brady to be out there in Week 15 against the Bills.

Dec 13 - Brady is expected to play Sunday against Carolina through his rib, finger and shoulder issues, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Recommendation: Schefter is a reliable source and the fact that the Patriots did not add another QB to active roster bodes well, but it is still worth verifying Brady's status before kickoff.

Dec 11 - Brady (finger/right shoulder/rib), who did not practice Wednesday or Thursday, was spotted at the media portion of practice Friday, the Boston Globe reports.

Recommendation: It will be interesting to see if Brady gets his standard "probable" designation on the injury report Friday, or if he joins the Patriots' normally well-populated "questionable" group. Stay tuned.

Dec 11 - Brady, who was limited at practice Friday, is officially listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina with rib, right shoulder and right finger injuries, the Boston Globe reports.

Recommendation: Brady is one of nine Pats listed as questionable this week, but since he's not listed as probable, as he usually is, his owners will need to check his status prior to the first wave of kickoffs Sunday. It's clear that Brady is banged up, but we'd be surprised if backup Brian Hoyer is behind center Sunday.

Julian Edelman (NE - QB)

Dec 13 - Edelman (forearm) is listed as active for Sunday's game against Carolina.

Recommendation: With Sam Aiken out, Edelman will have a chnace to see some added looks as the Pats' No. 3 wideout Sunday.

Dec 13 - Edelman did not record a catch in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: That's often life for Pats' wideouts not named Randy Moss or Wes Welker. There are some weeks where there is production to be had beyond the top duo, but it hasn't been consistent enough for either Edelman or Sam Aiken to be reliable fantasy options.

Dec 13 - Edelman did not record a catch in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: That's pften life for Pats' wideouts not named Randy Moss or Wes Welker. There are some weeks where there is production to had beyond the top duo, but it hasn't been consistent enough for either Edelman or Sam Aiken to be reliable fantasy options.

Dec 13 - Edelman (forearm) is listed as active for Sunday's game against Carolina.

Recommendation: With Sam Aiken out, Edelman will have a chance to see some added looks as the Pats' No. 3 wideout Sunday.

Dec 11 - Edelman (forearm) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina, the Boston Globe reports.

Recommendation: Edelman has displayed playmaking capabilities at times this season, but until he can carve out a consistent role, he's not much more than a intriguing, but still developing weapon.

Kevin Faulk (NE - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Kevin Faulk scored New England's only ground score of the day against Carolina, his second rushing touchdown of the season.

Dec 13 - Faulk had 10 carries for 58 yards and a touchdown and caught three passes for 17 yards in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: He's now scored in two straight games, and gets his owners something every week, but Laurence Maroney is still the Pats' lead back, with Faulk maintaining his role as a valuable role player.

Stephen Gostkowski (NE - K)

Dec 15 - PK Stephen Gostkowski hit a pair of long field goals (48, 47) in cool, rainy conditions in the win over the Panthers. Gostkowski also went over the 100-point mark for the year, having now reached the plateau in each of his first four NFL seasons.

Dec 13 - Gostkowski made both of his field goal attempts en route to an eight-point effort in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: Next week the Pats play the Bills in Buffalo, so as long as there aren't any extreme weather conditions, Gostkowski looks like a solid Week 15 play.

Greg Lewis (Min - WR)

Dec 14 - Lewis had two receptions for 19 yards in Sunday's win over the Bengals.

Recommendation: He got more playing time with Percy Harvin out with migraine headaches, but he's not going to get enough balls thrown his way for viable fantasy value in most leagues.

Laurence Maroney (NE - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Laurence Maroney helped his cause with another strong effort last weekend and shouldn't lose much playing time down the stretch despite the return of Sammy Morris and the inevitable return of Fred Taylor.

Dec 15 - RB Laurence Maroney paced an impressive Patriots ground effort against Carolina, totaling 94 yards on 22 carries for a 4.3-yard average. New England tallied a season-high 40 attempts for 185 yards as a team.

Dec 13 - Maroney had 22 carries for 94 yards and caught two passes for 17 yards in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: Kevin Faulk had 10 carries and Sammy Morris had six, as Maroney continues to hold on to his job as the Patriots' lead back. He'll face the Bills in Week 15, which looks like a great matchup.

Sammy Morris (NE - RB)

Dec 13 - Morris had six carries for 35 yards in Sunday's win over the Panthers. He also lost a fumble.

Recommendation: Morris could see more touches in the coming weeks, but you'd need to be digging deep to use him in the fantasy playoffs, with Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk (and perhaps Fred Taylor next week) all also in the mix and preventing Morris from piling up carries.

Randy Moss (NE - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Randy Moss was held to just a single catch for the second time in the win over Carolina, a 16-yard effort that ended in a fumble. For the season Moss is second on New England with 69 catches for 1,074 yards with nine touchdowns. His yardage total ranks sixth in the NFL this season.

Dec 14 - Moss had one catch for 16 yards against the Panthers on Sunday.
Advice: Moss has only 11 catches in the last four games and isn't being targeted much. While the Patriots continue to start him, he clearly is a minimal factor in the offensive game plan.

Dec 13 - Moss had just one catch for 16 yards in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: It was more than simply a quiet game for Moss, who recorded two drops, a fumble and false start penalty. Some Panthers' defenders had a few interesting comments about Moss "shutting it down" Sunday, but we'd expect him to bounce back next week against Buffalo. So far, at least, there has been no hint that coach Bill Belichick's decision to send Moss (along with three others) home Wednesday for being late, has had any residual effects.

Dec 13 - Moss was active Sunday against the Carolina Panthers even though coach Bill Belichick sent him home for tardiness Wednesday.
Advice: Moss leads the Patriots with 1,058 receiving yards.

Fred Taylor (NE - RB)

Dec 13 - Taylor (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against Carolina.

Recommendation: He's been inching closer to a return the past two weeks, with a Week 15 return against Buffalo looking very plausible for Taylor.

Dec 13 - Taylor (ankle) is inactive for Sunday's game against Carolina.

Recommendation: He's been inching closer to a return the past two weeks, with a Week 15 reaturn against Buffalo looking very plausible for Taylor.

Dec 11 - Taylor (ankle) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Carolina, the Boston Globe reports.

Recommendation: We'll check on Taylor's status prior to Sunday's kickoff, but even if he does suit up this week, his role is uncertain. It's possible Taylor could help owners out during the fantasy playoffs, but as long as his backfield mates remain healthy, he's a long shot to make an impact.

Benjamin Watson (NE - TE)

Dec 13 - Watson had three catches for 37 yards and a five-yard touchdown in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: That's Watson's fifth TD in 13 games, which gives him some value, but overall he's had more quiet games than busy ones, which makes him a hit-or-miss fantasy option.

Wes Welker (NE - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Wes Welker has caught six or more passes in 11 consecutive games, leaving him five games shy of Marvin Harrison's record. Last week's game was also his sixth of the season with 10 or more catches, leaving him one shy of Andre Johnson's NFL record.

Dec 15 - WR Wes Welker led New England with 10 catches for 105 yards against Carolina. He went over 100 receptions for the third-straight season in New England. Welker's 105 receptions leads the NFL despite him missing a pair of games to injury. His 1,158 yards rank second in the league.

Dec 14 - Welker had 14 catches for 105 yards in a win over Carolina on Sunday.
Advice: It was his fifth 100-yard performance of the season. He caught five passes on the tie-breaking series in the third quarter. He has 105 catches and needs seven more to surpass his career high in 2007.

Dec 13 - Welker had 10 catches for 105 yards in Sunday's win over the Panthers.

Recommendation: The beat goes on for the productive Welker, who now has 105 catches in 11 games to date.

Mike Bell (NO - RB)

Dec 13 - Bell (knee) is officially inactive for Sunday's game against the Falcons.

Recommendation: Pierre Thomas' value gets a a boost, as does Reggie Bush's (to a lesser extent).

Dec 13 - Bell (knee) will not play Sunday against the Falcons, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports. The official inactive list has not been released.

Recommendation: Bell's reportedly minor knee injury was not expected to keep him out, so we'll be sure to verify this report once the inactive list is released. If Bell is indeed out, Pierre Thomas - and to a lesser extent, Reggie Bush - will get more work than usual.

Dec 11 - Bell (knee) missed practice again Friday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against Atlanta, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Recommendation: Coach Sean Payton said Bell is just dealing with some soreness from last week's game, but two missed days of practice are cause for concern. If you own Bell or Pierre Thomas, check back with us Sunday morning to verify Bell's status. If he's out, Thomas gets a significant upgrade.

Dec 11 - Jeff Duncan of the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports that Bell's (knee) injury is minor and he should play in Sunday's game against the Falcons.

Recommendation: Even if the injury is minor, Bell is listed as questionable and you should be sure to check back on his status on Sunday before setting your final lineup.

Drew Brees (NO - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Drew Brees hit on 31 of 40 passes for 296 yards with three TDs and no interceptions in a 26-23 win against the Atlanta Falcons. He had a long gain of 42 yards and posted a passer rating of 122.5, marking the fourth straight week he has been over 100.0.

Dec 14 - QB Drew Brees attained a couple of personal milestones in his team's 26-23 win. With 296 yards, Brees broke the 30,000-yard mark for his nine-year career. He hit that total on the nose when he threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Marques Colston just before halftime. In the third quarter, Brees tossed a 21-yard TD to running back Reggie Bush -- the third of his three scoring passes. That gave Brees 200 touchdowns for his career, which began with the San Diego Chargers in 2001. Brees is the 30th quarterback in NFL history to throw for 200 touchdowns and the 33rd player to reach 30,000 passing yards. His total now stands at 30,090 yards after starting the day with 29,794 yards. Brees also tied the club record for career touchdown passes with his third-quarter toss to Bush, when went untouched into the end zone from 21 yards out on a screen. That throw was the 120th touchdown of Brees' career with the Saints, tying him with Aaron Brooks (2000-05). Brees is averaging just under two TD passes a game with the Saints, with whom he's played 61 games.

Dec 14 - Brees threw for 296 yards and three touchdowns, Jonathan Vilma came up with two huge defensive plays, and the Saints pulled out another tight win, 26-23 over the pesky Atlanta Falcons on Sunday.
Advice: Brees had another big game with a 31-of-40 performance that included a pair of touchdown passes to Reggie Bush and another to Marques Colston. Brees tied Aaron Brooks' franchise record with his final TD pass, the 120th of his Saints career.

Dec 13 - Brees threw for 296 yards and three touchdowns Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: As anticipated, Brees picked apart a porous Falcons' secondary, completing over 77% of his passes without an interception. He seems to have cleaned up the turnover problem that plagued him in the middle of the year. Coach Sean Payton has already stated that he will not rest his regulars down the stretch as the team aims for a perfect season, which is great news for fantasy owners. He's primed for a big finish.

Dec 13 - Brees threw for 296 yards and three touchdowns Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: As anticipated, Brees picked apart a porous Falcons' secondary, completing over 77 percent of his passes without an interception. He seems to have cleaned up the turnover problem that plagued him in the middle of the year. Coach Sean Payton has already stated he will not rest his regulars down the stretch as the team aims for a perfect season, which is great news for fantasy owners. He's primed for a big finish.

Dec 12 - Brees will soon be presiding over a new krewe. The New Orleans Saints player - already considered royalty by many in this football-crazed city - has been named King of Bacchus.
Advice: Brees made the announcement via Twitter on Saturday. It was later confirmed by the Krewe Bacchus, known for its celebrity kings.The Bacchus parade is set to roll Feb. 14, two days before Mardi Gras and a week after the Super Bowl. With the Saints 12-0 heading into Sunday's game with the Atlanta Falcons, fans have high hopes their team will make it to the championship.

Mark Brunell (NO - QB)

Dec 14 - QB Mark Brunell, who had 4,594 pass attempts in his 17-year NFL career going into the game, attempted his first as a member of the Saints on a fake field-goal attempt with 2:07 left in Sunday's game. Brunell's first option was to run the ball, but as he rolled to the left he spotted tight end Darnell Dinkins near the sideline. However, the pass from the left-hander was wide of the mark and incomplete.

Reggie Bush (NO - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Reggie Bush caught six passes for 53 yards with TDs of 6 and 21 yards and also rushed for 33 yards on six carries in his best game since suffering a bruised knee on Nov. 15. He also had a season-long 23-yard punt return.

Dec 14 - Bush caught six passes for 46 yards and two TDs in Sunday's 26-23 win over Atlanta.
Advice: Bush had one TD in his previous 11 games.

Dec 13 - Bush (knee) is active for Sunday’s game against the Falcons. Teammate Mike Bell (knee) is out.

Recommendation: His low involvement last week (five touches) can partially be blamed on his injured knee, which may still be less than 100 percent. Bell's absence gives Bush a slight boost, but Pierre Thomas is the main beneficiary.

Dec 13 - Bush (knee) rushed six times for 33 yards and caught six passes for 46 yards and two touchdowns Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: After a terrible performance last week where it was obvious he was not 100 percent healthy in his return from a knee injury, Bush was excellent in limited touches Sunday. Drew Brees found Bush twice for touchdowns in the red zone: first on an out when he was matched up with a linebacker and then again on a screen pass in which Bush went untouched from 19 yards out for the score. While Mike Bell will likely return to the Saints' lineup next week, Bush should still provide some value as he will likely be targeted on some short routes to keep the pressure off Brees against a tough Dallas front seven.

Dec 11 - Bush (knee) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Atlanta, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Recommendation: Bush struggled in his return to action last week, but should be closer to full health against the Falcons.

Marques Colston (NO - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Marques Colston finished with 54 yards on six receptions with a 3-yard touchdown catch, his ninth of the season, just before halftime.

Dec 13 - Colston caught six passes for 54 yards and a touchdown Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: While he didn't post huge numbers against a porous Atlanta secondary, Colston put up a very solid game. He has now scored in three straight weeks, just in time to help his owners in the fantasy playoffs. He will face a Dallas secondary that has played better of late, but is still susceptible to big days by opposing receivers, as evidenced by Vincent Jackson's 120 yards Sunday.

Garrett Hartley (NO - K)

Dec 13 - Hartley connected on field goals from 33 and 38 yards Sunday in Atlanta. While he converted two extra point attempts, he missed off the upright on another.

Recommendation: Hartley lined up for a short field goal attempt late in the fourth quarter, but coach Sean Payton opted for a fake, which resulted in an incomplete pass. It's possible Payton still does not trust Hartley completely as Sunday was only Hartley's second start this year. This missed extra point certainly didn't inspire any confidence. particularly with John Carney breathing down his neck.

Devery Henderson (NO - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Devery Henderson caught three passes for 31 yards with a long of 13 against the Falcons.

Dec 13 - Henderson caught three passes for 31 yards Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: Henderson struggled on Sunday, dropping two obvious passes: one which would have resulted in a nice 20 yard gin and another one in the end zone that would have resulted in a score. With the emergence of Robert Meachem, Henderson's role in the offense has been somewhat inconsistent and he has only managed two scores this year. Dropping passes certainly won't improve his chances of regaining the trust of Drew Brees and coach Sean Payton.

Dec 13 - Henderson caught three passes for 31 yards Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: Henderson struggled Sunday, dropping two obvious passes: one which would have resulted in a nice 20 yard gain and another one in the end zone that would have resulted in a score. With the emergence of Robert Meachem, Henderson's role in the offense has been somewhat inconsistent and he has only managed two scores this year. Dropping passes certainly won't improve his chances of regaining the trust of Drew Brees and coach Sean Payton.

Robert Meachem (NO - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Robert Meachem had 57 yards on four receptions with a long of 42 and came up with a first down on a 4-yard run on a reverse in the second quarter that kept alive a drive that eventually ended with a touchdown.

Dec 13 - Meachem caught four passes for 57 yards Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: His consecutive scoring streak was snappedat five games, however, Meachem still posted a useful line in the victory. He will face a Dallas secondary that has played well as of late next week, but is still susceptible to big days by receivers, as evidence d by the 120-yard effort by Vincent Jackson on Sunday.

Dec 13 - Meachem caught four passes for 57 yards Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: His consecutive scoring streak was snapped at five games, however, Meachem still posted a useful line in the victory. He will face a Dallas secondary that has played well as of late next week, but is still susceptible to big days by receivers, as evidenced by the 120-yard effort by Vincent Jackson on Sunday.

Dec 13 - Meachem caught four passes for 57 yards Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: His consecutive scoring streak was snapped at five games, however, Meachem still posted a useful line in the victory. He will face a Dallas secondary that has played well as of late next week, but is still susceptible to big days by receivers, as evidence d by the 120-yard effort by Vincent Jackson on Sunday.

Lance Moore (NO - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Lance Moore had full participation in practice Wednesday after missing six games with hamstring and ankle injuries.

Dec 14 - WR Lance Moore, who missed five games with hamstring and ankle injuries, was designated as the third quarterback against the Falcons.

Dec 13 - Contrary to an earlier report, Moore (ankle, hamstring) is actually listed as the Saints' inactive third quarterback for Sunday's game against Atlanta.

Recommendation: In other words, Moore won't play until the fourth quarter at the earliest. Keep him reserved.

Dec 13 - Moore (ankle, hamstring) is active for Sunday’s game against the Falcons.

Recommendation: With a plethora of weapons at Drew Brees’ disposal, Moore wasn’t a frequent target before his injuries and now must shake off the rust from a five-week layoff.

Dec 11 - Moore (ankle, hamstring) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Falcons after practicing on a limited basis all week, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Recommendation: Even if Moore returns this week, his impact will likely be negligible in most fantasy leagues. He's had more than two catches in just one game this year.

Jeremy Shockey (NO - TE)

Dec 16 - TE Jeremy Shockey did not work Wednesday because of a left turf toe injury and his status for the Cowboys game was unclear.

Dec 15 - TE Jeremy Shockey caught four passes for 46 yards with a long gain of 18 yards against the Falcons.

Dec 13 - Shockey (hamstring) caught four passes for 46 yards Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: The trend for the Saints' offense has been to get Shockey involved early before exploring other options. Sunday was no different as Shockey amassed most of his yardage in the first quarter before practically disappearing. At this point in the season, owners should know what to expect out of Shockey. He's likely to always get you a few points and has the potential to be great given the Saints' offense, but has not flashed that potential in a number of weeks.

Pierre Thomas (NO - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Pierre Thomas worked on a limited basis Wednesday because of a hip injury and his availability for Saturday was unknown.

Dec 15 - RB Pierre Thomas totaled exactly 100 yards from scrimmage as he rushed for 47 yards on 13 carries and added 53 yards on six receptions. He had a long gain of 24 yards on a screen pass from Brees.

Dec 13 - Thomas (quad, probable) should be in line for an expanded workload Sunday against the Falcons, since Adam Schefter of ESPN reports that Mike Bell won't play Sunday.

Recommendation: Bump Thomas and his teammate Reggie Bush up a few notches on your cheatsheets, as both should see more touches without Bell available.

Dec 13 - Thomas (quad) rushed for 47 yards on 13 carries and caught six passes for another 53 yards Sunday in Atlanta.

Recommendation: While Thomas managed 100 total yards on the day, his owners may be disappointed with the output considering Thomas' main threat, Mike Bell, was inactive. As it turned out, Reggie Bush was the culprit this week, scoring twice on red zone passes. If you are an owner in the playoffs, keep in mind that Bell should return next week and Thomas will face a Dallas defense that has been one of the league's better run-stopping units.

Dec 13 - Thomas (quad) is active for Sunday’s game against the Falcons.

Recommendation: Thomas surprisingly received just six carries last week, but should get much more work against a suspect Falcons defense, especially with teammate Mike Bell (knee) inactive.

Dec 11 - Thomas (quad) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Atlanta, the New Orleans Times-Picayune reports.

Recommendation: Thomas should be fine, but teammate Mike Bell (knee) is listed as questionable. If Bell can't go, Thomas' value would get a boost.

Kevin Boss (NYG - TE)

Dec 16 - TE Kevin Boss has caught eight passes for 138 yards in four games against the Redskins. In Week 1, Boss had three receptions for 62 yards against Washington, his second best output thus far this season.

Dec 15 - TE Kevin Boss now has 34 receptions for 461 yards - both single-season career highs -- and five touchdowns. He needs two more touchdown catches to set another career high.

Dec 14 - Boss had seven catches for 70 yards and a touchdown Sunday.

Recommendation: The Eagles give up a lot of production to opposing tight ends, so this isn't a huge surprise. Boss' day could have been even bigger had he not dropped a long pass for Eli Manning. Boss will remain involved in the offense, but he's never been a consistent every-week producer.

Dec 14 - Boss had seven catches for 70 yards and a touchdown Sunday.

Recommendation: The Eagles give up a lot of production to opposing tight ends, so this isn't a huge surprise. Boss' day could have been even bigger had he not dropped a long pass from Eli Manning. Boss will remain involved in the offense, but he's never been a consistent every-week producer.

Ahmad Bradshaw (NYG - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Ahmad Bradshaw (foot/ankles) will likely remain on a managed schedule. Given that the team had Wednesday off, Bradshaw will probably see some limited snaps on Thursday, as was the case when the Giants had extra days to prepare for their game two weeks ago against Dallas.

Dec 14 - Bradshaw (foot) had 14 carries for 55 yards and a touchdown and four catches for 46 yards Sunday.

Recommendation: A solid game for Bradshaw who looked dynamic as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield. So far his foot and ankle seem to be holding up.

Dec 14 - Bradshaw (foot) had 14 carries for 55 yards and a touchdown and four catches for 46 yards.

Recommendation: A solid game for Bradshaw who looked dynamic as a rusher and a receiver out of the backfield. So far his foot and ankle seem to be holding up.

Dec 13 - Bradshaw (foot/ankles) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

Recommendation: He'll work in tandem with Brandon Jacobs this week, with Danny Ware possibly factoring in to a lesser degree.

Dec 11 - Bradshaw (foot/ankles) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Philadelphia, the New York Daily News' Ralph Vacchianoreports.

Recommendation: As expected, he should be ready to go for a crucial divisional battle on Sunday night.

Madison Hedgecock (NYG - RB)

Dec 15 - FB Madison Hedgecock, who caught a five-yard pass against the Eagles, now has four receptions for 23 yards and a touchdown this season. Hedgecock's career best as a receiver was in 2005, his rookie year, when as a member of the St. Louis Rams he caught nine passes for 69 yards as part of then head coach Mike Martz's offense.

Domenik Hixon (NYG - WR)

Dec 14 - WR Domenik Hixon had 172 yards on eight kickoff returns, which increased his career total to 1,367 yards and moved him past Emlen Tunnell, Chad Morton, Thomas Lewis, Phil McConkey and Ron Dixon and into eighth place on the franchise's career list.

Dec 13 - WR Domenik Hixon, last week's hero on special teams, came up with his first touchdown catch of the season, a 61-yard reception from Eli Manning with 5:12 in the third quarter to give the Giants the lead for the first time in the game. The reception, Hixon's longest of the season, was also his longest of his career, topping a previous long of 41 yards that came on Oct. 5, 2008 against Seattle.

Brandon Jacobs (NYG - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Brandon Jacobs has started three games in his career against the Redskins. His two best games against the Redskins have come at home. In 2007, he carried the ball 25 times for 130 yards. In 2008, he rushed 21 times for 116 yards. He has amassed 107 rushes for 434 yards (4.0 avg.) and two rushing touchdowns against Washington.

Dec 15 - RB Brandon Jacobs needs just 218 more yards in the Giants' remaining three games to reach 1,000. If he can accomplish that, this would mark his third straight season with 1,000 or more rushing yards. Jacobs, however, has been averaging 60 yards per game, and is in danger of falling short of that mark. Jacobs, who last year had 555 carries in 15 games, only has 202 carries so far this season.

Dec 14 - RB Brandon Jacobs rushed for 60 yards on 15 carries and increased his career total to 3,402 yards. That moved him past RB Doug Kotar (3,380) and into seventh place on the Giants' career list.

Dec 14 - Jacobs had 15 carries for 60 yards and a touchdown Sunday. He also caught one pass for nine yards.

Recommendation: Jacobs ran with good power and got in the end zone for the second straight week, but lost a costly fumble early that was returned for a touchdown.

Eli Manning (NYG - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Eli Manning is 7-3 against the Redskins, completing 181 of 343 passes for 2,053 yards, eight touchdowns, and seven interceptions. However, he has never thrown for more than one touchdown in a game against the Redskins.

Dec 15 - QB Eli Manning's 391 passing yards set a career best for the second time in four games, topping the 384 yards he had in a 34-31 overtime victory over Atlanta on Nov. 22. It is the tenth 300-yard game of Manning's career and his second at home. The Giants are 6-4 when Manning throws for at least 300 yards.

Dec 14 - Manning had one of the best games of his career, torching the Eagles with 27 completions in 38 attempts for 391 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. He took three sacks and lost a fumble on a scramble.

Recommendation: As huge as Manning's day was, it could have been a lot bigger had Hakeem Nicks not dropped two perfect downfield passes, Kevin Boss not dropped one and Steve Smith not dropped another. Manning was as sharp as a quarterback can be Sunday, but the team's receiving corps, defense and special teams were not in a similar groove.

Dec 14 - Manning had one of the best games of his career, torching the Eagles with 27 completions on 38 attempts for 391 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions. He took three sacks and lost a fumble on a scramble.

Recommendation: As huge as Manning's day was, it could have been a lot bigger had Hakeem Nicks not dropped two perfect downfield passes, Kevin Boss not dropped one and Steve Smith not dropped another. Manning was as sharp as a quarterback can be Sunday, but the team's receiving corps, defense and special teams were not in a similar groove.

Mario Manningham (NYG - WR)

Dec 14 - Manningham had two catches for 16 yards Sunday.

Recommendation: He nearly caught a long touchdown late in the game, but couldn't quite drag his foot in bounds. Still, Manningham is now the team's No. 3 receiver and can't be counted on for consistent production.

Dec 13 - Hakeem Nicks will start over Manningham in Sunday night's game against the Eagles, the Newark Star-Ledger reports.

Recommendation: Manningham has 46 receptions for 675 yards and four TDs thus far, but he's had some issues with his route running and has clearly lost ground to Nicks.

Michael Matthews (Det - TE)

Dec 16 - TE Michael Matthews was signed by Detroit. He was released by New England in October.

Hakeem Nicks (NYG - WR)

Dec 14 - Nicks, who got the start over Mario Manningham Sunday night, caught four passes for 110 yards and a score, but had several bad drops including a sure long touchdown that slipped right through his hands.

Recommendation: There's no question about Nicks' playmaking ability, but he needs to show more consistency if he expects to remain in a starting role.

Dec 13 - Nicks will start over Mario Manningham in Sunday night's game against the Eagles, the Newark Star-Ledger reports.

Recommendation: It will be the first career start for Nicks, who has 34 catches for 575 yards and five touchdowns to date. If you were on the fence about using him this week, then this news should help clinch the decision to roll with Nicks.

Steve Smith (NYG - WR)

Dec 14 - Smith had seven catches for 74 yards Sunday.

Recommendation: This is about par for the course for Smith who remains the Giants top possession receiver.

Danny Ware (NYG - RB)

Dec 13 - Ware (concussion) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

Recommendation: Ware remains third in line for carries with the Giants behind Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw.

Dec 11 - Ware (concussion) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Philadelphia, the New York Daily News' Ralph Vacchiano reports.

Recommendation: Ware should be available for his usual third running back duties for the Giants.

Kellen Clemens (NYJ - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Kellen Clemens split the first-team reps with Mark Sanchez on Wednesday, just in case Mark Sanchez encounters any setbacks in practice this week and can't start Sunday's contest.

Dec 15 - QB Kellen Clemens, making his first start since Dec. 30, 2007, in place of the injured Mark Sanchez, hardly distinguished himself against Tampa Bay. He completed 12 of his 23 passes for 111 yards and no touchdowns, finishing with a 65.7 passer rating. But he didn't turn the ball over.

Dec 14 - Clemens was effective as a game manager against against Tampa Bay on Saturday, passing for 111 yards in the win.
Advice: It was his first start with the Jets in two years as he filled in for the injured Mark Sanchez. He went 12 of 23 and didn't have a touchdown, but also didn't throw an interception.

Dec 14 - Clemens wasn't asked to do a lot at Tampa Bay, attempting just 23 passes. He finished 11-for-23 for 111 yards, with no scores or interceptions.

Recommendation: The Jets realized this was a game they could control with the running game and defense and they did just that. Even if Mark Sanchez gets back on the field, don't expect a lot from New York's passing game down the stretch.

Dec 13 - QB Kellen Clemens made his first start since Dec. 30, 2007, replacing the injured Mark Sanchez (sprained PCL in right knee). Working with a very conservative game plan, Clemens completed 12 of 23 passes for 111 yards with no touchdowns or turnovers. He was sacked once and his longest completion was a 26-yarder to Jerricho Cotchery.

Dec 13 - Clemens threw for just 111 yards in Sunday's 26-3 win at Tampa Bay.

Recommendation: The Jets played well on defense and ran the ball effectively, so Clemens didn't need to do much, attempting just 23 passes. Mark Sanchez (knee) was upset by the decision to sit him on Sunday, so one would assume that he'll do everything possible to be ready next week, meaning Clemens might have had his first and final start of the year.

Dec 13 - Clemens is making his first start for the New York Jets in two years, filling in for injured rookie Mark Sanchez against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Sanchez sprained his right knee during a victory over Buffalo last week.
Advice: Clemens' last start was Dec. 30, 2007, against Kansas City.

Jerricho Cotchery (NYJ - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Jerricho Cotchery had one catches for 26 yards, a nifty catch-and-run. He was open in the end zone, but Clemens missed him for a potential touchdown. He also had four punt returns for 36 yards.

Dec 14 - Cotchery had just one catch in Sunday's victory at Tampa Bay.

Recommendation: The grab went for 26 yards but that's little consolation to anyone who needed to play Cotchery here. The Jets have morphed into one of the most conservative offenses in the league, and Cotchery's fantasy value collapses as a result. We're not endorsing Cotchery as a viable play against the Falcons in Week 15.

Jay Feely (NYJ - K)

Dec 14 - Feely rolled up 14 points in Sunday's victory at Tampa Bay, including four field goals.

Recommendation: An impressive homecoming for the kicker, who grew up in Tampa. Feely is a reasonable play next week against Atlanta, but make sure you check the New Jersey weather before committing.

Dec 14 - K Jay Feely's four first-half field goals helped give the Jets a 19-0 halftime lead in their 26-3 rout at Tampa Bay. Feely was a standout kicker at Jesuit High School, which he said is two blocks from Raymond James Stadium.

Dec 13 - K Jay Feely connected on four of five field-goal attempts at Tampa Bay, hitting from 40, 24, 49 and 49 yards. He missed his last attempt, a 49-yarder, after a high snap from James Dearth. Feely is 10-for-13 from 40 yards and beyond this season and 25-for-29 overall.

Shonn Greene (NYJ - RB)

Dec 14 - Greene had six carries for 41 yards in Sunday's victory at Tampa Bay.

Recommendation: It's a mild surprise Greene wasn't used more given how the Jets controlled this game from start to finish. He's nothing more than a flex-play Hail Mary unless something happens to Thomas Jones down the stretch.

Thomas Jones (NYJ - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Thomas Jones narrowly missed what would have been the sixth 100-yard game in his last eight, rushing for 99 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries, including a 33-yard touchdown run. Jones has 1,167 yards this season and has topped the 1,000-yard barrier for the fifth straight year.

Dec 14 - Jones rushed for 99 yards and two touchdowns in the Jets' win over Tampa Bay on Sunday.
Advice: Jones has 11 touchdowns for the season now. It was another good week for him. He's rushed for 1,167 yards this season.

Dec 14 - Jones had 24 carries for 99 yards and two touchdowns in Sunday's win at Tampa Bay.

Recommendation: The Jets rushing game keeps chugging along. Jones is a strong play against a mediocre Atlanta front seven in Week 15.

Dec 13 - RB Thomas Jones had 99 yards and two touchdowns on 24 carries at Tampa Bay, narrowly missing his seventh 100-yard rushing game of the season. Jones has 1,167 yards in 2009 and is on pace to top his 1,312 rushing yards of 2008, which was good enough for the AFC rushing title.

Dustin Keller (NYJ - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Dustin Keller had only one reception for 3 yards. He was targeted three times. He has only two catches in the last two games after having 21 in the previous four.

Dec 14 - Keller had just one reception, for three yards, in Sunday's victory at Tampa Bay.

Recommendation: It's been a rich year for fantasy production at the tight end position, but Keller hasn't been invited to the party. He'll be a late-round consideration entering 2010.

Mark Sanchez (NYJ - QB)

Dec 14 - Coach Rex Ryan said that Sanchez (knee) and Kellen Clemens will split first-team reps during practice on Wednesday, the Newark Star-Ledger reports.

Recommendation: Ryan wants to see how Sanchez's knee responds before proceeding with a decision regarding who will be behind center for the Jets in Week 15.

Dec 14 - Head coach Rex Ryan said he expects Sanchez (knee) to be ready this week, but in his next breath, he said he's not sure, the New York Daily News reports.

Recommendation: The Jets have a huge game against the Falcons this Sunday, a virtual must-win especially with the Colts looming in Week 16. That being said, it's hard to believe that Sanchez won't do everything he can to get back on the field this Sunday, and it sounds as if Ryan expects him to be ready. Also, inside the locker room the feeling among players is that Sanchez will be a go. We'll know more later this week, but it sounds good for Sanchez owners.

Michael Bush (Oak - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Michael Bush is healthy but has just eight carries for 36 yards in the Raiders' last four games. "I can't talk about about that," Bush said politely. "I apologize. . . . I'm not going to say anything." With three games remaining in the season, Bush's face may as well be on the side of a milk carton. Never mind that Bush is averaging 4.5 yards per carry, considerably better than either Justin Fargas (3.8) or Darren McFadden (3.1), who are getting the bulk of the work. Or that only one Raiders running back has broken 100 yards rushing in the last 13 games -- and his name is Bush. He finished last season with a 177-yard effort in a 31-24 win that knocked Tampa Bay out of the playoffs, and has the lone 100-yard game this season when he gained 119 yards on 14 carries on Nov. 15 against Kansas City. Instead of serving as a springboard, the Chiefs game became a vanishing point. In a 34-13 loss to Washington, for the first time this season, Bush didn't have an offensive touch rushing or receiving. He never even made it on the field for an offensive play. Even Gary Russell, a smallish fullback, got four touches against the Redskins with two carries (for minus-2 yards) and two receptions for 22 yards. The week after his 119-yard game against the Chiefs, which included a 60-yard run which was the team's longest this season, Bush lost a fumble against Cincinnati and McFadden began to get more work in the rotation of backs along with Fargas. The No. 4 overall pick in the 2008 draft, McFadden had missed four games with arthroscopic knee surgery, returning to face the Chiefs in a limited role. Coach Tom Cable, who earlier said the fumble against the Bengals was not a factor in Bush's decline in playing time, said Bush simply wasn't a part of the game plan against Washington. "I don't know there's room for it right now," Cable said. "It's a matter of getting in the flow. The plan was to come out and move Darren around, so that means Darren and Justin."

Dec 14 - Bush did not touch the ball in Sunday's loss to the Redskins.

Recommendation: Bush has received just eight total carries over the last four weeks. While his role in the Raider offense has become increasingly smaller, Bush's fantasy value has plummeted as well.

Dec 13 - RB Michael Bush, the lead back a month ago with Darren McFadden coming off arthroscopic knee surgery, didn't play an offensive snap against Washington. He's the only Raiders running back to have a 100-yard game this season.

Justin Fargas (Oak - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Justin Fargas has averaged 84.9 yards per game rushing against the Broncos in the past four meetings and will be given every opportunity to get rolling at Invesco Field this Sunday.

Dec 15 - RB Justin Fargas scored his third rushing touchdown of the season, the most he's had since he had four in 2007, the year he gained 1,009 yards in 14 games.

Dec 14 - Fargas had nine carries for 21 yards and a touchdown in the Raiders' loss to the Redskins on Sunday.

Recommendation: Fargas and Darren McFadden were the only Raider running backs to run the ball in the game, but neither of them found much success on the ground. Fargas has not rushed for more than 87 yards in a game this season but will likely continue to be the team's top running back option.

Bruce Gradkowski (Oak - QB)

Dec 15 - Gradkowski (knee) has ruled himself out of this week's matchup against the Broncos, the Oakland Tribune reports.

Recommendation: The Raiders only have two games left after this week's, so it will take some quick healing for Gradkowski to get back on the field. Gradkowski had given the Raiders a new-found confidence while he was in the lineup, but it is very likely that the team will have to finish this season without him.

Dec 14 - Gradkowski is doubtful to start at quarterback for the Oakland Raiders this week because of sprained ligaments in both knees.
Advice: Coach Tom Cable said Monday he won't know Gradkowski's status until Wednesday. Cable says if Gradkowski can't play, he will "do what's best for this team," which could be starting third-stringer Charlie Frye instead of former starter JaMarcus Russell.

Dec 14 - QB Bruce Gradkowski suffered a tear of the medial collateral ligament in his left knee and a partial tear of the same ligament in the right knee. Gradkowski, barring a medical miracle, will not play this week. His footwork and ability to escape are a big part of his game, and there's no guarantee he'll be available the rest of the season, let alone face the Broncos in Denver.

Dec 14 - Coach Tom Cable said Monday that Gradkowski (knee) is doubtful for Sunday's game against Denver, CBS Sports reports.

Recommendation: From the sound of the injury (sprained ligaments on both knees), Gradkowski could be done for the year. JaMarcus Russel replaced him on Sunday, but the team hasn't named a starter for the game against the Broncos.

Dec 14 - Coach Tom Cable said Monday that Gradkowski (knee) is doubtful for Sunday's game against Denver, CBS Sports reports.

Recommendation: From the sound of the injury (sprained ligaments on both knees), Gradkowski could be done for the year. JaMarcus Russell replaced him Sunday, but the team hasn't named a starter for the game against the Broncos.

Dec 13 - QB Bruce Gradkowski, 2-1 as a starter and a player who seemed to inspire enthusiasm and confidence in the Raiders, missed the second half of a 34-13 loss to the Washington Redskins with a torn medical collateral ligament on one leg and a sprained medial collateral ligament on the other. He couldn't answer the bell for the second half, with the Raiders trailing 17-10, and they rather meekly succumbed without Gradkowski in the second half with only 39 net yards of offense with JaMarcus Russell back at quarterback.

Dec 13 - Gradkowski suffered a knee injury in Sunday's game against the Redskins. He will not return, the Raiders' official site reports.

Recommendation: And just like that, JaMarcus Russell is back under center for the Raiders. The severity of Gradkowski's injury is not yet known.

Dec 13 - Gradkowski left the game against the Washington Redskins with a knee injury and was replaced by JaMarcus Russell.
Advice: Gradkowski was hurt throwing a pass in the final seconds of the first half and was ruled out of the game Sunday at halftime. That opened the door for Russell to return, four weeks after being benched by coach Tom Cable.

Dec 13 - Gradkowski suffered partially sprained ligaments in both knees in Sunday's loss to the Redskins, the Associated Press reports.

Recommendation: Gradkowski will have an MRI on Monday, but it sounds like his season is probably over. Coach Tom Cable would not say whether JaMarcus Russell, who was sacked six times Sunday, or third-stringer Charlie Frye would start against Denver next Sunday if Gradkowski is out.

Darrius Heyward-Bey (Oak - WR)

Dec 14 - Coach Tom Cable said Monday that Heyward-Bey's injured foot has made "minimal" improvement, CBS Sports reports.

Recommendation: Heyward-Bey has missed the last two games and this news doesn't bode well for his availability Sunday against Denver.

Dec 13 - Heyward-Bey is inactive for a second straight week for the Oakland Raiders because of a foot injury.
Advice: Heyward-bey has caught nine passes for 124 yards this season.

Dec 13 - Heyward-Bey is inactive for Sunday's game against the Redskins.

Recommendation: Johnnie Lee Higgins should see an expanded role Sunday as a result.

Dec 11 - Heyward-Bey missed practice Friday for the third straight day and is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Redskins, the Oakland Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Johnnie Lee Higgins should see an expanded role Sunday as a result, but rolling with him because of Bruce Gradkowski's big Week 13 would still be a gamble.

Johnnie Lee Higgins (Oak - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Johnnie Lee Higgins has more than half of his 13 receptions (seven) in the past two weeks and 98 of his 147 yards.

Dec 14 - Higgins caught three passes for 35 yards in the Raiders' loss to the Redskins on Sunday.

Recommendation: Higgins will have only minimal fantasy value over the next few weeks if starting quarterback Bruce Gradkowski (knees) is out for the season.

Dec 12 - Higgins will start at wide receiver in Sunday's game against the Raiders, the Oakland Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Higgins will again take the place of Darrius Heyward-Bey (foot), who is unlikely to play. Higgins had a nice game last week; and while he could get a few looks, he will be facing a stiff Redskins pass defense.

Dec 12 - Higgins will start at wide receiver in Sunday's game against the Redskins, the Oakland Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Higgins will again take the place of Darrius Heyward-Bey (foot), who is unlikely to play. Higgins had a nice game last week; and while he could get a few looks, he will be facing a stiff Redskins pass defense.

Sebastian Janikowski (Oak - K)

Dec 15 - PK Sebastian Janikowski came up short on a 66-yard field goal attempt late in the first half, not striking it with nearly as much authority as a later 54-yard field goal which landed in the net behind the goal posts.

Dec 14 - Janikowski made 2-of-3 field goals and an extra point in the Raiders' loss to the Redskins on Sunday.

Recommendation: Janikowski's miss came from 66 yards out, which would have been an NFL record had he made the kick. However, Janikowski did make a 54-yard field goal, the third time in five games he's made a kick from at least 50 yards away.

Darren McFadden (Oak - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Darren McFadden, split wide last week, twice got the better of Washington SS LaRon Landry in the first half, the first on a slant pass for 48 yards and then on a slant-and-go for 26 more. He finished with three catches for a career-high 84 yards. "I've been sitting back and waiting for them to call my number," McFadden said. "To get out there and rip off a big play, whether it was running or receiving, it just felt good to get out there and move the ball around to me a little bit."

Dec 14 - McFadden only ran for 21 yards on eight carries in Sunday's loss to the Redskins, but he did play a key role in the game by catching three passes for a team-leading 84 yards.

Recommendation: McFadden certainly has been a fantasy disappointment this season, but he's made some nice plays in the passing game the last couple weeks and will likely make his biggest impact through the air over the season's final weeks.

Zach Miller^P (Oak - TE)

Dec 16 - TE Zach Miller, who sustained his second concussion since Oct. 4, had not been cleared to play by Wednesday and is questionable to face Denver.

Dec 15 - TE Zach Miller was targeted 12 times against Washington and caught a season-high seven passes, but only for 46 yards with a long of 11, suffering a concussion on his final reception.

Dec 14 - TE Zach Miller sustained a concussion toward the end of the game, his second one of the season. Miller might not be cleared to play this week.

Dec 14 - Miller caught seven passes for 46 yards but suffered a stinger late in the fourth quarter of Sunday's loss to the Redskins, the Oakland Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Miller had to leave the game, so the Raiders will likely be cautious with him during practice this week.

Dec 14 - Miller sustained a concussion Sunday, the Oakland Tribune reports.

Recommendation: It was the second concussion of the season for Miller -- the first one was Oct. 4 -- so don't be surprised if the Raiders are ultra-cautious with the tight end this week.

Louis Murphy (Oak - WR)

Dec 14 - Murphy caught one pass for eight yards in the Raiders' loss to the Redskins on Sunday.

Recommendation: Murphy's fantasy prospects for the rest of the season looked bright based on his big Week 13 performance and the connection he developed with Bruce Gradkowski (knees). However, those high hopes may have evaporated just as quickly as they arrived if Gradkowski is out for the rest of season.

JaMarcus Russell (Oak - QB)

Dec 16 - Charlie Frye will start at quarterback over former starter JaMarcus Russell when the Oakland Raiders visit the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
Advice: Coach Tom Cable said Wednesday that Russell will be his No. 2 quarterback, with the newly signed J.P. Losman third. Frye has not played at all this year and worked strictly with Oakland's scout team. The move raises serious questions about Russell, who started the first nine games of the season before being benched in favor of Bruce Gradkowski before Oakland's Nov. 22 home game against Cincinnati.

Dec 16 - QB JaMarcus Russell has been passed over by Charlie Frye, who will start Sunday's game in place of injured Bruce Gradkowski, coach Tom Cable announced.

Dec 15 - QB JaMarcus Russell has been sacked 30 times in 10 games (with nine starts), just one less than he had last season in 15 games (all starts), and he has 194 yards in sack losses, 67 more than last season.

Dec 14 - QB JaMarcus Russell might wind up starting this week if Bruce Gradkowski is out with injuries to both knees. Russell was 10 of 16 for just 74 yards and was sacked six times in relief Sunday. "It's kind of different coming in and not starting," Russell said. "Best thing to do is just let the game come to you, don't force anything. Couldn't get too much going. That's basically it. Nothing else to be said, just couldn't get nothing going."

Dec 14 - Russell entered Sunday's game at the beginning of the second half in place of an injured Bruce Gradkowski (knees); but he completed 10-of-16 passes for just 74 yards and also threw an interception in the Raiders' loss to the Redskins.

Recommendation: With sack yardage taken into account, the Raiders only picked up 24 yards on 27 plays with Russell under center. The Raiders were at least in the game after the first half and have been competitive the last couple weeks since Gradkowski took over, so Russell's shortcomings will only be further magnified going forward. Russell may regain the starting quarterback role next week if Gradkowski is unable to play, but it is looking more and more likely that Russell will not be the quarterback who gets things turned around in Oakland.

Dec 13 - QB JaMarcus Russell replaced Bruce Gradkowski in the second half of a 34-13 loss to the Washington Redskins after Gradkowski suffered a torn medical collateral ligament on one leg and a sprained medial collateral ligament on the other. The Raiders gained only 39 net yards of offense with Russell back at quarterback.

Dec 13 - Oakland Raiders quarterback Bruce Gradkowski left the game against the Washington Redskins with a knee injury and was replaced by Russell.
Advice: Gradkowski was hurt throwing a pass in the final seconds of the first half and was ruled out of the game Sunday at halftime. That opened the door for Russell to return, four weeks after being benched by coach Tom Cable. Russell lost his job last month. He has completed just 46.8 percent of his passes this season, with nine interceptions and five lost fumbles. Russell was booed when he entered.

Chaz Schilens (Oak - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Chaz Schilens missed eight games with a broken bone in his foot but is just one catch behind Johnnie Lee Higgins as the Raiders second-leading wide receiver (12 catches, 165 yards).

Dec 14 - Schilens caught two passes for 20 yards in the Raiders' loss to the Redskins on Sunday.

Recommendation: Schilens has not caught more than three passes in any of the five games he's played in this season. Though Schilens is in the starting lineup for the Raiders, he has not proven to be much of a downfield threat and will have trouble getting the ball if Bruce Gradkowski (knees) is out for the season. His fantasy value remains limited.

Danny Amendola (StL - WR)

Dec 14 - Amendola caught five passes for 19 yards during the Rams' loss at Tennessee in Week 14.

Recommendation: Amendola, the Rams' No. 3 wideout and primary return man, also averaged 24.1 yards on nine kick-off returns. He's a fantasy non-factor, like most Rams, unless you're in a league that counts special teams yards.

Jason Avant (Phi - WR)

Dec 14 - Avant was held without a catch in the Eagles' win Sunday.

Recommendation: A disappointing effort, especially considering Jeremy Maclin (foot) left the game for good in the second quarter. Even with Maclin sidelined for the next 1-to-2 weeks, Avant has taken a backseat in the Eagles' passing attack recently and is only a flex option for desperate fantasy teams.

Dec 14 - Avant (hamstring) was held without a catch in the Eagles' win Sunday.

Recommendation: A disappointing effort, especially considering Jeremy Maclin (foot) left the game for good in the second quarter. Even with Maclin sidelined for the next 1-to-2 weeks, Avant has taken a back seat in the Eagles' passing attack recently and is only a flex option for desperate fantasy teams.

Hank Baskett (Ind - WR)

Dec 13 - Baskett (personal) is active for Sunday's game against the Broncos.

Recommendation: Baskett's wife gave birth this week, which is why he was listed as probable. He won't be limited, but he shouldn't be in your fantasy lineup.

Dec 11 - Baskett (personal) is listed as probable against Denver, but he did fully participate in practice on Friday.

Recommendation: His wife recently had a baby, but we'd think he'll play on Sunday.

Reggie Brown (Phi - WR)

Dec 14 - Brown had two catches for 31 yards in the Eagles' win Sunday.

Recommendation: Brown saw increased targets after Jeremy Maclin (foot) left the game and could move into the starting lineup for as long as Maclin is out. Brown is someone to keep your eye on with an increased role in a potent passing attack, although Donovan McNabb likes to spread the wealth.

Brent Celek (Phi - TE)

Dec 16 - TE Brent Celek didn't practice Wednesday. He injured his back last week, but played in the Eagles' win over the Giants and is expected to play this week as well.

Dec 15 - TE Brent Celek, who has played the last three games with a dislocated thumb, has been the Eagles' most productive receiver in the red zone this season. Ten of his 61 catches and six of his seven touchdown receptions have come in the red zone.

Dec 14 - Celek recorded five catches for 64 yards and a TD against the Giants on Sunday.

Recommendation: Celek is playing through back pain and a thumb injury and doing so with continued success. He may be an even greater part of the passing attack moving forward with Jeremy Maclin (foot) sidelined.

Dec 14 - Celek (thumb/back) recorded five catches for 64 yards and a TD against the Giants on Sunday.

Recommendation: Celek is playing through back pain and a thumb injury and doing so with continued success. He may be an even greater part of the passing attack moving forward with Jeremy Maclin (foot) sidelined.

Kevin Curtis (Phi - WR)

Dec 14 - Curtis, out since the second week of the season with a knee injury, could return for Sunday’s home game against the 49ers, the Associated Press reports.

Recommendation: Curtis would replace Jeremy Maclin, who reinjured his left foot in Sunday night’s win over the Giants and could be out for two weeks or more. Still, it would be unrealistic to expect much right away from Curtis, who hasn't played since Week 2.

Dec 13 - Curtis (knee) is inactive for Sunday night's game against the Giants, the Eagles' official site reports.

Recommendation: Curtis may be back before the end of the season, but his chances of making any sort of fantasy impact are obviously dwindling.

Dec 11 - Curtis (knee) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Giants after being limited in practice all week, the Eagles' official site reports.

Recommendation: If Curtis does play, he'll be working off nearly three months of rust and could have his snaps limited while he gets back up to game speed. Even against New York's struggling pass defense, he's not a recommended play.

Brandon Gibson (StL - WR)

Dec 14 - Gibson (ankle) led the Rams with six receptions for 43 yards during their loss to Tennessee in Week 14.

Recommendation: With No. 1 wideout Donnie Avery struggling with a shoulder injury Gibson has become the club's best option at wide receiver, but we use the term "best" very loosely. This team is collapsing and even if Kyle Boller or Marc Bulger are able to return in Week 15 we'd still stay far away from any player on this team not named Steven Jackson.

Dec 13 - Gibson (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Recommendation: He's out there if you need him, but Gibson's production (six catches for 56 yards) has quieted down over the past two games, after he combined for 12 catches in Weeks 10 and 11.

Dec 11 - Gibson (ankle) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Titans, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: His numbers have gradually tailed off since his seven-catch, 93-yard effort against the Saints in Week 10, but he should be available this week if you're digging deep for WR help.

DeSean Jackson (Phi - WR)

Dec 15 - WR DeSean Jackson has 10 touchdowns this season -- seven receiving, two on punt returns and one rushing. He already has eight receptions of 50-plus yards and needs just 53 receiving yards to record his first 1,000-yard receiving season.

Dec 14 - Jackson had six catches for 178 yards Sunday, including a go-ahead 60-yard TD catch. He also scored on a 72-yard punt return as well, showing no ill effects from the concussion that sidelined him in Week 13.

Recommendation: Jackson, who has now tied an NFL record with eight touchdowns of 50-plus yards in 2009, should enter next year as a top-10 fantasy wide receiver.

Dec 13 - Jackson tied an NFL record for touchdowns of 50 yards or more in a season when he scored his seventh and eighth of the season in a game against the New York Giants on Sunday night.
Advice: Jackson scored on a 72-yard punt return in the second quarter and caught a 60-yard touchdown pass in the third to tie the mark shared by Elroy Hirsch and Devin Hester.

Dec 13 - Jackson (concussion) is active for Sunday night's game against the Giants, the Eagles' official site reports.

Recommendation: Just an FYI for those concerned at all by the possibility of a late scratch in spite of Jackson's probable designation.

Dec 11 - Jackson (concussion) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Giants, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

Recommendation: Jackson has recovered well enough that the Eagles feel comfortable letting him return punts in addition to his receiver duties. Feel free to start him against a Giants pass defense that's been getting torched over the last month.

Jeremy Maclin (Phi - WR)

Dec 14 - Maclin, who tore a plantar fascia and strained another on the same foot, will miss Week 15's game, but might be available a week or two after that, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Recommendation: Maclin will almost assuredly be a questionable proposition heading into Week 16, so unless your league goes the full 17 weeks, he's probably not going to be a viable option anymore this season.

Dec 14 - Maclin, who reinjured his left foot in Sunday night's win over the Giants, could be out for two weeks or more.
Advice: Maclin left Sunday night in the first quarter with torn tissue in the bottom of his foot. He left Giants Stadium after the game on crutches, and could be replaced by wide receiver Kevin Curtis, who has been out since the second week of the season with a knee injury.

Dec 14 - Coach Andy Reid said that Maclin tore his plantar fascia during Sunday's game against the Giants, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. "That's a week or two injury so we'll see how he does as we go, but he'll be fine," Reid said.

Recommendation: A week or two at this time of the year -- i.e. the fantasy playoffs -- is probably enough to cause Maclin owners to move on. It's sounds like he should be back for the NFL postseason and if Reid's assessment is accurate, then this is not being viewed as a long-term issue.

Dec 14 - Maclin, who tore a plantar fascia and strained another on the same foot, will miss Week 15's game but might be available a week or two after that, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Recommendation: Maclin will almost assuredly be a questionable proposition heading into Week 16, so unless your league goes the full 17 weeks, he's probably not going to be a viable option anymore this season.

Dec 14 - Coach Andy Reid said that Maclin tore his plantar fascia during Sunday's game against the Giants, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports. "That's a week or two injury so we'll see how he does as we go, but he'll be fine," Reid said.

Recommendation: A week or two at this time of the year -- i.e. the fantasy playoffs -- is probably enough to cause Maclin owners to move on. It sounds like he should be back for the NFL postseason and if Reid's assessment is accurate, then this is not being viewed as a long-term issue.

Dec 13 - Maclin (foot) is active and will start Sunday night's game against the Giants, the Eagles' official site reports.

Recommendation: Maclin had been listed as questionable with plantar fasciitis, but he's good to go opposite DeSean Jackson Sunday.

Dec 13 - Maclin appeared to aggravate his left foot injury in the first half of Sunday night's game against the Giants, the Associated Press reports.

Recommendation: Maclin has been battling plantar fasciitis and it looks like he suffered a setback Sunday. More on his status as we know it.

Dec 11 - Maclin (foot) returned to practice Friday but is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Giants, the Eagles' official site reports.

Recommendation: Maclin participated fully in Friday's practice, so we're guessing he'll play despite the questionable tag. Still, the Eagles' Sunday night kickoff makes him riskier than usual because you might not be able to swap in a different option if Maclin is a surprise inactive.

LeSean McCoy (Phi - RB)

Dec 14 - McCoy had 10 carries for just 28 rushing yards and added four receptions for 26 yards through the air in the Eagles' win Sunday.

Recommendation: McCoy is now in an even timeshare with Leonard Weaver (he got nine carries Sunday) and gets removed during goal-line situations. Combine that with the fact Brian Westbrook (concussion) may return in Week 15, and McCoy's value has vanished quickly.

Donovan McNabb (Phi - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Donovan McNabb has raised his passer rating to 95.9. That's the second highest passer rating of his career. He had a 104.7 rating in 2004, when McNabb made his only Super Bowl appearance.

Dec 14 - McNabb completed 17-of-26 passes for 275 yards and two touchdowns in the Eagles' 45-38 win over the Giants on Sunday.

Recommendation: McNabb was picked off once, but with a 10.6 YPA mark, he was once again excellent. He has an 18:7 TD:INT ratio on the year and is a must-start at home against the 49ers in Week 15.

Leonard Weaver (Phi - RB)

Dec 16 - FB Leonard Weaver has 58 touches, which is about 50 more than coach Andy Reid thought he'd have at this point when the Eagles signed him last March. While Reid knew from watching the tape of Weaver's three seasons with the Seattle Seahawks that the 6-0, 250-pounder could run and catch the ball, the main reason the Eagles signed him was because he could block. But with Brian Westbrook having missed much of the season with concussion problems, and the Eagles reluctant to put too much responsibility on the shoulders of rookie running back LeSean McCoy, Weaver has gotten a chance to touch the ball, and boy, has he made the most of it. He's averaging an impressive 5.5 yards per carry on 45 rushing attempts and 9.4 yards per catch on 13 receptions. In the Eagles' last seven games, he's averaging 6.8 yards per touch."Early on, I was like, ‘Man, are they going to use me more?'" said Weaver, who had just four carries in the Eagles' first six games. "Because I wasn't really on the field much, even as a blocker. So I was like, ‘I hope I'm not one of those guys who end up on special eams.'" The Eagles favor a lot of three-wide receiver, one-back, one-tight end sets. And when Westbrook was healthy, he was the one back. But after Westbrook got hurt, Weaver saw his playing time and touches increase. McCoy struggled early on with blitz-pickup, so the Eagles were reluctant to use him much in one-back sets, for fear of getting quarterback Donovan McNabb hurt. After Weaver rushed for a career-high 75 yards on eight carries in an early-November win over the New York Giants, Reid and offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg started going with a lot of one-back, two-tight end sets with Weaver as the lone back. In the Eagles' last three games -- all victories -- Weaver has rushed for 114 yards on 20 carries. He's also proven to be an effective receiver. Had a one-handed grab that he turned into a 59-yard touchdown catch and run two weeks ago against Atlanta. "We have another dimension with

Dec 15 - FB Leonard Weaver has averaged an impressive 6.8 yards per touch in the Eagles' last seven games. He's got 20 carries in the last three games.

Dec 14 - Weaver combined for 41 yards and 10 touches and also scored a touchdown during Philadelphia's win Sunday.

Recommendation: Weaver has quietly become a major part of the Eagles' backfield, but he won't retain any fantasy value if Brian Westbrook (concussion) returns to action in Week 15.

Brian Westbrook (Phi - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Brian Westbrook practiced with the scout team Wednesday. Westbrook, who has missed six of the last seven games with concussion problems, hasn't been ruled out of Sunday's game yet, but is not expected to play.

Dec 14 - Coach Andy Reid said he wants to see how Westbrook (concussion) feels on Wednesday before classifying the running back's status for Sunday's game against the 49ers, the Philadelphia Inquirer reports.

Recommendation: There is some optimism that this will be the week we see Westbrook return, but even if things look good Wednesday, the final decision on his Week 15 status could go down to the wire.

Dec 13 - RB Brian Westbrook, who has missed six of the last seven games with concussions, is expected to be reexamined this week, but he won't play against Washington.

Dec 11 - Westbrook (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Giants, the Delaware News Journal's Geoff Mosher reports.

Recommendation: Westbrook wants to return at some point this year, but he has suffered multiple concussions in his career and will take his recovery from this one slowly. LeSean McCoy will be the primary back on Sunday night.

Dennis Dixon (Pit - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Dennis Dixon has apparently become the backup to Ben Roethlisberger. Charlie Batch came back from a broken wrist to find himself No. 3 last week and this week.

Santonio Holmes (Pit - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Santonio Holmes has taken over the punt return duties from Stefan Logan, although Mewelde Moore might continue to field punts that are deep in Steelers' territory, as he has done much of the season.

Dec 15 - WR Santonio Holmes ranks third in the NFL with 1,080 yards receiving. The Steelers record is 1,398 set by Yancey Thigpen in 1997.

Dec 13 - WR Santonio Holmes recorded his first 1,000-yard receiving season in his fourth in the NFL. He has 1,080 yards and improved his average to 15.4 yards per catch.

Rashard Mendenhall (Pit - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Rashard Mendenhall, with 60 rushing yards, will become the seventh player in Steelers history to reach 1,000 yards in a season. "It's a great milestone for a back," Mendenhall said. "It's almost like my first season, and to have 1,000 is an accomplishment."

Dec 15 - RB Rashard Mendenhall is now the third-down back, replacing Mewelde Moore, who took over that job last season. Mendenhall has been better at picking up the blitz, coach Mike Tomlin explained.

Dec 13 - RB Rashard Mendenhall, in his second season, needs 60 yards for his first 1,000-yard rushing season.

Heath Miller (Pit - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Heath Miller needs three receptions to set the team record for catches by a tight end, owned by Eric Green with 63 catches in 1993.

Ben Roethlisberger (Pit - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Ben Roethlisberger needs 379 passing yards over the final three games to break the franchise's single-season record of 3,724, set by Terry Bradshaw in 1979.

Dec 15 - QB Ben Roethlisberger is 10-1 at home vs. NFC teams in his career, 17-5 overall.

Dec 13 - QB Ben Roethlisberger needs 654 yards passing in his final three games to become the franchise's first quarterback with 4,000 yards in a season.

Justin Vincent^NA (Pit - RB)

Nov 26 - RB Justin Vincent was dropped from Pittsburgh's practice squad.

Hines Ward (Pit - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Hines Ward played with a hamstring injury last Thursday and it continues to bother him some. He caught four passes for only 21 yards and tripped on their first third-and-one situation in Cleveland that failed.

Chris Chambers (KC - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Chris Chambers is very happy to see teammate Dwayne Bowe return from a four-game NFL suspension. In the last three games without Bowe, Chambers caught 13 passes for 131 yards and one touchdown. In his first three games with the team, Chambers had 10 catches for 249 yards and two TDs.

Dec 14 - WR Chris Chambers continues to fight through a left shoulder injury that has not kept him out of any practices or games but has caused him to miss several plays. Chambers came off the field after making a catch and landing on the shoulder when he was tackled, but he returned to the field after several plays.

Dec 13 - Chambers had four receptions for 50 yards in Sunday's loss to the Bills.

Recommendation: More than any of his catches, Chambers' performance will be remembered for one key drop inside the 10-yard line with around two minutes left in the game. His numbers have tailed off recently and he'll no longer be the top option once Dwayne Bowe returns from suspension next week, but having an accomplished receiver drawing attention alongside him could actually help his production.

Malcom Floyd (SD - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Malcom Floyd had another big day as he helped spread the defense with his downfield work. Floyd had three catches for 40 yards and a long of 24. But just as important is he picked up 38 yards on pass interference.

Dec 14 - Floyd had three receptions for 40 yards on Sunday at Dallas.

Recommendation: This was another perfectly typical game for Floyd. You can pencil him down for three catches every single week.

Antonio Gates (SD - TE)

Dec 16 - TE Antonio Gates has gone over 1,000 receiving yards for the second time in his career and for the first time since 2005.

Dec 15 - TE Antonio Gates was quiet early but finished with four catches for 44 yards. None was bigger than his 14-yard catch for a touchdown that helped gave the Chargers' their margin of victory. Gates was being double-teamed most of the game.

Dec 14 - Gates had four receptions for 44 yards and a touchdown in Sunday's win at Dallas.

Recommendation: It was a relatively quiet game for Gates, but the late touchdown was big for the Chargers and probably lots of fantasy teams around the country.

Dec 11 - Gates has been Philip Rivers' favorite crunch time target this season as every one of his 18 third down receptions and have resulted in first downs for the Chargers, the San Diego Union-Tribune reports.

Recommendation: Gates has always been a first-down machine and is on a remarkable tear of late — with 18 of his past 19 receptions going for first downs. His average of yards after a catch is significantly higher than in any of his previous six seasons. "This is the best he’s ever played," Rivers said. "That’s saying a lot if you’ve watched him over the years."

Vincent Jackson (SD - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Vincent Jackson said the Chargers still have many more chapters in their playbook. Jackson took a handoff from LaDainian Tomlinson on Sunday and then flipped it back to QB Philip Rivers for a pass play. "Our coaches are pretty creative so I'm sure you'll see a few more things," Jackson said.

Dec 15 - WR Vincent Jackson had been being overlooked lately, but he bounced back with a great game. He collected his fifth 100-yard game of the season and is primed to eclipse the 1,000-yard mark for a season for the second straight year. He finished with a game-high 120 yards on seven catches, one good for 39 yards.

Dec 14 - Jackson had seven receptions for 120 yards but did not score a touchdown on Sunday at Dallas.

Recommendation: This was the best production for Jackson in a few weeks. Although he did not score a touchdown, he had several important catches including a key 39-yard reception on a third-and-12 to extend what turned out to be the game-winning drive.

Dec 13 - WR Vincent Jackson had his fifth 100-yard receiving game of the season Sunday, but it was his first in six games.

Gartrell Johnson (NYG - RB)

Dec 13 - Johnson is inactive for Sunday's game against the Eagles.

Recommendation: He's the odd man out with Brandon Jacobs, Ahmad Bradshaw and Danny Ware all available this weekend.

Philip Rivers (SD - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Philip Rivers could reach 4,000 yards passing with 417 yards on Sunday. Rivers and Dan Fouts are the only players in team history to pass for more than 4,000 yards in a season. Fouts did it three straight years (1979-81) with his streak stopped by the 1982 strike-shortened year. Rivers did throw his 100th career touchdown pass in the win over Dallas.

Dec 15 - QB Philip Rivers threw his first interception in five weeks against the Cowboys, but the defense bailed him out as it didn't lead to any points. Rivers was 21-of-32 for 272 yards and a score -- good numbers for most, but a shade off what Rivers has been producing.

Dec 14 - Rivers was 21-for-32 for 272 yards with one touchdown and one interception in Sunday's win at Dallas.

Recommendation: Rivers had another efficient game, although his interception could have been costly as it came in San Diego territory when the outcome of the game was still in question. Still, Rivers made lots of big plays, including several on third down, and he and the Chargers offense are really getting the job done as the season comes to a close.

Darren Sproles (SD - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Darren Sproles had just seven carries for 22 yards and one catch for 3. The Chargers are hoping he can get more involved down the stretch; he did add 60 return yards. Still, he's has been strangely quiet of late.

Dec 14 - Sproles had seven rushes for 22 yards, one reception for three yards, and did not score a touchdown on Sunday at Dallas.

Recommendation: Not a great game for Sproles, who is normally able to make a little more out of his limited touches on a week to week basis.

LaDainian Tomlinson (SD - RB)

Dec 16 - RB LaDainian Tomlinson has been setting numerous milestones of late, and Tony Dorsett is up next on the all-time rushing list -- No. 7 at 12,739. Tomlinson trails him by 368 yards.

Dec 15 - RB LaDainian Tomlinson got a heavy workload with 21 rushes, but he could manage but 50 yards -- although he did have a touchdown. Part of the problem is the run-blocking; part of the problem is Tomlinson is 30 years old and the rims are showing on his worn tires.

Dec 14 - Tomlinson rushed 21 times for 50 yards with a touchdown and added one reception for nine yards in Sunday's win at Dallas.

Recommendation: 2.4 yards per carry is certainly nothing to be excited about, but 59 total yards and a touchdown is just about average for LT this season. Tomlinson's saving grace this year has been his touchdowns as he now has rushed for 10 on the season, extending his NFL-record to nine straight years with double digit touchdown.

Dec 14 - Tomlinson rushed 21 times for 50 yards with a touchdown and added one reception for nine yards in Sunday's win at Dallas.

Recommendation: 2.4 yards per carry is certainly nothing to be excited about, but 59 total yards and a touchdown is just about average for LT this season. Tomlinson's saving grace this year has been his touchdowns as he now has rushed for 10 on the season, extending his NFL-record to nine straight years with double digit touchdowns.

Dec 13 - Tomlinson has extended his NFL record of consecutive 10-touchdown seasons to nine in a row. Tomlinson scored on a 1-yard run in the first quarter of San Diego's game Sunday at Dallas. It was his 10th rushing TD this season.
Advice: It was also Tomlinson's 136th career rushing TD, all since 2001. The 136 rushing TDs matched Emmitt Smith's record for the most in a decade. Smith had 136 of his 164 career touchdowns from 1990-99. Tomlinson, who went to nearby TCU, played only his second NFL game in Dallas. His other came in the second game of his NFL career in 2001, when Smith was still playing for the Cowboys.

Nate Burleson (Sea - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Nate Burleson (ankle) will not play this week and could be out for the last three games of the season.

Dec 15 - WR Nate Burleson said he suffered a high ankle sprain on Sunday against Houston during a punt return and might be out for the season. Burleson has 63 catches for 829 yards and three touchdowns.

Dec 13 - Burleson is scheduled for an MRI on his ankle Monday, the Seahawks' official site reports.

Recommendation: More on Burleson, who still managed three catches for 50 yards Sunday despite the injury, in the coming days.

Dec 13 - Burleson is scheduled for an MRI on his ankle Monday, the Seahawks' official site reports.

Recommendation: Burleson had three catches for 50 yards before leaving in the third quarter. He only had three targets to that point.

Dec 13 - WR Nate Burleson suffered an ankle injury in the third quarter and will be evaluated on Monday.

Deon Butler (Sea - WR)

Dec 13 - Butler totaled three receptions for 34 yards Sunday on six targets.

Recommendation: Butler got a little more work because T.J. Houshmandzadeh and Nate Burleson both left with injuries.

John Carlson (Sea - TE)

Dec 13 - Carlson caught his fourth touchdown of the season Sunday, totaling three receptions for 24 yards.

Recommendation: Carlson only had three targets as he continues to be an afterthought in the passing game. He had 26 targets in the first three weeks. In the last six weeks, he has only 22 targets.

Dec 13 - Carlson caught his fourth touchdown of the season Sunday, totaling three receptions for 24 yards.

Recommendation: Carlson only had three targets as he continues to be an afterthought in the passing game. He had 26 targets in the first three weeks. In the last six, he has only 22 targets.

Justin Forsett (Sea - RB)

Dec 13 - Forsett totaled 73 yards Sunday on 13 touches as he continues to be underutilized.

Recommendation: Coach Jim Mora said Forsett would see more action this week, but that didn't really happen. Forsett owns some of the blame too, though. He gained only 26 yards on nine rushes. A 42-yard reception provided him with most of his yards. Julius Jones was his usual unproductive self, and the Seahawks totaled a staggering 15 plays of negative yardage.

Dec 11 - Coach Jim Mora said Forsett will be featured more prominently in the game plan Sunday against the Texans, the Seattle Times reports. "Are we going to see more of Justin?," Mora said. "The answer is yes, absolutely."

Recommendation: While Mora finally seems to be coming around to the prevailing notion that Forsett is more effective than Julius Jones, it's still not a clear-cut situation. "You'll see 'em both," Mora said, "and we like 'em both." Hopefully this results in more touches than the eight Forsett received last week.

Matt Hasselbeck (Sea - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Matt Hasselbeck, who's been struggling with a sore shoulder for the last few weeks, did not show up on the injury report and was a full participant at practice on Wednesday.

Dec 15 - QB Matt Hasselbeck only needs 329 yards to throw Dave Krieg (26,132) for the top spot as Seattle's all-time passer. Hasselbeck has 25,804 yards since coming to the Seahawks in 2001.

Dec 13 - QB Matt Hasselbeck had to leave the game in the third quarter after re-injuring his shoulder, but said he's OK and should be ready to play next week.

Dec 13 - Hasselbeck was 24-of-35 passing Sunday for 247 yards, a touchdown and an interception.

Recommendation: Unfortunately for Hasselbeck, his offensive line is unreliable, his receivers are mediocre and the Seahawks running game is non-existent. That's a bad combo for a quarterback. Still, 247 yards was his most in four weeks. Hasselbeck re-injured his shoulder, but after leaving for a few plays, returned to finish the game.

Dec 13 - Hasselbeck (right shoulder) is active for Sunday's game at Houston.

Recommendation: No surprise that Hasselbeck will be getting the start this week. Feel free to use him as you normally would against the average pass defense of the Texans.

Dec 11 - Hasselbeck (shoulder) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against Houston, the Seattle Times reports.

Recommendation: He's in no danger of missing the game against the Texans, as expected.

T.J. Houshmandzadeh (Sea - WR)

Dec 15 - WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh leads the team with 65 receptions for 721 yards and three touchdowns.

Dec 13 - WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh fell awkwardly on his head after failing to come up with a high ball over the middle of the field in the second half, but said after the game he was OK.

Dec 13 - Houshmandzadeh, who left Sunday's game after falling on his head, said afterward that he is fine, the Seattle Times reports.

Recommendation: Houshmandzadeh did not return after falling awkwardly on his head. The injury appeared to be to his neck. He finished with four receptions for 52 yards on eight targets. Don't put too much stock into Houshmandzadeh's self-diagnosis.

Dec 13 - Houshmandzadeh left Sunday's game against the Texans with an apparent neck injury. He walked off the field under his own power, the Seattle Times' Danny O'Neil reports.

Recommendation: This doesn't look like it is serious, but we'll keep you posted. Houshmandzadeh finished with four receptions for 52 yards.

Julius Jones (Sea - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Julius Jones leads the team in rushing with 498 yards.

Dec 13 - Jones rushed 10 times for 39 yards Sunday in another uninspiring performance.

Recommendation: Jones gained 24 yards on one run, settling for 15 yards on his remaining nine rushes. Justin Forsett, who had nine carries, didn't do much better, gaining only 26 yards. The Seahawks totaled a staggering 15 plays of negative yardage.

Isaac Bruce (SF - WR)

Dec 14 - Bruce (ankle) is inactive for Monday’s game against the Cardinals.

Recommendation: Bruce will miss his third consecutive game, as his illustrious career seems to be winding to a close.

Dec 13 - WR Isaac Bruce will be inactive Monday night for the fourth time in five weeks as he nurses an ankle sprain. In nine games, Bruce has 21 catches for 244 yards this season.

Dec 12 - Bruce (ankle) did not practice all week, and is doubtful for Monday's game against the Cards, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: Unfortunately, this appears to be the end of the road for Bruce, who may get a chance in Week 17 if head coach Mike Singletary wants to send him off with an opportunity for a few looks in the passing game for his final contest.

Michael Crabtree (SF - WR)

Dec 14 - Crabtree caught five passes 67 yards and a touchdown in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Sunday night.

Recommendation: Crabtree seems to put up these numbers every week where catches and yards are concerned, but this time he sprinkled in a nice 35-yard touchdown grab late in the first half.

Dec 14 - Crabtree caught five passes for 67 yards and a touchdown in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Monday.

Recommendation: Crabtree seems to put up these numbers up every week where catches and yards are concerned, but this time he sprinkled in a nice 35-yard touchdown grab late in the first half.

Vernon Davis (SF - TE)

Dec 14 - Davis caught three passes for 34 yards and a touchdown in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Sunday night.

Recommendation: It was a pretty quiet night by Davis' recent standards, but he did get the Niners off to a good start with his 5-yard scoring grab in the first quarter.

Dec 14 - Davis caught three passes for 34 yards and a touchdown in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Monday night.

Recommendation: It was a pretty quiet night by Davis' recent standards, but he did get the Niners off to a good start with his five-yard scoring grab in the first quarter.

Frank Gore (SF - RB)

Dec 16 - RB Frank Gore, the only player in 49ers history with three consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season, is closing in on No. 4. Gore has 835 yards rushing with seven touchdowns on 163 rushing attempts. Gore is averaging 5.2 yards per rushing attempt.

Dec 15 - Gore had 167 yards and a TD in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Monday night.
Advice: Gore had his most productive game since Week 2, running over a defense that held Adrian Peterson to 19 yards in a win over Minnesota last week. Gore was certainly motivated for a big night after getting only 30 yards on 22 carries in a season-opening victory at Arizona on Sept. 13.

Dec 15 - RB Frank Gore had gained just 117 yards rushing over the previous three games, but he responded with a big game Monday against the Cardinals. Gore rushed for 167 yards on 25 rushing attempts. Gore has rushed for 835 yards and seven touchdowns on the season.

Dec 14 - Gore carried 67 times for 167 yards and a touchdown while adding two catches for 10 yards in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Sunday night.

Recommendation: Gore had one of his best games of the season, ripping off long runs and keeping the chains moving on his way to a 6.7 yards per carry average. It was refreshing to see one of the league's best backs get enough carries to actually make some headway.

Dec 14 - Gore carried 25 times for 167 yards and a touchdown while adding two catches for 10 yards in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Monday night.

Recommendation: Gore had one of his best games of the season, ripping off long runs and keeping the chains moving on his way to a 6.7 yards per carry average. It was refreshing to see one of the league's best backs get enough carries to actually make some headway.

Alex Smith (SF - QB)

Dec 15 - Smith threw touchdown passes after two of Arizona's seven turnovers in a 24-9 San Francisco win Monday night.
Advice: Smith has thrown nine TDs in his last four games, getting picked off three times during that span.

Dec 14 - Smith completed 19 of 35 passes for 144 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Sunday night.

Recommendation: Smith wasn't amazing by any stretch of the imagination (4.1 yards per attempt, 59.7 passer rating), but he didn't have to be as the Niners defense dominated the Cardinals and Frank Gore racked up 177 total yards.

Dec 14 - Smith completed 19 of 35 passes for 144 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in San Francisco's 24-9 win over Arizona on Monday night.

Recommendation: Smith wasn't amazing by any stretch of the imagination (4.1 yards per attempt, 59.7 passer rating), but he didn't have to be as the Niners defense dominated the Cardinals and Frank Gore racked up 177 total yards.

Donnie Avery (StL - WR)

Dec 14 - Avery (shoulder) caught just two passes for 14 yards during the Rams' loss at Tennessee in Week 14.

Recommendation: This club is in disarray and Avery, like the rest of the team, appears to just be limping to the finish line. Regardless of whether or not Marc Bulger or even Kyle Boller return for Week 15 we wouldn't throw Avery in your line-up unless you just don't have any other options.

Dec 13 - Avery (shoulder) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Recommendation: Working in Avery's favor is that veteran Kyle Boller will be able to start at QB for the Rams Sunday, rather than the untested Keith Null.

Dec 13 - Keith Null -- and not Kyle Boller -- is behind center for Avery (shoulder) and the Rams for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Recommendation: Null is an unproven commodity, but at 1-11 the Rams will see what they have in the rookie QB. Avery is easily his best wideout option, so perhaps the two will develop some chemistry.

Dec 11 - Avery (shoulder) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Titans, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: Avery will be playing at less than 100 percent, but he'll likely tough it out on Sunday.

Kyle Boller (StL - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Kyle Boller, already nursing an injured thigh, did not practice Wednesday because of an illness.

Dec 14 - QB Kyle Boller determined after pregame warm-ups he wasn't able to go because of a thigh injury. As for this week, Spagnuolo said no decision has been made yet, and that the condition of Boller's thigh will be a factor. However, when asked if Boller would start if he's healthy, Spagnuolo said, "I would tend to lean that way, but I'm not going to commit to that 100 percent. Kyle has been a competitor for us. If he's healthy, I think he can help us win."

Dec 13 - Boller (thigh) will go through warmups and try to play Sunday against the Titans, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: The Rams are said to be optimistic that he will be able to play, and the plan is to start him, but if Boller can’t go, Keith Null would be in line make his first NFL start.

Dec 13 - QB Kyle Boller did not play because of a thigh injury that he suffered the previous week against Chicago. Boller realized in pregame warm-ups he wasn't healthy enough to play.

Dec 13 - With Boller nursing a sore thigh, it's possible that Keith Null could start Sunday against the Titans, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: Boller was limited at practice by his thigh issue Thursday and Friday and listed as probable on the Rams' injury report. The St. Louis Post Dispatch reports that he is fully expected to play, but it is clearly worth verifying Boller's status before the Rams kick off during the second wave of games Sunday, if he is someone you'd normally use.

Dec 13 - Boller (thigh) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Recommendation: He'll give it a go this week, but backup Keith Null is on hand should Boller suffer a setback.

Dec 13 - Boller, who was limited by an injured thigh, will start for St. Louis on Sunday against Tennessee.
Advice: Boller is 0-4 as a starter this season.

Dec 13 - Keith Null - not Boller - started at quarterback Sunday against the Titans.

Recommendation: St. Louis was secretive about this one all the way up to kickoff, but decided to give the rookie a chance to provide a spark to the 1-11 Rams.

Dec 11 - Boller (thigh) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Titans, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: Boller is fully expected to start against Tennessee despite having his practice reps limited during the week. You know the drill with him as a fantasy option though: only if you're desperate.

Kenneth Darby (StL - RB)

Dec 14 - Darby had 51 yards rushing on one attempt during the Rams' Week 14 loss at Tennessee.

Recommendation: Darby's yards all came on a fake punt late in the club's atrocious 47-7 loss. He's a fantasy non-factor just like 99% of his teammates as they slowly make their way towards the No. 1 pick in the 2010 NFL draft.

Dec 14 - Darby had 51 yards rushing on one attempt during the Rams' Week 14 loss at Tennessee.

Recommendation: Darby's yards all came on a fake punt late in the club's atrocious 47-7 loss. He's a fantasy non-factor just like 99 percent of his teammates as they slowly make their way toward the No. 1 pick in the 2010 NFL draft.

Daniel Fells (StL - TE)

Dec 14 - Fells had three receptions for 32 yards in Week 14 at Tennessee.

Recommendation: With the club's third string quarterback in (Keith Null) the gameplan became very conservative and a lot of short dumpdowns to tight ends and backs became the primary play. Tight ends Fells, Randy McMichael, and Billy Bajema accounted for six of Null's completions and the lone touchdown of the day.

Steven Jackson (StL - RB)

Dec 14 - Jackson (back) was held in check by the Titans in Week 14 gaining only 47 yards on 19 carries and catching only two passes for six yards.

Recommendation: With rookie QB Keith Null under center the Titans loaded the box and completely blew up the Rams' O-line time and time again. If Kyle Boller or Marc Bulger aren't able to go in Week 15 we'd almost suggest you sit Jackson because his back remains a concern and more of the same type of defensive strategy is sure to be employed when the Texans come to town.

Dec 13 - The back problems Jackson is experiencing are reportedly being caused by a herniated disc, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Recommendation: The report adds that while Jackson probably won't need surgery after the season, he might not be able to practice again this year. As for his status for this Sunday, we'll provide an update as kickoff approaches.

Dec 13 - Jackson (back) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Recommendation: It looks like Jackson will continue to gut it out through his back woes as long as he suffers no setbacks in the coming weeks.

Dec 11 - Jackson (back) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans, NFL.com reports. He did not practice all week.

Recommendation: The Rams and Titans don't get started until the second wave of kickoffs Sunday. Usually we'd advise against starting a questionable player in that situation, but Jackson has played the last two weeks without practicing and should be able to do the same on Sunday.

Mike Karney (StL - RB)

Dec 13 - Karney (neck) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Titans.

Recommendation: He'll be out there Sunday opening running lanes for Steven Jackson.

Dec 11 - Karney (neck) is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Titans, NFL.com reports.

Recommendation: Despite the questionable tag, he will likely play on Sunday, opening holes for Steven Jackson.

Joe Klopfenstein^NA (Buf - TE)

Dec 16 - TE Joe Klopfenstein was waived by Buffalo.

Dec 11 - Klopfenstein (undisclosed) is out for this week's game in Kansas City, BuffaloBills.com reports.

Recommendation: Perhaps he's just not ready to resume game action after being re-signed by the Bills this week. Or perhaps the team just didn't have enough lead time to sew his name on his jersey.

Randy McMichael (StL - TE)

Dec 14 - McMichael caught his first touchdown pass in two years during the Rams' loss at Tennessee in Week 14.

Recommendation: The TD grab came early in the 4th with the club down 33-0 and was only set-up by a fake punt that actually worked. McMichael continues to be the club's No. 1 tight end but he's a fringe fantasy prospect even on his best day.

Dec 14 - McMichael caught his first touchdown pass in two years during the Rams' loss at Tennessee in Week 14.

Recommendation: The TD grab came early in the fourth with the club down 33-0 and was only set-up by a fake punt that actually worked. McMichael continues to be the club's No. 1 tight end but he's a fringe fantasy prospect even on his best day.

Keith Null (StL - QB)

Dec 14 - Null completed 27-of-43 passes for 157 yards, one touchdown and five interceptions during the Rams' loss in Week 14 to the Titans.

Recommendation: The rookie QB was forced into action after Kyle Boller just couldn't fight through the pain of his thigh bruise and he looked very much like a rookie quarterback. With the club looking as hopeless as they ever have it will be interesting to see if they just let Null learn on the job over the last three weeks or if they'll return to Boller or even starter Marc Bulger to finish out the season.

Dec 13 - Null started at quarterback for the Rams on Sunday against the Titans.

Recommendation: The Rams were secretive about this all the way up to kickoff. But with a 1-11 record and starting quarterback Marc Bulger injured, it's not a bad strategy to take a look at the rookie and see if there's anything there.

Dec 11 - With Kyle Boller hurting, Null saw extensive action with the Rams' starting offense during Thursday's practice, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Recommendation: The Rams limited Boller's reps to help him as he deals with a nagging thigh injury, but he is still slated to start Sunday against Tennessee. Null will be on hand however should Boller suffer a setback, either leading up to, or during the game.

Matt Bryant (Atl - K)

Dec 15 - PK Matt Bryant was one of Atlanta's bright spots in Sunday's 26-23 loss to the New Orleans Saints. He was 3-for-3 on field goal attempts and converted both PATs. "We had a good day in that category kicking, but you'd trade in a good day for a win any time you can," said Bryant. It was Bryant's second game with the Falcons since replacing Jason Elam, but his first opportunity to show off his leg. In the 34-7 thumping by the Eagles, the Falcons bypassed a pair of field goal attempts in order to go for touchdowns. Bryant nailed a 36-yarder to end Atlanta's first possession. He later added field goals of 30 and 27 yards. The three were the most field goals in a game by the Falcons this year. "The reason why I'm here at the end of the year is because things weren't going so well," Bryant said. "I was brought in to fix whatever was wrong. You just want to get in there and get your first kick out of the way. Once that's in, you come back down from (the emotional high) and go at your kicks." Elam, a 17-year NFL veteran, was released by the Falcons Dec. 1 after converting just 12 of 19 attempts. Bryant, who had been playing with the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League, beat out three other competitors at an impromptu tryout for Elam's job. "Whenever you're sitting on the side, you're always hoping for that phone call," Bryant said. "Jason was a great kicker for a long time. You hate to see anyone struggle. I just have to go out there and worry about my own business." As the Falcons drove down the field in the game's final minutes against the Saints, it looked as if Bryant might have a chance to tie the game 26-26 and force overtime. Bryant tried a few practicekicks into the net on the sidelines. He was ready for his potentially big moment. "You've got to want the ball in your hands, so to speak, like Michael Jordan," Bryant said. "I wanted to score the TD so we'd get an automatic win. But if we needed to kick it (for overtime), I wanted to go out there and make th

Antonio Bryant (TB - WR)

Dec 13 - After two straight big games Bryant only had two catches for 22 yards in the Buccaneers' 26-3 loss to the Jets Sunday.

Recommendation: Quarterback Josh Freeman had a terrible game as he only threw for 93 yards and three interceptions, so therefore it was difficult for the Buccaneers to generate any kind of offense Sunday. Hopefully Bryant and Freeman can rebound against a mediocre Seahawks defense Week 15.

Michael Clayton (TB - WR)

Dec 16 - WR Michael Clayton has a knee injury and did not practice Wednesday. He could miss his third straight game.

Dec 15 - WR Michael Clayton has a knee sprain and will be questionable for Sunday's game at Seattle.

Dec 13 - Clayton (knee) is inactive for Sunday’s game against the Jets.

Recommendation: Maurice Stovall will start in place of Clayton for the second consecutive week.

Dec 11 - Clayton (knee) is listed as doubtful for Sunday's game against the Jets, the St. Petersburg Times reports.

Recommendation: There are a handful of wideouts worth tracking even when they are listed as doubtful, but Clayton, who did not practice this week, is not one of them.

Josh Freeman (TB - QB)

Dec 13 - Freeman definitely looked like a raw rookie quarterback against a good Jets defense as he was only 14 of 33 passing for a measly 93 yards and three interceptions in the Buccaneers 26-3 loss Sunday.

Recommendation: Freeman ruined not only his own fantasy value Sunday, but also ruined all the other Buccaneers' skill players as well as no one had an effective game on offense at all.

Mike Nugent (Ari - K)

Dec 16 - PK Mike Nugent was signed by the Cardinals with Neil Rackers dealing with a groin injury.

Dec 16 - K Mike Nugent signed this week to temporarily replace Neil Rackers, who is out with a groin injury. Nugent was with Tampa Bay this season but was cut early in the four after missing four of six field goals. Nugent and Cardinals long snapper Ben Graham played together with the Jets, a factor in the team's decision to sign him.

Sammie Stroughter (TB - WR)

Dec 13 - Stroughter (back) is inactive for Sunday’s game against the Jets.

Recommendation: Yamon Figurs will get extra work in the return game.

Dec 11 - Stroughter "tweaked" his back Thursday and is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets, the St. Petersburg Times reports.

Recommendation: Coach Raheem Morris seemed optimistic about Stroughter's chances of playing Sunday, but if he ends up getting scratched or is limited at all, Yamon Figurs could see added work.

Derrick Ward (TB - RB)

Dec 13 - Ward ran the ball just four times for six yards in Sunday's 26-3 loss to the Jets.

Recommendation: Cadillac Williams (back) was able to play on Sunday, but it really didn't matter as the entire Tampa Bay offense was awful. Rookie quarterback Josh Freeman has really struggled the last two weeks, which obviously has an effect on Ward and the running game.

Dec 11 - Ward could be in for an expanded workload Sunday against the Jets if Cadillac Williams (back, questionable) is unable to play, the St. Petersburg Times reports.

Recommendation: Ward, who averaged 5.6 yards per carry with the Giants last year, has found the going much tougher with Tampa Bay working behind Williams, with an average of 3.6 yards (84 attempts for 304 yards in 11 games) per carry. Those uninspiring numbers may have landed him in some league's free agent pools and if that's the case, he could be worth a quick grab for Week 14 now that Williams is iffy.

Carnell Williams (TB - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Cadillac Williams needs 55 yards to pass Ricky Bell for sixth place on the Bucs' all-time rushing list.

Dec 13 - Williams (back) is active for Sunday’s game against the Jets.

Recommendation: New York has a strong run defense, and Williams may be slightly limited by the back injury, so make sure you don’t have a healthier, higher-percentage play before deciding to roll out the Caddy.

Dec 13 - Williams (back) played in Sunday's 26-3 loss to the Jets, but had just 11 carries for 14 yards.

Recommendation: Williams wasn't 100 percent and Tampa Bay was miserable on offense, gaining only 124 yards as a team. Rookie quarterback Josh Freeman threw three more interceptions on Sunday, so he needs to get things back on track in order for Williams to have any chance at being successful.

Dec 11 - Williams sustained a back injury on Thursday and is now listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Jets, the Tampa Tribune reports.

Recommendation: If Williams is unable to go, Derrick Ward would figure to see increased work Sunday, along with Earnest Graham and to a lesser degree, Kareem Huggins. The Bucs kick off during the first wave of games Sunday, so most Williams owners should be able to adjust their lineups accordingly.

Kellen Winslow (TB - TE)

Dec 11 - Winslow (knee) is listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Jets, the St. Petersburg Times reports.

Recommendation: Feel free to roll with Winslow (who has 58 catches for 633 yards and five TDs in 12 games) as you normally would this weekend.

Rob Bironas (Ten - K)

Dec 13 - Bironas was perfect kicking Sunday against the Rams. He hit all four field goal attempts, including a 50-yard field goal, and was also hit all five extra point attempts.

Recommendation: Bironas had a huge kicking game against the Rams. Bironas has not missed a field goal attempt in his last three games now and has shown he has the ability to stare down 50-yarders and knock them through the uprights.

Dec 13 - Bironas was perfect kicking Sunday against the Rams. He hit all four field goal attempts, including a 50-yard field goal, and also hit all five extra point attempts.

Recommendation: Bironas had a huge kicking game against the Rams. Bironas has not missed a field goal attempt in his last three games now and has shown he has the ability to stare down 50-yarders and knock them through the uprights.

Kenny Britt (Ten - WR)

Dec 13 - Britt (back) caught just two passes Sunday, but for a team-high 75 yards.

Recommendation: Britt (back) continues to start in place of Justin Gage (back) even though Gage was active Sunday while he is apparently not healthy enough to play.

Dec 13 - Britt (back) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Recommendation: Justin Gage has returned to action this week, but Britt is still listed as the starter at wideout in Gage's place Sunday.

Dec 13 - Britt (back) caught just two passes Sunday, but for a team-high 75 yards.

Recommendation: Britt continues to start in place of Justin Gage, who is being eased in slowly following his return from a back injury.

Dec 11 - Britt (back) practiced fully Friday and is probable for Sunday's game against the Rams, the Titans' official site reports.

Recommendation: Fellow wideout Justin Gage will return this week, but he figures to be eased back in, so Britt will likely continue to see his share of looks Sunday.

Kerry Collins (Ten - QB)

Dec 14 - QB Kerry Collins did well in relief of Vince Young, completing 11 of 19 passes for 154 yards and a touchdown as Tennessee rolled up a season-high in points against the Rams. Collins, removed as the starter after an 0-6 start and at the insistence of owner Bud Adams, said he is ready if need be. "Whatever I'm asked to do this week, I'll do. Hopefully he'll be back and we'll get him back in there," Collins said. "If he's not ready to go, I'll look forward to getting ready this week and playing Sunday."

Dec 13 - Collins came into the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Rams after Vince Young left with a hamstring injury. He completed 11-for-19 passes for 154 yards. He threw a touchdown and did not throw any interception.

Recommendation: Collins came in for Vince Young and played as if it was last year. He took good care of the football and managed the Titans offense well. The Titans did not skip a beat with Collins. Young's status has yet to be determined but if he is able to play, Collins is unlikely to start next week. We will continue to monitor the status' of both quarterbacks throught the week.

Dec 13 - QB Kerry Collins came off the bench and was 11 of 19 for 154 yards and a touchdown in relief of Vince Young (mild hamstring strain).

Dec 13 - Collins came into the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Rams after Vince Young left with a hamstring injury. He completed 11-for-19 passes for 154 yards. He threw a touchdown and did not throw any interceptions.

Recommendation: Collins came in for Vince Young and played as if it was last year. He took good care of the football and managed the Titans offense well. The Titans did not skip a beat with Collins. Young's status has yet to be determined but if he is able to play, Collins is unlikely to start next week. We will continue to monitor the status' of both quarterbacks throughout the week.

Dec 11 - Collins finished Thursday's practice with the first team after Vince Young aggravated a knee injury he received on Sunday against the Colts, the Tennessean reports.

Recommendation: Collins would likely start at quarterback if Vince Young (knee) cannot play. It's unlikely Young will miss any time due to his current injury, but we will continue to monitor his status.

Dec 11 - With Vince Young dealing with a knee issue, Collins worked with the Titans' first-team offense Friday, the Tennessean reports.

Recommendation: Young will be listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Rams, but insists he will play. Collins is ready though should coach Jeff Fisher decide there is too much risk in rolling with Young this week.

Jared Cook (Ten - TE)

Dec 13 - Cook (concussion) is inactive for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Recommendation: We'll revisit Cook's status leading up to Week 15's game against the Dolphins.

Dec 11 - Cook (concussion) practiced fully Friday, but is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Rams, the Titans' official site reports.

Recommendation: We'll check back on his status Sunday, but the fantasy stretch run is not the best time to take chances on unproven players coming off concussion issues.

Alge Crumpler (Ten - TE)

Dec 13 - Crumpler caught four passes Sunday for 41 yards and a touchdown against the Rams.

Recommendation: Crumpler tied his season-high in catches with four Sunday. He has caught four passes in three different games but has also disappeared in several other games this year. He got additional snaps with rookie Jared Cook inactive Sunday, and was able to catch his first touchdown pass of the year.

Justin Gage (Ten - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Justin Gage made his way back from a back injury, but could not finish the game. He likely will be the third receiver for the foreseeable future with Kenny Britt's emergence.

Dec 14 - WR Justin Gage played for the first time in five weeks due to a back injury. The back stiffened up and Gage was removed as a precaution.

Dec 14 - Gage (back) played Sunday, and was thrown to just once and did not make a catch against the Rams.

Recommendation: Gage has not played since suffering a broken back on Nov. 8. We do not believe he will be taking back his starting spot over Kenny Britt any time soon.

Dec 14 - Gage (back) played Sunday and was thrown to just once and didn't make a catch against the Rams.

Recommendation: Gage hasn't played since suffering a broken back on Nov. 8. We don't believe he will be taking back his starting spot over Kenny Britt any time soon.

Dec 11 - Gage (back) does not appear on the Titans' Week 14 injury report.

Recommendation: In his return, look for Gage to see most of his playing time when the Titans go with three-receiver sets Sunday against St. Louis.

Quinton Ganther (Was - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Quinton Ganther ran for two touchdowns against the Raiders in his first NFL start. No Redskin had run for two TDs during any of the previous 17 games.

Dec 13 - RB Quinton Ganther got his first NFL start Sunday in his backyard and the Richmond, Calif., native set up Washington's first touchdown with a 42-yard catch-and-run. He then scored the final two TDs on a pair of 1-yard runs as the Redskins pulled away for the 34-13 victory at Oakland. Ganther, who was on the street twice this season before catching on with Washington for good on Nov. 11, finished with 50 yards rushing on 14 carries Sunday.

Dec 13 - Ganther rushed for a career-high 50 yards and scored a pair of touchdowns in Sunday's 34-13 win at Oakland.

Recommendation: Ganther started and received most of the work, recording 14 carries, and did some damage as receiver with a 42-yard catch. Both of Ganther's touchdowns came from one yard away, although it shouldn't come as a surprise that he was used at the goal line since he's a stocky and strong runner. Veteran Rock Cartwright, who had started the last couple of games, got just one carry while second-year back Marcus Mason had six rushes for 32 yards. It looks like Washington is going to go with the young guys at running back for the rest of the season with Ganther presumably getting most of the action.

Chris Johnson (Ten - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Chris Johnson leads the NFL with 1,626 rushing yards, but doesn't lead the fan voting for the Pro Bowl in the AFC. That honor goes to Cincinnati's Cedric Benson. Still, Johnson has his sights on bigger prizes. He needs to average just under 125 yards per game to reach 2,000, and needs 480 to eclipse Eric Dickerson's single-season record of 2,105.

Dec 13 - RB Chris Johnson racked up his eighth straight 100-yard rushing game with a 117-yard effort. Johnson also surpassed 2,000 yards from scrimmage with a franchise-record 2,017 in that category.

Dec 13 - Johnson (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Recommendation: Feel free to deploy Johnson as you normally would this week.

Dec 13 - Johnson (ankle) scored two touchdowns rushing and made a 66-yard touchdown catch against the Rams. He ran for a total of 117 yards and went for another 69 yards receiving Sunday.

Recommendation: Johnson did not seem to be slowed down one bit by either his reported ankle injury or the Rams defense Sunday. He increased his streak of 100-yard rushing games to eight. Johnson just keeps on having monster game after monster game.

Dec 11 - Johnson (ankle) practiced on Friday and will be listed as probable for Sunday’s game against the Rams, according to coach Jeff Fisher, the Tennessean reports.

Recommendation: Good news for Johnson's owners, who won't have to deal with the uncertainty of a "questionable" tag, especially with the Titans kicking off during the second set of games Sunday.

Bo Scaife (Ten - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Bo Scaife has long been a favorite target of Vince Young. Scaife had 12 catches in six games with Kerry Collins as the starter and has 26 in the seven games Young has started.

Nate Washington (Ten - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Nate Washington recovered from his crucial drop at Indianapolis to make a beautiful diving catch of a Kerry Collins pass against St. Louis. He had three catches for 54 yards against the Rams.

Dec 13 - Washington (ankle) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Recommendation: Washington, who has just two TDs in his last eight games, is out there if you need him this week, as is Tennessee's starting QB, Vince Young.

Dec 11 - Washington (ankle) practiced fully Friday and is probable for Sunday's game against the Rams, the Titans' official site reports.

Recommendation: He'll be out there Sunday against the Rams, with who will be throwing to Washington (Vince Young is questionable)is more of an uncertainly than his Week 14 status.

LenDale White (Ten - RB)

Dec 13 - White did not carry the ball Sunday against the Rams.

Recommendation: You would have thought that White may have gotten a few carries later in the game when the Titans already had the game won against the Rams. We are unaware at this time why he did not, but no other running back aside from Chris Johnson received any carries Sunday.

Vince Young (Ten - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Vince Young said Wednesday he is "day-to-day" with the injured right hamstring that forced him out of Sunday's win over the St. Louis Rams in the second quarter. He missed Wednesday's practice in preparation for the Miami Dolphins, but said he will practice later in the week. Young said he didn't think mobility would be a problem, even if he is less than 100 percent on Sunday. Young said his condition was improving. "I feel pretty good. I'm just taking it easy to be on the safe side and things like that. I'm just going to take it day-by-day. I'm definitely going to get some practice time in, and things like that, but I'm going to take my time with it," Young said.

Dec 15 - QB Vince Young has a mild hamstring strain in his right leg and his status is unclear for this week, though an MRI came back OK. Young could be limited in practice this week.

Dec 14 - Young has had a variety of tests on his right hamstring, and coach Jeff Fisher calls it a mild strain that will keep the Tennessee quarterback day-to-day. played very well, completing 6 of 8 for 132 yards with one touchdown for a 14-0 Tennessee lead.
Advice: Fisher said Monday he has not ruled Young out for Sunday's game with Miami (7-6) and hopes to have the quarterback on the practice field Wednesday for Tennessee (6-7). Young pulled up at the end of a 44-yard run, the longest of his career, during Sunday's 47-7 win over St. Louis. The quarterback said after the win that he definitely could have returned for a playoff-type game. But Fisher also says they will not risk further injury for Young.

Dec 14 - QB Vince Young had an MRI on his injured right hamstring on Monday and coach Jeff Fisher said the quarterback would be day-to-day this week in preparation for the Miami Dolphins. Young pulled up at the end of a 44-yard scramble and jogged to the sideline favoring the hamstring in the second quarter of Sunday's 44-7 blasting of the St. Louis Rams and did not return to the game. Fisher offered on Monday that the MRI showed the injury to be a "mild strain," as was the initial diagnosis after the game on Sunday. "We want him to practice. We want him to play," Fisher said. "It's Monday. The MRI was good, and we'll classify it as a mild hamstring strain and we'll take it from there."

Dec 14 - Coach Jeff Fisher said the test results on Young's hamstring were "good" and that the QB is day-to-day, the Tennessean reports.

Recommendation: We'll have to see if Young is able to practice at all Wednesday, but it sounds like he at least has a shot to play in Week 15. Veteran Kerry Collins is on hand to take any first-team reps that Young can't once the team resumes practice.

Dec 13 - Young was forced out of Sunday's game against the Rams in the second quarter with a right hamstring injury.

Recommendation: He was replaced by Week 1 start Kerry Collins. Prior to his exit, Young was 6-for-8 for 132 yards and a TD, along with a 44-yard run.

Dec 13 - QB Vince Young's day ended early with a mild hamstring strain suffered on a career-long 44-yard scramble. Young was 6 of 8 for 132 yards and a score. Young said after the game he didn't want to speculate yet as to his status for the Titans' pivotal game against the Miami Dolphins.

Dec 13 - Young (knee) is listed as active for Sunday's game against the Rams.

Recommendation: No starting lineup change was announced at QB for the Titans, so it looks safe to roll with Young this week as you normally would.

Dec 13 - Coach Jeff Fisher described Young's right hamstring injury as mild, the Associated Press reports. "We will just see how he is throughout the week," Fisher said Sunday.

Recommendation: Young did say that he could have returned Sunday if it were a playoff-type game, so it sounds like he plans on playing next week, provided the injury doesn't get worse in the next few days.

Dec 13 - Young pulled up lame near the end of a 44-yard run in Sunday's game against the Rams and grabbed at his right hamstring. He left for the locker room and his return is questionable.

Recommendation: Young came into the game with a knee injury but seemed to be moving around with full mobility before this hamstring pull. Kerry Collins is in the game, and with the score currently 17-0, the Titans may have the luxury of letting Young rest for the remainder of the day.

Jason Campbell (Was - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Jason Campbell topped the 10,000 yard mark for his career with 222 at Oakland.

Dec 13 - Campbell suffered a left (non-throwing) shoulder injury in the second quarter of Sunday's game against the Raiders.

Recommendation: Campbell was able to return to action later in the second quarter.

Dec 13 - Campbell completed 16 of 28 passes for 222 yards and two touchdowns against Oakland on Sunday. He also rushed four times for 20 yards.

Recommendation: Campbell suffered a left shoulder injury early in the game but did not miss any time. He faces a Giants defense in Week 15 that gave up 45 points against the Eagles.

Rock Cartwright (Was - RB)

Dec 13 - Cartwright received only one carry for zero yards in Week 14. Quinton Ganther received 14 while Marcus Mason had six.

Recommendation: It appears Cartwright is back to special teams duty while the 'Skins test out what Ganther and Mason can bring to the table.

Fred Davis (Was - TE)

Dec 15 - TE Fred Davis had a career-high two touchdowns against the Raiders.

Dec 13 - Davis caught three passes for 50 yards and two touchdowns on Sunday.

Recommendation: Davis has four touchdowns over the last three games and has become one of Jason Campbell's favorite targets in the red zone.

Marcus Mason (Was - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Marcus Mason set career highs with six carries and 32 yards at Oakland.

Dec 13 - Mason rushed six times for 32 yards on Sunday.

Recommendation: He appears to be the primary backup to Quinton Ganther. Rock Cartwright received only one carry against Oakland.

Santana Moss (Was - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Santana Moss has reached 50 catches for a fifth year in a row and 700 receiving yards for a seventh straight season.

Dec 13 - Moss caught four passes for a team high 58 yards in Week 14. He momentarily left the game with what appeared like a knee injury. He returned a few plays later.

Recommendation: The injury appears to be minor but check back later in the week for more details.

Antwaan Randle El (Was - WR)

Dec 16 - WR/PR Antwaan Randle El is having a horrendous year returning punts, averaging just 3.6 yards and having as many fumbles, three, as returns over 10 yards. But although coach Jim Zorn plans to work Devin Thomas, who has replaced him at receiver, into the mix returning punts along with Santana Moss, Randle El believes he can again become the dynamic returner he was with Pittsburgh from 2002-05. "No question," Randle El said. "I don't doubt my abilities one bit. It certainly hasn't been productive, but it's not that I'm just catching the ball and having a lot of space to do anything. When I have some room, I can get something done. But that just hasn't happened this year as often as I would like."

Mike Sellers (Was - RB)

Dec 16 - FB Mike Sellers missed a fourth straight practice in the wake of the internal bleeding in his left thigh he suffered after the Dec. 6 loss to New Orleans. Sellers hope to practice on Thursday.

Dec 13 - FB Mike Sellers missed his first game in more than two years because of internal bleeding in his left thigh. Todd Yoder started in his place.

Devin Thomas (Was - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Devin Thomas' 29-yard grab against Oakland gave him catches of at least 26 yards in four straight games, the longest streak by a Redskin since Santana Moss's six-game streak during his 2005 debut with Washington.

Dec 13 - Thomas caught two passes for 38 yards on Sunday.

Recommendation: A quiet follow up after his two touchdown performance last week. Expect his performance to be inconsistent as Jason Campbell continues to build chemistry.

Biren Ealy^NA (GB - WR)

Dec 15 - WR Biren Ealy was released by the Packers. In six weeks on the team's roster, he was active for just one game.

Dec 14 - WR Biren Ealy was waived by the Packers, according to the Green Bay Press-Gazette.

Marshawn Lynch (Buf - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Marshawn Lynch is on a roll. His 47-yard scamper against Kansas City on the heels of a 35-yard run against the New York Jets made him the first Bill since Antowain Smith in 1997 to record runs of 35 yards or more in consecutive games. Lynch has had at least one 10-yard run in 29 of his 38 career games. The Bills hope to keep their running game alive this Sunday against New England.

Dec 14 - Lynch finished with 84 yards on 12 carries in Sunday's win over the Chiefs. He also caught three balls for 10 yards.

Recommendation: Lynch continues to get the lesser portion of the load vs. Fred Jackson, who had 20 carries for 99 yards. The only way Lynch would have true value the rest of the way would be based on a Jackson injury.

Charlie Frye (Oak - QB)

Dec 16 - Frye will start at quarterback over former starter JaMarcus Russell when the Oakland Raiders visit the Denver Broncos on Sunday.
Advice: Coach Tom Cable said Wednesday that Russell will be his No. 2 quarterback, with the newly signed J.P. Losman third. Frye has not played at all this year and worked strictly with Oakland's scout team.

Dec 16 - QB Charlie Frye will start Sunday, coach Tom Cable announced. Bruce Gradkowski has injuries to both knee, and Frye will start ahead of JaMarcus Russell. Frye last played on Oct. 12, 2008, completingb12 of 23 passes for 83 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in a 27-27 loss to Green Bay. "As the coach I want to do what I think is best for this team, and that's Charlie Frye," Cable said. "It gives us the best opportunity to win. You watch Charlie every day and his preparation, he just certainly deserves the opportunity."

Dec 15 - QB Charlie Frye, either a backup or the starter this week against Denver, last played on Oct. 12, 2008, completingb12 of 23 passes for 83 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions in a 27-27 loss to Green Bay.

Brett Favre (Min - QB)

Dec 16 - QB Brett Favre will move into sole possession of the Vikings' record for the most games in a single season without an interception if he does not throw a pick Sunday. Favre has eight games without an interception, which is tied with Daunte Culpepper (2004) and Warren Moon (1995) for the most.

Dec 15 - QB Brett Favre completed 17 of 30 passes for 192 yards with a touchdown and an interception in a 30-10 victory over Cincinnati on Sunday. Favre's passing yards were his fewest since he threw for 155 in a Week 2 victory at Detroit. Favre has now thrown three picks in the past two games after having three in the first 11. Still, he has 27 touchdowns and six interceptions and remains among the league leaders in completion percentage (68.1) and passé rating (106.0).

Dec 14 - Favre threw another interception Sunday, but was good enough to help lead the Vikings to a win and playoff berth.
Advice: Favre has three interceptions in the last two games after throwing three in the first 11 games. He went 17 of 30 for 192 yards and one touchdown.

Dec 14 - Favre was 17-of-30 passing for 192 yards with a touchdown and an interception in Sunday's win over the Bengals.

Recommendation: Favre didn't have a great game, but faced a tough defense and the Minnesota offense was able to run the ball more effectively than the past few weeks. Although he threw an interception, his performance avoided the talk of his December struggles the past two seasons.

Dec 13 - Favre (coach's decision) is active for Sunday's game against the Bengals.

Recommendation: Favre is obviously safe to start in fantasy this week.

Dec 13 - QB Brett Favre became the first player in NFL history with 6,000 completions. Favre now has 6,015 completions. Former Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino is second with 4,967 completions.

Dec 11 - Favre is listed as probable on the injury report against the Bengals, but due to a "coach's decision" and not an injury, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Recommendation: He was able to practice all week, so he should be safe to start this week despite the cryptic injury designation.

Michael Vick (Phi - QB)

Dec 15 - QB Michael Vick is starting to become an effective offensive weapon for the Eagles. In the last two games, he's rushed for 28 yards and two touchdowns on seven carries. He's also completed three of four passes for 80 yards and a touchdown. In his previous nine games with the Eagles, Vick had carried the ball just 15 times (for 76 yards) and had completed just three of 9 passes for 16 yards. "All of that stuff was in," coach Andy Reid said. "It was just a matter of using it. It wasn't that we didn't trust him doing it. It just wasn't happening. We just weren't getting to it." They're getting to it now, particularly in the red zone, where the Eagles have converted five of their last eight trips inside the 20 into touchdowns. "We've done a little bit with him in short yardage and red zone," Reid said. "But some of that stuff we can also do out in the (rest of) the field. It's just a matter of how the flow of the game goes." Vick also appears to have finally shaken much of the rust off of his body. "Probably the last month or month and a half he has been OK," Reid said. "He's been back. Having a chance to throw the ball as much as he had in game situations, the few times that he's had (opportunities), I think that helps. It's a little faster during the games than in practice. He's running well and he's throwing the ball pretty well."

Dec 14 - Vick went 1-of-2 for 32 yards passing while also running for 11 yards and a score on three carries Sunday.

Recommendation: Vick's lone completion was a 32-yard laser perfectly thrown, easily qualifying as his most impressive play since returning to the NFL this season. It looks like he's going to become a bigger part of the Eagles' offense down the stretch, although obviously still not nearly enough to warrant fantasy consideration.

Billy Cundiff (Bal - K)

Dec 13 - Cundiff (concussion) is listed as active for Sunday’s game against the Lions.

Recommendation: Feel free to roll with Cundiff this week if he is someone you’d normally use.

Dec 11 - Cundiff (concussion) was upgraded from a limited to a full participant at Friday's practice, the Baltimore Sun reports.

Recommendation: He's listed as probable for Sunday's game against the Lions, and appears to be safe to deploy this week.

Arian Foster (Hou - RB)

Dec 13 - Foster had a team-high 13 carries for 34 yards in Sunday's 34-7 win over Seattle. He also caught four passes for 54 yards.

Recommendation: Foster actually got some work in the first half before the game turned into a blowout and was able to make some plays. Veteran Chris Brown was a non-factor, rushing for just seven yards on three carries, and while Ryan Moats did some positive things with 10 carries for 43 yards and a touchdown, he fumbled early in the fourth quarter and did not see the ball again. The fumble by Moats, even though it was in garbage time, may have opened the door slightly for Foster as coach Gary Kubiak probably has seen enough poor ball security this season (Steve Slaton was a fumbling machine before his season ended with a shoulder/arm injury). Foster, an undrafted rookie from the University of Tennessee has a big body, so he possibly could supplant Brown as the goal-line back or simply be more in the mix between the 20s. Houston plays at St. Louis next week, so Foster could potentially be a nice pickup for those who are somewhat desperate for a running back.

Dec 13 - Foster had a team-high 13 carries for 34 yards in Sunday's 34-7 win over Seattle. He also caught four passes for 54 yards.

Recommendation: Foster actually got some work in the first half before the game turned into a blowout and was able to make some plays. Veteran Chris Brown was a non-factor, rushing for just seven yards on three carries, and while Ryan Moats did some positive things with 10 carries for 43 yards and a touchdown, he fumbled early in the fourth quarter and did not see the ball again. The fumble by Moats, even though it was in garbage time, may have opened the door slightly for Foster as coach Gary Kubiak probably has seen enough poor ball security this season (Steve Slaton was a fumbling machine before his season ended with a shoulder/arm injury). Foster, an undrafted rookie from the University of Tennessee has a big body, so he possibly could supplant Brown as the goal-line back or simply be more in the mix between the 20's. Houston plays at St. Louis next week, so Foster could potentially be a nice pickup for those who are somewhat desperate for a running back.

Dec 12 - Texans head coach Gary Kubiak said Foster will be used as a running back in Sunday's match with the Seahawks, the Houston Chronicle reports.

Recommendation: Chris Brown will start for the Texans, with Foster and Ryan Moats coming off the bench. "I'd like for him to touch the ball five times and give me a reason for him to touch it 10," Kubiak said after practice on Friday. Foster, who was activated for the first time this season last week, has played well on special teams and has earned a chance with good practices this week. "He's practiced well and he's played well on special teams," Kubiak said about Foster. "This is another step for him, and he's earned it." Houston's running game has been a shambles all season (29th, 88.7 yards per game), so it would not take much for Foster to break through. With Matt Schaub nursing a dislocated non-throwing shoulder, coach Kubiak would love to have an effective running game to keep the pressure of his injured QB.

Dec 12 - Texans head coach Gary Kubiak said Foster will be used as a running back in Sunday's matchup with the Seahawks, the Houston Chronicle reports.

Recommendation: Chris Brown will start for the Texans, with Foster and Ryan Moats coming off the bench. "I'd like for him to touch the ball five times and give me a reason for him to touch it 10," Kubiak said after practice on Friday. Foster, who was activated for the first time this season last week, has played well on special teams and has earned a chance with good practices this week. "He's practiced well and he's played well on special teams," Kubiak said about Foster. "This is another step for him, and he's earned it." Houston's running game has been a shambles all season (29th, 88.7 yards per game), so it would not take much for Foster to break through. With Matt Schaub nursing a dislocated non-throwing shoulder, coach Kubiak would love to have an effective running game to keep the pressure off of his injured QB.

Tyrell Sutton (Car - RB)

Dec 15 - RB Tyrell Sutton could be the No. 2 back again this week if Jonathan Stewart (toe) can't go.