QB John Beck, MIA - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Jon Beck should be starting sooner than later. During the bye week, it was reported that Beck and Cleo Lemon split the action with the first team in practice. Expect the Dolphins to get Beck into the game pretty soon. They will want to know what they have in the rookie.

QB Brooks Bollinger, MIN - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Brooks Bollinger came into the game in relief of Tarvaris Jackson. This is the second game in a row that the former Jet has played. He was efficient, completing seven of ten passes for 95 yards and a long touchdown to Sidney Rice. Of the Viking passers, he looks the best of the three the last two games.

QB Drew Brees, NO - It's officially official - Drew Brees is back to his old form. He had nearly 350 yards passing at the half this past week against Jacksonville. He finished with 445 yards on 35 of 49 passing with 3 TD passes and 0 INTs. Brees deserves to be a starting QB in your lineup every week now that he has put together three consecutive positive performances after such a rough start. New Orleans' next three games are STL, @HOU, @CAR.

QB Kellen Clemens, NYJ - Kellen Clemens solidified his spot in the starting lineup with a decent game against a very good Washington Redskin defense. The second-year pro completed 23 of 42 for 226 passing yards and a touchdown. He also showed good mobility with 48 rushing yards on seven carries. Clemens has a bye week next week and should improve with another week getting all of the practice with the first team offense. If Coles were healthy in week eleven, it would help Clemens that much more.

QB Brett Favre, GB - Brett Favre has faced two straight strong pass defenses on the road and has had two good games. The ageless veteran completed 24 of 34 for 360 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Favre has been able to find the deep receiver lately, Jennings the last two games. The longtime Packer quarterback will be a top fantasy passer this season. He has some easy opponents coming up. Next week is a great matchup against the Minnesota Viking defense.

QB Quinn Gray, JAX - Apparently this Gray kid is pretty good. We anticipated a heavy dose of handing the ball off, simply because that's what he did the week before. That was not the case this week against New Orleans. Gray, behind most of the game, had 354 yards passing with 2 TDs and 3 INTs. What's impressive is that he finished with 17.7 yards per completion and 10.7 yards per attempt. Gray is a just a replacement until David Garrard returns from his injured ankle, but it looks like he might be a nice pick up for at least one more week. Jacksonville's next three games are @TEN, SD, BUF.

QB Matt Hasselbeck, SEA - Hasselbeck was sharp on Sunday, completing 64% of his passes for 318 yards and two touchdowns (one interception). Hasselbeck had played several games without either of his two starting wideouts. He got D.J. Hackett back yesterday and should get Deion Branch back next week against the 49ers. With Bobby Engram operating out of the slot and Nate Burleson providing depth, Hasselbeck will have a full compliment of weapons to throw to down the stretch.

QB Jon Kitna, DET - Jon Kitna is upgraded for second week in a row. Last week, Kitna and the Lion passing game improved but could not find the endzone. Against the Broncos in week nine, the former Seahawk and Bengal attempted 31 passes, completing 16, for 252 yards and a pair of touchdown tosses. With the strength of the running game, Kitna will not have to attempt 40 passes a game, but he might be able to still be a productive starting fantasy passer.

QB Byron Leftwich, ATL - The Falcons got a much needed win against the 49ers this week, but Joey Harrington wasn't anything special. Atlanta did some good things on offense with Leftwich in a QB. He should be back soon - probably week 11, but there's an outside chance that he'll be back for week 10. Atlanta's next three games are @CAR, TB, IND.

QB J.P. Losman, BUF - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - J.P. Losman lost the starting job, but got another chance with the injury to Trent Edwards. Losman was fortunate to get the Bengals in his comeback game. The Bengal defense is horrible. The former Tulane star attempted 34 passes, completing 24, for 295, with one touchdown and one interception. Losman added 21 yards on the ground on four carries. It is too soon to know for sure which quarterback will start in week ten for the Bills, but Losman should have the inside track.

QB Matt Moore, CAR - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - If David Carr is benched and Vinny Testaverde isn't healthy enough to play, the Panthers could turn to rookie Matt Moore out of Oregon State. This would be a less than likely scenario, but Moore at least has a down field arm that would benefit Carolina's passing game. Carolina's next three games are ATL, @GB, NO.

QB Patrick Ramsey, DEN - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - It is possible that Jay Cutler will miss the next game or two with a lower-leg injury, in which case Ramsey would be a bye-week fill-in for desperate fantasy owners.

QB Tony Romo, DAL - Romo celebrated his new contract by putting up another 300-yard performance in Week 9. He connected 10 times with Terrell Owens including a touchdown and also found two TEs (Jason Witten and Tony Curtis) for three scores. Romo started the game 9 for 9 and was in control for the entire game, only slowing up once the game was well in hand. Romo finished with strong numbers (20-25-324-3-1) despite taking the final minutes off against the Eagles. Romo should continue Despite racking up another 300-yard passing game, Derek Anderson failed to throw a touchdown against the Seahawks. It wasn't for the lack of trying - he just missed out on several occasions, including a pass reviewed at the goal line where Kellen Winslow Jr. was just out at the one-foot line. Anderson owners should hold tight as his numbers (29-40-364-0-1) should produce more points and touchdowns over the next few weeks.

QB Matt Schaub, HOU - Houston has a bye next week and that should be enough time for Schaub to fully recover from his injuries. Plus, Andre Johnson is scheduled to return when the Texans return from their bye in week 11. Good things lie ahead for Matt Schaub. With his recent injuries, the bye week coming up and the lack of having an unfamiliar name in fantasy circles, Schaub just might be found on the waiver wire over the next few days. If you're in need of a QB, Schaub would be a great pick up. Houston's next three games are BYE, NO, @CLE.

QB Vinny Testaverde, CAR - Upgrade Vinny Testaverde, because David Carr looked absolutely horrendous in his start against the Titans. Testaverde, who was inactive this week with tendonitis in his right Achilles, may be healthy enough to regain the starting QB role for Carolina next week at home vs. ATL. Monitor this situation during the week, but it's possible that Carr could be out at QB for Carolina.

Downgrade

QB Jason Campbell, WAS - Jason Campbell should have done much better against the Jets, yet his numbers in Week 9 (12-23-142-0-1) scream disappointment. He did add 31 yards rushing, but it did not make up for the poor afternoon as a passer. Campbell missed on a deep throw to Santana Moss and the Redskins seemed to be comfortable relying on the ground game. With a pretty good Eagles defense on the horizon and little confidence in the passing attack, look elsewhere for your fantasy quarterback.

QB David Carr, CAR - The Titans pass rush was relentless against David Carr, sacking him seven times and picking him off twice. Carr could not get anything going until the fourth quarter when the Titans called off their dogs. We've said it before, we'll say it again - David Carr is not a good QB and he's especially not a good QB for the Panthers and their attacking passing game that features one of the best receivers in the game in Steve Smith. Carr is poor in the pocket, he's inaccurate on the run, he lacks poise, he lacks the vision to read what the defense is giving him both during the play and in preparation for future plays, he takes too many sacks and he is a poor leader. Other than that... Well, you get the point. If Vinny Testaverde is healthy enough to play next week, he should get the nod. Even if he is not healthy, Carolina could go the way of rookie Matt Moore from Oregon State.

QB Jay Cutler, DEN - Cutler was forced out of the game in the second quarter with a bruise to his lower leg, along his fibula. Early indications are that no bones were broken, but Cutler will have an MRI to determine whether there is any additional damage. Cutler's leg was sandwiched between two defenders on a sack early in the second quarter. He was able to walk off the field under his own power, but was then carted into the locker room for x-rays. It is unclear when he will be able to return to action.

QB Trent Edwards, BUF - Trent Edwards hurt his wrist in week eight and was replaced by J.P. Losman. Losman looked good in week nine, squeezing out a win versus the lowly Cincinnati Bengals. Edwards is just a rookie and has a long career in front of him. But, the jury is still out on whether the rookie from Stanford can overtake Losman again, even after he is healthy.

QB Joey Harrington, ATL - Harrington got the win on Sunday against the hapless and injured 49ers, but he didn't exactly light the world on fire doing so. He finished with 138 yards passing with 0 TDs and 1 INT. Harrington probably has only one week left at QB for Atlanta, because Byron Leftwich will be returning from an ankle injury and will most likely start when healthy. Atlanta's next three games are @CAR, TB, IND.

QB Tarvaris Jackson, MIN - Tarvaris Jackson left the week nine game with what looked like a concussion. He had been battling a finger injury. Before exiting the game, he completed six of his twelve pass attempts for 63 yards, adding another 19 rushing yards. Jackson did not look good in the game. He seems lost many times.

QB Cleo Lemon, MIA - Cleo Lemon split time with Jon Beck this week during the bye week practices. This is big news for the bye week. The Dolphins are still winless. The Jon Beck era will be here soon. The Dolphins will want to see what they have in the rookie from BYU. Beck is an older rookie and the Dolphins will want to see whether the position needs to be addressed in the offseason.

QB Donovan McNabb, PHI - Donovan McNabb struggled against Dallas in Week 9 despite completing 27 of 46 attempts. He racked up just 264 yards and added a meaningless touchdown late in the game to Hank Baskett. McNabb seemed content to check down to Brian Westbrook or other receivers less than five yards downfield for most of the second half rather than try to go downfield and have his receivers make a play. Whether it was due to his targets not getting open or the coverages dropping back, the result is the same - McNabb had low yardage totals. He also made a poor decision over the middle just before the half and threw an interception just before halftime. The second pick of Week 9 came late and meant little, but the biggest reason for the downgrade is the lack of attacking middle and deep portions of the passing game.

QB Brady Quinn, CLE - Derek Anderson's excellent play is keeping Brady Quinn on the pine. As long as the Browns are winning with regularity, Quinn will not see the field. The real bad news for Quinn is that Cleveland's remaining schedule is fairly easy.

QB Philip Rivers, SD - Rivers had one of his worst NFL outings yesterday against what was, coming into the game, the league's worst pass defense. He completed just 45% of his passes for 4.7 yards per attempt, and during one stretch threw 10 incomplete passes in a row.

QB Sage Rosenfels, HOU - With Matt Schaub still recovering from a bevy of injuries, it opened the door for Sage Rosenfels who has filled in admirably. He had only 181 yards passing with 1 TD and 1 INT against Oakland, but he led the Texans to a much-needed victory on the road. Houston has a bye next week and that should be enough time for Matt Schaub to fully recover from his injuries to regain the starting QB role for Houston. Houston's next three games are BYE, NO, @CLE.

QB Kurt Warner, ARI - Warner was inaccurate all day, perhaps as a result of the torn ligaments suffered in week six in his non-throwing arm. He completed just 10 of his 30 pass attempts for 172 yards and no touchdowns (two interceptions).

Holding steady

QB Derek Anderson, CLE - Despite racking up another 300-yard passing game, Derek Anderson failed to throw a touchdown against the Seahawks. It wasn't for the lack of trying - he just missed out on several occasions, including a pass reviewed at the goal line where Kellen Winslow Jr. was just out at the one-foot line. Anderson owners should hold tight as his numbers (29-40-364-0-1) should produce more points and touchdowns over the next few weeks.

QB Peyton Manning, IND - In the big battle against New England, Manning had 225 yards passing with 1 TD, 1 INT and 1 rushing TD. Manning's numbers will probably improve when Marvin Harrison is finally able to return to the field. Obviously continue to play Peyton with confidence. Indy's next three games are @SD, KC, @ATL.

Running Back

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RB Joseph Addai, IND - Addai had a huge game against the Patriots rushing for 114 yards as well as five receptions for 112 yards, including a 73-yard TD reception. Addai remains the Colts primary ball carrier and his impressive game this week should mean more of the same for weeks to come. Addai is living up to the hype of being a top 5, if not top 3 fantasy RB. Continue to play Addai with confidence every week. Indy's next three games are @SD, KC, @ATL.

RB Marion Barber III, DAL - Barber had more touches once again than his teammate, Julius Jones. Barber had 19 touches (compared to Jones' 16) in Week 9 against the Eagles, rushing 16 times for 56 yards and a touchdown. Barber added three receptions for a combined 50 yards as Tony Romo rolled out a few times and connected with Barber to make whatever he could from the play. Barber continues to look like the stronger runner but Dallas seems content to use both backs and split the workload.

RB Chris Brown, TEN - While out with his ankle injury, Brown was on the verge of losing his backup roll to rookie Chris Henry. However, Henry will be suspended for four games by the NFL, so Brown should return as the Titans' RB2.

RB Reggie Bush, NO - Bush had another 100+ total yard effort and this time he added a rushing and a receiving TD to his stats. The Saints offense is clicking on all cylinders and Reggie Bush is a big part of that success. Continue to start Bush every week, because he can break a long gain at any time. With the offense performing so well, his chances for success on any given play increases ten fold. New Orleans' next three games are STL, @HOU, @CAR.

RB Ron Dayne, HOU - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Upgrade Ron Dayne due to Ahman Green and his continued problems with his injured knee. Although Green was healthy enough to start this week, he had to leave the game, because his knee acted up on him once again. That is not good news for Ahman Green, but the main benefactor here is Ron Dayne. Dayne rushed for 122 yards on 21 carries with 1 TD in Green's absence. The Texans and Ahman Green have a chance to rest with their bye week coming up next week, but a recurring knee injury that won't go away is not a good sign. Consider starting Dayne is Green is unable to go, but temper your expectations, because Houston won't be playing against Oakland every week. Houston's next three games are BYE, NO, @CLE.

RB T.J. Duckett, DET - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - T.J. Duckett played well in mop up duty proving he is a viable option if Kevin Jones gets nicked up. The former Spartan had five carries for 48 and a score. Jones is the primary back for the Lions, but Duckett is to be considered in deep leagues. Now, that the Lion backs are healthy, Tatum Bell is not even active on game days.

RB Warrick Dunn, ATL - Dunn became the first Falcons RB to rush for 100 yards this season when he reached the century mark on the nose going for 100 yards on 27 carries. The meager 3.7 YPC isn't great and the effort came against the 49ers who have lost six straight games after starting 2-0. The main reason for the upgrade is because Jerious Norwood injured his ankle, which means the RB job is Dunn's if Norwood isn't healthy enough to play next week. Dunn has historically had good games against the Panthers (next week's opponent), so consider starting Dunn, especially if Norwood is unable to play. Atlanta's next three games are @CAR, TB, IND.

RB Justin Fargas, OAK - Fargas was the featured back for the Raiders on Sunday, rushing 23 times for 104 yards and a touchdown. He averaging 5.4 yards per carry on the season, and head coach Lane Kiffin has named him the starting RB until further notice. The Raiders' offensive line has done a good job of run-blocking this season (they are fourth in the league, averaging 140 rushing yards per game), so Fargas could develop into an every-week fantasy starter down the stretch.

RB Earnest Graham, TB - The roller coaster season continues for Earnest Graham. This was a good week as he rushed for 124 yards on 34 carries in a winning effort against Arizona. He is inconsistent, but you have to like the fact that Head Coach Jon Gruden relied on him for 34 carries. Graham and the Bucs have a bye week next week, but after that it's @ATL, WAS and @NO. Graham might be a good start at Atlanta, but we'll see where things go from there. Don't forget, Michael Pittman is recovering from an ankle injury and he may be good enough to take some carries away in the near future. All of this keeps us from being too bullish on Graham's future.

RB Ryan Grant, GB - Ryan Grant is upgraded after two good games against two poor rush defenses on the road. The rookie from Notre Dame had 19 carries for 55 yards on the ground and another 37 yards on four receptions. After running for over 100 on Monday night against Denver, this was another good outing for Grant. The former Giant was not in the game at the end with what was thought to be a concussion. This is a situation to monitor going forward. The starting job is Ryan Grant's to lose. He just needs to stay healthy.

RB Priest Holmes, KC - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Larry Johnson was carted off the field yesterday with an ankle injury and will most likely miss next week's game against the Broncos. Since the Chiefs traded Michael Bennett to the Buccaneers a few weeks ago, that leaves Priest Holmes as the primary back if Johnson can't play. Holmes may be an excellent one-week fill-in, as the Broncos are giving up a league-worst 165 rushing yards per game.

RB Brandon Jackson, GB - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Brandon Jackson saw his first action in a long time. The rookie from Nebraska carried the ball five times for 18 yards. He saw more action with Grant on the sidelines. Jackson is a good player to stash from the waiver wire. With the Wynn injury, the Packers are left without much depth at the running back position.

RB Julius Jones, DAL - Jones started the Week 9 game against Philadelphia and scored on the opening drive from two yards out with a third down run up the middle. Jones alternated playing time with Marion Barber as Jones finished with 13-57 rushing along with three catches for 22 yards. Jones gets a slight upgrade due to the touchdown and 16 touches, but Marion Barber continues to get the bulk of the goal line work.

RB Jamal Lewis, CLE - Normally a back that gains only 37 yards on 20 carries does not warrant an upgrade, but when you finish four of those carries in the end zone it changes things. Lewis scored four touchdowns against the Seahawks in Week 9, twice from one yard out and twice from two. Lewis added 67 yards receiving on four catches, but the biggest news is that he is back and ready to get the tough yards, especially near the goal line.

RB Marshawn Lynch, BUF - Marshawn Lynch is playing well and only overshadowed by fellow rookie, Adrian Peterson. The rookie from Cal ran the ball 29 times for 153 yards and a touchdown. Lynch also had a seven-yard catch on his only target. To make the day complete, he threw an eight-yard scoring toss to Robert Royal. Marshawn Lynch is quietly having a very good season. He is definitely a player on the rise in the NFL.

RB Maurice Morris, SEA - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Shaun Alexander left the game briefly yesterday with injuries to his knee and ankle. The injuries appear to be sprains, but Alexander is scheduled to have x-rays to rule out anything more severe. Alexander has been ineffective over the past four weeks anyway, and although he returned to the game and played some in the second half yesterday, it was Morris who got the carries in key situations. Morris finished with 55 yards on 9 carries (6.1 YPC), and could see his playing time increase in the coming weeks regardless of the extent of Alexander's injuries.

RB Adrian Peterson, MIN - Adrian Peterson had another monster game, against a good San Diego Charger defense. He broke the single-game rushing record held by Jamal Lewis in only his eighth game as a professional. Peterson had an incredible 30 carries for 296 yards and three touchdown runs. He added another 19 yards on one catch. The rookie from Oklahoma looked very strong and was the Vikings only source of offense for the most part.

RB Clinton Portis, WAS - Washington's Week 9 opponent was the New York Jets, a team known this season to give up quite a bit on the ground. Clinton Portis took full advantage of the Jets, rushing 36 times for 196 yards and a score as the Redskins beat the Jets in overtime. Portis had 88 yards before halftime and broke the century mark for the first time all year.

RB Kolby Smith, KC - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Rookie Kolby Smith hasn't carried the ball yet this season, but that will likely change next week when the Chiefs face the Broncos, most likely without Larry Johnson. If Johnson is unable to play, Priest Holmes would get the start, but won't be able to carry the whole load himself. Help would come from Kolby Smith, and Smith could do a bit of damage against the league's most generous run defense (the Broncos are giving up a league-worst 165 rushing yards per game).

RB Kenny Watson, CIN - Rudi Johnson was active once again, yet Watson was the better running back on the stat sheet. Watson had just four carries and 11 yards on the ground but added seven catches for 90 yards receiving in Week 9, including a long 43-yard reception. Watson owners who were concerned that Rudi Johnson's return would mean diminished touches should expect no worse than a committee role for Watson going forward.

RB Brian Westbrook, PHI - Westbrook owners should be thrilled with how the Eagles closed Week 9. After struggling for zero yards receiving in the first half against Dallas despite four catches, Donovan McNabb played out the game by dumping off to Westbrook time after time. Westbrook finished with 14 catches, a career high, and 90 yards receiving. This added to his 16 carries for 65 yards and a first quarter touchdown. The Eagles will continue to feed Westbrook despite the opposition's best efforts to keep him contained. It seems that he will get good fantasy numbers regardless of how the Eagles play.

RB LenDale White, TEN - White finished with exactly 100 yards rushing against Carolina this week. He now has three consecutive games of 100 yards rushing or more. White is quickly becoming a trusted fantasy play every week. He was likely drafted as your RB3 or possibly RB4, but he's playing like an RB1. Continue to start White every week. He's a quick footed, powerful RB that is a Big Mac shy of looking like Jerome Bettis out there. Tennessee's next three games are JAC, @DEN, @CIN.

Downgrade

RB Shaun Alexander, SEA - Alexander has now gone four consecutive games without rushing for 50 yards, and six consecutive games without a touchdown. He has averaged just 2.4 yards per carry over the past four games (3.3 on the season). He left yesterday's game briefly in the first quarter with a sprained left knee and ankle. Although he returned before the end of the first half, he played sparingly in the fourth quarter and is schedule to have x-rays.

RB Frank Gore, SF - Gore sprained his ankle two weeks ago against the Giants, and after gaining just 41 yards on it a week ago against the Saints, he was held out of yesterday's game against the Falcons. An ankle sprain can sometimes linger for a chunk of the season, and Gore's appears to be the lingering sort. He was a game-time decision yesterday and should probably return next week, but if he is not at full strength it will be difficult for him to put up good numbers in the 49ers woeful offense.

RB Ahman Green, HOU - Ahman Green continues to have problems with his injured knee. Although Green was healthy enough to start this week, he had to leave the game, because his knee acted up on him once again. Before leaving the game, he managed to gain 53 yards receiving on one play, plus 28 yards rushing on 8 carries, including a rushing TD. Ron Dayne replaced him and rushed for 122 yards with a TD as well. The bye week will help Green rest, but the recurring problems to his knee are not a good sign. Monitor this situation to see how his knee responds to rest and treatment. If he's unable to go for week 11, Ron Dayne is the likely replacement, not Joe Echemandu. Houston's next three games are BYE, NO, @CLE.

RB Chris Henry, TEN - Henry is facing a four game suspension due to a violation of the league's substance abuse policy. While he may be available next week, the suspension will probably have him returning for championship week (week 16) of fantasy playoffs. Also to mention, now he has a strike against him. Another violation, if it comes next year or the year after, will result in a one-year suspension. That's something to think about in the long run, especially if you own Henry in a dynasty league. By the way, Henry totaled -3 yards on 3 carries Sunday against the Panthers. Tennessee's next three games are JAC, @DEN, @CIN.

RB Larry Johnson, KC - The good news is that Larry Johnson had 95 yards and two touchdowns from scrimmage yesterday. The bad news is that Johnson was carted off the field with an ankle injury in the third quarter, and was on crutches after the game. While he hasn't yet been ruled out of next week's game against the Broncos, he will likely miss at least one game.

RB Rudi Johnson, CIN - While Cincinnati was happy to have a Rudi Johnson once again, a weak overall performance (9-11 rushing, 1-6 receiving) does little to stop the questions about who will be the feature tailback for the Bengals going forward. Kenny Watson looked like the better candidate, so either Rudi Johnson is not fully healthy or he is not the same back he once was any longer. Johnson seems to be getting the benefit of the doubt so look for both backs to share carries and touches for the near future.

RB Thomas Jones, NYJ - Thomas Jones cannot get enough carries, or do enough with the carries he gets, to be a viable fantasy starting running back. In the week nine matchup against the Washington Redskins, Jones had only 13 carries for 49 yards, adding a pair of receptions for 16 yards. Fantasy owners must be disappointed with the production of the former Chicago Bear. Jones and the Jets are off next week for their bye.

RB Maurice Jones-Drew, JAX - Jones-Drew may have returned a kickoff for a TD against the Saints, but (in most scoring systems) that doesn't help his fantasy numbers. Jones-Drew had only 5 carries for 28 yards on Sunday, and his chances don't look good next week on the road at Tennessee and their strong run defense. If you have better options at RB next week, you may want to bench Jones-Drew due to his tough match up. @TEN, SD, BUF.

RB LaMont Jordan, OAK - Through the first four games of the season, Lamont Jordan was second in the NFL in rushing yards, trailing only Travis Henry. In the subsequent four games, Jordan has failed to break the 50-yard barrier. He has now been replaced by Justin Fargas as the starter, and may continue to be an afterthought in the second half of the season. Yesterday against the Texans, Jordan rushed just 4 times for 10 yards, and kicked in two receptions for 15 yards. Jordan has gone from one of the best value picks in fantasy football this year, over the early part of the season, to being unstartable now.

RB Kenton Keith, IND - Keith had 4 carries for 6 yards with his longest run being 6 yards in the loss to New England. Ever since the announcement came that he would share carries with Joseph Addai, the exact opposite has been the case. While Keith is an excellent handcuff to Joseph Addai, that appears as if that's all he is - at least for right now. Indy's next three games are @SD, KC, @ATL.

RB Sammy Morris, NE - Morris was placed on the injured reserve list, so he has no value for the remainder of the year.

RB Jerious Norwood, ATL - Jerious Norwood limped off the field with an injured right ankle in the first quarter, then left for good after re-injuring it in the third quarter. That and the fact that Warrick Dunn reached the century mark in rushing yards, doesn't bode well if you're waiting for Norwood to come alive for your fantasy team. He had a chance to make his move on the depth chart and the injury will almost certainly curtail those expectations. Still hold on to Norwood, but he is not making good on his chances and time is slipping away on the season to make an impact great enough to increase his touches.

RB Dominic Rhodes, OAK - For the second week in a row, Rhodes saw action only as a kick-returner, and apparently doesn't figure into the Raiders' plans on offense.

RB Chester Taylor, MIN - Chester Taylor lost his starting job to rookie Adrian Peterson. With Peterson having 30 carries for almost 300 yards, Chester was able to get a few more carries than normal. He had nine carries for 60 yards and a scoring rush. Taylor added 23 receiving yards on a pair of catches. The high production of Chester Taylor should be an isolated incident unless an injury to Peterson.

RB Anthony Thomas, BUF - Thomas didn't get a carry in week nine. He's nothing more than Marshawn Lynch's caddy right now.

Holding steady

RB Ladell Betts, WAS - Betts had been downgraded to the pure handcuff to Portis, and that really has not changed, but we wanted to temper expectations from his Week 9 performance against the Jets. Betts had nine carries for 64 yards but he remains only the understudy to Clinton Portis. Do not rush out to the waiver wire thinking that Betts will break 60 yards each week.

RB Travis Henry, DEN - Henry left yesterday's game with an injury to his right knee, but maintains that he could have gone back in if called upon. With the lopsided score, he was held out, but should return next week. Meanwhile, the hearing on the appeal of his suspension appear to have been further delayed, with The Rocky Mountain News reporting that it isn't expected to be heard after Thanksgiving. Final word on his suspension may not come down until a week or two after the appellate hearing, so Henry could be available for the remainder of the fantasy season.

RB Edgerrin James, ARI - James found no running room on Sunday, as the Cardinals' passing game was unable to open any lanes for the rushing game (and vice versa). James was limited to 15 rushing yards on 9 carries with a long run of just 3 yards. We are not downgrading him, though, because his upcoming schedule gives him a great chance to rebound. His next two games are against the Lions and the Bengals, two of the worst run defenses in the league. James should find more running room in weeks 10 and 11 than he did in week 9.

Wide Receiver

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WR Drew Carter, CAR - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Slight upgrade to Drew Carter here. After the game against the Titans, Carter has 3 TDs for the year and looks to be a favorite target for both David Carr and rookie Matt Moore. Carter finished with 56 yards on 3 catches, including an 18-yard TD catch. Don't expect Carter to have big games every week, but his presence in the red zone is worthy of mention. Carolina's next three games are ATL, @GB, NO.

WR Chris Chambers, SD - Not much went right for the Chargers on offense yesterday, but Chambers was a lone bright spot. While he finished with only 5 catches for 59 yards, he established himself as the team's WR1, leading the team in targets for the second week in a row, and converting several passes into drive-sustaining first downs. Chambers had a 40 yard reception in the fourth quarter called back because of an illegal motion penalty called on Vincent Jackson. And in the first half he was open deep for what would have been a long gain, but the ball was thrown over his wrong shoulder and he did not adjust early enough. Going forward, it appears that Chambers will be a key part of the Chargers' passing offense, and he should have better fantasy numbers in games where Rivers has better accuracy.

WR Marques Colston, NO - Drew Brees has the Saints offense back in the saddle and Marques Colston is the prime receiving threat. Colston has 18 receptions in his last two games, including 10 this past week against the Jaguars for 159 yards. Colston, like Brees is back on the map. Play Colston with confidence from here on out. The Saints realize their strength is passing down field and that benefits Colston tremendously. New Orleans' next three games are STL, @HOU, @CAR.

WR Jerricho Cotchery, NYJ - Jerricho Cotchery is upgraded again with the concussion and knee injury to Laveranues Coles, causing the former Florida State star to miss the game. The young Jet receiver had five receptions for 90 yards and added eleven more on the ground. With Clemens under center, the upside for the former North Carolina State star is on the rise. The Jets have a bye next week, giving Clemens and Cotchery more time to work together. If Coles is not on the field, Cotchery is the only playmaker on the Jet offense.

WR Bobby Engram, SEA - Despite the return of D.J. Hackett to the lineup, Engram was the go-to receiver for the Seahawks all day on Sunday. He was targeted an amazing 21 times, and finished with 14 receptions for 139 yards and a touchdown.

WR Lee Evans, BUF - Lee Evans has notoriously finished seasons better than he started them. This season is no different. With Losman back under center, the former Wisconsin star had nine receptions, on eleven targets, for 165 yards and a touchdown. That is the production that prompted fantasy owners to draft the young playmaker.

WR Joey Galloway, TB - Galloway has scored a TD in three of his last four games. He has five receptions for 84 yards and a TD this week against Arizona. Galloway started off a bit quiet this season, but is on target to finish in the WR top 15. It's safe to start Galloway every week as your WR2 or WR3. Tampa Bay's next three games are BYE, @ATL, WAS.

WR D.J. Hackett, SEA - Hackett returned to the field for the first time since spraining his ankle in week one, and he played well. He was targeted 9 times, and finished with 6 catches for 58 yards and a touchdown.

WR Chris Henry, CIN - Chris Henry has served an eight game suspension and Week 9 marked the end (including the bye week) of his inability to play on Sundays. Given that Chad Johnson was injured against Buffalo and Henry may see extensive work right out of the gate starting in Week 10. If you play in a league where no one has thought of him yet, snag him as quickly as possible.

WR Ike Hilliard, TB - Hilliard is quietly on pace for 82 receptions. The game against Arizona where he had 7 receptions for 70 yards marks the fourth time this year in which Hilliard has had at least seven receptions in a game. Hilliard has been a nice waiver wire addition this season and the production doesn't look like it's ending any time soon. Tampa Bay's next three games are BYE, @ATL, WAS.

WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh, CIN - Houshmandzadeh now has scored a touchdown in eight consecutive weeks, making both Bengals fans and his fantasy owners quite happy. This is a recording, but who cares, right? Houshmandzadeh had minimal catches and yardage (4-45) but is the #1 option for Carson Palmer and that will remain the case. If anything, his targets should go up due to Chad Johnson's injury in Week 9. He remains a must start every week.

WR Greg Jennings, GB - Greg Jennings has three touchdowns in the last two games. The second-year pro grabbed three passes for 85 yards and two touchdowns, including one from 60 yards out. Jennings is one of the Packer receivers who can get deep with ease. He looks healthy and his speed has not suffered. Expect some huge games going forward for the young receiver. This coming week, Jennings gets a great matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

WR Andre Johnson, HOU - The Texans have flirted with getting Johnson on the field for the last two weeks, but he remained inactive. With the bye-week coming up, Johnson is almost a lock to see game action in week 11.

WR Joe Jurevicius, CLE - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Derek Anderson threw for 364 yards and seems to have three favorite targets - Braylon Edwards, Kellen Winslow Jr. and Jurevicius. As long as Anderson continues on his hot pace he will need to keep using his main targets, especially once the opposition tries to take away Edwards and Winslow. Jurevicius had four catches for 69 yards in Week 9 against Seattle in a slugfest, but Pittsburgh will likely force Anderson to look for his third option more in Week 10.

WR Randy Moss, NE - Randy Moss had another great game. Against a top defense in the Colts, Moss had nine receptions for 145 and a score. The Indianapolis defense is one of the best in the league. Randy Moss is having a season no one thought was possible after last year's debacle. With Tom Brady's record-breaking season, the former Viking and Raider is on his way to some records of his own.

WR Terrell Owens, DAL - Owens returned once again to Philadelphia and it was clear that he wanted to shine in the limelight of prime time football. He did not disappoint as Tony Romo targeted him often, allowing Owens to catch 10 passes for 174 yards and a long touchdown of 45 yards when the Eagles failed to cover him from the slot. Owens looks to be in gear and ready to face The Giants in the Meadowlands in Week 10.

WR David Patten, NO - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Patten looks to be the Saints #2 WR behind Marques Colston. He had 4 receptions for 81 yards including a TD. As long as the Saints are successful passing the ball, Patten is a good play as a WR4 or flex player in your lineup. Keep in mind, Patten is on a team with several receiving options. While the numbers are good we don't expect him to have great numbers every week. In the same breath though, he is averaging 83 yards per game over his last four games. The TD this past week against Jacksonville was his first TD of the season. Ride him while he's hot. New Orleans' next three games are STL, @HOU, @CAR.

WR Josh Reed, BUF - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Josh Reed had another solid game this week. He had six receptions, on eight targets, for 55 yards. This gives Reed ten receptions in the last two games. Third receiver, Roscoe Parrish, only had one pass target, thus solidifying Reed's role.

WR Sidney Rice, MIN - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Sidney Rice was more active with the absence of Troy Williamson. He was targeted more after Bollinger entered the game in relief of Tarvaris Jackson. The former Jet hit the rookie from South Carolina for a 40-yard scoring pass. Rice just turned 21 years old and will mature as the season progresses. He finished the game with four receptions for 66 and the score. Rice is a much better option if Bollinger or Holcomb is under center.

WR Koren Robinson, GB - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Koren Robinson is finally back on the field after his suspension. He saw a lot of action in formations where we normally would see James Jones. Brett Favre has a good relationship with Robinson and this could be a trend. The former Seahawk and Viking caught three passes for 18 yards, but Robinson is a player to keep an eye on.

WR Brad Smith, NYJ - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Brad Smith saw his role increase with the absence of Laveranues Coles. The normal WR3 for the Jets saw more action in week nine. The former Missouri star had four receptions for 27 yards. As long as Coles is sidelined, the Jets will rely on the former quarterback to make plays.

WR Reggie Williams, JAX - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - The Jaguars WRs haven't exactly been world beaters this season, but the strong passing performance by Quinn Gray this week against the Saints bucks that trend. Gray passed for 354 yards in a losing effort and his main receiver was Reggie Williams who had 6 receptions for 128 yards and a TD. The majority of that came on an 80-yard TD pass. Without that play, Williams has only 5 receptions for 48 yards. This is just a moderate upgrade here. Williams has only one other game this season with more than two receptions, so enjoy this performance (but don't expect it to repeat anytime soon). The Jags were playing from behind nearly all game, which enabled Gray to take what the Saints were giving him. Jacksonville's next three games are @TEN, SD, BUF.

Downgrade

WR Nate Burleson, SEA - Burleson got the start on Sunday when Deion Branch missed his third game with a foot injury, but Branch is expected to return to the field this week against the 49ers. If Branch is able to return, Burleson will be the Seahawks' fourth WR, as Bobby Engram will remain in the slot.

WR Laveranues Coles, NYJ - Laveranues Coles missed the week nine game against the Redskins with a concussion, his second major one in the last year. Coles was also battling a nagging knee injury. The quarterback change, from Pennington to Clemens, might limit the upside of Coles. Pennington loved his veteran receiver, looking to him often. The former Redskin gets the week off for the bye, possibly helping him get healthy for the week eleven game. The Jets missed Coles' playmaking ability.

WR Patrick Crayton, DAL - If you were wondering what happened to Patrick Crayton in the game against the Eagles, you are not alone. Crayton had only one target in the game (and it was intercepted) as Tony Romo was content to feed the ball over and over to Terrell Owens, Jason Witten and both of his running backs (Marion Barber III and Julius Jones). Crayton is still the starter, but he was not a part of the game plan and Dallas was perfectly content to not force it to him. Until he puts up a decent game, or at least one where he gets several targets, keep him on your fantasy bench.

WR Anthony Gonzalez, IND - Gonzalez dropped a 3rd down red zone pass in the end zone against the Patriots, which resulted in an Adam Vinatieri FG. The play took four points off the board that surely could have come in handy in the loss to the Patriots. Gonzalez finished with 1 reception for 13 yards. His window of opportunity to excel while Marvin Harrison rests his injured knee is drawing to a close. We don't recommend starting Gonzalez, despite being on a strong offensive team. Harrison may return for next week's game at San Diego, but even if he doesn't, Gonzalez isn't exactly a major facet of the Colts offensive plans. Indianapolis' next three games are @SD, KC, @ATL.

WR Marvin Harrison, IND - Marvin Harrison was held out of the game against the Patriots as he continues to allow his injured knee to heal. The move to not play him surely has to do with his longevity and readiness for the playoffs. Outside of Harrison's brief appearance against Jacksonville on Monday Night in week 7, he hasn't played since week 4 against Denver. Will he be recovered enough to play at San Diego next Sunday night? We wouldn't be surprised to see that be a game time decision and since that's a Sunday night game, you're likely not going to have a definitive answer until late Sunday afternoon. That itself has to be frustrating for Harrison owners. Indianapolis' next three games are @SD, KC, @ATL.

WR Vincent Jackson, SD - Jackson had one catch for 16 yards yesterday, and it is clear that he is now the WR2 in the Chargers' offense, making him the fourth option in the passing game overall (behind Gates, Chambers, and Tomlinson).

WR Chad Johnson, CIN - There are two reasons for the downgrade here based on Week 9. First, Johnson had several bad drops and struggled to even collect three catches and 48 yards. He was open often but balls ricocheted off his chest, prompting teammate T.J. Houshmandzadeh to point out that he needs to get his hands away from his body. The unfortunate second reason is that Johnson was carted off of the field after getting crushed on a route over the middle that had Johnson collapsed and immobile for several minutes. He was transported to a local hospital but late word is that he was well enough to travel with the team Sunday night. Regardless of his playing condition, Houshmandzadeh is Carson Palmer's first target and also most reliable. Add in that Chris Henry's likely return in Week 10, and Johnson could see fewer targets going forward even if he is 100% healthy.

WR James Jones, GB - James Jones lost time to Koren Robinson in the week nine matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. He only had three receptions for 32 yards. Veteran quarterback Brett Favre has a good relationship with Robinson, and could rely on him further down the stretch. Jones is capable of making big plays, but will be more difficult to start as Robinson's role increases.

WR Santana Moss, WAS - Moss remains a disappointment this season as he had only four catches for 49 yards in Week 9 against the New York Jets. Moss was open deep in the overtime but Jason Campbell did not throw a good deep ball in his direction. Washington is not throwing the ball as a team very well and they seem content to run the ball down the opposition's throats if at all possible, so Moss remains a very suspect play.

WR Dennis Northcutt, JAX - We weren't that high on Northcutt entering this game and we're still not, despite his 15-yard TD reception against the Saints. In the last three games he has 4 catches for 35 yards. Northcutt did average around 4 receptions per game with David Garrard at QB, but the Jaguars passing game is inconsistent at best. Jacksonville's next three games are @TEN, SD, BUF.

WR Steve Smith, CAR - Steve Smith had 10 targets, but he only managed 3 receptions for 15 yards. As long as David Carr is under center for Carolina, and you have remotely better options at WR, don't waste your lineup space hoping Steve Smith will produce. Carr does not have the tools or the make up to consistently make the throws that allows Smith to excel like we're used to seeing. Carr is poor in the pocket, he's inaccurate on the run, he lacks poise, he lacks a quick release, he lacks the vision to read what the defense is giving him both during the play and in preparation for future plays, he takes too many sacks and he is a poor leader. He's a Steve Smith killer, pure and simple. Downgrade Smith unless Carr is firmly planted on the bench. Carolina's next three games are ATL, @GB, NO.

WR Kevin Walter, HOU - Walter had only 3 receptions for 33 yards against the Raiders this past week, but the main reason for the downgrade is the bye week next week and then Andre Johnson's expected return in week 11. It was a nice ride if you were able to cash in on Kevin Walter's production in Johnson's absence, but we're not expecting big things from Walter after Johnson returns. He may be a serviceable WR4 or flex player, but the majority of the looks will go to Andre Johnson. Houston's next three games are BYE, NO, @CLE.

WR Roy Williams, DET - Roy Williams has caught only three receptions in three of his last four games. The former Texas Longhorn had three receptions for 44 yards. He has not scored or topped 80 yards since week three. Quarterback Jon Kitna has been playing better, spreading the ball around. The Lions miss the big play ability of Williams. This is definitely a situation to keep an eye on going forward.

Holding steady

WR Dwayne Bowe, KC - Bowe's stat line yesterday was ugly: zero catches for zero yards (one target). He injured his hamstring in the first quarter, and played only sparingly after that. The fact that he was able to return to the game, however, means that the injury is probably not severe enough to sideline him in future weeks. We expect Bowe to maintain his status as the Chiefs' top wide receiver going forward. He and Gonzalez are the primary weapons in the Chiefs' passing offense, and Bowe should have some nice fantasy outings down the stretch.

WR Donald Driver, GB - Donald Driver finally had a good game for his fantasy owners. The 32-year old had five receptions for 99 yards. He still has not scored a touchdown since week three. The good news is the Packers play Minnesota next week, which is a great matchup. As long as Favre is attempting almost forty passes each week, Driver will have some good games. He needs to string a few together to be the fantasy pass catcher his owners want.

WR Shaun McDonald, DET - Shaun McDonald saw more snaps in week nine than rookie Calvin Johnson, who was coming back from a back injury. The former Ram had five receptions for 78 yards and a score. He added six more yards on the ground. With the improvement of Kitna and the Lion passing game, it will be difficult to predict which receiver will have the good game on a weekly basis.

WR Roddy White, ATL - White only had 3 receptions for 55 yards. He continues to be the Falcons go-to WR and you should continue to start him if that's been the case. White's numbers should improve with the return of Byron Leftwich, but that probably won't happen until week 11. Atlanta's next three games are @CAR, TB, IND.

WR Troy Williamson, MIN - Troy Williamson missed the week nine game against the San Diego Chargers because he was dealing with the death of his grandmother and seeing his oldest brother in a coma. This situation should not be a factor going forward.

Tight End

Upgrade

TE Chris Baker, NYJ - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Chris Baker had a good game with Clemens under center and Laveranues Coles out with a concussion. Baker had four receptions for 42 yards as the Jets sought to replace the production of the veteran receiver. The Jets have a bye next week.

TE Vernon Davis, SF - Davis has become the 49ers' most potent offensive weapon. He's been targeted 25 times over the past three weeks and has led the team in receptions in each of the last two games. The 49ers have struggled in the passing game, but Davis has been the lone bright spot and should continue to get plenty of looks.

TE Tony Gonzalez, KC - Gonzalez was targeted 14 times yesterday (thanks in part to the injury to Bowe), and came through with 10 catches for 109 yards and a touchdown. The sure-handed tight end showed his athleticism on his touchdown reception, a leaping grab made in traffic. After a slow start to the season, Gonzalez has gone for over 100 yards in three out of the last four games, and also has three touchdown receptions over that period.

TE Donald Lee, GB - Donald Lee seems to get four receptions every week. With Bubba Franks out, Lee had four catches for 78 yards. He was open and showcased his athletic ability often. Lee could be a productive sleeper fantasy tight end as the Packers make a push for home field advantage in the playoffs.

TE Marcedes Lewis, JAX - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - A small upgrade here. Lewis had 4 receptions for 46 yards in a pass-happy game against the Saints. We don't expect this kind of production from Jacksonville every week, but in the event that QB Quinn Gray is the next Derek Anderson, Lewis might have some value. We don't think that will be the case, but we feel obligated to inform you of any such possibility. Jacksonville's next three games are @TEN, SD, BUF.

TE Robert Royal, BUF - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Robert Royal caught a pair of passes for 35 yards, on four targets. Marshawn Lynch threw one of the passes, an eight-yard touchdown. Royal is not a great option every week, but can be a decent spot starter.

TE Bo Scaife, TEN - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Scaife led all Titans with 6 receptions for 35 yards. Yes that was the team leader in the game against Carolina. His six receptions puts him on the radar, but with the Titans weak passing game with Vince Young under center, we don't see him as a big offensive threat. Tennessee's next three games are JAC, @DEN, @CIN.

TE Tony Scheffler, DEN - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Scheffler has now been targeted more often than starter Daniel Graham in each of the last four games. He has settled into his role as the Broncos' receiving tight end (with Graham being used more as a blocker), and has the hands and athleticism to put up decent numbers over the second half of the season. He was second on the team yesterday with 6 catches for 46 yards.

TE L.J. Smith, PHI - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - L.J. Smith returned to active duty for the Eagles in Week 9, catching two passes for 34 combined yards against the Dallas Cowboys. Smith made a very nice catch on a ball that took him just out of the end zone on what could have been a 20 yard touchdown, which shows that the Eagles and Donovan McNabb love to use the TE as a big part of the offense. Smith is a nice pickup if you can get him on your roster.

TE Ben Watson, NE - Ben Watson is back from injury. He gets a bye week next week to further his recovery from the ankle injury. In the game against the Colts, the young tight end only had a pair of receptions for ten yards, but he looked to move without limits. Watson is a good tight end to have down the stretch. He will see some good matchups as the Patriots attempt to win all sixteen games.

TE Kellen Winslow Jr, CLE - Winslow had a career day in Week 9 against Seattle, collecting 11 catches for 125 yards. Winslow just barely missed a touchdown when he reached out for the pylon after a reception but was ruled out of bounds just inside the one yard line. He remains a primary target for Derek Anderson, one of the hottest quarterbacks in the NFL.

TE Jason Witten, DAL - Witten continues to be a favorite target for Tony Romo, and Witten showed his grit in Week 9 when he caught a ball over the middle and rumbled 53 yards into the red zone despite getting hit hard and having his helmet ripped off during the play. Witten finished with three catches for 77 yards including a nice touchdown catch of 20 yards. Witten looks to be a mainstay in the Cowboy passing game and should be a Top 5 TE the rest of the season.

Downgrade

TE Kyle Brady, NE - Kyle Brady loses all of the value he once had with Ben Watson back. Brady did not catch a pass in the week nine matchup against the Colts. The veteran tight end was able to get a few more scoring chances with Watson out of the lineup. The Patriots have next week off for bye, giving Watson even more time to get healthy. He is safe to drop.

TE Eric Johnson, NO - Eric Johnson had only 4 receptions for 27 yards against the Jaguars, but this was a game in which Drew Brees passed for 445 yards. For Johnson not to be a big part of that is not good news if you're relying on Eric Johnson to produce for your fantasy team. The Saints other TE, Billy Miller added 75 yards and may develop more of a presence in the Saints passing game. That does not bode well for Johnson. New Orleans' next three games are STL, @HOU, @CAR.

TE Jeff King, CAR - King had 10 receptions last week with David Carr at QB, but this week, King had only 14 yards on two receptions. Don't count on Jeff King as a consistent producer every week. He's not worth starting unless you're in dire need at the TE position. Next week against Atlanta might mean better numbers for King, but rely on it. Carolina's next three games are ATL, @GB, NO.

Holding steady

TE Dallas Clark, IND - Clark, who was supposed to be a big factor in the game against New England, only managed two receptions for 15 yards. Despite the poor outing and 2nd bad game in a row, Clark continues to be a top 5 TE going forward. Don't bench him, due to two bad games. Clark will come back and produce for the Colts and your fantasy team. He can't be great every week. Indianapolis' next three games are @SD, KC, @ATL.

TE Alge Crumpler, ATL - Crumpler was inactive this week against San Francisco as he continues to recover from knee and ankle injuries. It is unclear when he'll be ready to return. Atlanta's next three games are @CAR, TB, IND.

TE Owen Daniels, HOU - Daniels suffered a sprained ankle last week, but he still managed to gain 41 yards on 4 receptions against Oakland. The Texans have a bye next week, so that should help his ankle heal. Daniels continues to be a consistent player for the Texans, but he has yet to find the end zone. Daniels is on pace for 70 receptions and is a viable fantasy starter every week, despite the drought in TDs. Houston's next three games are BYE, NO, @CLE.

TE Antonio Gates, SD - Gates had just one catch for 10 yards yesterday, but was mostly a victim of circumstance. The Vikings put a lot of pressure on Rivers up the middle, and also double-teamed Gates for much of the day. As a result, the WRs on the outside were open, but Rivers could not make the Vikings pay, missing on his big-play attempts to the outside. While there may be a temptation to think that the Vikings have shown the rest of the league a blue-print for how to stop Gates, the Chargers' execution in all phases of its offense was uncharacteristically bad. With more ordinary blocking from the OL and accuracy from the QB, Gates should continue to be dominant from the TE position in future weeks.

Kicker

Upgrade

PK Rob Bironas, TEN - Bironas continues to put up points as the Titans continue to move the ball well, but then struggle in the red zone. Bironas is a must start every week. This week he added two more FGs, including a 53-yarder. He now has an NFL high 20 FGs on the season with 8 games to go. Tennessee's next three games are JAC, @DEN, @CIN.

PK Mason Crosby, GB - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Mason Crosby has at least two field goal opportunities the last few weeks. But, he is only hitting on 80% of his field goal opportunities for the season. In the week nine game, Crosby hit four of his five field goal kicks and all three extra points. With the way the Packer offense is playing, Crosby will get good chances to score.

PK Jason Hanson, DET - Jason Hanson is getting good scoring opportunities now that Kevin Jones is back healthy. Against the Broncos in week nine, Hanson hit all three field goal chances, with a long of 53 yards. In addition, the veteran kicker his all five of his extra point chances. In the game, Jason Hanson went over 1,600 total points for his career. With the improved play of the Detroit Lion defense, and the running game, Hanson will be a good fantasy kicker for fantasy owners down the playoff stretch.

PK Rian Lindell, BUF - Don't look now, but the Bills' offense is producing a few points. Lindell has ten FGs and five PATs in his last three games.

PK Olindo Mare, NO - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - As long as the Saints are putting points on the board, Mare will benefit. One or two FGs per game along with 3-4 extra points can be 7-10 points a game from the Saints kicker position. As a result, upgrade Mare. New Orleans' next three games are STL, @HOU, @CAR.

PK Shaun Suisham, WAS - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Shaun Suisham had a perfect day against the Jets in Week 9, hitting on five field goal attempts. Suisham connected from 46, 40, 22, 40 and 46 yards, with the last of four 40+ yarders coming in overtime for the victory.

Downgrade

PK Kris Brown, HOU - Brown and the Texans started the season as hot as can be, but he has really cooled lately. Over his last three games, Brown has kicked only two FGs and nine PATs. While the return of Andre Johnson should help, Brown is not a kicker you can rely on right now.

PK John Carney, JAX - Carney simply hasn't scored much lately. Over his last three games, he has only 13 points (two FGs and seven PATs). That won't help many fantasy teams.

PK Jason Elam, DEN - The game-winning FGs are keeping Elam on Sportscenter, but he really isn't scoring much lately. In his last three games, he has booted only three FGs and six PATs.

Holding steady

Team Defense

Upgrade

TD Dallas Cowboys, DAL - The Cowboys held Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook in check in Week 9, yielding just 17 points (including a meaningless TD late in the fourth quarter). The Cowboys pressured McNabb all night and forced one fumble, two interceptions and sacked him three times. Dallas faces a tougher challenge at the Meadowlands next week in the Giants but their pass defense looks solid.

TD Detroit Lions, DET - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - The Lions defense is upgraded again after shutting down the Denver Broncos for much of the game. They are playing very well. The Lion defense totaled four fumble recoveries, one interception, five sacks, and a pair of defensive scores. In addition, the Lion rush defense held the Broncos to less than fifty yards on the ground.

TD Green Bay Packers, GB - The Packer defense has played well for the last few weeks. In week nine against the Chiefs, the Packers picked off Damon Huard twice, one ran in for a touchdown by Woodson. They sacked Huard five times and held the Chiefs to just 61 yards on the ground. Larry Johnson found little room to run before leaving the game with a foot or ankle injury.

TD Carolina Panthers, CAR - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - Carolina had two sacks, two interceptions and a fumble recovery in the loss to the Titans this past week. Carolina may be a sneaky defense/ST play next week at home vs. the Falcons. Carolina's next three games are ATL, @GB, NO.

TD New Orleans Saints, NO - *** POTENTIAL WAIVER WIRE GEM *** - The Saints had two sacks and three INTs against the Jaguars, including a TD on an interception return. Over the last few weeks, this unit has really come alive, both in sacks as well as turnovers. If you're looking for a fantasy defense, they may be available on the waiver wire. New Orleans' next three games are STL, @HOU, @CAR.

TD Tennessee Titans, TEN - Granted, the opposing QBs were poor, but the Titans defense turned in another excellent effort in week nine. They held Carolina to 191 total yards and a single TD. Plus, the intercepted two passes and accumulated seven sacks. Tennessee is playing great defense right now.

TD Minnesota Vikings, MIN - The Vikings had been a little shaky lately, but they halted a Chargers offense that had been playing well in recent weeks. Of course it helps when you have a Adrian Peterson completely demoralizing the opponent, but Minnesota contained LaDainian Tomlinson very well on Sunday.

Downgrade

TD Denver Broncos, DEN - Things are simply "not right" in Denver this season. The offense lacks consistency, and the defense allows Detroit to burst through the 40-point barrier. You simply can't start this unit with confidence rightnow.

TD San Diego Chargers, SD - How can you not downgrade a defense that gives up the all-time single-game rushing record? The Chargers were exposed in a huge way by Adrian Peterson.

TD Philadelphia Eagles, PHI - After holding teams to 16 or fewer points for four consecutive weeks, the Cowboys came to Lincoln Field and put up 38 points without much challenge. Tony Romo broke 300 yards, and Terrell Owens had over 170 yards receiving as the Cowboys racked up five touchdowns. The Eagles face a weaker Redskin offense in Week 10.

TD Jacksonville Jaguars, JAX - The Jaguars allowed 538 total yards of offense and 41 points on the road at New Orleans. They had only one sack in the game and forced just one fumble. Their defense has been up and down all season. The fact that Drew Brees and the Saints offense could do anything they wanted against this unit does not bode well. We recommend sitting the Jaguars until they prove otherwise if you have better options. Jacksonville's next three games are @TEN, SD, BUF.

Holding steady