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After grinding out 162 regular season games and nine playoff games, the New York Yankees finally punched their ticket to the World Series Sunday night with a 5-2 victory over the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. It will be the Yankees first trip to the big dance since 2003 when they lost to the Florida Marlins in six games. Although they have struggled sealing the deal this decade, the Yankees history is quite illustrious. This marks the 40th time they have won the American League pennant and a win over the Philadelphia Phillies in the World Series would be their 27th time winning it all.

Of course, the Phillies will more than put up a fight to defend their World Series crown. The match up features some of the best pitchers in the game (Cliff Lee, Cole Hamels, CC Sabathia, Mariano Rivera, etc.) as well as some of the leagues’ premier hitters in Ryan Howard and Alex Rodriguez. Game one is scheduled Wednesday in New York at a time to be determined.

Other baseball news: The Yankees victory over the Angels and subsequent berth in to the World Series was not the only piece of interesting baseball news over the weekend. After much debate in St. Louis over whether or not manager Tony La Russa would return to the club next year, it was announced that he and management agreed to a one year deal for 2010 that includes a mutual option for 2011. However, the real buzz surrounding the agreement was word that the Cardinals will be replacing hitting coach Hal McRae with a former slugger most recently known for his refusal to speak about the past during a Congressional hearing on steroids. That slugger is none other than Mark McGwire, who was coached by La Russa during his time with the Cardinals and Oakland Athletics.

College football: For those of you (like me) who do not like the BCS and desperately want to see a playoff system implemented, the storm clouds have started to brew with the most recent set of BCS rankings. The top four teams in the current standings — Florida, Alabama, Texas and Iowa — are all undefeated and barring an upset, three of those teams will likely end the season that way. A one-loss USC team comes in at number five and is followed by another set of undefeated teams in TCU, Boise State and Cincinnati. Even if only half of these top-eight teams win out we are looking at plenty of BCS drama and will hopefully move one step closer to a playoff system.

NFL: After seven weeks of play there are still three undefeated teams (Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos, and New Orleans Saints) attempting to join the 1972 Miami Dolphins in the NFL history books. The Dolphins ran the table that year and remain the only team to have ever completed a perfect season. The field was nearly trimmed down to two teams this week as the Saints struggled against, ironically, the Dolphins. The Saints found themselves down 34-24 at the end of the third quarter but scored 22 unanswered points in the fourth to secure the victory.

What do you think was the biggest story of the weekend? What are you looking forward to the most this week? Let us know in the comments section below.

As we approach the halfway point of the fantasy football season, the importance of winning each week seems to be magnified tenfold. This is especially true for teams that would not be in the playoffs if they were to start today. For those on the outside looking in it is easy to fall into a panic, but regardless of your current record and roster predicaments there is still time to turn it around.

Even if the future looks bleak because Matt Forte, Tony Romo, and the once mighty Steve Smith (Carolina version) have all disappointed your team thus far, there is still value on the waiver wire that can help you get a win this week. None of these guys are going to carry your team to victory like Tom Brady and his six touchdowns did last week, but they are good bye week replacements that could potentially become serviceable starters.

QB Matt Cassel (Owned in 78.5 percent of ESPN leagues): He laid a big goose egg in week one against the Baltimore Ravens but has been surprisingly dependable since. Cassel has scored double digit fantasy points in four of his last five games and finally seems to be clicking with wide receiver Dwayne Bowe. He also has the fortune of playing at home against the San Diego Chargers, which allowed 18 fantasy points to the less than prolific Kyle Orton and 21 points to Ben Roethlisberger and the suddenly pass-happy Pittsburgh Steelers.

RB Mike Bell (Owned in 49.7 percent of ESPN leagues): Conventional wisdom says to sit Bell because he is going against one of the best run defenses in the NFL in the Miami Dolphins. To that I respond — there are six teams on their bye week and sometimes you have to take risks. Look, while Bell has split time with Pierre Thomas he also has become the go-to guy on the goal line. Goal line carries lead to rushing touchdowns and the Dolphins allowed two of those last week against the New York Jets.

WR Hakeem Nicks (Owned in 25.1 percent of ESPN leagues): Of the big three wide receivers on the New York Giants, do you know which is the only one to post double digit fantasy points the last three weeks? You may be surprised to learn that it is Nicks, who has quietly been flying under the radar due to the emergence of the new Steve Smith and the endless hype of Mario Manningham. Look for Nicks to extend his streak to four games as the G-Men face the Arizona Cardinals, who have given up the 7th most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers this season.

Any defense that is not the Tennessee Titans: If you would have told me before the season that the Titans would be the worst ranked fantasy defense in the NFL, I simply wouldn’t have believed you. Yet, six weeks and three negative scoring games later that is exactly where we stand. Somehow the Titans are still owned in a mind boggling 50.4 percent of leagues, but with this being their bye week it is the perfect time for all you hanger-oners to let go of the past. A few interesting defenses to consider that are widely available — the New England Patriots (11th ranked defense), Cincinnati Bengals (13th ranked defense), and Indianapolis Colts (16th ranked defense).

For more fantasy advice right up to kickoff, follow me on Twitter @davidcarrillo.

Image Source: Arrowhead Pride

GOLD

Jermichael Finley, GB, TE, vs. Detroit
Forecast: 5 catches, 63 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
Finley should be in line for a big game this week. Detroit has given up 6 TD’s to Tight Ends this year and should have trouble covering all of Green Bay’s weapons. If the Lions focus on the WRs then Finley should have a huge day over the middle.

Nate Burleson, SEA, WR, vs. Arizona
Forecast: 7 catches, 77 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
One of the most underrated WRs in the league is set to have another big game at home. He has 22 catches, 281 yards and 3 TDs in 3 games. Look for this to continue against a Cardinals team giving up plenty yards in the air.

Matt Hasselbeck, SEA, QB, vs. Arizona
Forecast: 301 passing yards, 3 TD, 1 Int, 10 rushing yards (23 points)
Like I said Arizona can be beat in the air and Seattle has plenty of weapons to do it with. Look for Matt to spread the wealth again for another big week.

Pierre Thomas, NO, RB, vs. NY Giants
Forecast: 16 carries, 96 yards, 2 catches, 24 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Thomas has been great since his return from his knee injury. With teams keying on Brees and the passing game, Thomas has dominated on the ground averaging 106 yards and a TD. Even better is he can also catch the ball. Keep riding the wave.

Todd Heap, BAL, TE, @ Minnesota
Forecast: 5 catches, 45 yards, 1 TD (13 points)
Minnesota has allowed the most fantasy points to TEs this so Heap should be the next TE to go off against them. Don’t be surprised if he scores this week.

LaDainian Tomlinson, SD, RB, vs. Denver
Forecast: 20 carries, 72 yards, 3 catches, 15 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Tomlinson has scored in 6 straight MNF games. And even though the Denver D is improved I see him keeping that streak alive especially after coming off a bye week.

Jake Delhomme, CAR, QB, @ Tampa Bay
Forecast: 265 passing yards, 3 TD, 1 Int (20 points)
Jake should have his best game of the year this week going against the bad Tampa Bay defense. This is one week that he is actually ok to start so take advantage if you need a QB this week

Vincent Jackson, SD, WR, vs. Denver
Forecast: 6 catches, 105 yards, 1 TD (17 points)
Jackson has been good all season and I see that continuing especially with the Chargers coming off a bye. Start him with confidence.

COLD

Julius Jones, SEA, RB, vs. Arizona
Forecast: 13 carries, 38 yards, 2 catches, 10 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
The way to beat Arizona is in the air, they actually have a pretty good run defense. So this week I don’t see Jones having a good game especially when he is splitting with Edge.

Eddie Royal, DEN, WR, @ San Diego
Forecast: 3 catches, 34 yards, 0 TD (4 points)
Royal finally broke out this year, the thing is how long will it continue. I don’t see it happening again this week against a mad SD defense

Michael Bush, OAK, RB, vs. Philadelphia
Forecast: 16 carries, 35 yards, 1 catch, 6 yards, 0 TD (4 points)
There is no reason to start any Raiders this game against a great Eagles defense.

Jamal Lewis, CLE, RB, @ Pittsburgh
Forecast: 15 carries, 44 yards, 0 TD (4 points)
Last weeks surprise big game won’t happen again this week when the Steelers are ready for it.

Steve Smith, NYG, WR, @ New Orleans
Forecast: 4 catches, 45 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Saints surprisingly pretty good in pass coverage and Eli could be hurt. Downgrade expectations.

Last weeks results:
GOLD
Jerome Harrison, CLE, RB, @ Buffalo                                                        LOSS
Forecast: 22 carries, 84 yards, 5 catches, 24 yards, 1 TD (20 points)
Actual: 8 carries, 21 yards, 0 catches, 0 TD (2 points)

Glen Coffee, SF, RB, VS. Atlanta                                                                    WIN
Forecast: 25 carries, 77 yards, 4 catches, 26 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Actual: 12 carries, 45 yards, 4 catches, 21 yards, 1 TD (15.5 points)

David Garrard, JAX, QB, @ Seattle                                                            LOSS
Forecast: 265 passing yards, 2 TD, 1 Int, 20 rushing yards (18 points
Actual: 188 passing yards,0 TD, 1 rushing yard (7.5 points)

Tashard Choice, DAL, RB, @Kansas City                                                 WIN
Forecast: 17 carries, 77 yards, 5 catches, 44 yards, 1 TD (22 points)
Actual: 8 carries, 95 yards, 1 TD (15.5 points)

Nate Washington, TEN, WR, VS. Indianapolis                                 LOSS
Forecast: 6 catches, 89 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Actual: 3 catches, 37 yards, 0 TD (4.5 points)\

John Carlson, SEA, TE, VS. Jacksonville                                           LOSS
Forecast: 6 catches, 50 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
Actual: 2 catches, 31 yards, 0 TD (2.5 points)

Knowshon Moreno, DEN, RB, VS. New England                               WIN
Forecast: 18 carries, 83 yards, 4 catches, 20 yards (13 points)
Actual: 21 carries, 88 yards, 4 catches, 36 yards,1 lost Fum (12.5 points)

Braylon Edwards, NYJ, WR, @ Miami                                                WIN
Forecast: 4 catches, 60 yards, 1 TD (13 points)
Actual: 5 catches, 64 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
                                                                                                      ___________

                                                                                   Week:        4-4(50%)

COLD
Tony Gonzalez, ATL, TE, @ San Francisco                                 WIN
Forecast: 4 catches, 34 yards, 0 TD ( 6 points)
Actual: 6 catches, 55 yards, TD (8 points)
Steve Smith, NYG, WR, VS. Oakland                                               WIN
Forecast: 3 catches, 34 yards, 0 TD (4 points)
Actual: 3 catches, 70 yards, 0 TD (6.5 points)
Joseph Addai, IND, RB, @ Tennessee                                               LOSS
Forecast: 12 carries, 37 yards, 4 catches, 21 yards, 0 TD (8 points)
Actual: 14 carries, 27 yards, 10 catches, 53 yards, 1 TD (20 points)
Thomas Jones, NYJ, RB, @ Miami                                                  LOSS
Forecast: 16 carries, 45 yards, 1 catch, 4 yards, 0 TD (5 points)
Actual: 13 carries, 42 yards, 2 TD (16 points)
Michael Turner, ATL, RB, @ San Francisco                                 LOSS
Forecast: 25 carries, 59 yards, 1 catch, 6 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Actual: 22 carries, 97 yards, 3 TD (27 points)
_____________

                                                                                           WEEK: 2-3(40%)

look to previous weeks for scoring benchmarks

Image source: AP

GOLD

Jerome Harrison, CLE, RB, @ Buffalo
Forecast: 22 carries, 84 yards, 5 catches, 24 yards, 1 TD (20 points)
Injuries in the Browns backfield have left Harrison as the last man standing and this has been good for the both of them. Thrown into the starting lineup against a tough Bengals D he preformed well going for over 100 yards rushing. Harrisons best asset is that he is a good receiver witch will help when the Browns are down.

Glen Coffee, SF, RB, VS. Atlanta
Forecast: 25 carries, 77 yards, 4 catches, 26 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Gore will be out again leaving the 49er running game to the very capable Coffee. The Falcons have not been that strong stopping the run so I can see Coffee having another solid day. Even better I see him getting in the End Zone this week

David Garrard, JAX, QB, @ Seattle
Forecast: 265 passing yards, 2 TD, 1 Int, 20 rushing yards (18 points
Garrard has been very solid at QB and this week he is going against a weak defense. He can beat teams on the ground and in the air and he has been pretty good at not turning the ball over. He should have another solid game right here.

Tashard Choice, DAL, RB, @Kansas City
Forecast: 17 carries, 77 yards, 5 catches, 44 yards, 1 TD (22 points)
If Barber is limited or not playing then these numbers could be even bigger. Choice has been solid when given the opportunity to play and going against a weak defense, he will be the prime Choice in the Dallas backfield.

Nate Washington, TEN, WR, VS. Indianapolis
Forecast: 6 catches, 89 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Washington has scored in three straight weeks and has become the Titians #1 receiver. I see them having to throw the ball a lot in this one to keep up with the Colts offense.

John Carlson, SEA, TE, VS. Jacksonville
Forecast: 6 catches, 50 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
The return of Matt Hasselbeck should help Carlson greatly. I see him getting back to being one of the better TE options in fantasy football. Going against Jacksonville should be just what the doctor ordered.

Knowshon Moreno, DEN, RB, VS. New England
Forecast: 18 carries, 83 yards, 4 catches, 20 yards (13 points)
Knowshon has scored in two straight games and is fast becoming the main option in the Denver backfield. He doesn’t have a great match-up this week but I still see him having a good game.

Braylon Edwards, NYJ, WR, @ Miami
Forecast: 4 catches, 60 yards, 1 TD (13 points)
I know this is a big reach but I could see the Jets throwing to Edwards right away. The Dolphins have been bad against the deep ball and that is just Braylon’s specialty. Look for them to go deep at least a couple times in this game.

COLD
Tony Gonzalez, ATL, TE, @ San Francisco
Forecast: 4 catches, 34 yards, 0 TD ( 6 points)
The 49ers have been very good against opposing TE’s this season. They have very athletic LB’s that can cover. Look for him to have lower numbers this week.

Steve Smith, NYG, WR, VS. Oakland
Forecast: 3 catches, 34 yards, 0 TD (4 points)
With Eli doubtful for the game and going against one of the best corners in the league it will be hard for Smith to keep up his excellent play this week.

Joseph Addai, IND, RB, @ Tennessee
Forecast: 12 carries, 37 yards, 4 catches, 21 yards, 0 TD (8 points)
Addai had a good week last week but I don’t see it happening again this week. He is in almost a 50-50 split with Donald Brown making big weeks more and more rare. Now he has to go up against the Titians tough running defense.

Thomas Jones, NYJ, RB, @ Miami
Forecast: 16 carries, 45 yards, 1 catch, 4 yards, 0 TD (5 points)
Another player in a time share going against a tough running defense, I don’t see a big game from Jones this week. Without that TD run last week he really didn’t do anything.

Michael Turner, ATL, RB, @ San Francisco
Forecast: 25 carries, 59 yards, 1 catch, 6 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Follow the trend? Three straight weeks owners should lower their expectations going against the tough 49er defense. This week is even worse because Turner is no threat in the passing game.

Week 4 Results
GOLD
Glen Coffee, SF, RB, VS. St. Louis                                                                           WIN
Forecast: 25 carries, 99 rushing yards, 3 catches, 15 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Actual: 24 carries, 74 rushing yards, 4 catches, 32 yards, 0 TD (12.9 points)
Pierre Garcon, IND, WR, VS. Seattle                                                                    LOSS
Forecast: 5 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD
Actual: 3 catches, 71 yards, 0 TD (6.5 points)
Terrell Owens, BUF, WR, @ Miami                                                                       LOSS
Forecast: 7 catches, 113 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Actual: 3 catches, 60 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Carson Palmer, CIN, QB, @ Cleveland                                                                   WIN
Forecast: 276 passing yards, 2 TD, 0 Int (19 points)
Actual: 230 passing yards, 2 TD,1 Int, 20 rushing yards (17.2 points)
Cedric Benson, CIN, RB, @ Cleveland                                                                LOSS
Forecast: 23 carries, 103 rushing yards, 2 catches, 10 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Actual: 18 carries, 74 rushing yards, 1 catch, 12 yards, 0 TD (9 points)
Vernon Davis, SF, TE, VS. St. Louis                                                                   WIN
Forecast: 6 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD ( 15 points)
Actual: 3 catches, 43 yards, 1 TD (11 points)
Devin Hester, CHI, WR, VS. Detroit                                                                    INJ
Forecast: 6 catches, 96 yards, 1 TD
Actual: 1 catch, 2 yards, (INJURED)
Eli Manning, NYG, QB, @ Kansas City                                                               WIN
Forecast: 301 passing yards, 2 TD, 0 Int, 10 rushing yards (21 points)
Actual: 292 passing yards, 3 TD, 1 Int, 1 lost Fum (19. 6 points)
______________________
Week 4: 4-3-1injured (57%)
Season: 16-15 (55%)
COLD
Knowshon Moreno, DEN, RB, VS. Dallas                                                               LOSS
Forecast: 18 carries, 44 rushing yards, 2 catches, 7 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Actual: 14 carries, 65 yards, 2 catches, 11 yards, 1 TD, 1 lost FUM (12 points)
Steven Jackson, STL, RB, @ San Francisco                                                               WIN
Forecast: 20 carries, 47 yards, 4 catches, 20 yards, 0 TD (9 points)
Actual: 23 carries, 79 yards, 3 catches, 6 yards, 0 TD (11 points)
Marques Colston, NO, WR, VS. New York Jets                                                    WIN
Forecast: 3 catches, 44 yards, 0 TD (5 points)
Actual: 2 catches, 33 yards, 0 TD (3.5 points)
Brett Favre, MIN, QB, VS. Green Bay                                                                        LOSS
Forecast: 252 passing yards, 1 TD, 2 Int (10 points)
Actual: 271 passing yards, 3 TD, 0 Int (22.8 points)
John Carlson, SEA, TE, @ Indianapolis                                                               WIN
Forecast: 3 catches, 42 yards, 0 TD (5 points)
Actual: 5 catches, 39 yards, 0 TD (6.9 points)
___________________
Week 4: 3-2 (60%)
Season: 12-8 (60%)

source image: Getty

After months and months of rumors of him sitting out the season if he doesn’t get paid the way he feels he should, Crabtree and his camp finally came to there senses and agreed to a contract with the 49ers. This all came out of the blue as no talks between the two parties had taken place in months before Tuesday. The 49ers strategy of “we don’t need you” worked well because of a 3-1 start to the season. This made them less likely to change their offer and Crabtree was forced to realize that he needs the NFL, not the NFL needs him. It should take some time for Crabtree to get acquainted with the offense since he has missed training camp and practices, but when he is able to he should give the 49ers offense a much needed deep threat. The only thing is who knows how fast he will pick up the offense this season, but I think they will be able to start using him some after their bye week next week. That is why it was important to get him signed right now. Crabtree was very productive in college, catching 97 passes for 1,165 yards and 19 touchdowns last year during his sophomore season at Texas Tech. He finished his college career with 231 receptions for 3,127 yards and 41 touchdowns. We will see what he does in the NFL going forward.

Image Source:AP

Tonight Brett Favre makes his first appearance on the opposite sidelines from the team he has spent almost his whole career, the Green Bay Packers. Though it’s not at Green Bay, which will come later this season in week 8 on Nov. 1, it should still be a circus. The Viking fans spent 16 years hating when Green Bay came to town just because of Brett and now he is leading their team. It has to feel weird for both fan bases to see this. For some Green Bay fans it’s just sacrilegious and they now hate Brett Favre, as picture shows below. And though Favre said he did not come back to get revenge on his old team, who believes him when he hasn’t been honest for the past two seasons. With the way Favre is you know there has to be at least a little revenge on his mind. After all Green Bay thought he was finished and wanted to turn the page over to Aaron Rodgers, while Brett still felt he had some left and didn’t like that they made him make a decision so soon. Needless to say it makes for some good drama and TV. The game should be good as well with two teams fighting for control of the division, but you know the media will put that in the backseat to Favre. The game starts a 5:00 p.m. PCT on ESPN. Don’t miss it.

Image Source: AP

GOLD

Glen Coffee, SF, RB, VS. St. Louis
Forecast: 25 carries, 99 rushing yards, 3 catches, 15 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
With Gore out for what could be a long time it’s time for Glen Coffee to shine. He has an excellent match-up this week against the Rams and you know the Niners like to run. They should have a comfortable lead in the second half and just pound the rock with Coffee. I see a big day in his first start.

Pierre Garcon, IND, WR, VS. Seattle
Forecast: 5 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD
With everyone focusing their attention on Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark, Pierre has preformed well scoring a TD in two straight games. Peyton Manning has shown that he trusts Garcon and the way he is throwing the ball around I see his TD streak to continue.

Terrell Owens, BUF, WR, @ Miami
Forecast: 7 catches, 113 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
T.O. was shut out for the first time in 181 games. I don’t see that happening again this week especially against a Miami defense that has been prone to the big play. If T.O. can hold on to the ball I see him having a huge game. You know the Bills are going to at least try to give him the ball this game.

Carson Palmer, CIN, QB, @ Cleveland
Forecast: 276 passing yards, 2 TD, 0 Int (19 points)
Getting a break from the tough defenses(DEN,PIT,GB) that he has faced so far Palmer should have his breakout game this season. The Browns have been horrible all around and this could be just what the doctor ordered for Carson. Start him with confidence.

Cedric Benson, CIN, RB, @ Cleveland
Forecast: 23 carries, 103 rushing yards, 2 catches, 10 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Benson has performed well this season no matter what the match-up. He is getting into the must start zone every week. He should have another big game against the Browns who have been ran all over by everybody. I see it happening again this season.

Vernon Davis, SF, TE, VS. St. Louis
Forecast: 6 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD ( 15 points)
When Gore went down in Min the 49ers had to rely more on the passing game to move the ball. They used their most explosive player Davis well and he had a huge game. Well Gore is out again this week and I could see him having another big game as they might need to pass again.

Devin Hester, CHI, WR, VS. Detroit
Forecast: 6 catches, 96 yards, 1 TD
Detroit’s defense has been horrible against the pass and Hester has been surprisingly solid this year being a WR. I see him going off in a big way this week stretching the field deep.

Eli Manning, NYG, QB, @ Kansas City
Forecast: 301 passing yards, 2 TD, 0 Int, 10 rushing yards (21 points)
The Giants held the ball for most of the game last week so Eli was not needed as much to throw the ball around. This week it could happen again but I see him throwing it around a little more this week. Look for him to have a solid game with no turnovers this week.

COLD
Knowshon Moreno, DEN, RB, VS. Dallas
Forecast: 18 carries, 44 rushing yards, 2 catches, 7 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Dallas has been surprisingly solid against the run this season and Moreno is in a timeshare. I just don’t see him having the same production against a better defense. Lower your expectations this week.

Steven Jackson, STL, RB, @ San Francisco
Forecast: 20 carries, 47 yards, 4 catches, 20 yards, 0 TD (9 points)
Yes you are probably starting him anyway but the 49ers have a solid defense against the run and the Rams will be behind for most of the game. I know he is there only option on offense but I wouldn’t count on him this week.

Marques Colston, NO, WR, VS. New York Jets
Forecast: 3 catches, 44 yards, 0 TD (5 points)
The Saints will throw the ball a ton every week but this week Colston has to deal with one of the NFL’s top cover corner, Darrelle Revis. He has previously shut down Randy Moss and Andre Johnson so I wouldn’t be surprised if he is shadowing Colston all day. I think he will be shutout of the end zone this week.

Brett Favre, MIN, QB, VS. Green Bay
Forecast: 252 passing yards, 1 TD, 2 Int (10 points)
Everybody has been going crazy about Favre just because of one throw, a great throw at that. But his numbers before that were just average and going in this week against a Green Bay team that leads the league in Ints I see a let down this week. Though it’s not going to be because he is not trying hard to beat his former team.

John Carlson, SEA, TE, @ Indianapolis
Forecast: 3 catches, 42 yards, 0 TD (5 points)
The Colts have been pretty solid against TE’s this year and I see them doing it again this week. The Seahawks will be down and forced to pass but I see them throwing it more to the WR this week if S.Wallace is still at QB

SCORING BENCHMARKS
QBs: 12+ fantasy points
RBs: 12+ fantasy points
WRs: 10+ fantasy points
TEs: 8+ fantasy points
*Scoring system:
4 PTs/Pass TD
1 PT/25 pass yards
6 PTs/Rush-Rec TD
1 PT/Reception
1 PT/10 Rush yards
1 PT/20 Rec yards
-2 PT/INT or FL

Week 3 Results:
GOLD
Antonio Gates, SD, TE, VS. Miami                                                                              WIN
Forecast: 8 catches, 113 yards, 2 Tds (25 points)
Actual: 5 catches, 64 yards, 0 TD (8.4 points)
Tim Hightower, ARI, RB, VS. Indianapolis                                                                LOSS
Forecast: 17 carries, 96 rushing yards, 3 catches, 21 yards, 1 TD (19 points)
Actual: 9 carries, 22 rushing yards, 5 catches, 39 yards, 0 TD, 1 lost Fum (7 points)
Matt Forte, CHI, RB, @ Seattle                                                                                          WIN
Forecast: 23 carries, 103 yards, 3 catches, 22 yards, 1 TD (21 points)
Actual: 21 carries, 66 yards, 6 catches, 40 yards, 0 TD (14.6 points)
Brandon Jacobs, NYG, RB, @ Tampa Bay                                                                     WIN
Forecast: 22 carries, 115 rushing yards, 1 catch, 8 yards, 2 Tds (24 points)
Actual: 26 carries, 96 rushing yards, 1 TD (15.6 points)
Brent Celek, PHI, TE, VS. Kansas City                                                                            WIN
Forecast: 6 catches, 76 yards, 1 TD (15 points)
Actual: 8 catches, 104 yards, 1 TD (19 points)
Mario Manningham, NYG, WR, @ Tampa Bay                                                            LOSS
Forecast: 6 catches, 96 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Actual: 4 catches, 55 yards, 0 TD (6.5 points)
Felix Jones, DAL, RB, VS. Carolina                                                                                   LOSS
Forecast: 17 carries, 98 yards, 2 catches, 17 yards, 1 TD (17 points)
Actual: 9 carries, 94 yards, 1 catch, 20 yards (11.4 points)
Byron Leftwich, TB, QB, VS. New York Giants                                                              LOSS
Forecast: 305 passing yards, 3 Tds, 2 Int, 10 rushing yards (21 points)
Actual: Yikkes 22 passing yards, 1 Int (-2 points)
___________
Week: 4 -4 (50%)
Season: 12 -12 (50%)

COLD

Willie Parker, PIT, RB, @ Cincinnati                                                                         LOSS
Forecast:15 carries, 38 rushing yards, 0 Tds (3 points)
Actual: 25 carries, 93 yards, 2 catches, 36 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Adrian Peterson, MIN, RB, VS. San Francisco                                                     WIN
Forecast: 24 carries, 47 rushing yards, 1 catch, 8 yards, 1 TD (11 points)
Actual: 19 carries, 85 yards, 2 catches, 14 yards, 0 TD (11 points)
Darren McFadden, OAK, RB, VS. Denver                                                                 WIN
Forecast: 14 carries, 43 rushing yards, 2 catches, 15 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Actual: 12 carries, 45 yards, 2 catches, 3 yards, 0 TD (6.5 points)
Hines Ward, PIT, WR, @ Cincinnati                                                                         WIN
Forecast: 4 catches, 41 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Actual: 4 catches, 82 yards, 0 TD (8 points)
Brandon Marshall, DEN, WR, @ Oakland                                                               LOSS
Forecast: 3 catches, 37 yards, 0 Tds (4 points)
Actual: 5 catches, 67 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
 _____________
Week: 3 -2 (60%)
Season: 9-6 (60%)

Source Image: AP

GOLD

Antonio Gates, SD, TE, VS. Miami

Forecast: 8 catches, 113 yards, 2 Tds (25 points)
Yes, I know if you own him you are starting him anyway, but I think he is for a huge game against TE friendly Miami. Miami has already been torched by Tony Gonzalez and Dallas Clark and now they have to deal with Gates. Even better for Gates is that LT might not play again meaning Rivers is going to throw the ball a lot. Expect a huge game from Gates.

Tim Hightower, ARI, RB, VS. Indianapolis
Forecast: 17 carries, 96 rushing yards, 3 catches, 21 yards, 1 TD (19 points)
The Colts run defense has been horrible of late, that bodes well for Hightower who has been surprisingly solid so far. Whether it’s been running or receiving he has made an impact. I expect solid number against this weak defense.

Matt Forte, CHI, RB, @ Seattle
Forecast: 23 carries, 103 yards, 3 catches, 22 yards, 1 TD (21 points)
Forte has struggled in the first two games this season and has disappointed some owners. Well this week he should go off. Did you see what Frank Gore did to this defense? Well I expect something similar from the talented Forte.

Brandon Jacobs, NYG, RB, @ Tampa Bay
Forecast: 22 carries, 115 rushing yards, 1 catch, 8 yards, 2 Tds (24 points)
Like Forte, I see a struggling player getting right against a weaker opponent. Jacobs has not been over 20 carries in any of the first to games, well I see that changing this week. With more opportunities he will go off this week.

Brent Celek, PHI, TE, VS. Kansas City
Forecast: 6 catches, 76 yards, 1 TD (15 points)
With McNabb out and Kevin Kolb as QB, I see another big performance from Celek. Kolb looked for him a lot last week and Celek ended with 8 catches and over 100 yards. I see another big game coming against the Chiefs

Mario Manningham, NYG, WR, @ Tampa Bay
Forecast: 6 catches, 96 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Tampa Bay have been giving up huge plays in the passing game so its only right that Mario goes off again this week after coming up huge against Dallas. He has been the Giants big play receiver so far this season and I don’t see it changing against Tampa.

Felix Jones, DAL, RB, VS. Carolina
Forecast: 17 carries, 98 yards, 2 catches, 17 yards, 1 TD (17 points)
With Marion Barber being out for the game, Jones should get more opportunities to run wild this week. He is a threat to go all the way on every touch. He should have a couple big plays in this game so start him with confidence.

Byron Leftwich, TB, QB, VS. New York Giants
Forecast: 305 passing yards, 3 Tds, 2 Int, 10 rushing yards (21 points)
Leftwich has had to throw a ton in the first two weeks and it doesn’t look it’s going to change. The Giants should take a early lead forcing Tampa to pass all day. I could see Leftwich throwing for around 300 yards and a couple TDs. But be careful he could have some turnovers also.

COLD
Willie Parker, PIT, RB, @ Cincinnati
Forecast:15 carries, 38 rushing yards, 0 Tds (3 points)
The Steelers have struggled to run the ball and there has been talk that Parker has lost a step. Against a solid defense I don’t see him improving this week. It might be time to give up on Parker for this season if Rashard Mendenhall has a good game this week.

Adrian Peterson, MIN, RB, VS. San Francisco
Forecast: 24 carries, 47 rushing yards, 1 catch, 8 yards, 1 TD (11 points)
I know your thinking I’m crazy right now but I think the 49ers will keep Peterson in check this week. The last time they played they held him to his worst game ever 3 yards on 14 carries. Now there defense is better and Peterson has not been practicing because of a bad back. I don’t think he will have a huge game this week but your probably starting him anyway.

Darren McFadden, OAK, RB, VS. Denver
Forecast: 14 carries, 43 rushing yards, 2 catches, 15 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Last week I thought Bush would get the goal-line carries but it was McFadden. The Denver defense has been solid so far this season and I think it will be hard for McFadden to duplicate last week against the Chiefs.

Hines Ward, PIT, WR, @ Cincinnati
Forecast: 4 catches, 41 yards, 0 TD (6 points)
Last year in this game he broke the jaw of Keith Rivers on a blind side hit that is now illegal. This week he has talked about doing it again if he gets the opportunity. I think he is going to have a huge target on his back. Besides that he looks like he has lost a step this season.

Brandon Marshall, DEN, WR, @ Oakland
Forecast: 3 catches, 37 yards, 0 Tds (4 points)
Two words “Nnamdi Asomugha.” he should be shadowed on Marshall all day making it tough for him. Even worse he still hasn’t made a strong connection with Kyle Orton. I guess missing practice will do that.

SCORING BENCHMARKS
QBs: 12+ fantasy points
RBs: 12+ fantasy points
WRs: 10+ fantasy points
TEs: 8+ fantasy points
*Scoring system:
4 PTs/Pass TD
1 PT/25 pass yards
6 PTs/Rush-Rec TD
1 PT/Reception
1 PT/10 Rush yards
1 PT/20 Rec yards
-2 PT/INT or FL

GOLD
Michael Bush, OAK, RB, @ Kansas City                                                                LOSS
Forecast: 15 carries, 65 rushing yards, 2 catches, 15 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
Actual: 9 carries, 35 rushing yards, 1 catch, 17 yards, 0 Tds (4.3 points)
Santana Moss, WAS, WR, Vs. St. Louis                                                                  LOSS
Forecast: 7 catches, 95 yards, 1 TD (17 points)
Actual: 3 catches, 35 yards, 1 Fumble Lost, 0 TD (2.75 points)
Ben Roethlisberger, PIT, QB, @ Chicago                                                               WIN
Forecast: 301 passing yards, 2 TDs, 2 TO, 10 rushing yards (17 points)
Actual: 221 passing yards, 1 TD, 1 Int, 6 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD (17.5)
Steve Smith, CAR, WR, @ Atlanta                                                                             WIN
Forecast: 8 catches, 120 yards, 1 TD (20 points)
Actual: 8 catches, 131 yards, 0 TD (14.5 points)
Leon Washington, NYJ, RB, Vs. New England                                                    LOSS
Forecast: 15 carries, 75 rushing yards, 5 catches, 40 yards, 1 TD (20 points)
Actual: 14 carries, 58 rushing yards, 2 catches, 18 yards, 1 Fumble Lost (6.8 points)
Bernard Berrian, MIN, WR, @ Detroit                                                                  LOSS
Forecast: 5 catches, 113 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Actual: 6 catches, 46 yards, 0 TD (8.3 points)
Vernon Davis, SF, TE, Vs. Seattle                                                                            LOSS
Forecast: 6 catches, 55 yards (8 points)
Actual: 2 catches, 32 yards (3.6 points)
Philip Rivers, SD, QB, Vs. Baltimore                                                                        WIN
Forecast: 265 passing yards, 3 passing TDs, 1 Int (20 points)
Actual: 436 passing yards, 2 passing Tds, 2 Int, 10 rushing yards (22.4 points)
                      ___________
Last Week: 3- 5 (37.5%)
Season: 8- 8 (50%)

COLD
Mike Bell, NO, RB, @ Philadelphia                                                                  LOSS
Forecast: 12 carries, 43 rushing yards, 1 catch, 5 yards, 0 TDs (5 points)
Actual: 17 carries, 86 rushing yards, 1 catch, 9 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Roy Williams, DAL, WR, Vs. New York Giants                                              WIN
Forecast: 3 catches, 46 yards, 0 TDs (5 points)
Actual: 1 catch, 18 yards, 0 TD (1.8 points)
DeSean Jackson, PHI, WR, Vs. New Orleans                                                 LOSS
Forecast: 3 catches, 22 yards, 1 carry, 14 yards (5 points)
Actual: 4 catches, 101 yards, 3 carries, 15 yards, 1 TD (16.5 points)
Julius Jones, SEA, RB, @ San Francisco                                                          WIN
Forecast: 20 carries, 49 yards, 2 catches, 10 yards, 0 TDs (6 points)
Actual: 8 carries, 11 yards, 3 catches, -3 yards, 1 TD (9.8 points)
Tin Hightower, ARI, RB, @ Jacksonville                                                        LOSS
Forecast: 12 carries, 44 yards, 3 catches, 15 yards, 0 TDs (7 points)
Actual: 15 carries, 72 yards, 3 catches, 12 yards, 1 TD (16.7 points)
____________
Last Week: 2- 3 (40%)
Season: 6- 4 (60%)

Image Source: Getty Images

GOLD

Michael Bush, OAK, RB, @ Kansas City
Forecast: 15 carries, 65 rushing yards, 2 catches, 15 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
Bush looked good running the ball against the Chargers on Monday night, totaling 60 yards and a touchdown on 13 touches. He is the power to Darren McFadden’s speed in Oakland’s 2-back rotation and this week they play the lowly Chiefs. I see him having at least the same production with good chance for even more.

Santana Moss, WAS, WR, Vs. St. Louis
Forecast: 7 catches, 95 yards, 1 TD (17 points)
The Redskins struggled on offense against the Giants, limiting Moss to only 2 catches for 6 yards. But the Rams are not the Giants and I see the offense getting on track this week. Moss should get a lot more space to operate. I see a big game for him this week.

Ben Roethlisberger, PIT, QB, @ Chicago
Forecast: 301 passing yards, 2 TDs, 2 TO, 10 rushing yards (17 points)
The Steelers are no longer a running team. Not with the O-line that they currently have. So its safe to say that Big Ben is going to be throwing the ball around on Sunday because that’s the only way they can move the ball. The Bears defense is no push over but they can give up some big plays in the passing game. I see Ben going over 300 yards again with a couple TDs. He might have a couple turnovers too so beware.

Steve Smith, CAR, WR, @ Atlanta
Forecast: 8 catches, 120 yards, 1 TD (20 points)
People are panicking on Smith because of the horrible QB play that the Panthers are getting. Well calm down because he’ll show this week why you picked him as an elite WR. It’s not like they weren’t throwing the ball to him (13 targets). I see him going off for a big game against a secondary that is not as good as Philly.

Leon Washington, NYJ, RB, Vs. New England
Forecast: 15 carries, 75 rushing yards, 5 catches, 40 yards, 1 TD (20 points)
The Patriots defense is not as strong as it was in years past so there is no reason to fear them. Fred Jackson had a big game against them on Monday and I see a trend forming when they play the Jets. The Jets have Thomas Jones to soften up the defense then Washington will explode for a big play. I see it working that way on Sunday in a surprise Jets win.

Bernard Berrian, MIN, WR, @ Detroit
Forecast: 5 catches, 113 yards, 1 TD (16 points)
Finally healthy and practicing, I see him and Favre hooking up for some big gains against a horrible Lions defense.

Vernon Davis, SF, TE, Vs. Seattle
Forecast: 6 catches, 55 yards (8 points)
People have been waiting for him to blow up for a couple years now. It seemed like every year he was a sleeper pick. We’ll now with lowered expectations it looks like he is ready to be a solid contributor. I see him getting around 5 catches a game and even better he is probable the 49ers best red zone threat. Keep an eye on this guy.

Philip Rivers, SD, QB, Vs. Baltimore
Forecast: 265 passing yards, 3 passing TDs, 1 Int (20 points)
Yes, the Ravens have a solid defense but I think they lost a lot in losing their coordinator and Bart Scott. Another big factor will be that LT might not play forcing the Chargers to rely more on Rivers. I see a good game. Start him with confidence.

COLD
Mike Bell, NO, RB, @ Philadelphia
Forecast: 12 carries, 43 rushing yards, 1 catch, 5 yards, 0 TDs (5 points)
Every body’s prize pick up of the week is in for a rude awakening. The Eagles are not the Lions and there is going to be little room for him to run. Even worse for him is that starter Pierre Thomas has been practicing this week and will probably play on Sunday. This will dig into Bell’s carries even more. I say Bell’s value is about to take a big hit so deal him if you can.

Roy Williams, DAL, WR, Vs. New York Giants
Forecast: 3 catches, 46 yards, 0 TDs (5 points)
Williams big game against the Buccs was a mirage when you see that 66 yards of his 86 came on one long blown coverage. Other than that he didn’t have that good of a game. Let’s see if he can do it against a real defense, which I don’t think he can.

DeSean Jackson, PHI, WR, Vs. New Orleans
Forecast: 3 catches, 22 yards, 1 carry, 14 yards (5 points)
If McNabb is out, which it looks like he is, Jackson will struggle. Last game he barley did any thing and aside from the long punt return it was a forgettable game. I see another one coming without his QB.

Julius Jones, SEA, RB, @ San Francisco
Forecast: 20 carries, 49 yards, 2 catches, 10 yards, 0 TDs (6 points)
Jones had a huge game last week against the lowly Rams. We’ll the Niners are not the Rams and last week they shutdown the high power Cardinals offense. Their running game could do nothing against the 49ers defense and I see them shutting that down again.

Tin Hightower, ARI, RB, @ Jacksonville
Forecast: 12 carries, 44 yards, 3 catches, 15 yards, 0 TDs (7 points)
Last weeks 12 catch game will not happen again any time soon. That was a product of hurt receivers and good pressure on Warner for the 49ers defense. With the WRs getting health I see them throwing the ball to them a lot more this weekend, hurting Hightower’s production.

SCORING BENCHMARKS
QBs: 12+ fantasy points
RBs: 12+ fantasy points
WRs: 10+ fantasy points
TEs: 8+ fantasy points
*Scoring system:
4 PTs/Pass TD
1 PT/25 pass yards
6 PTs/Rush-Rec TD
1 PT/Reception
1 PT/10 Rush yards
1 PT/20 Rec yards
-2 PT/INT or FL

Last Week’s Results:
Gold
Leon Washington, NYJ, RB                                                                                 WIN
Forecast: 10 carries, 60 yards, 5 catches, 40 yards, 1 TD (19 points)
Actual: 15 carries, 60 yards, 4 catches, 24 yards (12.4 points)
Josh Morgan, SF, WR                                                                                           LOSS
Forecast: 5 catches, 65 yards, 1 TD ( 14 points)
Actual: 3 catches, 38 yards ( 4.9 points)
Robert Meacham, NO, WR                                                                                  WIN
Forecast: 3 catches, 105 yards, 1 TD (14 points)
Actual: 2 catches, 51 yards, 1 TD ( 10.5 points)
Cedric Benson, CIN, RB                                                                                        WIN
Forecast: 26 carries, 110 yards, 1 catch, 7 yards, 1 TD (18 points)
Actual: 21 carries, 76 yards, 4 catches, 32 yards, 1 TD (19.2 points)
Anthony Fasano, MIA, TE                                                                                     LOSS
Forecast: 5 catches, 56 yards, 1 TD (13 points)
Actual: 2 catches, 10 yards (2.5 points)
Julius Jones, SEA, RB                                                                                            WIN
Forecast: 23 carries, 103 yards, 2 catches, 21 yards (13 points)
Actual: 19 carries, 117 yards, 2 catches, 19 yards, 1 TD ( 21.6 points)
Joe Flacco, BAL, QB                                                                                               WIN
Forecast: 205 passing yards, 17 rushing, 2 TD passes, 0 Int (17 points)
Actual: 307 passing yards, 18 rushing, 3 TD passes, 1 Int (24 points)
Shaun Hill, SF,QB                                                                                                    LOSS
Forecast: 230 passing yards, 15 rushing yards, 2 TD passes, 1 Int (16 points)
Actual: 209 passing yards, 1 TD pass, 1 lost fumble ( 10.4 points)
___________
Last Week: 5 - 3 ( 63%)
Season: 5- 3 (63%)
COLD
Jamal Lewis, CLE, RB                                                                                   WIN
Forecast: 23 carries, 43 yards, 1 catch, 4 yards, 0 TDs (5 points)
Actual: 11 carries 57 yards, 3 catches, 37 yards 0 TDs ( 10.5 points)
Dwayne Bowe, KAN, WR                                                                              LOSS
Forecast: 4 catches, 43 yards 0 TDs (6 points)
Actual: 4 catches, 40 yards, 1 TD (12 points)
Terrell Owens, BUF, WR                                                                              WIN
Forecast: 5 catches, 55 yards, 0 TDs (7 points)
Actual: 2 catches, 46 yards, 0 Tds (4.3 points)
Eli Manning, NYG, QB                                                                                   WIN
Forecast: 180 passing yards, 1 TD, 1 Int (9 points)
Actual: 256 passing yards, 1 TD, 1 Int, 1 fumbles lost (10.2 points)
Clinton Portis, WAS, RB                                                                                WIN
Forecast: 20 carries, 57 yards, 2 catches, 12 yards, 0 Tds (7 points)
Actual: 16 carries, 62 yards, 1 catch, 10 yards, 0 Tds (7.7 points)
___________
  Last Week: 4 -1 (80%)
Season: 4 -1 (80%)

Image Source: Getty

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