Archive for November 21st, 2009

At this point in the year it’s all about loading up for the stretch drive and the playoffs…Let’s look at 5 hot commodities this week at the RB position to see who has value.  And please don’t go out and pick up Larry Johnson… he’s 2nd string at best.

1. Justin Forsett - I’m no doctor but Julius Jones injuries seem like season enders.  That should set up well for Mr. Forsett to get 15-20 carries per game and maybe 2-3 catches.  Looking at the schedule, it’s hit or miss really; @MIN, @STL, SF, @HOU, TB, @GB, TEN.  I like weeks 12, 14 and 15 to be strong plays for Justin.  I think he’s very worthy of a 3rd RB spot on your roster and spot starter in those weeks.

2. Bernard Scott - Like Mr. Forsett, Mr. Scott is stepping into a role due to an injury.  I think Cedric Benson’s hip flexor seems like a one week problem.  Plus, I’m sure he sees blood in the water with the next 2 games at home against CLE and DET.  If you have Benson on your roster and can take on an insurance policy, I would take Scott for the next 3 weeks worth of good matchups.  I suspect Benson will be back next week after some rest.

3.  Jason Snelling - Who?  I kind of thought the same thing.  With Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood nursing injuries, it appears Snelling is the man this week.  The Giants are without Pierce and Matt Ryan is going through a sophomore slump so expect ATL to run even more and make Snelling a good spot start.  I think Norwood and Turner will be back soon with the season on the line for the Falcons.  There are also good matchups in their future.  If you have the room on your roster, I’d take Snelling as a flyer but don’t expect it to last.

4. Ladell Betts - Another guy that is taking advantage of an injury.  I always thought Betts was under utilized by Washington.  He’s a strong runner and good receiver.  He doesn’t have real strong matchups in the next few weeks but the Redskins will probably stay with the run as Jason Campbell is playing his way out of Washington.  I think Betts is a good RB2 right now and I would pick him up if available.  

5. Chris Wells - A lot of people are high on this kid as he shows flashes of brilliance.  I’m not one of those people but I can’t argue with the 4.6 yards per carry versus Hightower’s 3.6 average.   It’s obvious too me in games where you think the Cardinals will have a lead, Beanie is your man.  In games, where the Cardinals will throw a lot, Hightower is needed for his pass blocking ability.  Arizona has a few good matchups left so pickup Beanie if you are daring enough to try to pick his spots of brilliance.  Otherwise, I think you should stay away like me.

Week 11 and I’m betting most of you are still in your survivor leagues with all of those bad teams out there to prey on.  So, this week you have the usual suspects like NE, MIN and NO to take if you can.  If you are in need of something a little deeper, I would definitely take DAL over WAS or JAC or BUF.  If you are up against it you have PIT on the road at KC and my stretch pick of the week…. DET over CLE (it’s all about the timing of the match-ups).