Eric Karabell

  (11:01 AM)

Hello all and welcome to another fantasy sports chat session. Lots going on with fantasy football in the playoffs, and lots of deals in baseball. Let's get going...

Tom (Long Island, NY)

I've been offered Deion Branch for Calvin Johnson. Should I accept it?

Eric Karabell

  (11:02 AM)

Interesting. I would, assuming it's not a keeper league. Sure, Calvin Johnson will play more now that Roy Williams is done, but look at Detroit's schedule. Plus, they're elevating Mike Furrey. Branch is one of Seattle's top guys and safer.

James, Ca

Eric, with Bulger now supposed to play, does that help or Hurt SJax numbers?

Eric Karabell

  (11:03 AM)

I don't think it means much. I didn't see much of a difference in Bulger and Frerotte, but there would be a difference with Brock Berlin. However, it would affect the wide receivers more than Jackson. He's fine, and worth playing every week.

Shea, Cincinnati

Eagles fan - trust you on this most -Is McNabb going to play and be effective? If not in going to have to go Clemens or Cutler.

Eric Karabell

  (11:05 AM)

I ranked McNabb No. 18 for this week, so does that answer the question? I ranked Cutler 13. I don't think McNabb is healthy, and the Giants will send the house after him and either force him from the game or into a bad statistical one. I'd use Cutler.

Eric(Dallas ,TX)

EK, will you be droping Hanley a few spots now that he no longer has Cabrera as protection in the order? Is Willis even draftable in mixed with his move to the AL?

Eric Karabell

  (11:07 AM)

Well, I would think the Marlins would move Hanley down in the batting order. They have other players who could lead off. I really like Hanley, as evidenced by me ranking him No. 2 overall, and while I could be convinced that was a bit high, I don't think this trade hurts him. In fact, it might help him if he hits third and knocks in more runs. He might run less, but he is a SS. As for Willis, I bet he really bounces back well. Yes, he is draftable and I would think he wins 15 games. I like this move for him.

Vol ( San Antonio, TX)

You mentioned in a recent article not to change your strategy for the playoffs. Well I have some iffy calls with guys coming off injury. Should I take a chance? 3 RB spots for Parker, Jacobs, Lynch, Fargas, and Grant.

Eric Karabell

  (11:09 AM)

Absolutely. Still play your best options. You have nice depth here. By my rankings, I had Grant, Parker and Fargas as the top picks, all in the top-11 overall. Jacobs is probably not 100 percent, and could share carries with Droughns, though I did rank him No. 16. Lynch is the biggest question mark.

James, OC

Eric, Is Travis Henry a must start now that the suspension is gone?

Eric Karabell

  (11:10 AM)

I don't think this really changes anything. Henry has not been playing well, so he wasn't a must start in the first place. One might imply with this weight lifted from his shoulders he'll thrive, but I'd argue he should have thrived knowing he might have been playing his last game before. I ranked him No. 27, so I'm not the biggest fan. More of a flex for me.

John (Boston)

I currently locked up the #1 pick next year for Fantasy Football. Who do you see currently as the #1 overall???

Eric Karabell

  (11:11 AM)

I think LaDainian Tomlinson is No. 1, and Adrian Peterson is No. 2. Either way, it's nice having that top pick.

Sam (Chicago)

Love your early Sunday morning show! Is Lynch a better start against Miami this week or do I continue to ride the Kolby Smith train (against Denver) into the Fantasy Playoffs?

Eric Karabell

  (11:12 AM)

I think Kolby Smith is a better play. He's not hurt, and he faces a really weak run defense in Denver. Lynch should play, but how many carries? How effective? I see scenarios in which I would play Lynch, but Smith seems safer.

Sarah: (St. Louis, MO)

What is to be made of Selvin Young's status with the Broncos now that Travis Henry has won his appeal?

Eric Karabell

  (11:13 AM)

He's a backup now, and based on the number of carries he got in Week 13, one who needs opportunity. Keep him around though. Henry seems to constantly be hurt.

Matt,MPLS

Would it be crazy to start McGahee, Grant or Graham over FWP this week? I need the TD's and Parker isn't getting them.

Eric Karabell

  (11:15 AM)

I don't think it's crazy at all. McGahee, Grant and Graham were all ranked higher by me this week anyway. I had them 8, 6 and 7 respectively, and Parker 11. I think Parker's bigger problem are the fumbles, and that's why Najeh Davenport will play and take some carries.

Jared (CA)

With Furrey now the no. 3 receiver, what sort of production do you expect from him? Will he return to 2006 numbers?

Eric Karabell

  (11:16 AM)

I don't think he's a No. 3 receiver, I think the Lions will start him and he'll get 6 or 7 catches per game right away. Yeah, I see the 2006 numbers coming.

Tom, Pittsburgh, PA

Eric, Portis continually gets decent ratings but has only put up 2 good weeks, am I wrong for putting Grant in and sending Clinton to the bench for the rest of the season?

Eric Karabell

  (11:17 AM)

Not at all. I rank Grant better every week, and pretty much every week he does better.

Bob Detroit

Eric, I'm a big fantasy baseball player and Tiger fan so Xmas came early. Do you think the Tiger's hitters values stay relatively the same as last year with Cabrera or do you see improvements anywhere? Thanks! Baseball rocks!

Eric Karabell

  (11:18 AM)

I think this team will be scoring 1,000 runs, which means pretty much every lineup spot will be strong. We don't know where Cabrera will hit. Could be third, fourth or fifth, really, but leaving Florida will be good for his home run numbers. He'll hit for average. This deal helps him and all the Tigers. Well, not Brandon Inge. I might move Cabrera up a few spots in my top-10 because of this.

Travis, SLC

Will Furrey be better than Steve Smith or Deion Branch?

Eric Karabell

  (11:20 AM)

I don't think Furrey will be better than either one, because I don't expect touchdowns. But in PPR leagues, Furrey should help more there. Still, Smith and Branch are better choices.

Jeff (Atlanta):

Hey Eric. Thanks for taking some questions today. What's the status on Boldin and Fitzgerald for Sunday? Is Bryant Johnson a good pick up to fill in at wide receiver for Cotchery?

Eric Karabell

  (11:23 AM)

My guess is that Boldin is out, but Fitz will play, but either way, I think Johnson is a smart pickup and start. I ranked Johnson No. 33.

Robbie (Memphis, TN)

Is there any chance Andrian Peterson will slow down in the final weeks of the season?

Eric Karabell

  (11:25 AM)

Which one? Look, I think both Petersons are really good plays this week, and beyond. There is always a chance one or both could get hurt, but I'd think these guys are safe.

Kevin (Philly)

Not really a very interesting topic, but in an NL-only league it can be important. Riske was just signed by the brewers, does he or turnbow close?

Eric Karabell

  (11:26 AM)

Well, I think it is interesting. The Brewers are assuming Riske can close by the money they are giving him, but I don't assume this at all. For fantasy purposes, for now Riske is the guy over Turnbow, but I would look for sleepers on that team. I will be.

Jack (Richmond Hill, NY)

Is Justin Gage a viable fantasy player this week? Better than J.Walk or L.Evans? Thanks Eric.

Eric Karabell

  (11:28 AM)

I ranked Evans No. 29 and Gage 30, so it's a flip of a coin for me. I would not trust Javon Walker yet, that's for sure.

Ron (NY)

If Santana ends up in Boston, does this upgrade Papelbon as the top closer to target next year?

Eric Karabell

  (11:30 AM)

No, I seldom change rankings on closers just because the starting pitching has adjusted, so Papelbon will remain wherever I ranked him, which I believe was No. 2 after Putz. Johan is great, of course, but it doesn't mean Joe Nathan will see fewer save opps, or Papelbon will see more.

Sam (CA)

What do the Angels do now that they missed out on M.Cabrera? They still have huge holes to fill at SS, 3B?

Eric Karabell

  (11:32 AM)

Well, I would imagine they aren't done dealing, but Brandon Wood could figure into one of those spots. Figgins could play 3B again without issue. The OF was improved. I'd bet they're still going to make a deal though. I think they have players like Aybar and Wood to man those spots, but they need a legit power bat.

Steve, Worcester MA

Eric, Do you think I should start Frank Gore against a tough MN Defense this week, or try my luck with J.Norwood?

Eric Karabell

  (11:33 AM)

I would still play the guy who is guaranteed the carries, even if we all think he will have problems against them. The 49ers are not going to do what the Lions did and run a total of 6 times. Norwood could get 6 carries all game for all we know.

Jason (NY)

What's your opinion of Sidney Rice as a flex option?

Eric Karabell

  (11:34 AM)

I think the case can be made. I gave Rice probably his best ranking for me all season, at No. 37, and that means flex option in the right scenario.

Gabriel (JAX, NC)

What's up Eric, I've sort of had it with Parker and I'm thinking of starting Kolby Smith this week. Smart move?

Eric Karabell

  (11:37 AM)

I know a lot of Willie Parker owners aren't pleased, but the guy does have 1,000 rushing yards already, so all is not lost. And the Pats did allow McGahee to run wild against them. I ranked Parker a bit better, but I could see Smith being used.

mike (Fair Lawn NJ)

what is the story with portis ankle. will he play this week?

Eric Karabell

  (11:39 AM)

Wish I knew. From what I've heard, which isn't much at all, Portis is set to play. The Redskins have some bigger problems, of course. I could see adding Betts in fantasy,but I don't think I'd play him against the Bears.

Matt (DC)

Eric, what if Mrs. Karabell's maiden name was Cara Bell? Then she would be Cara Bell Karabell on a FF note, who would you rather start between edge and AP (chi) and Bryant Johnson and Calvin Johnson?

Eric Karabell

  (11:40 AM)

Believe it or not, we have discussed this. The Bell part, not the fantasy stuff. Anyway, Edge over that other AP, and the Lion over the Cardinal. But both are close.

Dan (Chicago)

Any news on Farve? Will me play this week?

Eric Karabell

  (11:41 AM)

He's playing. I see no scenario in which he sits.

Tim, NY

Teams in my league are complaining that they didn't make the playoffs. They were 3-10, but were 4th in points. And a team was 7-6, made the playoffs, but 8th in points. They want to change it so the last playoff team would be decided on points, not record. I'm against, I think it is just the breaks and luck of fantasy football. What do you think?

Eric Karabell

  (11:42 AM)

Yeah. that is ridiculous. If they want a league decided on points, change the rules to make it a roto league. It's amazing. I have a roto points league, and the team winning by 300 points is like 8-5 if we had used standings. Really brings the point home.

Sam (CA)

Eric, 1st round of playoffs begin this week. Do I sound crazy thinking of starting E.Graham over Addia,(vs Balt)?

Eric Karabell

  (11:44 AM)

I have Addai 5 and Graham 7, so it's not crazy. But make sure you're making the move because you really believe it, and not simply because it's the playoffs and you feel pressure. It's still just a game and you're still just making a decision.

Mike (Detroit)

Excited for baseball and the Tigers, but have the fantasy football playoffs to deal with first - need two RBs from Edge, Alexander, Chatman, and Jacobs - what do you think?

Eric Karabell

  (11:45 AM)

I have Edge and Jacobs ranked the best as of now, because I think Jacobs will play. Chatman now scares me. Not sure I want to rely on his health, nor his production. Alexander should get a shot to score, at least.

David (KC)

Eric, with all the injuries to consider who do like between Big Ben and Warner this week?

Eric Karabell

  (11:46 AM)

Both made my top-10, but I had Ben a bit higher. I think the last few weeks have proven that the Pats can be scored on.

Mark (Brooklyn)

ETA on Maybin in majors? Will miller be starting next year?

Eric Karabell

  (11:48 AM)

I don't see either as a lock to make the Marlins this season, Miller still has to overcome his wildness, but he will. Maybin needs to just mature more and stay healthy. This really will be a good trade for Florida in time, which is hard to believe today. But for 2008, don't overrate these guys in fantasy.

Steve (Ann Arbor)

Favre or Garrard? Gbay should be killing Oakland and i'm afraid they'll just have Grant run the ball down their throats. Am I over thinking this? And which two WRs out of Driver, Furrey, and Curtis?

Eric Karabell

  (11:49 AM)

I think you're overthinking it. Favre is just better for fantasy, and Green Bay still lets him throw a lot, even with Grant there. As for WR, I've got Curtis at No. 31 and Furrey 32, so flip a coin. Stick with Curtis. He's safe. Driver's in.

Andy (CT)

Who's a better play this week and beyond, Anthony Gonzalez or Muhsin Muhammed?

Eric Karabell

  (11:52 AM)

I think it's Gonzalez over Muhammad, especially since I doubt Marvin Harrison is out longer. Trust Peyton over Grossman!

Tom(NC)

I am in a league which requires you to have ALL your starters in by the start of the thursday games. This is outrageous!!! Please put this on your chat and tell everyone how terrible this is in the hopes that I can banish it next year. Thanks Eric. You're the greatest.

Eric Karabell

  (11:53 AM)

Yeah, that kinda stinks. Change the rule!

JD Buffalo, NY

Great work...who do I start this week....Curtis, C Henry -Cin, or both and sit Fred Taylor?

Eric Karabell

  (11:54 AM)

Tough to sit Fred Taylor the way he's been running. But I think Henry is a nice play. I guess Curtis sits.

Mike (RSM)

How bad of a play are the Steelers this week? Better off picking up Tampa or Denver?

Eric Karabell

  (11:55 AM)

I think we have to assume the Patriots will be getting 30 points, but as for turnovers, who knows. I did rank Tampa in the top-10, so they are a good pick.

Abe (Detroit)

I just picked up McNabb off waivers I have been riding Kitna all year is it time to make the switch?

Eric Karabell

  (11:57 AM)

I don't think it's a great time to use either of these QBs, but if I had to choose this week, I would go with Kitna.

Sean (Boston MA)

Where should I go for lunch, Burger King, McDoanls or Wendy's?

Eric Karabell

  (11:58 AM)

Love that Italian Chicken sandwich at the King...

Lee

Hey Eric, I know the other two major sports get all the attention, but i need your opinion on Lebron...do you think he will ultimately need surgery?

Eric Karabell

  (11:59 AM)

I sure hope not. Fantasy owners are getting hard by injuries in hoops. I just lost Kevin Martin for 4-6 weeks, after losing Arenas. Tough to overcome in a really deep league. I bet LeBron plays this week.

Eric Karabell

  (11:59 AM)

OK, gotta go eat lunch. Thanks for the questions and have a great day. Good luck in Week 14...and beyond. Adios...