Eric Karabell

  (11:01 AM)

Hello everyone and welcome to another fantasy chat session... only 2 weeks left of football, and baseball on the horizon, so let's get going...

Ed (New York, NY)

What caliber rb would it take to sit Addai with this week knowing he may not play a full game? My only other legitimate option is Ron Dayne

Eric Karabell

  (11:02 AM)

I gave Addai a high ranking, maybe a bit too high, but I'm assuming he plays enough to accrue good numbers. I wouldn't sit him for Dayne.

Shaun(NYC)

I feel like Pujols is being overrated in early rankings for 08. He will have even less talent around him this year with Rolen and Edmonds likely gone. I would surely take AROD, Hanley, Reyes, Wright, Rollins, Soriano, Utley and Cabrera ahead of him. What are your thoughts? Also, do you think D. Wright continues to build upon his #'s or should we expect about the same?

Eric Karabell

  (11:04 AM)

I don't think Pujols' numbers are affected all that much by others around him. The guy is terrific, and his off seasons are still top notch. I have him in my top-10, but I could see taking all the names you mention ahead of him. I have a draft today, so we'll see where he goes... As for Wright, I'd expect a decline in steals, but the other numbers are legit.

Greg (Fitchburg, MA)

Good morning Eric, who is looking better for my flex. MJD or B. Marshall? Thanks

Eric Karabell

  (11:05 AM)

I'd stick with MJD this week, and assume he bounces back. Nothing wrong with Marshall, but I like the Jags' matchup.

Al (FLA)

Should I consider replacing Reggie Wayne or Torry Holt this week b/c their teams would be resting them either for the playoffs or to avoid injury?

Eric Karabell

  (11:06 AM)

I really don't have concerns about Wayne or Holt, to be honest. The Colts are still playing for something. While it's possible Addai doesn't get a full workload, I don't see Wayne sitting. The Colts need to win! As for the Rams, I haven't heard about Holt or SJax sitting at all.

Eric, Minn

Steve Smith or Greg Jennings?

Eric Karabell

  (11:07 AM)

Jennings scores every week, so I don't see how anyone could sit him. He's in my top 6 at WR, while Smith is around 20.

Jordan (NJ)

Hey Eric, in a PPR league, would you go with Kolby Smith or Fred Taylor?

Eric Karabell

  (11:08 AM)

Until this past week, I might have said Kolby, but Taylor is on such a roll, I would play him. He actually made my top-10 this week, and others ranked him in the top-5! Fred Taylor! What's this fantasy world come to!

Josh (New York)

Carson or Garrard for the championship? I traded early for Carson eyeing this game, and he's making me second guess myself.

Eric Karabell

  (11:09 AM)

Since Palmer has only one monster outing all season long, and it was against the Browns, his opponent this week, I'd go with him. Garrard is a safe 15-17 point option, as he's done for five straight weeks, but I see Palmer bettering that.

Will (windsor,Ont)

Is Peyton going to sit the 2nd half this week? McNabb a better pla considering the good matchup?

Eric Karabell

  (11:10 AM)

There are a lot of Colts questions in here, and here's my stance on all of them: I'd play Colts players. They can do enough damage even if Dungy plays them only one half, and I'm skeptical that's all they play.

John, Philly

Eric, is Willis McGahee in your top ten this week?

Eric Karabell

  (11:11 AM)

He just missed, but he's definitely a starting player. He is that offense.

James (MI)

Thoughts on Longoria for 2008?

Eric Karabell

  (11:13 AM)

I don't think Tampa Bay has to promote Evan Longoria right away to play third base, since they have other options. This could be like Hunter Pence, he comes up after a month or two, but he does have power and should be a good option right away. I'll take the under on 20 home runs, though.

Dave(vt)

Edge over Stecker or will Stecker keep putting up good numbers?

Eric Karabell

  (11:14 AM)

I ranked Stecker 19 at RB, and Edge 20, so I think it's very close, but I would go with Stecker. Looking at it now, I think Stecker is the clear play, and I wouldn't be at all worried about Reggie Bush returning to mess that up.

Randall (Milwaukee)

Hi Eric, my boss just took a bathrrom break so I only have 2 minutes to get my answer, or I'll get fired for doing fantasy at work. EManning, SRosenfels, or MBulger to win it all this week.

Eric Karabell

  (11:15 AM)

Two minutes, are you sure that's it? Good thing I can do fantasy at work. I'd go with Bulger. I didn't rank any of these fellas in my top 15 at QB, but Bulger came first. I think Pittsburgh can be thrown on some.

Mike (Boston)

Should I stick with Derek Anderson, or go for Kurt Warner's mathcup against the Falcons?

Eric Karabell

  (11:16 AM)

Both are good options, but I have Anderson ranked better. I think the difference are the turnovers. For yards or TDs, they're similar.

Justin (Fresno, CA)

I know S.Jackson is an ESPN regular. Do you have any inside info on him not getting a full workload this week? I'd normally never sit him but I've got Portis and he's on a team that's still got something to play for. Thanks.

Eric Karabell

  (11:18 AM)

No, no inside info yet, and I don't expect SJax to say he'll have less of a workload. Portis has a tough matchup, too. I'd go with Jackson. Having something to play for is nice, but it's not a factor here. Jackson has something to play for, his numbers.

Jeff (Chicago, IL)

Eric, did you take whether or not a player may be benched into consideration for your rankings this week? Also, Peyton or Hass? Thanks.

Eric Karabell

  (11:20 AM)

I did, but I don't think anyone will get fully benched. Stars still tend to put up numbers in one half of play, if that happens. Peyton over Hass. People might be surprised at which teams have something to play for, by the way.

Jon (NY)

Should I bench Romo with a bad thumb for Cutler with a bad thumb.

Eric Karabell

  (11:20 AM)

Romo is a tough one. I leaned toward him being healthy and enjoying his matchup, and gave him a No. 6 ranking. Cutler didn't make my top 10.

Kyle (AZ)

Eric, I've played Antonio Gates at my flex spot every week this year, but this week I'm considering benching him for Chris Henry. Would you do it?

Eric Karabell

  (11:21 AM)

The way Gates has played the last few weeks, yes, I would consider that. In fact, as long as the weather isn't a big issue in Ohio, I would do it. I see Henry scoring.

Kurt (Wilmington, NC)

How do you think Maroney will be utilized this week? Is he worth a start over Stecker as my #2?

Eric Karabell

  (11:22 AM)

I think Tom Brady will resume his 3-TD per game season and throw about 45 times. Maroney got the love in Week 15, but I don't see him doing it again. I ranked Stecker a few spots better.

Matt (Philly)

How would you rank the following D's for this week? Arizona (Vs Atl), Philly (vs NO) or Tenn (NYJ)? Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (11:23 AM)

I ranked Tennessee the best, Arizona was in the middle of the pack and Philly was near the bottom.

Riaz, OH

Eric, I am confused at TE. Who do you start between Scheffler, Watson and Mercades Lewis? Thanks and Happy Holidays!

Eric Karabell

  (11:24 AM)

Actually, I went with Tony Scheffler this week. Denver has been using him as more than just a tight end, it seems. There's upside here.

Jess (Philly)

Eric, you never seem to answetr girl questions! Can you help, who should I start at wr 3-C. Henry, Gaffney or Bobby Wade?

Eric Karabell

  (11:25 AM)

I really don't look at who sends 'em, I assure you. I'd play Chris Henry. Great matchup, and he's playing well. As of now, I am not worried about the weather, really anywhere.

Leslie(Orange, Tx)

Since fargas is out for the year who is the better play this week, Thomas Jones, Dominic rhodes or darius walker?

Eric Karabell

  (11:26 AM)

Ugh. Can I say I don't like any of them? I expect Rhodes to get most of the Oakland carries, but I would probably go with Thomas Jones. I wouldn't expect much, though.

Doug, KC

You ranked Philly D near the bottom? The last 5 weeks the only reason Philly lost 4 games was a complete lack of offense. The defense kept them in every game.

Eric Karabell

  (11:29 AM)

Philly's defense just registered its first double digit fantasy effort since Week 3 against Detroit. It has played poorly most of the year, but worse in fantasy. Before the Dallas game, it was ranked No. 31 in fantasy! So yes, I ranked the Eagles defense near the bottom for this week, No. 28 to be exact, as I expect the Saints at home to score at least 35.

John(NY)

Hey Eric..anyone ever tell you that you look like Harry Potter? Need 1 for flex...Edge, Kolby or Chris Henry..thanks

Eric Karabell

  (11:29 AM)

Incredible, I had never heard that. Kolby is the pick.

AC (FL)

Where would you rank MJD among RB's for next year and longer term? Better or worse than Earnest Graham? Trying to decide on keeper value...

Eric Karabell

  (11:30 AM)

I'd have to say Graham over MJD for 2008. Fred Taylor doesn't look like he's retiring, does he? Graham looks pretty good as an early second-rounder I'd say.

Drew Brees

Yo E you gots to start me over Anderson this week.....right?

Eric Karabell

  (11:31 AM)

You don't gots to, but I did make Brees my No. 3 QB, and Anderson 4.

Eric (Fort COllins CO)

Since I'm protecting James Shields in the 20th round, would it make more sense to protect Bedard or Ordonez in the 3rd round as they are my best options?

Eric Karabell

  (11:32 AM)

Depends how the deep the draft is, I guess. I think Shields is pretty safe, so I would lean to keeping my third rounder and Shields. I like Bedard and Magglio, but you can redraft them. What will you get in round 20?

Mike / Valpo

Much chance that Johnson really cuts into Smith's numbers this week?

Eric Karabell

  (11:33 AM)

I did not rank Larry Johnson. I would really, really be surprised if Kansas City let him dress for another game this season.

Brian (Brooklyn, NY)

Do u think Anquan Boldin will be able to go this week and will he be productive for my flex position, my other choice is Maurice Morris now that Fargas is injured.

Eric Karabell

  (11:33 AM)

I would assume that if Boldin played in Week 15, he'll go in Week 16. I got burned by Morris the past two weeks, and in this case I'd play the WR.

Eric (DC)

After Sunday, I havent really heard anything reported about Big Ben's shoulder.....Do you think he is going to have a good outing with a good matchup on Thursday? Or would Garrard be a better play? Thanks Eric!!!

Eric Karabell

  (11:35 AM)

I think Roethlisberger is a good play this week, and I ranked him No. 10, one spot ahead of Garrard. Honestly, if I had both players, I might play Garrard with the Thursday compenent thrown in, but it is a nice matchup.

dave (Denver)

Curtis or A. Gonzales at flex this week? Isn't Curtis due for a big game here?

Eric Karabell

  (11:37 AM)

Players aren't "due" for big games. I do think Curtis is a decent play this week, but I ranked the rookie Gonzalez better. It's pretty clear we're not going to see Marvin Harrison anytime soon.

Jon (Boston, MA)

I understand why everyone loves Jennings. But in my ppr league, he's 13th overall for the season. Would you consider starting Chad Johnson over him this week? 6 catches for Ocho equals 1 TD for Jennings. What would you do?

Eric Karabell

  (11:39 AM)

I understand the difference in PPR leagues. I play there, too. I'd still go with Jennings. Say he gets 5 catches and a score, that would mean Chad would need a lot of catches unless he scored. Jennings is scoring a lot of touchdowns, but yes, his value might be misinterpreted in PPR formats. I'd play Jennings.

Cody Philly

Eric, where do you have braun ranked for next year? Thanks

Eric Karabell

  (11:40 AM)

I have him in the middle of round two, but as I wrote in today's blog, if I have pick No. 15 and he's there, I might take him a bit higher. I'll be updating my ranks soon after this draft I have today.

Jeff (Chicago, IL)

Eric, would you start LT considering he may be "partially" benched and has a "twinge" in his hammy? What 2 would you go with- LT, Jacobs, Stecker or LenDale?

Eric Karabell

  (11:40 AM)

I would not sit LT, ever. He'll play, and even if he plays only a half, he's worth it. LenDale is the next best in my rankings, barely ahead of Jacobs.

Shaun(NYC)

Earnest Graham early in the 2nd round? Is Cadillac officially out of consideration?

Eric Karabell

  (11:41 AM)

Cadillac is officially in the garage now. Graham is Tampa's No. 1 back, no question.

JT (Iowa City, IA)

Eric, Frank Gore or Selvin Young for my flex spot? Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (11:43 AM)

I don't expect a ton from Gore, but I don't see how anyone can rely on a Denver RB at this point. It's Gore.

Z (SC)

Is Ryan Grant worthy of keeper consideration?

Eric Karabell

  (11:45 AM)

Sure. He's been one of fantasy's top RBs since he began starting, and you want to keep RBs anyway. I'll probably pre-rank him in the second round.

Nathan-CLE

Who would you play out of K.Jones, K.Smith and A. Stecker. Already have Brees and Colston.

Eric Karabell

  (11:47 AM)

I would play Kolby. I expect a good amount of yards from him this week. In this case I would not use Stecker, even if I ranked him better, because you'd be really Saints-heavy.

Rob (Michigan)

Reggie Bush and MJD....Where do you anticipate them being ranked next year? Who is the better keeper?

Eric Karabell

  (11:49 AM)

I haven't done my 2008 rankings yet, but there's no way I will have Bush in the second round again. I didn't really want him there this season. It's more likely MJD will be there for me. Bush is not a full-time RB, and I don't know when, or if, he will be.

Ryan Ohio

What about Wes Welker?....80 yds and a TD?...

Eric Karabell

  (11:49 AM)

Yes, I think the Patriots go back to the normal Patriots this week, and Welker and Moss benefit.

Frank ( TX )

So the colts are telling the newspaper they aren't benching their studs this game. So are they telling the truth?

Eric Karabell

  (11:50 AM)

Look, it's Wednesday. I know the Colts don't "have" to win, people, but that doesn't mean they want to lose. Things could change on Friday, but as of now, I don't think Peyton, Addai and Wayne sit much this weekend. Maybe in Week 17 they will.

jeff (omaha)

So Eric, you're not concerned about Holt's supposed groin injury? I guess he showed up on the St. Louis injury report as questionable...that being said, Holt or Holmes on Thursday night?

Eric Karabell

  (11:51 AM)

No, I'm not terribly concerned with Holt's injury, unless we hear it will keep him out of the game. I don't think Holmes is 100 percent either. Holt gets it done every single week. Because they play Thursday, it's a bit dicey, but I trust Holt.

Dave (Orlando)

Who would you keep next year? J. Addai or L. Johnson? Will Johnson ever go back to those 1700 yard 18 TD seasons?

Eric Karabell

  (11:52 AM)

Yeah, I actually think Johnson will be fine next year. I know I have LT and AP 1-2, but after that, I might have Addai 3 and LJ 4.

Henry (CA)

Would you take a full time starter in Gado vs NE or a RBBC in Young vs SD?

Eric Karabell

  (11:54 AM)

I don't think it's true that Gado is a fulltime starter. Chatman could play this week. Plus, I doubt either does much against the Pats. I'd play Young, but who knows what happens there.

Eli (Brooklyn)

Eric, if you had to decide today, who would you keep for 2008 out of Harrison, Colston, Marshall?

Eric Karabell

  (11:54 AM)

Probably Colston, then Marshall. Harrison third.

Dan (queens, NY)

Hey Eric, I'm in my championship game, and i need some advice, i need one of the 4: Berrian, Crayton, Bowe, or Reggie Williams. Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (11:55 AM)

Bowe looks like the best option to me.

Craig ( Reading, PA)

Pick 2 of 3 at flex in ppr league: Anthony Gonzalez, Chris Henry, Reggie Williams? Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (11:55 AM)

Gonzo and Henry for me.

jeff (omaha)

thanx eric! happy hollidays

Eric Karabell

  (11:55 AM)

You, too. And to everyone out there...

K.C. ( NYC )

Eric, quick hitter: Hasselbeck or Palmer?

Eric Karabell

  (11:56 AM)

I like Palmer this week.

John (Hamilton, OH)

Romo at 6 and Ben at 10. Arwe you pretty confidant that the thumb will not be much of a problem?

Eric Karabell

  (11:57 AM)

As of now, I think he's going to be OK, but keep checking back. Problem for you is, Ben plays sooner. I'd stick with Romo, yes.

Ben (SF)

Which one should I keep: Ryan Braun, Grady Sizemore, Erik Bedard, Jake Peavy? Thanks!

Eric Karabell

  (11:58 AM)

Wow. Three of those 4 are in my round two. I might go Sizemore there.

Jon (Kansas City, KS)

Parker, Jacobs, or Fred Taylor this week?

Eric Karabell

  (11:58 AM)

Fred didn't make the Pro Bowl, but he makes it here! Way to go, Fred!

Eric Karabell

  (11:59 AM)

And with that ladies and gents, by time is up. Thanks for the questions and Happy Holidays to all of you. Best of luck in the fantasy playoffs as well.... adios.