Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:02 AM)

Hey folks! It's Week 1, can you believe it? Can't wait for that opener tomorrow night. Still a few last-minute drafts going on, and a lot of people preparing first-week lineups. So it's all fair game, draft strategy, lineup-setting, whatever you want to ask! Fire away...

Brad (CHI)

Tristan, Would you rather have a backup for Scheffler or Garrard??

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:03 AM)

Well, the question forces a decision between the two, and I'd rather back up the quarterback than the tight end. For one thing, easier to scoop up a backup/fill-in tight end off free agency later. But that said, I think both players have a decent share of backup need, to address the topic to everyone.

Jared (CA)

Would you prefer McGahee or Selvin Young in a trade?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:04 AM)

I'm not at all a Willis McGahee fan for this season, but for me, this really comes down to weekly upside versus more stability in the health department. I'll go boom or bust all the way here, and make it McGahee.

Eric (Fort Collins CO)

I have Chris Perry but worry about his ability to stay healthy and Kenny Watson's presence. If I can trade him for Jonathan Stewart, should I do it?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:05 AM)

I agree with you Eric, though I think those two are somewhat comparable talents. Let's put it like this: The ceiling is a little higher on Stewart for this year, and he's a safer bet in the health department. So while their draft stock is comparable, I'd probably grab the rookie.

Kyle(Philadelphia)

What kind of value does Justin Fargus have?? McFadden cant stay healthy all year with 20 Carriers a game can he?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:06 AM)

That is so a Chester Taylor-Adrian Peterson kind of backfield. I see it being so close to that, and if not, then it's a "lite" version. OK, it's just a "lite" version, but I make the comparison to demonstrate the upside in both players in Oakland. By the way, for Week 1, love both of 'em. Couldn't ask for a much better matchup.

Mike (Nashville)

Forte, Perry, or Ahman Green for my week 1 flex spot?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:07 AM)

I want no part of Ahman Green, and besides Green (and Chris Perry, for that matter) faces a brutal matchup. Matt Forte here.

Matt (Grand Rapids)

I got stuck with Rudi Johnson as my #3 rb. Selvin Young is now availible, should I drop Rudi and pick him up? I have always avoided Denver rb's.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:07 AM)

Yup. At least you get a starter that way. I really think Rudi's done. Or close to it. Much nearer to 2007 than 2006 statistical potential.

Marc (Toronto, Canada)

Gallaway or Lee Evans as my WR3 this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:08 AM)

Joey Galloway has the better matchup. That's the bottom line.

jake (bronx)

schaub or bulger week 1?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:09 AM)

I want no part of Marc Bulger's matchup. Eagles will eat him alive, I think. Matt Schaub's the pick.

Joe (Mahwah, NJ)

Lawrence Tynes is expected back in a few weeks. Should I pick him up?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:09 AM)

Ummmm ... no. That guy gave me ulcers in January.

Chris (STL)

who are your breakout wrs this year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:10 AM)

I'm on the Santonio Holmes bandwagon, really like Jerricho Cotchery, fan of sleeper Josh Morgan in San Fran, think Calvin Johnson can have an explosive year (though I'm not picking him among the top-10 WRs as a lot of people seem to be doing)...

Korey (MI)

Anquan Boldin or Reggie Bush week 1?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:11 AM)

Boldin. Big-time favorable matchup. And he works well with Kurt Warner.

Help(St. Louis)

Do you hate Bulger's matchup enough to start Pennington or Tavaris Jackson?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:12 AM)

Eh, that'd be rather bold. Chad Pennington makes a case, battling his old mates, but I'd have to be really confident in the rest of my squad to take the chance on an inferior talent. Close in rank, and Bulger gets my nod, but this doesn't all play to straight rankings. When you dip to, say, 15th at quarterback, sometimes it's smarter to actually take the guy ranked a spot or two lower if there's a slight hint of upside. Brain still says Bulger.

Jared (CA)

Is Ryan Grant going to play? Should I use Maurice Morris instead?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:14 AM)

Well, there's no indication he won't play, but a guy who missed part of the preseason holding out and is now battling a hamstring injury, facing perhaps the stiffest run defense in the league, that's a must-sit to me. You only use him if you lack a lot of depth. And yes, it sounds like you do. It's still Grant for me there, but keep tabs on his practice reports the next two days.

Pat (College Park)

For the season, Marvin or Calvin?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:15 AM)

I drafted Marvin Harrison precisely one time this preseason (out of several drafts, more than I can count), and I wasn't willing to make the exception again. That should tell you all you need to know. No doubt in my mind Calvin's top-20, and probably top-15, worthy. Harrison? Eh, not as sold.

Drew (Tampa, FL)

You said earlier that if you own Scheffler your gonna need a backup. The TE's available in my league are....LJ Smith, Miller, McMichael, Boss, Keller and Lewis....slim pickin's....who do i pick up?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:15 AM)

If I must, I go Heath Miller. Best TD potential. Then it's Randy McMichael.

Matt (Sacramento, CA)

The pickens were slim in my 14 team league- David Garrard or Jake Delhomme?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:17 AM)

Garrard. Let's just say they toe the middle-line among quarterback expectations. Thirty-two will play, so in numbers, they should be close to the median. But what makes my decision here is that Delhomme is the one with a clear downside, at far greater risk of making costly mistakes and slipping beneath that middle point. Garrard, I have no doubt he can stick around that No. 16 spot at the very least. Too talented not to. And maybe he can even sneak up to 10?

Pat (Chicago)

Start Driver in week one or take a chance with DeSean Jackson?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:17 AM)

Start Donald Driver. Teams know their chances are better airing it out against the Vikings.

Taylor (Toronto)

I just traded Edge and Meachem for Marshall and Rice, good time to sell on James before his value plummets?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:19 AM)

I don't even think selling high is a factor here. Bottom line is you got the best player in the deal, Brandon Marshall. That decides it. Smart move.

Tim (Virginia Beach, VA)

Start two Cockcroft: Fred Taylor, Watson, Fargas, or Coles

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:20 AM)

I'd go Fred Taylor, Justin Fargas. Jags were pretty successful running the football against Tennessee last year, I think it happens again in Week 1.

Rick (Denver, CO)

Tristan, What do you think of McNabb this week? He's got no receivers other than BW. Should I start Warner over him?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:21 AM)

What's DeSean Jackson, chopped liver? Some might have Donovan McNabb concerns, but I don't. Even with only those two that's enough for McNabb to capitalize on a strong matchup.

Kim (philly)

Derrick Mason over Kenny watson at flex this weekend?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:21 AM)

I would until we know more about how the Bengals plan to dole out carries. Don't like the matchup at all for them besides.

Tom (Tampa)

2 QB league, for week 1: Favre, Hasselback or Warner? Thanks

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:21 AM)

Kurt Warner, without hesitation.

Jay & Silent Bob (NJ)

Is Kevin Smith even a thought for a start this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:22 AM)

Certainly. Good matchup, and he's the starter. I still rank it in the No. 2/flex play range, though.

Dave (Frisco, Texas )

Could you tell me which WR you would start in my 18 team league out of: Courtney Taylor, Desean Jackson, Gaffney, or Josh Morgan? The week one player rater says Taylor. I think that's the safe bet. I think the aggressive call is for Desean Jackson. If you had to choose, who would you start?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:23 AM)

Again, this is a case of what you need, high upside or the safe pick. That's all in the construction of your roster. I feel pretty good about that Jackson matchup, for the record, and I like upside plays.

Roger (Los Angeles)

Garrard for sure over Bulger?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:23 AM)

Yup.

Steve (Long Island, NY)

With Tomlin announcing that Mendenhall is returning kickoffs and unsure about the # of carries he will see, is Parker officially a safe #2 RB and a GREAT RB3?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:24 AM)

Yeah, I'm in real danger of being wrong about that one. I'm prepared for that possibility, but also not going to hop entirely back on the Willie Parker bandwagon. He's still going to be a late-season concern, if Rashard Mendenhall starts building up into that role as the goal-line back, and warms in the offense. His big problem right now: Fumbling issues.

Rebecca (STL)

Cutler for sure over Bulger?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:25 AM)

Doubt I'd go that far. Still Bulger.

Rob Bristol Pa

Would you trade Wes Welker for Roddy White and Brandon Marshall?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:26 AM)

Without question. White is underappreciated from what I have observed in all my drafts.

Matt (Ca)

Warner over Anderson?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:27 AM)

Right now everyone is asking about Kurt Warner, so let me say this: Top-five quarterback play for the week. Unless your QB's name is Brady, (Peyton) Manning or Romo, I'd have a hard time sitting Warner for anyone else. Now, granted, that's a little off the top of my head. But he makes a case for No. 4 overall.

Leah (Winnipeg, Canada)

What is the value of Anthony Gonzales?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:28 AM)

He's kind of like a handcuff play to Marvin Harrison, and I think a very good one. I do believe if Harrison goes down at any point, Gonzalez steps up with some surprisingly good numbers.

Tim (Seattle)

Start two: Fargas, McFadden, Grant

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:28 AM)

Both Raiders. And no fear of loading up on one team.

Leah (Winnipeg, Canada)

Which D should I start this week: Indy or Green Bay?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:29 AM)

Indianapolis Colts. Wow what a matchup.

James (MD)

Should the Bears D sit this week? Especially if you have Addai?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:30 AM)

Oh yes. Without a doubt. But for the record, I wasn't on the Bears D bandwagon at all this preseason. I think they're overrated, will wear down a tad (like last year) thanks to being on the field a ton, and really tease people because of the chance of Devin Hester return TDs. Don't be fooled. Trade 'em to an unsuspecting owner.

JT (Toledo, OH)

Are LJ's prospects for week 1 really as grim as the projections indicate? 50 total yards and no TDs?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:30 AM)

I'd call those basement numbers for Larry Johnson, but there's a very real chance that's what he does in Week 1. I want no part of that matchup unless I lack depth at RB.

Ted

Tristan, Will you rank these WR's- A Gonzalez, S. Rice, Meacem and Eddie Royal. Thanks

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:31 AM)

Eddie Royal, Anthony Gonzalez, Sidney Rice, Robert Meachem.

Ryan Grant Fan

25 carries 119 yards 1 TD 5 receptions 20 yards Week 10 against Minnesota, 2007. BENCHED FOR FARGAS?!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:32 AM)

I was waiting for this, "Ryan Grant Fan." I knew all about that game, and it's going to fool you into believing in him. This game can change quickly, his missed preseason time matters, his shaky health matters and that Minny D is stronger today than it was in Week 10 last season.

Justin, Louisville

Fargas or McFadden?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:33 AM)

I hate to force myself to pick between these two, because I think they both can be solid No. 2/flex options. I'm advising both. For me, though, it's the upside play. Would you really pick Chester Taylor over Adrian Peterson? Nah, me neither. So it's the rookie. Better chance at an explosive game.

Derek Anderson

Do I lose my job to Brady Quinn this year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:33 AM)

Not unless you get hurt again, I think.

Kevin (Richmond, VA)

Who will be the better back at the end of the year Steve Slaton or Ronnie Brown?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:34 AM)

There's way too much hate for Ronnie Brown right now. Really, what the Dolphins are doing is smart. It'll take time for him to get back to full speed, and I think a late-season surge is absolutely possible. Much, much higher upside.

Chad (TX)

How many leagues are too many leagues?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:34 AM)

I routinely play in double-digit leagues per sport, so you tell me!

Slimchicken (New York, NY)

PPR Flex dilemma - Dwayne Bowe or Patrick Crayton? Thanks.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:35 AM)

I actually like Bowe for Week 1, because the Pats' secondary isn't as elite as you might think, and that Chiefs team might be put in a quick hole, and playing from behind all day.

Tom (Hackensack)

Brandon Jacobs over LJ this week? i just hate the fact i drafted LJ first...

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:37 AM)

So do I. No offense meant, though, as it's not like Larry Johnson is trash, either. I'm just not a fan, think he was a second-rounder, so you picked him just a tad higher than you should, I think. Yup, Brandon Jacobs for Week 1. I think he's the focal point of the Giants offense this week.

Joe (NJ)

Please answer a question about Matt Forte. You know, the starting running back in Chicago. Does he have any chance of being a 1,000 yard back this year, Tristan?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:38 AM)

Absolutely, but that's a bad, bad offense that might have the run taken out of their game plan on numerous occasions this year. I picked Matt Forte in a draft yesterday as my flex, and was happy to do it. I wouldn't call him more than that. That 1,000-yard number, that seems about the best I'd expect, but he shouldn't be far off even if he falls short.

Steve (Long Island, NY)

I think people are making a mistake on Ahmad Bradshaw and that Derrick Ward is Jacobs' true handcuff. Agree?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:39 AM)

No, but I agree that Ward is absolutely a sleeper. Frankly the problem I have with either player as a handcuff consideration right now is that I could see them both battling for that honor the first few weeks of the season. In that draft yesterday that I just mentioned, I nabbed Bradshaw in one round, and really hoped to get Ward, too, the next round. I do think it's that close at this point.

TDog

are you only going to answer Fargas/Mcfadden questions today? Jamal Lewis or Turner this week? Thanks

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:41 AM)

If that's what people are asking, I can't argue with that. That's the bottom line. Some of the questions get picked because a lot of people are asking them, so the answer addresses a large group of readers. Anyway, to your inquiry, it's Michael Turner. Matchup is stronger.

Joe (Podunk, MI)

I read recently that Thomas Jones may have lost a step. Not a huge surprise if its true given he turned 30. Is a 1100 yd, 7 td year to much to expect? I drafted him as a #2 back.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:42 AM)

I could see those numbers for Jones, who was a bit underrated in most of the drafts I was in. He'll have a handful of bad matchups -- Week 1 is a good one -- but I think you'll be happy with him as a lower-end No. 2 or high-end flex.

Daivin (Winnipeg, MB)

Is Felix Jones a good flex option this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:43 AM)

I wouldn't be playing the kid at all until we get a firm read on his role in the offense, because the way I see it, that's Marion Barber's gig first and foremost. I bet we see little of Jones this week.

Will(Denver,CO)

Are you high on shockey, or should you have a decent backup like mcmichael for insurance. Also i'm thinking of droping mcmichael for kevin walter, is that a good idea?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:44 AM)

I absolutely am high on Jeremy Shockey, and have seen Randy McMichael just let out there on free agency, so maybe you can just sit back and wait to pick up a replacement if you need one in-season. Love Shockey's fit in the Saints' offense. And in your shoes, depending on your receiver depth, I think grabbing Walter like that is a smart move.

Ronan (Ireland)

Selvin Young:Andre Hall = 50:50 or 30:60 or 60:30 ?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:45 AM)

If I answer that question, Mike Shanahan might read it and make sure my answer is wrong. Seriously, though, I'm thinking 65/35 Selvin Young/Andre Hall.

Tim (MD)

I know people say start the RB over the WR...but would you start EDGE over WELKER in the flex this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:46 AM)

That's not necessarily true anymore, especially if your league is PPR. That matters here. If it is, it's Wes Welker for me, no doubt. Actually, even though it's close in a standard league, I'd still prefer the Pat. But I do like both matchups.

Jeff (Vegas)

Meachem - viable come time for bye week fill-ins or waiver wire fodder?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:47 AM)

I like Robert Meachem as a sleeper, and if my bench is deep enough I'd like to have him stashed (think 12 teams, seven bench minimum). But he's going to need a hot start to get involved enough in the offense to matter for fantasy, I'd think. A good guy to watch. Whether it's off free agency or on your bench, well, that goes back to the league-spec cutoffs I just detailed.

Matt (NY, NY)

Would you start Matt Forte or Eearnest Graham this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:47 AM)

Earnest Graham.

joe (york)

i have shockey and colston....should i feel ok starting them both? heath miller is available...

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:48 AM)

Sure, why not? That team's going to throw a ton, as always.

dan(Minn)

I kept Brandon Marshall for an 8th round pick when was going to miss 3 games. Now that he is only missing 1 game I am stoked but I still need a replacement for him in my lineup for week 1. Pick one of the following: Mark Clayton, Reggie Williams, Devin Hester, or James Hardy? Thanks

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:49 AM)

I'd take Reggie Williams. The other three are just way too risky to trust right now.

Paul (Sydney, Austrailia)

G'Day mate! I'll put a parm sandwich on the barbie for you if you answer my question? D.Driver or L.Evans as a Brandon Marshall replacement for Week 1?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:50 AM)

Mmmm. I'd go Donald Driver. Better matchup.

Matt (NYC)

Who would you start as a second QB next to Garrard this week: Cutler or Jamarcus Russell?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:50 AM)

Jay Cutler, and I'd keep my fingers crossed, because I don't see that as a strong QB combo for Week 1.

Dave - Orlando

Tristan need your personal opinion on lineup calls! W. Parker or E. James for RB2? Cotchery or Roddy White? Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:51 AM)

I'd go Willie Parker and Roddy White.

Matt (AL)

Need help with my lineup... Owen Daniels or Gates? Bengals or Bears?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:53 AM)

Still Antonio Gates, he starts for me if he plays. As for the defense, ugh, can you get one off free agency? Eagles D out there perchance? They weren't drafted in a good share of my leagues. If you must, I'd go Bears.

Alon (Brooklyn)

Have my draft tonight!!! Big Ben or Mcnabb for the year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:53 AM)

I'm big on Big Ben for this year. Sorry for the pun.

Dave

Dynasty league trade, which side wins: Andre Johnson and Kevin Smith---Braylon Edwards and Julius Jones. Is it close?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:54 AM)

Well, I look at that as Johnson and Smith are two pretty long-term keeper bets, so that's the side that's the smarter one, I'd say. Not a Julius Jones fan.

Mike (NJ)

I'm looking for a Brandon Marshall replacement for Week 1. Would you go with Eddie Royal, Ahman Green, Bryan Johnson or Jabar Gaffney? Thanks for the help!!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:55 AM)

I'd probably go Bryant Johnson of that bunch.

Ben (DC)

Drop James Hardy for Josh Morgan?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:55 AM)

I sure would.

Richard (Austin)

I have both Thursday night QB's. Which one do you like this week...Eli or Campbell?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:56 AM)

Eli Manning. But for the record, in my projections -- compared to our consensus ones -- I'm lopping 25 yards off his passing total, and tacking on a pick. It's still a very nice stat line.

Jake (Omaha)

Quick ? Tristan, Zona or Giants D?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:57 AM)

Giants D. I want a defense I can trust.

Don(Omaha)

who are the top three fantasy performers for tomorrow nights game? portis, plax and jacobs?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:58 AM)

Sounds about right to me, but I think Chris Cooley gives both Giants a real run for the money. For a bold call, I'll go Jacobs, Cooley, Plaxico.

Dan (Queens, NY)

For my flex spot: Dwayne Bowe or Reggie Williams? Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:59 AM)

Bowe.

Rico (Orlando)

Buzzer Beater!!! Need one for my flex: Forte, Perry, Morris, Crayton or Leon Washington (we get pts for return yards). Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:59 AM)

Matt Forte.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:59 AM)

Well, that's all for today. Thanks for all your questions, and best of luck to everyone in Week 1! Take care...