Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:02 AM)

Good morning everyone! Hope your fantasy football season is off to a hot start, but even if not, I'm here to help you get back on track ... let's get right to your questions!

Shane, DC

Good morning Tristan, Quick question, Do I drop Marvin Harrison to pick up Eddie Royal? only have room for one, but Royal is available on the wire. Who do you see having a better overall year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:03 AM)

Bold move, certainly, but I think championships are often won with the bold calls. So I'd say yes, I'd seriously consider going for that, so long as I had no one less talented than Harrison to let go first. Royal must be owned right now, must. Love that offense. And he brings considerably better health to the table.

Sean, NY

Pick a side: SJax for Felix Jones and Jamale Lewis (PPR)?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:03 AM)

Steven Jackson. A lot of it has to do with it being a point-per-reception league.

Joe (NYC)

I just dropped Heap to make room for John Carlson. Good move?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:04 AM)

Certainly, as Carlson seems like the only viable, healthy pass-catcher in Seattle right now. But I admit I'm not a Heap fan, he's way too injury prone and frustrating.

Tim (MD)

More value off the wire: Darren Sproles or Michael Bush?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:05 AM)

I honestly think of Sproles as merely a LaDainian Tomlinson handcuff and no more. Bush, well, he actually has a chance to play in tandem with either Justin Fargas or Darren McFadden if one of those two gets hurt, and as we know, the Raiders run, run and run some more. Bush for me, unless, again, you're an LT owner.

Eric (colorado)

Is this a sell high chance with Issac Bruce and do i need to panic about Braylon Edwards?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:07 AM)

Bruce's age is what makes him a long-term risk, so yes, that might put him in the sell-high category. But I'd actually wait until a week from now to attempt to do so, because I like his Week 3 matchup and think you can exploit it. As for Edwards, no, not really. He might seem out of kilter in that offense after missing time in the preseason with his foot injury, but I think patience will pay off with him. Don't sell low, you'll regret it.

Leo (Miami)

Good mornig to you. So I am a unfortunate owner of L.J with sleepless nights trying to figure out who will take this man off my hands. To my surprise I receive a trade offer for him. Moss for my L.J and P.Thommas. I should take this and run correct. Other backs are Lynch,Forte,Perry.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:07 AM)

Which Moss, Randy? Then certainly. Otherwise I'd stand pat, and I'm a fellow Larry Johnson owner, incidentally, in a keeper league where no one will take him off my hands for even close to that.

Jamie (Atlanta, GA)

Hi Tristan. Would you start Favre (@SD) or Delhomme (@MIN)this week? I like Delhomme's matchup more, but consider that my opponent will most likely be starting Steve Smith against me, and it is a ppr league... Thanks for the insight!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:08 AM)

I'd start Brett Favre regardless of those other circumstances. San Diego's defense is off to a poor start, and I think Favre will star in the Monday night contest.

Fletch (Los Angeles)

For the rest of the season - Cutler or Warner?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:09 AM)

One of those questions where I prefer Kurt Warner slightly on a per-game basis, but Jay Cutler is simply put safer for the long haul. I only doubt Warner's health, not his production. And generally, I want the safer long-range play, so long as the differential isn't huge.

Andy (VA)

Tristan, Would you drop Fred Taylor for Pierre Thomas?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:11 AM)

Another bold one to do, but I don't think it's crazy. I'm a big Thomas fan from a sleeper angle, and this isn't that bad a speculative play if it's not going to have any immediate impact on your starting lineup. Higher ceiling with Thomas, I'd think, accounting for Taylor's O-line concerns.

Eric (Philly, PA)

Tristan, with news that DET is looking at both Alexander and Benson should I drop Rudi? If so, should I grab Jordan, Duckett, Ward or B. Jackson?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:12 AM)

Yes, I would. Not a good sign for Rudi Johnson. Besides, I see more value in Derrick Ward, LaMont Jordan and Brandon Jackson, in that order. But Jackson's value bumps up if you're also a Ryan Grant owner, he'd be my top choice in that instance.

Gerard (FL)

Hello TC! DeSean Jackson against Pitt or Eddie Royal against NO?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:13 AM)

Royal. Love the matchup.

Brian, Gardner MA

Who would you start this week, Cassel or McNabb?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:13 AM)

Well, I actually like Matt Cassel's matchup quite a bit, but I can't reach for a guy who really didn't look all that impressive in his first career start in Week 2. Can't do it. Donovan McNabb is far too proven to sit, and I really could see that as another shootout, just like he endured in Week 2.

abc

answer 1 of my ?'s! Reggie Bush, sell high? Any value in Robinson and Colbert?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:15 AM)

I actually like what Bush brings to the table this season, so no, I'd stand pat and enjoy the production. No reason to expect a big drop-off. As for the newest Seahawks, I'd go Koren Robinson if I had to, but only in very, very, very, very deep leagues. (Stress very.) Good chance he'll start, at least. Don't know that there's a lot else in good things I can say about him.

Dan (NY, NY)

Hi Tristan....please help. Big Ben at the Link or Rivers at home against the Jets?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:16 AM)

I think with Ben Roethlisberger's shoulder concerns I'd need to go Rivers in a home game. He has impressed me the first two weeks, so I'm confident enough in the guy.

Matt (Baltimore)

Tristian, Who do you like more this week, Bryant Johnson or Ocho Cinco?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:17 AM)

Oh that is a rough one, because I loathe Chad Johnson's matchup and love Bryant Johnson's. I think Mr. Ocho is probably too valuable a player talent-wise to sit in this instance, but I'll tell you what, if you're in a spot to chance it on a decent-upside play, I wouldn't laugh at you. I only give the go-ahead if you're confident enough in the rest of your lineup, though, or really need to take boom-or-bust shots.

Jim (Dallas)

Big Ben or Warner? Leaning towards Warner.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:18 AM)

I'm practically tipping over towards Warner.

Joe-El Paso

Good morning. Would you consider starting Sproles for L.T this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:19 AM)

The Chargers are going to decide that for you, Joe. But I can tell Tomlinson owners this: Since it's a Monday game, I'd consider it a virtual must-handcuff spot for Week 3 if only because there's a small chance of danger that LT sits. I don't think he will, but I'd hate to wait until the final game of the week and not have the backup in the event of an unexpected scratch.

Ron (NYC)

Tristan... Is Kevin Jones rosterable or should I pickup M. Bush, Andre Hall, or Derrick Ward?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:20 AM)

In deep leagues, maybe, but I'd rather have any of those other three than Jones. To me it's Ward, then Bush, then Hall (who I think is the least attractive option in an overrated backfield).

Yasmine (PR)

Please rank for the year: Welker, Holt, Housh.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:21 AM)

It's a close call between the "H"s. I'm going T.J. Houshmandzadeh, then Torry Holt, then Wes Welker. Which I think was exactly how I had them in the preseason.

Justin, Louisville

Tristan, Darren McFadden: One week wonder or Fantasy Football Stud in the making and why?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:22 AM)

Let me first say that McFadden has some turf toe concerns, and we all know how that can limit a player. So that puts this question in the "hazy answer" category. Let's assume for a moment he's OK health wise. Well, my answer is, fantasy football stud in the making. Seriously, that kid's legit and this team is going to run like 30 times a game, that's plenty for the rookie to have a huge season, even if it's in No. 2-back fantasy status. Just please monitor his health. Bit of a concern right now.

Josh Sea

Tristan, Will Norwood or Sammy morris see much action?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:23 AM)

Isn't Morris the goal-line back in New England at this point? I see him staying that. As for Jerious Norwood, sadly, he has a great back ahead of him on the depth chart. Good handcuff, but would need a Michael Turner injury to truly matter.

Tyler ( Waynesboro, Pa )

what did you have for dinner last night

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:24 AM)

Rotisserie chicken. I dunno, probably a tribute to Rotisserie baseball, since I've got so many teams duking it out for titles right now.

Jarrett (Flemington, NJ)

Start the hot McNabb against a tough PIT D or the even hotter (in terms of fantasy not looks) Cutler against NO?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:24 AM)

One of the few spots where I'd sit McNabb.

AJ (MN)

Who has a better matchup, Forte or T. Jones?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:25 AM)

Matchup? Probably Matt Forte. Actually, I think he's a little more talented, too. Close on both, but slight edge to the rookie on both counts. Must-start No. 2 at this point.

Tom (Chicago)

Tristan, would you pick up Tim Hightower and drop Fred Taylor?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:26 AM)

Another one I'd seriously consider if it didn't seriously jeopardize my starting lineup in the short term. But I'm huge on Hightower, and continue to stress that if he's the go-to back in Arizona by midseason, I won't be at all surprised.

David(NY)

H Miller or J Carlston this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:26 AM)

John Carlson. Excellent pickup, and a great Week 3 matchup.

James (chi-town)

Wise one Tristan! Am I crazy for trying to trade LT for Marian "THE BARBARIAN" Barber?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:28 AM)

Crazy? No. But I'd be asking something else to sweeten the deal. LaDainian Tomlinson will have better weeks once he's nearer to 100 percent, and if memory serves, he's a much better mid-to-late season running back than in the early weeks.

jess (ny)

Would you start Chris Johnson over Ryan Grant this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:29 AM)

Ryan Grant has a lot to prove to me before I'd call him an automatic start. Besides, I love Johnson's matchup.

Jack (OH)

Which of your leagues do you most want to win? Hasselbeck or Schaub for the season?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:30 AM)

The one with the biggest, uh, prize on the line, obviously. Though I admit, I want to win every league that I am in. Don't like losing one bit. And I actually think Matt Schaub might be your better bet here. Hey, at least he has a talented receiver with which to work: Andre Johnson. And you know, Kevin Walter and Owen Daniels are pretty talented, too.

John (PHX)

Last try...Peyton and Jamal Lewis or Delhomme and FWP? Thanks

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:31 AM)

Peyton Manning's side. Seems more safe to me at both spots. I don't think Jake Delhomme is going to be consistent enough to carry you to a title.

Marsh (StL)

Would you start LT on Monday night if somebody else already has Sproles? If he doesnt play, its too late to plug in somebody else. My other options are Norwood or Fred Taylor...not good.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:32 AM)

Don't take what I said earlier as a note to definitely sit LaDainian Tomlinson. I'm just saying if you own him, and you can get Sproles reasonably, you do it. It's just safer. But I'll also say right here that I'm not cautioning you that you're at severe risk. I really do think Tomlinson will play. I just like to tie up all the loose ends in the risk department when I can, that's the point I was making.

Bob (SF)

Start only two...Calvin Johnson, Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards? Thanks.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:32 AM)

Well, Edwards is sitting for me until he gets a little more up to speed, but more importantly, until his matchups improve. That's the bottom line.

nate

jason campbell or matt shaub this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:33 AM)

I want no part of Matt Schaub in this particular week. Very telling: Albert Haynesworth has done what he has done on defense the first two weeks despite being clearly fog-brained with that concussion of his. Imagine him once he's at peak health?

Mo - Dallas

Do you think Willie Parker gets shut down this week? Philly has stopped Sjax and Barber running wise. Would you play Chris Johnson vs Houston over him?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:35 AM)

I won't say "shut down" as much as "he's not a very good bet to score you a touchdown," and let's say that's noticeably beneath a 50/50 bet accounting for the matchup. Take that for what it's worth. To me, it makes Parker a borderline No. 2/flex play, no more. That's still a good player. Would I play Johnson ahead of him? Yeah, I'd probably do that. Higher ceiling, for one.

Tony (NY)

Robert Meachem, I know he was only targeted once last game, but how much did he see the field? Is he worth a pickup?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:37 AM)

Not that much but he did flash his sleeper potential with that 19-yard touchdown grab. I think it gets him at least as much work in the offense this week, but it'll be, let's say, a one-two-three step process before he becomes truly fantasy worthy. Step 1 is in the books, and I'd say Step 2 is he gets another shot and repeats (and I don't mean has to catch a touchdown, just catches a few passes, pleases the coaches). Step 3 is he actually garners a start, or close to it, and succeeds. That's asking a lot, I admit, but I have faith in the kid as a late-season sleeper. If you're in a deeper league, yes, add him. But I'm thinking 12-plus teams, deep benches (say, eight players or more).

Luke (Canada)

Morris or Hightower?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:38 AM)

I want Tim Hightower, because I think he actually stands the better chance at moving into a workhorse role of the two.

Greg (Halifax)

Why is Cassel projected so high this week? 24 points with 3 TDs - c'mon!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:40 AM)

The matchup is that soft. I don't have to agree with that, and remember what I said in past chats, the projections take historical performance comparative to the matchup at hand and spit out a number expectation. With Cassel, there's very little past history to go on, so clearly the matchup plays a big part of it. Do I think that highly of him? Well, no, but he'd be a definite start for me in a two-quarterback league. And I might consider him over a shaky No. 1, like, say, Matt Hasselbeck, David Garrard, Derek Anderson...

Mark: (ATL, GA)

Will Matt Jones stay Garrard's #1 target all year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:41 AM)

If no one else gets healthy anytime soon! I see that receiver corps as a full-season mess, though. We'll see some good Jerry Porter weeks, maybe a Reggie Williams one, heck, maybe even Dennis Northcutt will sneak in a team-leading week! I'd say avoid the team overall, but to me, it's Porter, then Jones, then Williams, for my long-term expectations. And I'd say none warrants any more than No. 3 receiver status in any week all year.

Perry (Boston)

Hey Tristan, thanks for all your help this fantasy baseball season. I'm wondering if you think I should trade Jerricho Cotchery for Roy Williams and LenDale White. Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:42 AM)

Hi Perry, thank you and I really do hope I helped get you into contention for your league title! Best of luck to you down the stretch, 'cause I know I need it myself with a lot of tight battles. As for your trade question, I'd make that deal. I don't see Williams as much of a drop-off from Cotchery, and White can have flex-play appeal for you when the matchup calls, because he's getting goal-line work.

Ben NY

This would seem like a no brianer but id really appreciate your advice need to start 2 0f 3 between FWP, Julius Jones or Greg Jennings. Thanks Tristan

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:43 AM)

No word on PPR here or not, but let's just say this is a rare case where I'd have a hard time playing Willie Parker over either of those alternatives.

Aaron (Astoria, NY)

Lineup predicament! So are you so into Royal that you would start him over Braylon? (I'm also starting Cutler and Marshall.)

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:44 AM)

No, not that much. Besides, you got the two big boys in that offense. You're good enough there.

Jason (Omaha NE)

E Graham vs the Bears this week or J Stewart vs the Vikings? Neither has good matchup but since TB seems to be a timeshare as well just wanted your thoughts, thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:45 AM)

I'm going to break that virtual tie by saying Stewart is looking like the stronger goal-line choice.

Rocky Balboa (SOUTH PHILLY)

AY YO TRISTAN!!! - Is a starting sproles a better play than Julius Jones? YO, THANKS.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:45 AM)

A bit punch-drunk, are we? Um, no.

Rick (DC)

You like Philly DST's chances against PIT at home this week, with Ben possibly banged up? Do you like them more than starting GB DST against Dallas? Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:47 AM)

Ugh, I really don't like either, Rick! Can you perhaps nab the Bills or Seahawks as a one-week plug-in? Just a thought. Forced to choose, I'd stick with the Eagles, though. Hey, you've got a point on Big Ben. I won't touch the Green Bay matchup.

Malik (Tucson, AZ)

Tristan, can you please give me your opinion of Dennis Dixon and Steve Slaton this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:48 AM)

Dennis Dixon! Wow. Byron Leftwich is the No. 2 in Pittsburgh. And I'm not worried about Ben Roethlisberger. As for Slaton, no way he plays for me. Terrible matchup. But I say that and add that I will be watching him very closely this week, because any promising signs could make him a sleeper play in future contests. I think he's a little underrated as bench guys go.

Jim (Philly)

Ravens D vs. CLE or Vikings D vs. CAR?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:49 AM)

Ravens defense. Ride the hot streak plus the Browns offense cold streak.

John (CA)

One last shot--is Palmer finished or will he rebound to be a production FF QB? I have JTOS, who seems to be a viable match up guy--agreed?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:51 AM)

I think O'Sullivan is matchups-capable, sure. And you know, crazy as it sounds, I much prefer him to Carson Palmer in Week 3. Palmer has looked awful, but I think he'll rebound to an extent. For one thing, his schedule has been and for the near future will remain brutal. But once he gets through that, I think he'll be respectable enough. Just rotate these guys as matchups allow.

jay (Rutgers)

i have gb def and all the other good def are gone, can you give me a sleeper for this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:52 AM)

I named two earlier, but let's see, I'll throw Arizona and Tampa Bay into the mix.

Michael (NC)

Palmer and Royal or Jacskon (Philly) for Cutler?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:52 AM)

I'd deal Carson Palmer and DeSean Jackson for Jay Cutler.

Tyler ( Waynesboro, Pa )

do you see drew brees making denver look even worse than rivers did

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:53 AM)

Worse? No, but that's a good matchup for him. A definite play.

Jon (KC)

Opinions on Ray Rice?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:53 AM)

I like him and the matchup is favorable for Week 3, but Willis McGahee is due back, so that really limits Rice's potential. Handcuff, and a good one, overall.

John (Toledo)

Should I offer Jonathan Stewart to get Ryan Grant from a clearly disappointed owner? My other RB's are SJax, Lynch, Chris Johnson, and Perry. (Non-PPR)

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:54 AM)

Sure, but then I still have faith in Ryan Grant. Health has been an issue for him. Once he's back to 100 percent, I think he'll make good on his high draft status. Or, at least he'll get within range of it, even if he's a tad disappointing.

Dan (New York)

PLEASE! Just need one...Felix Jones, Jamal Lewis, or Sammy Morris.....i get points for kick returns. Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:55 AM)

Not big on any of those guys, but I'd probably go Sammy Morris. I really don't like that Lewis matchup. Hey, at least the Patriots should have no problem marching down the field against Miami. No reason to think there won't be goal-line chances for Morris.

B (Philly)

Speakin' of Ryan Grant: hows about Grant for Brandon Marshall. Crazy talk, or surprisingly even?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:56 AM)

Probably feels stacked to Marshall's side right now, and I'd probably give him the edge here, but in reality it's actually closer than you think.

Joe (NYC)

Cassell or JTO this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:56 AM)

Matt Cassel.

Dan :Tampa

what do you think of buffulo's QB Edwards as a sleeper?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:57 AM)

I think he's definitely worth a pickup, but he's a No. 2 fantasy quarterback, bottom line. Meaning he's only matchups-capable in my mind.

Greg (Fitchburg, MA)

Need two please: Gore, Portis, Julius Jones, Chris Johnson. Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:58 AM)

No way I can sit Frank Gore and Clinton Portis. Much as like the others' matchups.

Matt (Chi)

Back to Grant, what is his status this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:59 AM)

Packers say he was fine coming out of Week 2, but monitor the practice reports. If he's limited there's a good chance he'll disappoint again in Week 3. If he practices without restriction, I'd feel better about him as a No. 2/flex.

Michael (NM)

I'm hearing Charles may take over by the end of the season in KC. What do you think and is he worth picking up in a keeper league?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:59 AM)

I only see that happening if Larry Johnson gets hurt. And that's an absolute possibility. I'd consider adding Jamaal Charles in a dynasty/keeper league, sure, if it was a deep enough league and I had the bench room to do it.

Shaun (STL)

Based on his recent success so far does Desean Jackson still stay in the starting lineup when Curtis and Brown are healed up???

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:00 PM)

I think so, barring another boneheaded play.

Tim (Latrobe, PA)

Bench one: Welker (Mia), Chris Johnson (Hou), Braylon (Bal)

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:00 PM)

Braylon Edwards.

Mike (Albany, NY)

For the year, A.P. and Bowe or SJax and Marshall? Also, for this week, Schaub or O'Sullivan? Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:01 PM)

I'd go with Steven Jackson and Brandon Marshall. The receiver differential is greater than at running back. And at quarterback, it's J.T. for this week.

Chad (Omaha)

Quick. Julius Jones, Willis, or Kevin Smith this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:01 PM)

Julius Jones, though for the record I think Smith is a pretty nice play in most leagues.

Joe (philly)

rodgers or Big Ben

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:02 PM)

Check Roethlisberger's health, but I'd have a hard time sitting him there.

Phil (O.C.)

Its my b-day! 28! LJ or Thomas Jones? Any word on Dallas Clark?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:03 PM)

Happy birthday Phil! You're in your power-hitting prime for baseball, but sadly, sounds like you're getting old for a running back. I'd go Larry Johnson, better matchup. As for Clark, I'm not hopeful he's going to be a big factor this week, if he plays at all.

Mike (boston)

Buzzer Beater: For the rest of the way - .5 ppr league - Vernon Davis, Owen Daniels or John Carlson?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:04 PM)

I'm still a Daniels fan. Might aim to pair him with Carlson, because I see the rookie as safer in the short term, but Daniels for the long haul.

Jon (Mad-town)

Is every Cincinati player doomed fantasy wise this year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:05 PM)

The schedule will improve, so have faith. But yes, there's absolute concern this is going to be a fairly ugly season.

bob (pitt)

curly fries or cheesy fries? discuss

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:05 PM)

You're making me hungry, Bob, so I suppose it's time to go get some lunch. Curly fries for me. Love that seasoning. Leave the cheese on the burger! Anyway, thanks for all your questions, and sorry if I didn't get to yours. Take care everyone, good luck in Week 3 and have a tasty lunch!