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Brendan Roberts

  (3:00 PM)

Good afternoon, everyone! Thanks for joining me today. Here's hoping all of you who caught my chat and asked about Monday night scenarios won your games. That was really on my mind as I watched the game.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:00 PM)

Let's get this started.

Reggie Bush(NO)

How am i and Sammy Morris going to be out??

Brendan Roberts

  (3:01 PM)

Well, Bush is indeed out 3-4 weeks. Had surgery Monday. But the Pats are saying Morris' knee injury isn't serious. (Of course, they don't say a whole lot, even if it is.) I have hopes he'll be able to face the Rams (at home), which would be nice.

Greg from Miami

My boy Jay Cutler is on a bye this week, so I'm left choosing between QB M Shaub and T Edwards. Both seem to have favorable matchups (Cin and Mia, respectively) so which do you give the nod to?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:02 PM)

I'm not sure MIA is as favorable as it once seemed ... I'd probably go with the hot Schaub at home against CIN. That has "big game" written all over it.

Larry (Albany)

Thanks for your time Brendan. I can only start two of these three ... Plaxico Burress/Anquan Boldin/Santana Moss ... I'm thinking Burress and Moss and letting Boldin get a week under his belt while Moss impales Detroit ... am I off on this?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:04 PM)

Yeah, good call, Larry. That's the right call. I just read about the extensive work Boldin got as a result of his injury. Apparently he had plates and wires put in his face and everything. Having just read that, I just couldn't imagine starting him right from the gate. Also read that Kurt Warner even contemplated retirement after Boldin's experience. Yikes!

Dan the SF fan

Thanks for taking my question. Sit one, Bowe, Chambers or Antonio Bryant.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:05 PM)

Ya know, even if he plays, I'd probably sit Chambers. Great matchup, but he's bound to be rusty and down the targets pecking order. Let him get a game under his belt before plugging him back in.

Jon (SLC)

Brendan,Is McNabb enough at QB to win my league, or if I have a chance to get Romo should I do it? Is Romo that much of an upgrade, or do I stay put?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:07 PM)

Well, both. I think McNabb is enough to win your league, especially given some of his pre-playoff and playoff matchups. But if you have a chance to get Romo as your backup and the roster space to do it, you do that. He could be a boon should something to happen to Donovan -- or even if it doesn't.

Zach (Burlington, IA)

Which drumstick to eat? Vanilla, Vanilla Caramel, or Chocolate? And pick 3 of 4 (T. Owens, M. Colston, T. Holt, DeSean Jackson)??

Brendan Roberts

  (3:08 PM)

Vanilla caramel. Two great tastes in one ... and I'd sit DeSean. Sounds odd, but Curtis and Reggie Brown are due back this week, and it's looking like Curtis will play a lot, and Brown and DeSean will platoon. I'd plan to go that way.

Scott (Fiji)

How much will Deuce gain from the Reggie Bush injury.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:09 PM)

Good question, Scott. He'll gain enough to start in most weeks in standard-sized leagues during the bye weeks, but don't expect Reggie Bush-type numbers. Deuce is just not the type of back who can carry an offense by himself anymore, even in a pass-heavy attack. He's going to be limited to 15 carries per game. But his saving grace is his short-yardage prowess, which is why he should start in most weeks.

Timmay! (South Park)

Did Phil Savage tell Romeo what to say regarding Winslow? Will Winslow be suspended, in your judgement?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:11 PM)

Aw, I don't know the full details of that soap opera, but I can guarantee it's magnified because the team is 2-4 and supposed to be a contender. And Kellen is frustrated. I don't see a suspension coming at all ... in fact, I could see the Browns focusing more on him this week. I really can. I've seen this cycle before -- star receivers complains, management fires back, star receiver gets his way.

Geoff (Colorado)

Hey Brendan...do you think that Cassell learned his lesson after last night re: People won't talk about how much he sucks if he throws it to Randy in the end zone?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:13 PM)

Not really, because neither of the plays really were set up to throw to Randy in the end zone. They were "Cassel-like" throws in which Randy took it to the end zone, if memory serves. In essence, Randy has to play to Cassel's capabilities, which still is a limit to his value, unfortunately.

Bryan (FL)

Better pick up: Donnie Avery or Josh Morgan?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:13 PM)

Aw, that's a tough one ... but considering I just read Morgan has eclipsed Bryant Johnson on the depth chart, and that Drew Bennett will be back for the Rams next week, I'd probably say Morgan.

YOUR BIGGEST FAN (MA)

Would you drop Bowe and pick up Benson for insurance. We use 2 Rbs, 2 Wrs, and 1 flex. I have Portis, C Johnson, S Jax, Forte, Randy Moss, Santonio Holmes, Bowe, and Housh. Portis and S Jax's injuries worry me. Ty

Brendan Roberts

  (3:15 PM)

Aw, shucks. ... Hmm, that's a tough one. First of all, doesn't sound like S-Jax or Portis' injuries are serious. Portis will be fine; he's just "sore." I'd probably stick with Bowe, still a start-worthy receiver in almost all weeks. Benson still splits time, still isn't a sure-fire productive back and still plays for a pass-first team. Plus, you do have depth at RB.

Travis (Nashville)

Hey Brendan... Now that Marques Colston is back (and hopefully productive!), is Lance Moore still worth holding onto?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:17 PM)

Hmm, I'd wait and see what Shockey's status is. If he can play, he'll limit Moore's value, probably to drop level. But if he can't, Moore is still a good keep. Remember, with Reggie Bush out, that's a lot of targets that now must go to the WRs and TEs. So in general, I'd say to keep Moore.

Tony (Charleston)

Santonio Holmes was dropped in my league, I am thinking about dropping Ginn Jr.(roster size) and picking up Holmes, what say you?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:18 PM)

I just saw two "Santonio dropped" questions consecutively (sorry if you're the other guy). I say that's a great move, Tony!

Paul (Philly)

If Romo happens to play before his bye week would you start him over a QB like Pennington or Edwards.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:19 PM)

I really couldn't say until I read the reports. The last thing I read about Romo (today) is that he himself admitted he couldn't throw well, and I highly doubt that'll change in the next 2-3 weeks. So, in essence, I think Romo is useless until after the team's Week 10 bye. That's just my two cents.

Ray (Tampa Bay)

Will my question ever get answered? Considering their remaining schedules, which two would you rather have the rest of the season? Portis, LT or AP?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:20 PM)

I'm here for ya, Ray. Hmm, ya know, I'd probably say Portis, edging AP, quite honestly.

Nate (Chicago)

Should I start Michael Turner or Chris Johnson this week?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:22 PM)

Oh, that is a conundrum! But I probably would go with C.Johnson. The Titans are at home against Indy, and I've read quotes/scouts already admitting that the Titans will have to run the ball often to beat the Colts (a bad D against the run). And Turner is at Philly. In most weeks I like Turner, but just with the matchups and situations, I'd say Johnson this week.

Greg (Boston)

Does Tim Hightower take over the starting job in Arizona at all this season? Or is that a 2009 thing?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:22 PM)

2009 -- or beyond. The Cards have a lot of allegiance to The Edge.

PJ (NY)

I own M. Moore and traded for FWP before last week to lock up the backfield. It was great to get a big week from Mewelde, but did he take a some of FWP's future value in the process?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:24 PM)

Unfortunately (for you, anyway), yes. Just reading that Tomlin might decide to sit Parker another week because of Moore's play, and really, that's your best scenario because Moore has definitely worked himself into the mix. Given Parker's injury-plagued ways (of late), PIT likely realizes he needs workload help anyway.

Rock (DC)

Assuage my conscience: I had Philly and Baltimore's D, but dropped the Ravens to pickup Sammy Morris. Am I crazy, or simply slightly mental?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:25 PM)

Dropping an extra D to pick up Morris: Smart move. Dropping BAL instead of PHI: That one is a tough call. I'd have stuck with Baltimore, looking at the sked. But hey, they're all a crapshoot anyway, right?

Charlie (SF)

Is Kyle Orton enough of an upgrade over either Bulger or Ryan to give up Andre Johnson?? I have T.O and Brandon Marshall but have been starting Andre at the Flex.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:26 PM)

I don't think so. I think you'd be trading high for a player at the very top of his value structure.

Joel ( Roscommon MI)

Brendan, After Carolina shut Brees down, am I nuts to consider playing Cassel this week opposed to Warner ?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:28 PM)

Nah, you're not nuts at all. I like Warner better, obviously, but the game is at Carolina, and the Pats are at home against the Rams. Ya know, I'd do the same thing you're doing -- start Cassel.

Al (Boston)

Is Pierre Thomas worth the roster spot right now with Bush out? Or is there another replacement for Bush on waivers i should look for? (Deuce is gone)

Brendan Roberts

  (3:29 PM)

I don't know who might be available in your league, honestly. Maybe Kevin Faulk? With Maroney out, he's been getting lots of work. I don't value Thomas highly. I think his touches will be limited, and he should be valued as a backup.

TE Help (Los Angeles)

My TE Greg Olsen has a bye. Drop him and pick up the next best TE out there... or pick up a TE and drop either D. Driver, Cotchery or Santonio Holmes? Not a PPR league.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:31 PM)

Olsen has been hot property in fantasy the past several weeks, and Orton seems to like him. (I've loved the guy since I saw him tear up a skills competition before he was an NFLer.) I'd probably keep him and drop Cotchery. Sad but true. Favre just isn't looking Cotchery's way anymore. He likes Stuckey (and Coles) more.

Jeff (washington, DC)

Addai/Rhodes Question: Any chance Addai comes back later than expected or Rhodes continues as the starter? I'm thinking of getting rid of Rhodes now given his matchups nice performance last week but don't want to regret it.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:32 PM)

Addai will be a guy to watch this week. I thought it was a given he'd be back this week, but now I'm hearing he might be a game-time decision again. HOWEVER, he's due back soon, and the game this week is on Monday night and at Tennessee, and that's not a situation you want any part of. So yes, I'm with your strategy of selling Rhodes high to a desperate owner. Heck, bad news on Addai could even help you.

d-houston

I've got plenty of RB depth and but need a WR2 to pair with A Johnson. I can get Calvin Johnson for Chris Johnson. Good deal, or try and get more?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:33 PM)

I like it, d. Johnson might be considered a little higher value (but not in my book), but in your situation, it makes a lot of sense. That's a good ol'fashioned position swap.

Michael (Atlanta)

Is the secret to getting your question answered sending it in 1000 times? Warner/Garcia/Campbell tihs week? Also, Mason, Bryant, Holt, Moose this week?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:35 PM)

Ah, the secret is just getting lucky in the queue and asking a good question. But since you got me, I'd probably say Campbell and Bryant (although I still think Holt is close in the second one).

Phil (NJ)

What do you think of dealing Sammy Morris for Winslow? I need a TE, and Sammy is my 5th stringer behind LDT, Jacobs, C. Johnson, and Thomas Jones. Giving up too much?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:36 PM)

I'm with your strategy, Phil. I'd do that. You have depth, and that's a good way to use it.

Kevin (Chicago)

B.R, help me out if you can...Plax (against tough Steelers D) or Housh (bad QB) this week?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:36 PM)

I'd still say Plax. That pinkie injury isn't serious.

Andrew (NJ)

Afternoon, my good man, I've got an RB conundrum. I need 2 RB and a flex between Brian Westbrook, Thomas Jones, Steve Slaton, and Chris Johnson. With Jones, Slaton, and Johnson all facing very nice matchups and Westbrook coming off of injury, am I crazy to think about benching Westbrook this week? Thank you very much.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:37 PM)

Yeah, I think you are crazy. If Westbrook plays, he must play for you, especially at home against Atlanta. And I'd do it at the expense of Slaton, who is now splitting time with Ahman.

Josh (TX)

PLEASE Brendan - NEED TRADE ADVICE - I want to pick up Lynch because of his favorable schedule and trade Jacobs before his schedule gets tough... would a straight up trade offer be enough or would I have to throw in L. White, Bowe or Housh with Jacobs (while taking back either Muhammad or V. Jackson with Lynch)?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:39 PM)

Given the way Jacobs has run of late, I think a straight-up offer should be very close. But if you need to throw in Moose or a platoon WR (for you), don't let that stop you. Those guys are a dime a dozen.

Mel (NJ)

B.R., Howz it? Trying to trade Lewis or Grant to get Colston, Fair trade? Do I have enough depth with C. Johnson and Forte as my other backs if I can pull of a deal? Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:40 PM)

Right now I think both those backs (somewhat given that their RBs and thus in more demand) are valued higher than Colston. Sounds like you need WR help, though. So yeah, I'd do it, but ask for his "expendable RB," usually a backup in return, just in case.

Kelly (AZ)

Pick me pick me! G'day Brendan - Jamaal Charles or Ryan Torain the rest of the way? Thank you!!!!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:41 PM)

Torain. Sheesh, Charles (or his workload) was a disappointment last week, and the buzz about Torain isn't just coming from fantasy writers. It's also coming from Denver.

Derrick (FL)

Hey Brendan! I've got too many texans this week. Johnson, Daniels, Slaton, and Schaub. The rest of my options are on a bye week except for JTO. Should I start him over Schaub?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:42 PM)

Nah, Schaub is a good play this week. There's no such thing as too many of any team when that team is at home against the Bengals.

Brendan Roberts (Da Man)

Mirror mirror on the wall who's the greatest one of all? Who do I start this week? L. White v IND, Graham @ DAL, or Stewart v ARZ...non ppr. Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:43 PM)

Aw shucks -- part deux. Hmm, even if Warrick Dunn sits versus DAL (which might actually happen), I'd choose LenDale. Just the matchup alone is fantastic (must less LenDale's play in Week 7).

Bob (DC)

You just said to start Cassel over Warner... Should I start Cassel over Peyton?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:44 PM)

Nah, Peyton is still the guy there.

Mike (NJ)

Do you think I have a shot at getting MB3 for Forte and Bowe? Im pretty deep at WR and have LT and Mcgahee who looks like he is finally getting enough touches. I feel like this would be an awesome trade for me. What do you think?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:45 PM)

Yes, that's good work on your part. It's a very close deal, and you get the best player by giving up what seems like replaceable players. It looks good to me from both angles -- and you can tell your fellow owner I said that!

brian (de)

I need to drop one to pick up a QB for my bye week, who do you drop Roy Williams or Ocho Cinco?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:45 PM)

Yeah, that's tough, but if you're asking me which I like better from now till the end of the season, I'd say I like Ocho Cinco better.

Adam

You'd previously said you like Zack Miller. What's the reason? His numbers haven't been amazing. I may end up picking him up on your recommendation though.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:48 PM)

I think his numbers HAVE been pretty good for a tight end. 95, 46 and 57 yards, and a touchdown in one of those. And he's getting a steady number of targets, too. I just think Cable's offense seems to favor the tight end catching the ball downfield instead of just on screens. And he's very talented. Pick him up on my endorsement!

Roberts Brendan (Bizzarro Land)

HELP HELP HELP, need trade advice - Trade Turner and VJax for LT and 85? I can keep Turner in the 3rd round next year though, but LT has a much friendlier Playoff schedule.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:49 PM)

You're in it to win it! I agree on LT's playoff sked, and if you're in the race, I'd do that. Also, I think Ocho Cinco shows life by then.

Chris (Boston)

Who to start at flex this week slaton or Mcfadden?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:50 PM)

Slaton.

John (CA)

Brendan, is Eli a big improvement over Garrard? Garrard is my only suitable QB and I'm thinking of offering Graham for Eli. Other owner needs RB help and has McNabb as a starter. Is that a good deal considering I still have plenty of depth at RB?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:51 PM)

Yeah, I think that's a good deal for both owners, and definitely upgrades you. With news that Matt Jones is suspended three games, Garrard's short-term value takes a hit, and you need Eli now more than ever. I'd upgrade there, and Graham is tradable player.

Cut and paste master (anytown, USA)

QUICKIE: Coles or A. Bryant this week?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:52 PM)

Close, but I'd say Coles (against KC).

Mark (San Diego)

Brendan, who would you sit this week? Barber vs TB or Ronnie Brown vs Bills. I know Barber is usually a no-brain start but with the QB Issues DST's can just stack the line. Please Help!!!!!!!!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:53 PM)

That's a good point, but Barber still gets his touches, even if they're through the air. I'd still say him. Plus, the Bills have a good D, too.

Baseball Fans (everywhere but Boston)

Way to go Rays! Is Portis a good sell-high guy considering his heavy workload? If I could swing a Portis/Holmes for LT/Fitz deal, should I pull the trigger?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:54 PM)

No, I'd keep Portis. He has proven durable throughout his career, and able to handle a heavy workload. He might be the most valuable player in fantasy right now, and I'd keep him.

Kevin (New York)

Trade TO for Calvin Johnson? TO hasn't gone over 100 yards in about 15 straight games.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:56 PM)

Oh, now that's a good one. It would take a lot for me to trade TO, but that would probably do it. Johnson is almost as talented and will get a lot of opportunities in DET. It comes down to the playoff weeks, and DAL has some VERY tough matchups. Ya know, it would be tough on my gut, but I'd probably pull that deal. Nice job, Kev!

Wes (College Station, Tx)

BRENDAN!!!!! NEED HELP!!! Is McGahee back or what? LT has been killing me lately and my gut is telling me to start McGahee over him this week! What do you think?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:57 PM)

McGahee is back! But my gut would never tell me to sit LT. I wouldn't -- and couldn't -- do that.

Taylor, KC

So you're saying Peyton is the better fantasy option than Warner??? Given that they both have horrible matchups this week but you would play Peyton over Cassell but not Warner over him...I think you're in the minority if you still consider Peyton the better fantasy QB...care to elaborate???

Brendan Roberts

  (3:58 PM)

Peyton's upside is just so high from start to start, and he's money when the "odds" are against him. This week's he's on national TV following an embarassing Colts loss. I think he comes out gunning and torches a team he's torched many times before. I like Peyton a lot this week -- and the remainder of this season, too.

FREE BEER

I need some RB help... should I start R. Brown or MJD this week? I also have Gore, but I think he's a must-start.

Brendan Roberts

  (4:00 PM)

Yes, Gore is a must-start. Given that MJD is healthy again after a bye week, has the better matchup and is ridin' high after a big Week 6, I'd probably give him the slight edge over Brown. One more, guys.

AT THE BUZZER!!!

Since you like Peyton this week, what do you think about starting A. Gonzalez over M. Colston?

Brendan Roberts

  (4:01 PM)

Nah, sorry, wouldn't do that. The Saints also are coming off an embarassing road loss, have a high-upside passing offense ... and Colston is still a No. 1 WR.

Brendan Roberts

  (4:02 PM)

All right, everyone, thanks much for joining me. Sorry if I couldn't get to your question. As I write this, I have received 1,969 questions in slightly more than an hour, and a man can do only so much. (Wish I were "Bruce Almighty")!

Brendan Roberts

  (4:02 PM)

But I wish you luck in Week 8, and I'll catch you again next week at this time.