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Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:00 AM)

Good morning everyone! Tons of questions rolling in already, so let's get right to 'em...

David (San Diego)

Am i crazy to start Thigpen this week over Farve and Big Ben everyweek with an exception of the 6 TD game by Farve i have been disappointed in both their performances.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:02 AM)

"Do I start Tyler Thigpen over so-and-so" is shaping up as a very popular question right off the bat. I'll be the first to say, I love this matchup. Looking at his recent performance plus that matchup, I can make a case for him warranting top-10 status. Up to you to determine how that compares to your alternative. If it's Favre, or Pennington, or Roethlisberger, yes, I would take the Chiefs signal-caller. Every week, no, I couldn't take that chance, not yet. I still think Favre and then Roethlieberger make stronger long-term bets after this week.

The Girl in the Room (NJ)

McNabb vs. CIN or Delhomme vs. DET (Note: Delhomme really burned me vs. OAK last week)

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:03 AM)

Donovan McNabb will not be sitting for me.

Brian (MICHIGAN)

I just picked up Tatum Bell in my league, using my good waiver position! Did I make a good move, what can we expect from ole Tatum, as long as he doesn't have any acts of thievery!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:04 AM)

It's not a bad move, let me say that. Denver's backfield is an absolute mess, and there's a real chance Bell could get as many as half the carries right off the bat. It's a chance I'd take, though I haven't seen a league yet where I'd have called him the No. 1 waiver choice. I wouldn't fret about your decision; Bell is worth stashing for depth, I'll give him that.

B (NY)

Two for one...any updates on either Graham or Portis?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:05 AM)

The latest I have is that Earnest Graham is expected to play, while Clinton Portis is a 50/50 bet, and that Ladell Betts has been described a stronger candidate to play has me worried. Graham, by the way, has to deal with Warrick Dunn and now Cadillac Williams eating into his workload.

Dlee (Bmore)

T. Bell or C. Williams off of the waiver wire???

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:06 AM)

Tatum Bell, but I play more for the short term and I think he has a clearer path to regular touches. To note, next four weeks' matchups: @ATL, OAK, @NYJ, KC. Only the Jets one is a poor one.

DB (raleigh, nc)

Continuing the am I crazy theme how about sitting LT for Jamal Lewis and Ronnie Brown? What do you think about Avery this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:08 AM)

You're not crazy. But I'd make it Ronnie Brown. And yes, if you're asking both players and leave Tomlinson out, I'd do it. Don't like the matchup one bit, makes LDT a clear No. 2. As for Avery, I'll call him, hmmm, maybe a No. 3/flex type.

Callie (CA)

Mr. Cockcroft,Would you offer MB111 for L.T.?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:10 AM)

I see them as clear top-tier options, and when that's the case to me that's a personal-opinion question. But here's what makes the call LaDainian Tomlinson for me: After this week his schedule is easy as can be. Check this out, Week 12 on: IND, ATL, OAK, @KC, @TB, DEN. Barber's is atrocious during the fantasy playoffs (Weeks 14-16).

Dan (New York)

Do you think SJAX will play?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:11 AM)

No, but I'm no doctor. Right now it seems to me that's beneath a 50/50 chance. But as Lloyd once said, "So you're telling me there's a chance!"

Murray (IL)

Whose a better Flex option this crucial weekend: Willie Parker vs SD, Hines Ward vs SD, or Lee Evans vs CLE?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:12 AM)

Hines Ward. Steelers will surely attack the San Diego secondary with Parker not quite himself.

Phil (Baltimore)

It's my birthday friday and all I want is your fantasy advice. Who do you think I should start at my flex in a PPR league: Slaton, Welker, Fast Willie, or Ocho Stinko. Your the best in the business Tristan!!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:13 AM)

Thanks Phil, and happy birthday! Steve Slaton for me. Great effort against Indy in their last meeting, and I think he was rested last week to keep him fresh for this division battle.

PJ (NY)

Does Chris Johnson rest during playoff weeks if/when Titans clinch?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:14 AM)

Smart thinking, PJ. Though history shows that Week 17 is the game in which the risk of that is highest. If the Titans sit the kid out for back-to-back games and then get the bye week's rest, well, three weeks off might have an adverse effect on Johnson. So I think he'll play in Week 16, at least for half of the game, but the matchup indeed is a poor one (PIT).

Chris Johnson owner (everywhere)

Do you think that the Titan's rest Chris Johnson down the stretch since it seems they are going to run away with the divisionAlso what about the Giants resting Jacobs once they clinch the division?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:16 AM)

Re: Jacobs, I don't think the Giants are any lock to run away with the division. Sure, they could, but that's not an easy division to lock up several weeks early. And even if they do, same point with Chris Johnson applies, and I think the Giants, with their three-headed monster, are doing enough to keep him fresh as it is. Doesn't worry me that much.

Sean (Philly)

Is Hasselbeck a viable starter this week? Would you start him over Garrard?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:16 AM)

Well, I'd say no, and no I wouldn't, if only because I can't trust a guy in his first game back from such a lengthy absence.

Eddie (Toledo, OH)

Beyond this week, rank Thigpen for the rest of the season...Top 10? Top 15? Is he worth adding in favor of a Delhomme/Campbell/Pennington type?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:18 AM)

At best top 15. I'd base my Tyler Thigpen pickup decision on this: Do you need him this week? If the answer is a definite no, then I'd stand pat. Me, I'd likely add him for Pennington, but I don't see that as a big loss, frankly.

Skott (Chi-Town)

does the same go for reggie bush if he plays..dont trust him in his first game back?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:19 AM)

Different for a running back whose best trait is his pass-catching skills, especially when the matchup favors him greatly (@KC). It's a factor, one that has me thinking flex-play status barring a solid week of practice, but when it comes to the running backs or the receivers, I just downgrade their ranking a bit, not declare them instant sits.

Dan (New York)

Would u start Philly D or Carolina D this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:19 AM)

Outside of the obvious plays -- Titans, etc. -- I'd challenge anyone to find me a stronger fantasy play than the Panthers D.

Cody (Mesa, AZ)

Garrard, Orton or Hasselbeck?Gage, Scaife or TO?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:21 AM)

Has to be David Garrard, and I'm hopping on the Terrell Owens bandwagon. His value can't get much lower than it is right now, and I think Tony Romo's return plus the bye week's rest will have him primed for a strong finish.

Tony (OH)

Start Romo this week over Matt Ryan or Chad Pennington?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:23 AM)

Tony Romo completed a full practice on Monday, and if he does that again today and again on Friday, then I would use him. Otherwise, it's Ryan, and I wouldn't be upset to choose him. And yes, I know this goes against the Hasselbeck point, I probably should stress that when you're talking about "injury recovery," practice time is a very important factor people underrate. Even the slightest health question matters, big-time. With Romo, so far, it's smooth sailing. And he's a heck of a lot more talented than Mr. Hasselbeck besides.

Marvin Harrison (Indianapolis, IN)

Are my best days behind me? What's my trade value? WHY CAN'T I CATCH A FOOTBALL?!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:24 AM)

Dude, you're 36. It happens. Can't be an elite receiver forever. Little trade value left there.

Dave - Den

Megatron a bust this week? Play CUrtis instead?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:24 AM)

I don't like Calvin Johnson for Week 11, but I couldn't sit a guy that integral to his offense for Kevin Curtis. Don't get cute.

Randy (CT)

Enough of this "Does Johnson rest" babble. WIN TODAY TRISTAN RIGHT!!!? Ok...Heres one now...give it to me and dont sugarcoat it. I need to feel secure with my line up quandry. Here ya go. You ready?!!!!! Lynch or C Johnson. Please explain too if you can. Thanks

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:26 AM)

Yes, Randy, you are absolutely correct, win today. Always live by that first and foremost. Anyway, hard not to sugarcoat that one, because it's a close race. Who would I want? Marshawn Lynch. But I have more faith in the guy who's his team's starter and unquestioned goal-line back. Besides, schedule: CLE, @KC, SF, MIA, @NYJ, @DEN. Not a ton I dislike there, except those AFC East teams. I know Johnson's sked is favorable, too, but he's just not quite Lynch.

Joe, Mahwah, NJ

You can't dismiss Tynes any longer. He is going to bring me a fantasy championship. We need to kick Carney to the curb already!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:27 AM)

Hey, Joe, my weekly "Tynes fan" buddy, you were right on him being active in Week 10, but can't sugarcoat this one: Carney is the league's leading fantasy kicker! We need to kick Mr. Tynes to the curb. Two active kickers in one week? C'mon...

Matt (ATL)

Must win game for me. Who to start: streaky Ginn Jr., hot Mark Bradley or disappointing Braylon?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:29 AM)

Gut says stay safe with Braylon Edwards, but if you must take chances, and teams in must-win situations sometimes must, I do very much like Bradley's matchup.

John (State College, PA)

Hey Tristan...short and sweet...who's the better keeper Torain or Cadillac?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:29 AM)

Eh, Ryan Torain, but I'm not convinced either one has much of a shot at a starting role to kick off 2009 barring an organization change.

Ron, OH

Tristan, What do you think of Larry Johnson this week? A better play than Lendale White?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:30 AM)

I do not like Larry Johnson, Ron. Though, to be fair, I'd have a hard time sitting him for White. To me, Johnson is a fringe No. 2 play. White is No. 2/flex, in that ballpark.

DC (NC)

The last place team is only 1.5 games behind the 1st place team. I am in 1st place and would like to stay that way, so I really, really, really need some advice for this weeks lineup!Rivers or Delhomme?Pick 2 - LT, Lynch, T.Jones and Deuce.Thanks!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:32 AM)

I'm actually in a league where in one division, the five teams (myself included) were 6-3 and tied for first entering the week! And the other division ... well, not so good. Anyway, I'd go Jake Delhomme, Marshawn Lynch and Deuce McAllister if Reggie Bush somehow sits with a setback (not that I'm counting on that). Since I expect Bush to play, I'd stick with LaDainian.

Steve (Baltimore)

Do you believe in Joe Flacco as a decent QB going forward? If so, how would a healthy Mason fit it? WR2 or WR3/flex?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:34 AM)

No, but part of that is because I saw the schedule and realize he capitalized upon favorable matchups. Flacco is a desperation play in my mind, and with the bye weeks behind us, those should no longer be needed. As for Derrick Mason, I won't play him this week since he's banged up, but overall, he's a matchup-play No. 3.

Kevin, Dallas, TX

I need one at the flex this week Tristan and you are my only hope for advice. Eddie Royal, Hines Ward, Lendale, L.Johnson, or J.Stewart?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:35 AM)

Hines Ward. Especially if it's PPR.

Thomas Jones-NYJ

Should I be started at flex over S. Holmes or D Bowe? I'm thinking Bowe, but what are your thoughts?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:36 AM)

That's a very tough race, and I'd let PPR status of my league decide it. If it is, I'm with you on Dwayne Bowe. If not, can't sit the Jones hot streak.

Lloyd Christmas (Aspen)

Tristan, Do you want to hear the most annoying noise in theworld? "EEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHH". Who should I start at #3 WR this week? Coles, DeJax, Avery, M.Bradley or Santonio? AND who do you like longterm McFadden or Tatum? Thanks.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:39 AM)

Oh, so you're Mr. Samsonite! I'd have a very hard time sitting Laveranues Coles. And I can't believe I'm gravitating towards Tatum Bell, but I have a terrible feeling Darren McFadden's season is done. I know this sounds crazy, but I really do think in redraft leagues, McFadden is about done serving your needs.

Ed( San Diego,CA)

How do you think Addai and Steven Jackson will be for the stretch run and playoffs?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:40 AM)

Well, I just made a trade offer to Joseph Addai's owner in one of my key leagues, so that speaks volumes. And for as much as I want to believe in Steven Jackson, as I've said in past chats, his health woes are absolutely troubling me at this point. I'm confident he can be, hmmm, let's say a solid No. 2 for you in those final weeks, but there's more risk in him.

Jay, Knoxville, TN

I don't understand why you don't like Lendale. In two questions, he doesn't start over Hines Ward, Eddie Royal or Larry Johnson? He has 11 td's Tristan!!!! He is the league leader if I am correct. Where is your rationale for the advice?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:41 AM)

I understand, Jay, and I'm not trying to trash the guy. He's just not an elite play. Fact: White has averaged nine fantasy points the past three weeks. That's just not getting it done, especially in PPR formats.

Lindsey (SC)

How concerned are you about Westbrook's ankle? He said he is still having problems cutting off of it. Is he a matchup play now? If so, would you consider T.Jones (next week @TEN) or stick with Westbrook (next week @BAL)? Thanks!!!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:42 AM)

I'd stick with Brian Westbrook, but then I have tremendous faith in a guy gritty as he is. The dude has played at noticeably less than 100 percent in a lot of games over the years.

Landon (IN)

Is BJGE a good flex play this week? They do play the Jets. I'm in a PPR league.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:43 AM)

I don't think so, especially if either Sammy Morris or LaMont Jordan makes it onto the active roster.

Jennifer (Jersey Girl)

Hi Tristan! Still start LDT against Pit? I have Hightower (v. Sea) on my bench?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:44 AM)

Man, what a bad movie. And no, I wouldn't dig that deep. Still Tomlinson.

Jonathan (Austin, TX)

Lendale has no upside. None! 6 points sometimes 12 (a mediocre day for an RB) every week. 20 pts is a good day over here in PPR land. Ok now plz, answer my question: Assuming SJax is out, in a PPR, McGahee, Rice, A Pittman or Kevin Smith? Also: Big Ben, Garrard or Thigpen?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:45 AM)

Well said, Jonathan. Yuck to those options, and I'd have to go Willis McGahee looking at the alternatives. At quarterback, that's a good time to go Tyler Thigpen.

Kevin, Boston

Good Morning, Do you like Bradley over Driver for the rest of the year?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:45 AM)

No. He's just a sleeper. I'd play him this week if I needed help at the position, but I'm not about to invest for the long haul, not to that level, not yet.

Robert (NCarolina)

Is Carson Palmer worth a bench spot of waivers if you are locked for playoffs but question your QBs sked (Delhomme and Rothlesberger)?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:46 AM)

Frankly, I'm surprised that Palmer hasn't been shut down for the year. I don't know your bench, but I can tell you this: In leagues where lineups lock for the playoffs, I most certainly don't want a guy who very likely won't even play a game during those weeks. No thank you!

Roberto (Mexico)

Hola Tristan.....Excelente trabajo.....RB question: SJax (iffy), L. Johnson (just back) or a flyer with P. Hillis???...also is Reggie Wayne's injury serious????.....gracias

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:48 AM)

I've heard nothing to suggest Wayne is a serious bet to sit. But it's on you to always check the practice/injury reports. That's a fantasy owner's responsibility, because those things change every single day. I'm confident, I can say that. And I love the matchup. As for the running backs, has to be Larry Johnson.

Speaking of Lendale

I just traded him and A. Bryant for Steve Smith and J. Norwood. Was that a smart move?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:48 AM)

Sure, because the best player in the deal is Steve Smith.

Rosenfel's Zadie (Shul)

2 QB League/12 Teams...2nd QB- Thigpen or Rosenfel's this week? and Why?Thanks

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:49 AM)

Sage Rosenfels has no business near a fantasy lineup this week.

Jon (Houston)

Why is Lynch killing me? Start him or Slaton this weekend?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:50 AM)

Blame Buffalo's O-line problems, that's most of it. But I'd stick with Marshawn. I know I'm pro-Steve Slaton this week, but there's just enough workload-management worry for me with Slaton to say he's a hair behind Lynch.

MARK MY WORDS!!

Lendale White will be more valuable than Chris Johnson down the stretch for Tenn in terms of fantasy.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:50 AM)

I beg to differ, but time will tell...

brian (de)

Which 2 backs would you play Ronnie, Slaton, Barber, Addai. Also would you play a third back at flex over Santana Moss?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:52 AM)

I'd play Ronnie Brown and Marion Barber for sure, and then the flex-play is the toughie. I'd have a hard time sitting Steve Slaton for Santana Moss, except if it's PPR. Moss does have that favorable recent history against the Cowboys, after all.

Alon (Brooklyn)

Hello Tristan. I can either start Hightower or T Jones vs NE this week. Any advise?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:53 AM)

Tim Hightower. Can't see Jones having another huge day in New England.

thomas (toledo. ohio)

Please answer this question Tristan! I have a trade lined up for Joseph Addai - who should I give up, McGahee or LJ?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:54 AM)

I'd deal Willis McGahee, if only because he's the one in the messier, more unclear backfield.

Ron (NYC)

Someone please tell Collins it is not the year 2000. (insert Conan O'brien reference here) Housh, S. Moss or Cotchery this week?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:55 AM)

In the year two-thouuu-saaaand, Kerry Collins was a bit better a fantasy quarterback than he is today, I'll tell you that! Useless this season, pretty much. And Santana Moss there. For the reasons specified earlier.

Mags (MN)

Is Parker a safe play this week? I can't afford for him to take shot to the shoulder and sit the whole game. Do I roll with Deuce @ KC instead?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:56 AM)

Safe? No. Mewelde Moore most likely gets the goal-line carries, and not like it's a cakewalk matchup. But you might not have any choice; if Reggie Bush is good to go, Deuce McAllister isn't really any stronger a play.

Matt (Durango, CO)

Dare I start LJ over LT? LT @ Pitt seems pretty rough.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:57 AM)

No.

BUZZER BEATER! (FL)

Trade Deadline Friday(PPR League): I have been offered T.O. or Steve Smith for Kurt Warner(Have Brees). Which do you think has the better finish to the season? Appreciate your help

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:58 AM)

Steve Smith. He's the clear go-to guy in that passing game, and I see more soft matchups in his future than in T.O.'s.

Bryan (DSM)

BUZZER BEATER...Im in first and TE is only weak position. Which side of trade do you like? MJD and Shockey for FWP and Winslow?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (11:59 AM)

I'd prefer the Maurice Jones-Drew side, as he has more favorable matchups looking forward and is healthier. And there are worse weaknesses for a fantasy team this year than having a poor tight end. I guarantee you this: A lot of fantasy titles will be won by teams with terrible tight ends this season. Just watch. Bad, bad year overall for the position.

Inthe Nickoftime (fla)

Miami D/ST or Eagles D/ST?

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:00 PM)

Like both quite a bit, but it's Miami for me, because if you look at Oakland's numbers, that offense has been putrid the past month. And it's a cross-country trip of three time zones. Ugh.

BUZZER BEATER..... (Dallas)

TRISTAN PLEASE HELP! I just traded Jason Witten and Lendale White for Ryan Grant and Dallas Clark. What are your thoughts on this deal? I think I am getting the better end even though Grant has been struggling.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:01 PM)

I don't, despite my "negative" comments on LenDale White earlier.

Laura Cockcroft (Florida)

Buzza beata....I need your help....Please.....Brees or Warner this week. My opponent has both Fitz and Boldin. Help!!!

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:02 PM)

Sorry, "cousin" Laura, but doesn't matter to me who your opponent has! (Unless it's me, and it's not.) Kurt Warner.

Tristan H. Cockcroft

  (12:03 PM)

Well, that's all for today. Thanks for all your questions, and sorry if I didn't get to yours. Take care everyone, and best of luck to you in Week 11!