Brendan Roberts

  (3:00 PM)

Good afternoon, everyone! Wow, Week 16 already? Yup, the questions have a lot more urgency these days. Let's get to 'em.

Sean Avery

I can't believe that I'm leaning towards starting Sammy Morris in my championship game over both Joseph Addai and LaDainian Tomlinson. Which of the 3 would you bench?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:01 PM)

Starting Morris is a wise move, and I'd do it at the expense of Addai. He'll likely be back, but he probably won't be 100 percent, and they play in Jacksonville. He seems the less likely to have a big game.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:02 PM)

Also, while I'm thinking of it, be sure y'all check the weather reports for Sunday's game, especially up in the Northeast. I hear there's freezing rain expected in the New England area, which would certainly Kurt Warner and the Cards' passing game, and it other games might be affected, too, if that forecast proves correct.

Patrick (San Diego CA)

Is Shaun Hill a better play than Big Ben or Jason Campbell? I'm in the superbowl but my QB situation is ugly.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:04 PM)

Tough call there, Patrick, but I'm on board. Definitely wouldn't go to Campbell. I noticed that he hasn't had a pass for more than 30 yards since Week 8. Ouch. And Roethlisberger at Tennessee is likely not to have a big game, whereas Hill at St. Louis has a much better chance to. It's unconventional, but I'd do it.

Tom (River North)

Brendan, given the weather situation and the poor play of the Cardinals when going east, would you start Garcia ahead of Warner (assuming he can go)?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:05 PM)

I wouldn't expect to go that far. If the weather were bad in New England (which we still don't know right now), I'd sit Warner only for a top option, and that's certainly not Garcia, even against the Chargers.

Elizabeth (L.A.)

On that weather note, do you think, if weather is bad, I should start Thigpen over Warner? Can't even believe I just typed that.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:05 PM)

Thiggy doesn't do it for me either. I'd stick with Warner.

The Champ

Hey Brendan...with your help, I won the championship and the grand that came along with it and now I really need your advice...so should I blow the money on a new TV or should I invest it to fund my future fantasy endeavours?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:06 PM)

Great to hear, Champ! How about ... both! A little here, a little there.

Brian from NEED HELP USA

Would you start Schaub over Cutler this weekend? Thanks

Brendan Roberts

  (3:07 PM)

Schaub really showed some resiliency last week, but I still like Cutler more vs. BUF than I do Schaub at Oakland. I foresee a lot of Steve Slaton in that game.

$1000?!

Invest in the stock market - everything's on sale!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:07 PM)

True, Good point, but will it go even lower? Thank God for fantasy football, huh?

Adam (Chicago)

Romo or Pennington this weekend for the 'ship?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:08 PM)

Yeah, I'm twisting and turning on Romo against BALT, a very tough call. But I stick with him given how he looked Sunday and the receivers he has. Plus, I think the Dolphins will run 45-plus times against KC on Sunday.

Damien (Bronx)

Just won by .17 points to get to the championship game. Bess or LenDale in my flex spot? ppr league. Going for the 3 peat.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:09 PM)

LenDale, mostly because he's assured of more touches. Even though it's against Pittsburgh. I think the Titans use a little more of LenDale this week (a little like last week), and he'll get his work. He's proven an every-week start for you given his TDs.

Bob (Arizona)

Hey---thoughts on Gore playing this weekend???

Brendan Roberts

  (3:10 PM)

It's not looking good, Bob. There hasn't been much news coming out of San Fran, other than Gore himself saying he's not sure he's going to be well enough. That's a complete turn from last week, and it might indicate a lot of doubt. I don't see him playing, were I to guess right now.

ESPN PROJECTIONS

Why do I have Farve projected 4th over Thiggy or Eli? Also my projections of Portis and Westbrook are so close who would you start?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:12 PM)

Oh, you know we love us some Favre! But I could see this one, Seattle can be thrown on, not sold yet on Thiggy, and Eli plays the Panthers in a game that Brandon Jacobs might be back. I like Westbrook more.

Bill, Boston

Brendan, love your advice, made it to 3 championship games. Can you pick two for this weekend: Marion Barber, Steve Slaton, Derrick Ward, Jonathon Stewart, and Darren McFadden. It is a PPR league. Thanks a ton

Brendan Roberts

  (3:13 PM)

I'd throw Marion Barber out. It sounds like Choice again will get a majority of the work Sunday, and it's against the Ravens. I'd go with Slaton and McFadden. Yes, McFadden. He could do a lot of damage in less work than those other backs, who all have tough matchups.

Jim (NYC)

What to do with Marion Barber? I can start Barber, Choice, or Housh at flex.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:15 PM)

Yes, kinda addressed that just now, but will expound. The Cowboys came out this week and said Choice will definitely be part of the backfield rotation. I don't know how y'all felt, but watching that game Sunday, I felt like Choice was the better "driver" of the team's offense this week, that Barber just didn't look himself. Granted, he was playing sparingly, but I think that continues, and that team kind of "saves" Barber for the fourth quarter when he's needed most. Seeing as they play Baltimore, I really wouldn't expect to play him in fantasy.

Rob (Memphis)

Since Gore may not play, should I sit Addai and wait on Foster, and if so, who do I start at flex: Benson @ Cle, McClain @ Dal, Foster @ Stl, or Ward vs. Car?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:16 PM)

Hmm, I think I like Addai more the rest of those guys.

David (NOLA)

How do you have Slaton, D. Williams, and Sjax ranked this week? I need to start two (non ppr). Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:17 PM)

I'm not sure how we'll rank 'em, but I'd guess Slaton and D.Williams would be higher. Good news out of STL is that Steven Jackson reportedly doesn't have a concussion, but I still think the first two guys have way more upside. They're studs, in fact.

Haden (Memphis)

Despite losing Brady, I am in the championship. Would you start Houston or New Orleans DST over Tampa? I hate to bail on the Bucs now, but I want to win all the money.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:18 PM)

Winning all the money is good, and congrats on the "enormity of your success." (Name that movie!) Hmm, it's tempting, but I'd probably stick with the Bucs at home. They should at least get you some turnovers, even if Brooks doesn't play.

Bob (OH)

With Pat Williams out, does Ryan's value go up since Turner should have an easier time running the ball?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:20 PM)

Turner's value definitely upticks, but Ryan's value already is up because the Vikes aren't good in the secondary. Then again, they're also hot, and they're at home. I wouldn't expect more than an above-average or even average fantasy day from Ryan.

Ben (studio City, CA)

I'm in the championship and a big 'dog. Let's just say Kevin Smith is one of my RB's. So I need to squeeze every point possible. Which D do I start? Baltimor (@Dal) or TB (home v. SD). Thanks.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:20 PM)

I'd go with Baltimore.

Derrick (FL)

Hey Brendan! I have an good "problem" this week and wondered your thoughts on how you rank these guys in a PPR league...Jennings, A. Johnson, Colston, Marshall, T. Jones, and Slaton? Thanks

Brendan Roberts

  (3:21 PM)

Slaton, Thomas Jones, Marshall, Jennings, A.Johnson (looks like Nnamdi might draw coverage), then Colston. All pretty close, though.

brian (de)

I rode Rhodes last week to make the championship but now with Addai back, do I play Rhodes or Addai or pick up either McClain, Morris or K. Smith off waivers as my third back?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:22 PM)

Yes, it looks like they'll both split time, which hurts both of their values. I like Sammy Morris better.

Joe

Lord of the Rings.... Balt D (vs DAL) or Tenn D (vs PIT)?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:23 PM)

Hmm, not the movie I was thinking of (but not necessarily incorrect). I'd stick with the Ravens. Tony is sure to give them the ball once or twice.

JP ( TX)

Ocean's Thirteen!!!!! Will Cooley and Scheffler carry me through these last two weeks? Should I pick up Boss, Davis or Stevens?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:24 PM)

Bingo! Scheffler won't carry you, but I think Cooley should be able to get you more than those other guys.

Kyle (PA)

I bet I am the only team in the championship who started the year with Brady, Bush and Parker! Thank you DeAngelo Williams, Antonio Bryant and the Philly Defense! For the finals, Parker or Lendale White? Ryan or Big Ben or Orton at QB?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:25 PM)

Wow, great job, Kyle. I'd have to say Parker (against a depleted Titans DL) over LenDale, and Ryan -- yes, Ryan -- at QB. That's what my gut says anyway.

i defeat the real champion!! (name that flick...)

Do I throw Benson in the lineup instead of Dunn this week? Championship game, gotta make it happen!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:26 PM)

Boy, what to do with Ced ... ya know, yes you do. The Browns have bagged it, and Benson is getting a ton of work. Why not? Dunn is splitting carries.

Matt (Savannah, GA)

Funny. I backed into the playoffs with a 6-7 record. Now I'm in the superbowl. I sat all of my Steelers last week; Big Ben, FWP, Moore, Holmes. I had no intention of playing them this week but now two of the best defensive players are out for TEN. I'm not going to play Holmes b/c I have better options at WR (welker, Bowe, Vincent Jackson). But what about Big Ben over Chad, or FWP or Moore over Kevin Smith? How much does Kyle and Albert being out affect their value?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:28 PM)

I still like Kevin Smith against NO a little more than the Steelers backs, but I do like Big Ben a little more than Pennington. I think the Steelers, simply put, will score more points, and they tend to like to pass in the red zone rather than run. I don't think Ben is going to have huge day, but I think he'll be solid for such an important game.

Oceans 13 (South Dakota)

I have both Addai and Rhodes. Would you start either of them over Slaton, Lynch, or T. Jones? Thanks.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:29 PM)

Nah, I'd stay away from the Colts' RBs if you can avoid it, and you can.

Joe (Chicago)

Hard to believe I'm typing this, but if Gore doesn't go, would you use Foster over D. Rhodes, assuming Addai plays?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:30 PM)

Ah, oh, ee, ugh ... yes, I would. Not a fan of Foster, but just don't know what the Colts will do with their backs.

James, Ca

I was knocked out of the semi-finals due to a state correction, I lose by .5 of a point... What round do you see Slaton being drafted in next years drafts?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:31 PM)

Tough break, James. Early, maybe late-first or early-second round.

Ben (Boston)

Got through by the skin of my teeth this week. Do you think Lee Evans finds himself this week? Or do I let Benson take his role on the squad??

Brendan Roberts

  (3:31 PM)

Find himself. Nice term. I'd go with Benson. As I said earlier, benson is getting a lot of work, and the Browns have darned near bagged it.

Fraggle Rock

Best from the Trash Heap: Kevin Smith, Cedric Benson, Caddy, or D.Foster? I'm dropping Rhodes or D.Ward.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:32 PM)

Todd Heap? Kidding. That's a pretty good trash heap. I'd pick up and start Smith, and drop Ward (if Jacobs returns).

Derek, Manhattan

Do I dare play Schaub over Warner for the championship?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:33 PM)

Nope, I'd stick with the 38-year-old gunslinger who got you there. It'd be Warner for me.

Mike, Indy

Given that you like Farve, which one do you start, coles or Keller, PPR (but TE get 1.5 PPR). Thanks..........

Brendan Roberts

  (3:33 PM)

Yeah, I guess I like Favre (more we than me), and I don't like Coles. And I love Keller ... Keller, I'd say.

Trying to pick between Garrard, E. Manning, or S. Hill at QB. Ma

Trying to pick between Garrard, E. Manning, or S. Hill at QB. Manning seems like the safe pick, but I like Hill vs. StL. Also, Slaton is my #1 RB, but trying to pick between Addai, K.Smith, or L.Johnson. Thoughts?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:36 PM)

Yeah, Manning is safer, but I think the Giants will run A LOT, especially if the weather is bad. And I like what Hill can do; with Gore out possibly again, he'll throw a ton in STL. Hill! At RB, I still like LJ. Getting a lot of work, and I'm not afraid of MIA.

Danny (Erie, PA)

Are you trying to suggest Jacobs gets most of the snaps if he starts? He doesn't have knees!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:37 PM)

He has 'em; they just might not be 100 percent. That's what I'm hearing from NYC, the last time reading in the Star-Ledger. With the Giants having such a big game in fighting for home-field advantage, they're saying Jacobs comes back and gets a lot of work this week. I don't necessarily like him, but I truly could see it happening.

Tom (NJ)

Brandon, my man, I'm in between Finals right now and I need some fantasy advice to calm the nerves... If gore is out, would you consider playing Foster over LT or Portis? I know its crazy, but I am about to ride Pierre Thomas and Foster into the finals with LT and Portis watching from the bench. Also, Romo or Schaub? Cowboys Def or Titans Def?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:39 PM)

Nah, I'd stick with LT and Portis, fo sho. But go with your gut, my man. At the other spots, I give the edge to Schaub, and the Cowboys. (Flacco looks like he's hit the rookie wall ... his passes certainly seem off the mark.)

Will (STL)

Brendan, thanks for all the advice this year and helping me make it to the finals. Would you bench TO for Bowe this week (1/2 ppr)? I'm starting the Baltimore D and like to avoid conflicts of interest whenever possible. Other starters at WR are Roddy and Welker. Thanks again, man.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:39 PM)

I think you got to go with the best man at each spot, and even with BALT D starting, I still like TO over Bowe any day of the week. Good luck, and you're welcome!

OK, Danny Ocean...

Two questions: #1 - What does Romo performing well against a Giants poor road defense have anything to do with how he'll perform against the Ravens? Two different defensive schemes. And #2 - Why do you think Pittsburgh scores points against a Haynesworth-less Titans' D? The Steelers are ranked in the bottom 10 offensively, and the Titans have suitable backups. Give me some analysis to these gut feelings!!!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:43 PM)

I am Danny Boy! I'd hardly call the Giants defense "poor" on the road. Maybe not dominant, but in no way are they poor. They really get after the passer, and I saw a nimble and confident Romo. I just think it carries over, and I don't think the Ravens and Giants' schemes are really all that different in their base. And 2) I think PIT's low ranking is a bit deceiving. They've faced a lot of great defenses, especially recently, and were missing Willie Parker at times ... I'm not saying they're going to put up 35 points on TEN, but they're certainly not scoring 10 either. I just think Tenn's D is vulnerable, and the Steelers will move the ball into scoring position more often.

Mike (Cleveland)

What movie was that line from? I just can't seem to get myself to start Addai in the finals. I can see him getting me 5pts. I'm like everyone else, I want to roll the dice on Foster. Also, Cassel or Schaub? Hines or Santana?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:44 PM)

Oceans 13 (said to Willie Bank). Yeah, I don't like Addai this week either. Sounds bizarre, but I'd take Foster, too. And I like Cassel a lot this week, probably even if there's bad weather in NE. Gimme Cassel.

jon (alberta)

what can we expect from ronnie 'timeshare' brown against a KC defense?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:45 PM)

I think we can expect a lot of work, and plenty of success against the league's 30th-ranked run defense. Start him if you can.

Owen (Atlanta)

Hey Brendan, I could definitely use your advice. Chris Johnson against TN, or Kevin Smith against NO? Also would you go Berrian or Branch at WR3? This is for the championship so I'm trying not to get too cute here.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:46 PM)

I don't necessarily like Johnson against PIT, but I still think he just has too much "inflammability" to sit versus Smith. I'd stick with Johnson. At WR, I'd go with Berrian. Good luck, Owen!

Not using the term "too cute" in my question...or did I just use

Colts D or Pit D??? A Johnson / B Marshall / R Moss (Pick 2) Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:48 PM)

Yes you did, Brett. Yes you did. (Another movie quote!) Pitt D, and Moss and Marshall.

Gabe (San Diego, CA)

Brendan, I'm posting for the forty billionth time today...what do you think? Sit one: Hixon, BEss, DeSean Jackson (non PPR). Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:49 PM)

I'd probably say Hixon.

Brendan Clev OH

Cmon man we got the same name cant we get some first name nepitisim goin or somthin answer mine! lol i dropped FWP for Kevin Smith already have (AP,P.Thomas,W.Dunn,& SJAX) you think that was a smart move or not? and what about droppin Dunn for C.Williams im starting AP & Thomas this week but AP's at NY for my bowl game next week (if i make it)

Brendan Roberts

  (3:50 PM)

You got it (even though you could be lying!). Yeah, smart move. But I'd keep Dunn over Cadillac.

Brandon(NC)

I really need the $1k. My oldest is in college and my youngest is in diapers and 2 in between..... Pick 2 LT, Lynch,T.Jones,Kevin Smith.....Pick 3 H.Ward, A.Gonzo, T.Gonzo, R.Wayne, D.Keller,D.Bess ...and pick 1 Cards D or NO D..thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:51 PM)

Wow, go for it, man. LT, Thomas Jones. T.Gonz, Wayne, Ward. New Orleans D.

Fred (FL)

Pulp Fiction.... Samuel Jackson! Housh or Foster at flex?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:52 PM)

Bingo again! Foster.

Copy...paste...copy...paste....

Since so many Warner comparisons have come up, what about Hill vs. Warner? Who would YOU use, especially if the weather takes a bad turn in New England?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:52 PM)

I'd stick with Warner. Like I said, maybe proven top 10 option over him, but I don't think Hill is that yet.

Andy Bernard (Scranton, PA)

Housh Branch or Braylon this week in a PPR??? THANKS BRENDAN!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:54 PM)

Braylon. Maybe he still has some "magic" left from Monday night ... oh wait, he's facing the Bengals.

Gregg (Memphis)

Will Forte have any setbacks this week from the toe injury he had during the Saints game or should he be good to go? Thanks BR, you are the man!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:55 PM)

I think he'll be good to go. He did take it easy in practice, which originally raised a red flag to me, but the Bears just said they were playing it safe with him. I think he's fine!

Tom Brady (Foxborough)

What's your opinion of Cassel this week?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:56 PM)

I really like him against ARI. That Cards defense has looked vulnerable, and they've lost Clark Haggans and another D-linemen (name escapes me right now) in the past few weeks. I'd take Cassel and Co. at home. Wouldn't it be great if that game is a shootout?

Alex (Collegeville, PA)

Brandan, planning on starting Jennings and Calvin. Should I pick up Bryant and start him ahead of one of these two?

Brendan Roberts

  (3:56 PM)

Nah, I think you're good with those two, Alex.

Rick (Orlando, FL):

Long time listener, first-time caller. What's your flex pick between Jacobs (knee), Foster (if Gore is out and against porous run defense), Berrian, or Bowe? Thanks, I'll hang up and listen.

Brendan Roberts

  (3:58 PM)

Thanks for your call! Hmm, if I hear late in the week that Jacobs will get his full workload, then Jacobs. But not expecting that to be the case, I'd go ahead and starter Foster. Yeah, did I just type that?

Brendan Clev OH

Wasnt lying, noticed everytime someone spelled your name wrong cuz it happens to me ALL THE TIME!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:58 PM)

Yes, I've been called Brandon in my life more than Brendan. OK, two more questions.

Ryan (MD)

Hey, Brendan. Which two will carry me to fantasy football glory: MJD, TJones, Lynch, and Pierre? Thanks!

Brendan Roberts

  (3:59 PM)

TJones and Lynch.

Greg (Alex, VA)

In the finals, need flex help. I've got AP (MIN), Slaton (HOU), M.Turner (ATL), R.Brown (MIA), A.Johnson (HOU), G.Jennings, R.White (ATL). Which one SITS???

Brendan Roberts

  (3:59 PM)

Nice team! Boy, I'd have to sit Andre Johnson among that group. It's crazy good. OK, time for one more.

Will (STL)

Pardon the cliche, but do I start the horse that brought me (Matt Ryan) in the championship or take a chance on a recent waiver wire pick up (Chad Pennington)? Thanks.

Brendan Roberts

  (4:00 PM)

Bet you didn't expect that horse to be your horse, probably more like the cart. Anyway, I stick with Ryan.

Brendan Roberts

  (4:01 PM)

OK, guys, another great week of questions. Again I can tell you guys know what you're doing -- really making me think! Thanks again for stopping by, and good luck in Week 16. May there be a big payday in your future!