I took a few last minute requests for Week 11 and most of those. If you have any other late dilemmas please tweet us at @TFG_NFL and we’ll give our best advice.

Good luck!

Ameer Abdullah at Chicago: Abdullah has scored in each of the past two weeks and is getting more chances to flash his speed. He’s also getting more short yardage touches. The Bears are friendly to opposing running backs, allowing eight TDs on the ground. While Abdullah lacks the elite power or shiftiness to be a real force, he should at least benefit this week from the possible absence of stud LB Danny Trevathan. 7

Rex Burkhead vs. Raiders: With Mike Gillislie a healthy scratch last week the tide has shifted back to featuring Burkhead and Dion Lewis who split carries last week. By all accounts Belichick loves Burkhead though I’m nervous to dive in (Burk) head first until he’s the clear leader in carries or consistently used in the air. The Raiders are allowing 117 yard/game to running backs, however, so expect Burkhead to earn a few points at minimum.  5

Corey Clement at Dallas: Clement is clearly a red zone specialist with all five of his scores coming in the promised land. The more intriguing stat that should both wow and terrify fantasy owners is that Clement only has 8 red zone touches all year. His value is likely a bit inflated after last week’s three-touchdown bonanza. 4

Brandin Cooks vs. Oakland: Cooks owners should be encouraged by his season-high 11 targets last week, even if it was likely due to Chris Hogan’s absence. With Hogan out again in Week 11 owners should feel comfortable riding Cooks as a WR3 against the Raiders who are 22^nd in passing defense. 5

Jamison Crowder at New Orleans: Crowder hit double digit targets last week for the first time this season and is poised to be Washington’s leading wideout again in the absence of Jordan Reed and Terrelle Pryor. The Saints’ secondary is stingy, though a little less so in the slot. Still it’s hard to get overly excited about Crowder when he was yet to score this season. 5

Alfred Morris vs. Philadelphia: In his first attempt at the filling for a suspended Ezekiel Elliott Morris looked like he was running in molasses. Slow, not shifty. With Cowboys LT Tyron Smith out again, and the Eagles only allowed 66.4 rush yards per game (by far the league’s best), forget about it. 3

Thomas Rawls vs. Atlanta: Eddie Lacy’s injury has left Rawls as Seattle’s lead back but he’s done absolutely nothing with the opportunity. After last week’s 10 carry, 27 yard stinker it’s hard to see Rawls getting a big increase in touches. 3

Rod Smith vs. Philadelphia: Like Morris, it’s hard to see Smith getting traction on the ground against such a stingy defense. Unlike Morris, Smith is a real threat in the air and PPRers could benefit from Smith receiving a slew of quick hit passes. Still I think 10-11 points is Smith’s absolute ceiling. 4

Matthew Stafford at Chicago: Stafford has been a fantasy owner’s dream the past four weeks putting up either 300 yards and/or three touchdowns. That streak is in jeopardy Sunday as the Bears have held all starting QBs not named Aaron Rodgers or Matt Ryan to under 15 points. In Detroit’s two games last season the Bears secondary held Stafford to one touchdown and four interceptions with much of the same personnel. 6

Robert Woods at Minnesota: The Vikings have a notoriously tough secondary – though they did give up 37.6 points to the Washington WRs last week. No matter the opponent, Woods is coming off of back-to-back games with two scores and is a must start. 9

The post Week 11 Startability Index: Fantasy Start-Sit Advice As Requested By Readers appeared first on The Football Girl.

QUARTERBACKS

Jay Cutler (vs. Tennessee): 4

The only reason Cutler is even this high is because the Titans have allowed a whopping 11 passing touchdowns. Let’s be real, though, Cutler should only be owned in 14-team 2 QB leagues. He’s had two lousy back-to-back games and his first as a Dolphin wasn’t exactly fantasy gold either. Cutler’s only positive is that he has yet to throw a muti-INT game as a Dolphin. As Bears fans well know, that day will come soon and you don’t want to be starting him when it does.

Ben Roethlisberger (vs. Jacksonville): 5

That Big Ben is not even owned in 4 of my five fantasy leagues is a bit surprising given his WR corps. But also telling. At this point, he’s a middle of the pack fantasy play with a ceiling of appx 250 yards and 2 TDs. When Roethlisberger starts exceeding those benchmarks regularly he should be considered a strong QB2/streaming option. But for now he’s not mandatory, especially against a Jags defense that has allowed the fewest points to opposing QBs.

Alex Smith (at Houston): 7

After Smith’s Week 1 bonanza (368 yards, 4 TDs), he has come back to down to Earth a bit yet still is second behind only Tom Brady for total fantasy points. Tough matchup against the Texans, and Smith’s numbers may be lower than his average 8.8 yards per attempt. But the Texans are fiercer shutting down opposing running game than passing attacks, and even so Smith can rack up yards on the ground (as evidenced by his 56 yards and touchdown last week). The Chiefs love to involve Smith’s legs in the red zone, and all over the field.

RUNNING BACKS

Derrick Henry (at Miami): 5 if Mariota out

Whether ot not Marcus Mariota (hamstring) can play Sunday will go a long way into determining Henry’s value. If Matt Cassel is under center the Titans will need tor rely heavily on DeMarco Murray and Henry. The split between the two backs has been mostly even, with Murray seems a few more snaps. Unless one of them really explodes, Mike Mularkey seems content to keep them in tandem, which is devaluing. But both could be in more productive days if Mariota’s out, assuming the Titans are not getting blown out like last week.

Eddie Lacy (at LA Rams): 5

Lacy, on the heels of a modest 52 yards last week, should play plenty of snaps given Chris Carson’s leg fracture. But remember it was Carson, not Lacy, who established himself as the team’s lead back which should be an indicator of Lacy’s overall value. He’s likely to split carries with Thomas Rawls and could very well play a change of pace role. But given that the Rams are allowing the most fantasy points to opposing RBs, Lacy may be worth the risk as a low end RB2 or flex.

MORE TFG FANTASY: PAT FITZMAURICE’s WEEK 5 PLAYER RANKINGS

Ty Montgomery (at Dallas): 3

 With Montgomery missing practice Thursday with multiple broken ribs, there is an increasingly likelihood he will miss this game. If Monty does play, it would have to be limited, and even if he is active he is in a major fantasy slump the past two weeks.

Jonathan Stewart (vs. Lions): 4

The good news for JStew owners if you know what you’re getting. Double digit touches. 40-65 yards. The slim possibility of a touchdown. Not remotely a threat in the air. The issue lies in the existence of Christian McCaffrey. While McCaffrey hasn’t exactly been Kareem Hunt in the early season, its only a matter of time that Stewrat’s workload gets further reduced as the reins are handed over.

WIDE RECEIVERS

Michael Crabtree (vs. Baltimore): 5

Crabtree has been looking sharp at practice in his return from injury. But this game features the massive unknown of whether the Raiders can have any semblance of an aerial attack with EJ Manuel under center. Crabtree will likely be targeted but we have less confidence in Manuel’s ability to read his stem routes.

Will Fuller V (vs. Kansas City): 7

Fuller had a mesmerizing return from a broken collarbone last week, catching 4 of 6 targets, two of them for TDs. His chemistry with Deshaun Watson is apparent and should only build. With Marcus Peters likely smothering DeAndre Hopkins, Fuller is poised for many looks in this one.

T.Y. Hilton (vs. San Francisco): 7

After an explosive Week 3, Hilton was quiet last week with only 30 yards on 3 catches. The good news is he’s been targeted at least 6 times a game. The better news is the opponent. 49ers CB Rashard Robinson has been getting annihilated by speedy opposing WRs.

Cooper Kupp (vs. Seattle): 6

Take away the Week 3 clunker vs. San Francisco and Kupp has been relatively consistent in the early season:  5-7 targets, an average of about 50 yards, a touchdown every other game. Those numbers likely won’t increase against a Seahawks secondary that can still stuff opposing receivers. But I did have a lot of faith in Kupp generally benefitting from Jared Goff and Sean McVay’s dynamic offense.

MORE TFG: WOMEN KEEP EXCELLING IN NFL CIRCLES DESPITE RIDICULE

TIGHT ENDS

Charles Clay (at Cincinnati): 8

Clay is in a smattering of TEs performing well on a regular basis – in three of four games he either has 100 receiving yards or a touchdown. Tyrod Taylor loves looking for his hefty tight end in the red zone and the Bills should be drawing up more plays accordingly.

Hunter Henry (at New York Giants): 7

Henry is a high risk, high reward play. The Giants have allowed the most fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends, including at least a touchdown per week. On the other hand, Henry splits opportunities with Antonio Gates and has been held without a catch in two games. But the Chargers want to get him more looks and this is the perfect game to do so.

If you have a player for which you’d like a Startability score, please tweet me @thefootballgirl.

The post Week 5 Fantasy Football Startability Index: Which Borderline Players Are Worth Starting? appeared first on The Football Girl.

But all along, and while still playing in a minimum of five leagues, I’ve yearned to dip my toe back in the fantasy world for a variety of reasons. Film nerds  may disagree but analyzing players from a fantasy perspective is paramount to prepping for the week’s games. Also, I really like winning money. So please give a warm welcome to the return of The Startability Index.

Here’s how it works:

So I’m a bit confused this week. Larry Fitzgerald coming off a resurgent week or Emmanuel Sanders against a weak Raiders secondary? Both players may be recommended to start but which one should garner the most confidence for owners? That’s where the Startability Index comes into play. We rate players from 1-10  based on how strongly we believe you should start or sit them that week. 10 mean unquestionably start, while 1 means under no circumstance. Most of the players we cover are from reader requests and typically in the tweener category, although one this week is a definite 10. Fort he record, we give Sanders an 8 and Fitz a 7. Let’s go more in depth on some of your requests this week.   

RUNNING BACKS

Javorious Allen (vs. Pittsburgh): 5 in standard leagues, 6 in PPR

My full opinion on Allen is still forming, though I highly respect him going by two names. Like the rest of the Ravens, Allen’s trip to London was a disaster but with 13 touches, including 5 catches he clearly is an integral part of the offense. Allen should continue to be the top option with Danny Woodhead out. The Steelers gave up 140 yards and two scores to Jordan Howard last week but held Dalvin Cook and Isaiah Crowell in check in the opening two weeks. Fun, somewhat related fact: the Ravens have scored at least 20 points in all games against the Steelers since 2013.

Ameer Abdullah (at Minnesota): 3

Let’s see, the Vikings front have allowed the fifth least amount of rushing yards this year, and Abdullah in 14 NFL starts has yet to top 100 yards on the ground. Hopefully you have a more promising option.

Frank Gore (at Seattle): 6

As a 34-year running back, Gore is a medical miracle. He continues to be the lead option in Indy, as evidenced by 25 carries last week. However, Gore’s 3.0 yards per carry are his lowest in recent years but he remains a top red zone option with 2 TDs. Even without the production he’s a solid start against the woeful Sehawks run defense that has been torched the past two weeks.

WIDE RECEIVERS

Stefon Diggs (vs. Detroit): 10

Multiple people requested Diggs be included on this list, which is quite frankly surprising. Diggs is the top fantasy recever going right now by a healthy chunk and had his most explosive week (182 yards, 2 TDs) last Sunday with Case Keenum under center. Lions CB Darius Slay will be a tough matchup but there’s no reason to believe any player can stop Diggs at the moment.

Sterling Shepard (at Tampa Bay): 7

The Bucs have the NFL’s worst secondary and thus have surrended the most fantasy points to opposing WRs. With the Giants’ lack of a running game and Bucs’ focus on Odell Beckham Jr., there is a strong likelihood that Shepard is in for double digit targets like last week.

Dez Bryant (vs. Los Angeles): 9

Like Diggs, obviously you are starting Bryant. But should you expect better times ahead than last week’s meager 2 catch performance? Overall the Rams have held opposing WRs in check (they are 4^th best in this regard) but not the “x” receiver. Pierre Garcon torched Trumaine Johnson and the Rams for 142 yards last week. There is no reason Bryant’s can’t match or improve on tht number.

Amari Cooper (at Denver): 5

Cooper, who leads the league in drop,s has been one of the most frustrating players of the early season. He was only targeted 5 times in both Week 2 and Week 3. Even when Cooper’s hands were more reliable, he never topped 60 yards against the stout Broncos secondary. Cooper is fine as a WR3 at this point but until he performs like his old self you may want to consider other options if you have them.

Pierre Garcon (at Arizona): 6

Garcon comes off a monster 142-yard receiving day, and should be in line for another biggie. He is clearly the #1 option on an offense that is starting to maximize its potential (which isn’t crazy high due to Brian Hoyer but good enough for Garcon owners). Arizona has allowed the fifth most fantasy points to opposing WRs, including 5 touchdowns. Garcon’s high targets (25 on the year) are encouraging but he needs to get into the end zone.

QUARTERBACKS

Carson Wentz (at Chargers): 5

The potential for an epic performance always seems to be within Wentz’s grasp but he still makes too many frustratingly bad throws. The season-ending injury to Darren Sproles (torn ACL and broken arm on same play) could negatively impact the short passing game – Sproles had 12 targets in the first two weeks. Wentz already had a lowly 7.0 yards per pass and comes off a weak 176-yard, one touchdown performance against the Giants. The Chargers are a slightly more favorable opponent with CB Jason Verrett out but sack leader Melvin Ingram could present huge issues for Wentz. Owners should consider other available options like Alex Smith or Trevor Siemian.

Kirk Cousins (vs. Kansas City): 6

Cousins finally broke out last week with three touchdowns and 365 yards against the Raiders. He is finding other relaible options as his chemistry with Terrelle Pryor has yet to develop. But even without Eric Berry the Chiefs have one of the best secondaries in football and have held two of the three QBs they’ve faced this season to zero passing touchdowns.

TIGHT ENDS

Ryan Griffin (vs. Tennessee): 6

With C.J. Fiedorowicz on IR due to a concussion, Griffin shined last week pulling in 5 of 6 targets for 61 yards and a score. Deshaun Watson and the Texans offense is certainly on the rise, and there’s every reason to believe Griffin will be part of it, especially since there are only two tight ends on the active roster. The Titans present a friendly matchup, too, as they have surrendered 13 points/game to opposing tight ends

If if you want a Startability score, please reach out of Twitter or tune into my Facebook Live Sunday at noon ET on The Football Girl page. 

The post Week 4 Startability Index: Start ’em, Sit ’em Fantasy Confidence Meter appeared first on The Football Girl.

Let’s get right to Week 5’s Startability Index. Al players (and defensive teams) listed are either reader requests or those I perceive as bubble options. As always, use the comment section for further Staratability requests or any form of fantasy questions.

Just a reminder: Washington, Pittsburgh, Minnesota and Tampa are all on byes.

Quarterbacks

Jay Cutler vs. New Orleans (6-): Despite his worst actual game of the season, last week proved to be Cutler’s finest fantasy performance. (Thank goodness for garbage time!). Still, the Saints defense is going to be in is face all afternoon and Bears fans know what that means: Bad decisions. Bad throws into coverage.

Brian Hoyer at Cleveland (7): Hoyer is averaging 300 yards and 2.5 touchdowns in two starts. The Bills have allowed back-to-back 300-yard games by Joe Flacco and Geno Smith. Sign me up!

Cam Newton at Arizona (8+): As a Top 10 fantasy quarterback, Newton has already solidified himself as a no. 1 option for most owners.  He has a nice opportunity for a big week–The Cards have allowed opposing quarterbacks to throw 266 passing yards per game.

Alex Smith at Tennessee (6+): Smith is never going to be Peyton Manning but he remains a steady option who will never blow up a la Jay Cutler. The Titans present a tough matchup but I’d still expect the usual 250 yards/ 2 TD performance out of Smith.

Running Backs

Chris Johnson vs. Kansas City (5+): Johnson disappointed owners last week with 21 yards on 15 carries. With Jake Locker out, the Titans will rely on Johnson even more than usual. Unfortunately the Chiefs have not surrounded more to 55 yards to any running back not named LeSean McCoy.

Ray Rice at Miami (6+): The good news is John Harbaugh said Ray Rice would be featured more starting this week. And the team backed that up by trading for Jags LT Eugene Monroe. Then there’s the part where you play the actual game. Miami is a Top 10 defense and it’s hard to believe Rice will bust out just because Harbaugh says so. Still, he remains an elite talent who, if everyone is telling he truth, could actually have a nice day.

Daryl Richardson vs., Jacksonville (3+): The opponent doesn’t really matter here. Richardson has looked like a dud all season, rushing for just 2.7 yards per carry. There have been little signs of explosiveness. Look elsewhere if you can.

Trent Richardson vs. Seattle (5): While Richardson’s yardage numbers have been ho-hum; he has scored in each of the last two games. Seattle, however, has only allowed two rushing touchdowns on the season.  This one could go either way.

Danny Woodhead at Oakland (6-): Woodhead busted out with two scores last week. Even without them he remains a solid options with all-purpose production generally in the 70-90 yard range.

Wide Receivers

Justin Blackmon at St. Louis (4+): Blackmon is such a talent but I hate the notion of starting him on his first week back from suspension– too many ifs and you have to rely on some accuracy from Blaine Gabbert. Also, the Rams run defense is terrible but the pass defense hasn’t allowed a 100-yard receiver in the last couple of games. Bottom line: Jacksonville is averaging 7.75 points a game. Hard to see where Blackmon’s points will come from.

Denarius Moore vs. San Diego (6): Terrelle Pryor is back and that’s good news for Moore owners. Both of Moore’s touchdowns on the season came via Pryor, and his presence alone makes Oakland’s offense more dynamic. Meanwhile, San Diego is near the bottom of the league in passing defense, yielding 312 passing yards per game.

Hakeem Nicks vs. Philadelphia (5+): After two games that garnered a total of 33 yards. Nicks isn’t inspiring a lot of confidence at the moment. But he does have a nice matchup against the Eagles who have surrounded nine touchdowns to receivers this year.

Steve Smith at Arizona (5-): Despite an adequate number of targets, Smith isn’t bringing it this year. No games with over 52 yards and only one touchdown. Things won’t get easier Sunday when Patrick Peterson is a little too close for comfort.

Mike Wallace vs. Baltimore (4): At some point you can only sustain a couple of 22-yard performances before you show your “star” receiver the bench. That time has come for Wallace; the targets, 5-8 a game, are there but the conversions are not.

Tight Ends

Charles Clay vs. Baltimore (8): Clay, who most fans had not heard of two months ago, is currently the sixth most productive fantasy tight end. He comes off a nice 6 catch, 1 TD performance. Expect similar production as Miami reboots their offense and Baltimore is tight end friendly – they have already given up two monster performances to Julius Thomas and Jordan Cameron.  Note: Clay’s SI score assumes he is filling a TE role. His number would be lower as a flex.

Vernon Davis vs. Houston (6+):  Much like last year, the 49ers offense is bipolar. Heavy usage of Davis one week. Complete focus on Gore the next. The Texans are leading he league in passing defense, and fittingly have held most opposing tight ends to minimal days. But Davis is such an exceptional athlete (in the Jimmy Graham mold) that he could overcome any secondary.

Zach Sudfeld at Cincinnati (2): Sudfeld has quickly gone from Studfeld to Dudfeld. Last week the once promising fantasy tight end only played eight snaps. Tom Brady has found other options, rendering Sudfeld useless for fantasy purposes.

Team Defenses

Atlanta Falcons vs. New York Jets (8): Geno Smith has yet to throw for more touchdowns than interceptions in any game. Need I say more?

New Orleans Saints at Chicago (7): Jay Cutler meltdowns happen frequently but typically not two weeks in a row. The Saints, while much improved, are still waiting for that first defensive touchdown.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Houston (6): This is where I have a rare disagreement with Pat Fitzmaurice who has the 49ers as no. 1 in his power rankings this week.  The Niners are giving up 109.2 rushing yards a game and have allowed a league-high six rushing touchdowns. Arian Foster comes off a 100-yard performance and with the Niners banged up and missing Aldon Smith he has a good chance to do so again.

Tennessee Titans vs. Kansas City (6+): The Titans are currently the no. 4 fantasy defense and a safe play any week at this point.  But the Chiefs have only coughed up three turnovers on the season and are leading the league in turnover ratio with +7. Still, this has all the making of a low scoring game that will help owners with a points allowed threshold.

The post Fantasy Football: Week 5 Startability Index appeared first on The Football Girl.

Onto the reason you’re here – advice. As always, the players listed are mostly reader requests with a few additional tweener guys I believe should be addressed.  The higher the Startability number, the more confident you can be about starting him.

Quarterbacks

Robert Griffin III at Dallas (8-): Outside of Week 4, RGIII has been a 300+ yard passer every week this season. Dallas’s defense has allowed 14 passing touchdowns. Take away Peyton Manning and Dallas has still allowed 10 touchdowns.

Colin Kaepernick vs. Arizona (4): Kap put up 412 passing yards in Week 1. His second-highest passing total  since is 167 yards. Back away until he gets something going, and that includes his legs.

Cam Newton at Minnesota (6+): Comes off a terrible three-pick game. Steve Smith can’t catch he ball anymore. But Minnesota’s feeble pass defense (ranked no. 26) should help Newton’s numbers this week.

Alex Smith vs. Oakland (5): The Raiders allowed Philip Rivers to throw for 411 yards last Sunday night, but that has no impact on Smith who will continue with his usual 225-275 passing yards and perhaps a touchdown or two.

Running Backs 

Le’Veon Bell at New York Jets (5): Bell’s debut was quite productive, and his legs offer one of the few paths back to respectability for Pittsburgh. The Jets front can be bruising but they did allow Jacquizz Rodgers a couple of scores on Monday Night. This one, however, has the makings of a boring, low-scoring game.

Gio Bernard at Buffalo (5+): The good news is Buffalo is allowing opposing running backs an average of 108.8 yards per game. The bad news is Bernard still splits carries with BenJarvus Green-Ellis. Also, Buffalo has only allowed a single rushing touchdown.

Eddie Lacy at Baltimore (6-): Lacy had a nice return from his concussion with 99 yards on 23 carries. Baltimore will pose a bigger challenge – they are only allowing 86 yards to opposing running backs and one touchdown on the season.

Knowshon Moreno vs. Jacksonville (8+): Moreno has scored in each of his last two games and is overall playing at a high level.  Oh, and Jacksonville is dead last in rushing defense, surrendering 160 yards and almost five yards a carry to opposing running backs.

Bilal Powell vs. Pittsburgh (6+) Powell didn’t exactly light the fantasy word on fire last week but he did establish himself as the featured Jets back. This week that means carrying the load against a once-mighty Steelers defensive front that ranks 26th with 6 TDs and 122 yards a game allowed to opposing rushers.

Zac Stacy at Houston (6): Stacy has little track record – one start for 78 yards. But he is a starting running back in the league and the Texans have allowed four rushing touchdowns.

Wide Receivers

Keenan Allen vs. Indianapolis (6-): The Chargers boast a high flying offense and Allen is their “it” guy. His progression into the offense – 6 receptions last week – should cause you to consider a start.

Danny Amendola vs. New Orleans (4): Looked uncomfortable in his first game back from the groin injury. Would like to see improved timing and chemistry with Brady before proceeding. Also, New Orleans’ pass defense is swarming, only allowing six touchdowns on the season.

Justin Blackmon at Denver (8): If Blackmon can put up 136 yards and a TD in a game for which the Jags were marginally competitive, imagine what he can do with at least two quarters of garbage time?

Anquan Boldin vs. Arizona (6): Boldin’s former team will surely bring heavy coverage, just as every defense does considering the Niners don’t have a legitimate no. 2 receiver.  Arizona boasts one of the top rushing defenses in the league so the Niners will have to get something going in the air. Their only viable options for doing so are Vernon Davis and Boldin.

Josh Gordon vs. Detroit (8): Gordon has been productive in all three games he’s played this season. Look for a reception total closer to 10 a la Week 3 versus 4 a la the past two weeks.

T.Y. Hilton at San Diego (7): Hard not be excited about a guy coming off a 2 TD, 145 yard performance. With Reggie Wayne drawing ample attention there is no reason to believe that Hilton’s involvement in the offense won’t continue to increase.

Tight Ends

Jermichael Finley at Baltimore (4+): Finley is once again a fantasy disappointment. With just 163 yards on the season, he is currently ranked #16 among tight ends. Until his numbers improve, look elsewhere.

Garrett Graham vs. St. Louis (7): Graham was already rather productive with Owen Daniels in the lineup – he’s scored three times this season With Daniels out, Graham becomes a TE1 especially since Matt Schaub will look to recalibrate through short, high-percentage passes.

Sean McGrath vs. Oakland (6): After six targets last week and a score the week before, McGrath has emerged as a viable target for Alex Smith. Plus, who doesn’t want their tight end sporting a beard of awesomeness?

The post Fantasy Football: Week 6 Startability Index appeared first on The Football Girl.

As always the Startability Index focuses on players at the margins, the ones who will generally be the difference between victory and defeat.  Most players listed come from reader requests (so gets yours in next week via Twitter or Facebook). Others are additional players that seem to be Week 8’s biggest conundrum causers.

Quarterbacks

Colin Kaepernick at Jacksonville (5): Maybe you’ve turn to Kaepernick as a bye/injury replacement. Don’t expect much. Kap has thrown for under 200 yards in five games this season, yet has suddenly reverted back into a read option machine. But given the increasingly fragile state of the quarterback position I wouldn’t be surprised if Jim Harbaugh reins him in, especially against the Jags.

Geno Smith at Cincinnati (4+): Not a huge fan of Geno this week on the road. He’ll likely be pressured all game and make a few mistakes, something his typical Mendoza Line passing yardage total won’t compensate for.

Ryan Tannehill vs. New England (5+): Tannehill has games all over the map this season but typically he’s about a 1-2 touchdown, 250 yards, 1 interception guy. Look for the same Sunday.

Running Backs

Le’Veon Bell at Oakland (7): Bell has seen a slight increase in carries and last week rewarded his team with 93 yards. Look for that trend to continue – the Steelers know they need to keep Bell on all cylinders to compete.

Chris Ivory at Cincinnati (6-): Coming off 34 carries last week Ivory should get the majority of work against the Bengals. As Rex Ryan said, Ivory is the man with the hot hand which probably means another quiet day for Bilal Powell. Ivory is ranked as such because the Bengals boast a Top 10 run defense and have only allowed three touchdowns on the ground this season.

Mike James vs. Carolina (5): James is a starting running back in the NFL, so there’s that. So was Doug Martin who did very little prior to his injury. James could be a surprise as he’s a complete unknown but will have a tough first test against the Panthers who have significantly improved their run defense.

Jacquizz Rodgers at Arizona (5+): Rodgers has four touchdowns in his last two games, although with few supporting points in the yardage department. (Of course PPRers were quite pleased with his eight receptions last week). But Arizona has only allowed three rushing touchdowns on the season. Perhaps Rodgers can snag a score via the air but I wouldn’t expect an explosive day.

Zac Stacy vs. Seattle (5): Stacy is a reasonable all-purpose option, probably good for 50-70 yards on the ground and 20-40 in the air. His load may increase Sunday with Kellen Clemens under center but could be offset by a Seahawks front that has allowed exactly one 100-yard rusher on the season. (Arian Foster with 102) 

Wide Receivers

Justin Blackmon vs. San Francisco (7): The Niners secondary had been rather fierce, except these last two weeks when they’ve allowed an opposing receiver to finish with at least 98 yards. Blackmon is over 100 yards in two of three games and has generally looked like a stud. And there is a minor chance that the Jags will be playing catch up in this one.

Josh Gordon at Kansas City (5+): For the most part Gordon has been studly since his return from suspension. But with Jason Campbell under the helm, presumably not confortable throwing into tight windows, it could be a quiet day for Gordon.

Hakeem Nicks vs. Philadelphia (5-): Hicks did muster 142 yards in New York’s Week 5 tilt against the Eagles. But since then he has fallen behind Rueben Randle via a series of drops and poor play. Even Tom Coughlin has called him out.

Austin Pettis vs. Seattle (3): Pettis hasn’t scored or put up over 17 yards since Week 5. And Kellen Clemens versus Seattle’s secondary isn’t changing that,

Cecil Shorts vs. San Francisco (5): Shorts’ shoulder should not be an issue Sunday but the presence of Blackmon is. Shorts does come off a career-high eight reception game but hasn’t have a 100-yard performance since Week 3

Jerome Simpson vs. Green Bay (6-): Lucky for Simpson owners, Josh Freeman’s “concussion” paves the way for Christian Ponder, who did find Simpson for 140 yards earlier this season.  Ponder will hand the ball off to AP plenty but he’s also trying to prove his worth in the air which should be to Simpson’s benefit.

Kenbrell Thompkins vs. Miami (4):  Sure, Thompkins was a hero two weeks ago but he’s also only garnered 16 yards in two of the last three games. Just too much of a risk.

Terrance Williams at Detroit (7+):  Williams has scored in three straight. He’s the beneficiary of extreme coverage on Dez Bryant, but has also made some fabulous catches to garner Tony Romo’s confidence. Hard to envision Detroit’s 28^th ranked pass defense slowing him down.

Tight Ends

Jordan Cameron at Kansas City (6): Through multiple quarterbacks Cameron has been a model of consistency, averaging about 6 catches and 70 yards. New Browns “starter” Jason Campbell is a question mark, although logic would lead you to conclude Cameron will be negatively affected.

Charles Clay at New England (7): Clay has scored in each of last three games and has a good chance to make it four-in-a-row Sunday.  He is clearly a red zone favorite of Tannehill’s

Jermaine Gresham vs. New York Jets (5): Gresham has weeks with decent targets and yardage totals but owners anxiously await that elusive first touchdown on the season.

The post Fantasy Football: Week 8 Startability Index appeared first on The Football Girl.

As always, players listed are a combination of reader requests and others I believe should be discussed as possible starters or those to avoid for Week 9.

Running Backs 

Gio Bernard vs. Miami  (5): Bernard certainly has a nice matchup – the Dolphins have allowed seven touchdowns over the last four games. But splitting carries with BenJarvus Green-Elis has rendered Bernard a bit of a fantasy waste these days.

Fred Jackson vs. Kansas City (6+): With C.J. Spiller sidelined with the ankle injury, Jackson is carrying the load for the Bills. While not a yardage monger, Jackson has scored in six of his last seven games.

Steven Jackson at Carolina (4): Jackson returned from injury last week and did absolutely nothing. Now he faces the second-best run defense in football, a unit that has allowed only two rushing touchdowns this season. Just don’t see a lot of carries for Jackson in this one.

Bilal Powell vs. New Orleans (3): Powell’s yard per carry average has been less than 2.0 the past two weeks. That was against tough opponents in Cincinnati and New England. New Orleans is tougher.

Ray Rice at Cleveland (5-):  Outside of Week 5 when he logged 74 yards, Ray Rice has no more than 45 rushing yards in any game this season.  That includes a 13 carry, 36-yard performance against the Browns in Week 2.

Trent Richardson at Houston (5+) Man, Richardson is due for a breakout performance and could have one against a surprisingly susceptible Texans run defense. More than likely, though, he’ll end up in the 40-60 yard zone, with a chance or two at a score.

Wide Receivers

Keenan Allen at Washington (8): Despite a bit of a drop off game prior to the bye, Allen has established himself as a legitimate, every week performer.  He is a must start guy at this point, a receiver you can count on for 5+ reception and 70+ yards. And he has a fabulous matchup against Washington’s poor pass defense.

Julian Edelman vs. Pittsburgh (4-): Sorry owners Edelman, but his five minutes of fantasy fame are over thanks to the return of Danny Amendola.  Don’t believe me? Edelman had two catches for seven yards last week. Time to cut bait.

Vincent Jackson at Seattle (7+):  Jackson has been more productive since Mike Glennon took over under center. With 331 yards and 4 touchdowns over his past three games, and a healthy dose of targets, Jackson is a legitimate WR1. He is only getting knocked a point or so for facing Seattle on the road.

Stevie Johnson vs. Kansas City (6+): The Chiefs have allowed between 80-120 yards to their opponents’ top receiver the past three weeks. Johnson comes off a 7 reception, 72 yard, 1 TD performance against the Saints. I’d expect the same type of numbers this week.

Marvin Jones at Miami (9): Outside of Calvin Johnson, there is not a hotter receiver in the game than Jones Yes, you start a guy coming off four scores – and six in his last three games.

Austin Pettis vs. Tennessee (2): I don’t care who the Rams are playing – you want no part of a Kellen Clemens-quarterbacked receiving corps.

Quarterbacks

Robert Griffin III vs. San Diego (5): Griffin remains the most unpredictable quarterback out there. Two weeks ago against Chicago he put up almost 300 yards, 2 touchdowns and a 104.0 quarterback rating. Last week against Denver: 132 yards passing, 1 TD, 2 INTs and a 45.4 quarterback rating.

Terrelle Pryor vs. Philadelphia (6+): The upside with Pryor is obviously there, but he could also put up 88 passing yards like he last week, get tackled earlier instead of pounding out 93 yards and a touchdown, and have a bust of a fantasy week.  Pryor does have a favorable matchup against the Eagles so is probably the worth the risk if you don’t have a more reliable option.

Alex Smith at Buffalo (6-): This is a toughie. Every quarterback that has faced Buffalo except for Brandon Weeden and Ryan Tannehill has been at or above 300 passing yards.  Alex Smith rarely throws for more than 250 yards, though. With Thad Lewis starting for Buffalo, this has the feel of a very conservative effort from Kansas City’s standpoint. But Smith could easily eek out a touchdown or two, especially given that the Bills have surrendered 20 via the air this season.

Tight Ends

Martellus Bennett at Green Bay (6-): Bennett had only one catch during Week 7’s loss at Washington, but it was in the end zone. The drop from Jay Cutler to Josh McCown is big talent-wise but Bennett should keep getting a few targets a game since Marc Trestman’s offense is much more system-based.

Jermaine Gresham at Miami (4): The presence of Tyler Eifert has really diminished Gresham’s value. Despite scoring his first touchdown of the season last week, Gresham remains too risky to rely on.

Jordan Reed vs. San Diego (6): The Chargers are a tough matchup but Reed is playing at a high level right now. He is RGIII’s number two target after Pierre Garcon and has the numbers to prove it – 224 yards on 17 catches in his last two games.

The post Fantasy Football: Week 9 Startability Index appeared first on The Football Girl.

Best of luck and hope to “see” all of you back here next week!

RUNNING BACKS

Gio Bernard at Baltimore (6): Bernard has been spectacular of late, rushing for 79 yards and two touchdowns on just NINE carries last week. You would think an increase of carries would be on the horizon but according to offensive coordinator Jay Gruden, it is not.

Andre Brown vs. Oakland (4): Love Brown’s talent but he hasn’t played in a football game in some time.  No running back has amassed 100 yards rushing against the Raiders this season. I’m generally weary about starting any running back in his first game after a serious injury.

Arian Foster at Arizona (3): Given Foster’s absence from practice this week, there is little reason to believe he will carry a full workload of he even plays at all.  Please have a backup plan in place.

Rashad Jennings at New York Giants (5-): Love what Jennings did last week in McFadden’s absence (176 all-purpose yards and a touchdown). But I don’t have faith we’ll see a repeat performance Sunday. It’s going to be cold in New York and the Giants have held almost every opposing running back in check.

Lamar Miller at Tampa Bay (6+): Miller comes off stellar back-to-back performances, with a nice increase in carries to boot. Would like to see more separation from Daniel Thomas but Miller is headed that direction. Tampa has allowed opposing rushers to gain at least 100 rushing yards in two of their last four games.

Trent Richardson vs. St Louis (4): To say the Richardson trade has not worked in Indy’s favor would be an understatement. The good news is they aren’t giving up and incorporating other looks as some teams might have done by this point. TRich has the talent to break out at any time but until he does it’s hard to watch him struggle on a weekly basis.

C.J. Spiller at Pittsburgh (7): Spiller had four few carries in his return game than Fred Jackson but dominated with 9.7 yards per carry and 116 rushing yards. Spiller is officially off the injury list and should be aided by E.J. Manuel’s return Sunday.

Pierre Thomas vs. Dallas  (4+): New Orleans is just not a running team and even in high scoring games Thomas is lucky to get 12-15 carries. First and goal on the three? It’s Jimmy Graham time, not Thomas time.

WIDE RECEIVERS 

Riley Cooper at Green Bay (6+): In any other circumstance I may be skeptical of Cooper, wondering if he’s an anomaly. But aside from his monster three-score game last week, Cooper has games of 88 and 120 yards in recent weeks. Green Bay should not strike much fear.

Harry Douglas vs. Seattle (7): Douglas has consistently put up solid fantasy numbers since assuming a starting role three weeks ago. Roddy White’s return this action should actually help defense.  Beware: Seattle’s pass defense is second in the league in yards allowed.

Larry Fitzgerald vs. Houston (5+): Fitz has scored twice in his last three games but has only totaled 65 yards in his last two – with only six receptions to boot! Houston remains the top pass defense in football, and it’s fairly obvious who they’ll be looking to hold in check.

Lance Moore vs. Dallas (5-): Moore’s value is almost directly tied to the status of Marques Colston. As of this publishing, Colston had returned to practice and was questionable for Sunday night. This game may be a shootout but be warned: the Cowboys have only allowed one touchdown to a receiver in their last four games.

Rueben Randle vs. Oakland (6): Four touchdowns over his last five games but a big disappearance prior to the bye. The Giants offense is so unpredictable and you get the feeling they could return to being a powerhouse at a moment’s notice. Let the Raiders’ awful secondary (and penchant for giving up big plays) guide you on Randle this week.

Torrey Smith vs. Cincinnati (6): Welcome to Baltimore, also known as the field goal fiesta. The Bengals boast an elite secondary but have allowed seven plays of 40 yards or more on the season. Perhaps Smith racks up some numbers that way.

Terrance Williams at New Orleans (5): Williams came back to Earth last week with a pedestrian 33 yards on just two catches. The Saints haven’t allowed a monster game from an opposing receiver since Alshon Jeffery’s 200-yard performance in Week 5. However, with rumors of a bulging disk in Dez Bryant’s back Williams could be in line for enhanced targets.  

QUARTERBACKS

Jake Locker vs. Jacksonville (5+): Despite being the loser in several blowouts, the Jags have not allowed a ton of fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. And quite frankly, Locker didn’t look very good against the Rams last week. Maybe he’s good for one passing touchdown and/or one rushing touchdown in this game but I wouldn’t expect much more.

Ben Roethlisberger vs. Buffalo (7+): Big Ben has put up big numbers in recent weeks, capped off by 400 yards and 4 touchdowns last week at New England.  Buffalo has allowed 20 passing touchdowns, one behind the league high.

Matt Ryan vs. Seattle (5): Seven interceptions in two games – yikes. This is clearly a different team without Julio Jones. Roddy White returns this week but that doesn’t exactly put the fear factor into the Seahawks. And it shouldn’t elevate your expectations for Ryan.

TIGHT ENDS

Coby Fleener vs. St Louis (6-): Fleener can be relied upon for about 4-8 targets per game. But what he does with them is a different story. Tight ends are averaging just 38.7 receiving yards against the Rams

Greg Olsen at San Francisco (7): Olsen comes off back-to-back games with a score. With San Francisco continuing to tinker with their secondary (Nnamdi Asomugha out, Eric Wright out), Olsen could easily snag a touchdown in this one.

Tim Wright vs. Miami (7): Hate judging a player almost entirely on what he has done lately. But Wright’s back-to-back scores are encouraging, as are his 13 targets over the same period. You see a chemistry brewing Wright and Mike Glennon.

The post Fantasy Football: Week 10 Startability Index appeared first on The Football Girl.

Onto Week 11 where the pressure is mounting.  I received more player requests this week than ever before, so thank you – and let’s get right to it!

Note: Normally we only spotlight tweener players, those who are not obvious to start or sit, but since many of you are in playoff push mode and need to decide between two starting-caliber players, we’re relaxing the rules a bit.

QUARTERBACKS

Tom Brady at Carolina (5): According to official SU rules, Brady can never be under a (5) but this is not a pretty matchup. The Panthers have held every opponent since Week 4 to under 15 points and DPOY candidate Luke Kuechly is sure to be in Brady’s face all day.

Colin Kaepernick at New Orleans (3): Forget the Saints stifling defense for a moment or the fact that Michael Crabtree may return, Kap is a fantasy wasteland. Over his last eight games, Kap has only eclipsed the 200-yard mark once. As fantasy quarterbacks go, he is no. 17, one slot behind Alex Smith. Need I continue?

Philip Rivers at Miami (6+): After a strong start Rivers has tapered off a bit. However, he has found a nice groove with several receivers (Gates, Allen, Brown, Royal, Woodhead) and Miami doesn’t have firepower to handle that many options.

Ben Roethlisberger vs. Detroit (7): For such a formidable front, the Lions have allowed big quarterback days – even Brandon Weeden threw for 292 yards.  Don’t expect Big Bento put up the 25 fantasy points he did in Week 9 but he should improve on the 7 points he scored last week.

RUNNING BACKS

Le’Veon Bell vs. Detroit (7+): Bell has seem a nice progression in carries over the past three weeks – 13-to-16-to-22.  Expect that to continue Sunday.

Gio Bernard vs. Cleveland (6+): Bernard comes off two lovely fantasy days. And while the Browns are a top run defense they’ve still allowed nine rushing touchdowns. Bernard seems to have a knack for finding the end zone.

Chris Ivory at Buffalo (5): Despite giving up ample yardage, the Bills have only allowed three rushing touchdowns on the season.  You would think Ivory would get the bulk of carries Sunday but after he busted out with 34 carries and 104 yards in Week 7, he only touched the ball six times the following week.

Which Ivory will we see Sunday?

Chris Johnson vs. Indianapolis (6): Ever the inconsistent one, look for Johnson to have a nice game against a defense allowing 126 yards per game on the ground.

Knowshon Moreno vs. Kansas City (5+): Outside of C.J. Spiller’s 116 rushing yards, the Chiefs have held opposing running backs in check. Moreno has a comfortable 13-17 carries a game but it’s probably not enough to ultimately bring a big number on the week – especially with Peyton chasing records.

Darren Sproles vs. San Francisco (7): Aw, everyone’s favorite wide receiver guised as a running back.  Sproles has a nice history against the 49ers. He torched them in the 2011 divisional game and last year, a down year, managed to garner 65 receiving yards on 7 receptions. Now that Sean Payton has returned, Sproles is being used properly, and San Francisco’s defense is not as potent as in previous seasons.

WIDE RECEIVERS 

Keenan Allen at Miami (6+): Don’t be too concerned with Allen’s down week last Sunday. He has been integrated into this offense for too many weeks now. And even in that down week, Allen was still targeted five times.

Jarrett Boykin at New York Giants (5+): Boykin managed 112 yards on eight catches last week but I still can’t get behind anyone catching balls thrown from Scott Tolzien – especially on the road.

Antonio Brown vs. Detroit (7): Brown has re-emerged as Ben Roethlisberger’s favorite target. Detroit allowed both Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery to garner 100 yards last week. Brown’s number would be higher if the Steelers had a more explosive offense.

Josh Gordon at Cincinnati (6-): Gordon looked great coming off the suspension but has been inconsistent since.  He could always bust out but coming off a 3 catch, 44-yard performance I’d use caution.

Percy Harvin vs. Minnesota (6): Harvin and his hip are finally ready for action. While typically not a fan of relying on a newly returning player, Minnesota’s pass defense has been dismal. Harvin has extra incentive playing his former team, and he gets to do so at home.

TIGHT ENDS

Jordan Cameron at Cincinnati (6): Cameron had his first zero of the season against Baltimore.  But he’s been such a stalwart of this offense it’s hard to envision a repeat performance.

Tony Gonzalez at Tampa Bay (5): As of this publishing Gonzalez has missed two straight days of practice following a toe injury he sustained Sunday against the Seahawks. The Falcons are remaining mum of Gonzalez’s status so stay tuned for any updates and have a backup plan in place.

Tim Wright vs. Atlanta (5-): Wright disappeared last week, and despite the two recent touchdowns, his breadth of work is not long enough to earn complete confidence.

DEFENSES

Panthers Defense (7): The Panthers has coalesced in recent weeks, holding opponents to a maximum of fifteen points since Week 4. Brady may crack that nut or this may be another game where we ponder whether we’ve reached the beginning of the end for Brady. Better chance of the later.

San Francisco Defense (5): San Francisco’s defense just isn’t the same as 2012, and certainly not 2011.  As the season has worn on they have allowed more yards and touchdowns per week.  Not as if Drew Brees likes to put up big numbers or anything.

The post Fantasy Football: Week 11 Startability Index appeared first on The Football Girl.

But we have our comfort — soul mates in the form of our best possible fantasy starting lineups. As usual, the Startability Index is chockfull of players you are tinkering with starting. I know this because most of the guys listed came from reader requests. I grade them on a scale of 1-10, providing at a least a sliver of analysis and you use the information accordingly. Pretty simple.

QUARTERBACKS

Robert Griffin III vs. San Francisco (7): The Niners boast one of the league’s top secondaries but are known to give up the big play here and there. This is where Griffin excels. At home in the relative cold, look for a decent game out of Mr. Third.

Colin Kaepernick at Washington (4): Since Week 1 Kaepernick has thrown for over 200 yards just once. Washington is supposed to help opposing quarterbacks revive their fantasy careers but until Kaepernick shows confidence in the pocket I’d be skeptical.

Ben Roethlisberger at Cleveland (6): The Browns have yet to allow a 300-yard passer this season. Will Big Ben be the first? Probably not, but he could certainly sneak in a touchdown or two for a respectable fantasy day.

Ryan Tannehill vs. Carolina (4): Not sure if you’ve heard but Carolina’s front is ferocious and Ryan Tannehill is known to take the occasional sack. This could be a very ugly game for the young Dolphin’s QB.

RUNNING BACKS

Andre Brown vs. Cowboys (7+): Brown hasn’t been flashy but he’s put up respectable fantasy numbers the past two weeks and will likely continue in Week 12. Dallas is one of the league’s worst team’s against he run, yielding 127 yards a game.

Zac Stacy vs. Chicago (8): The Bears have allowed an opposing RB to gain at least 95 yards in every game since Week 6.

Ben Tate vs. Jacksonville (8):  Jacksonville is the worst rushing defense in football. Most opposing running backs, especially those with 15-20 carries a game, have a shot at a great fantasy day.

Shane Vereen vs. Denver (5+): Vereen is obviously more viable in PPR leagues. Denver has a tough front, but not an impossible one to penetrate. Look for a nice combo of screens and other passes to Vereen in this one.

DeAngelo Williams at Miami (6-): Williams did little on Monday night and isn’t the fantasy workhorse owners would like. But with Miami yielding 122 rushing yards per game, Williams has a good shot at a decent fantasy week.

WIDE RECEIVERS

Tavon Austin vs. Chicago (8): Austin doesn’t boast consistent numbers but wow, this is a nice matchup. With Charles Tillman on IR and the Bears’ inexperienced middle, there will plenty of opportunities for Austin to shine in this one.

Anquan Boldin at Washington (5+): Despite a quarterback in Colin Kaepernick who rarely tops the 200-yard passing mark, Boldin could easily sneak in a touchdown or two against a weak Redskins secondary. Outside of  Seahawks’ games, the 49ers usually perform on the big stage.

Jarrett Boykin vs. Minnesota (7-): Boykin is thriving in the Scott Tolzien Era, especially for PPRers. There is no reason he can’t continue his 8-10 reception, 90-100 yards pace in this one.

Josh Gordon vs. Pittsburgh (7): Gordon has thrived in recent weeks. As long as his targets remain high, which they will, look for another game bordering on a 100 yards and a score.

Cecil Shorts at Houston (6+): Chad Henne vows to get Shorts more target sand there’s no reason to believe he’s lying. Still, it’s hard to go into the 7+ range when Shorts only has four receptions over his last two games.

Wes Welker at New England (8): Welker still must be cleared by an independent neurologist but he did return to practice, a good sign he’ll play. (UPDATE: Welker has been cleared to play.) Peyton Manning will do what it takes to win this one but if he can incorporate Welker more than normal and rub some salt in the Patriots’ wounds, you bet he will.

TIGHT ENDS

Jordan Cameron vs. Pittsburgh (5): So many requests for Cameron this week.  The reality is he’s the odd man out with Jason Campbell under center. Until that changes, and it might this week, proceed with caution.

Vernon Davis at Washington (5+): Davis’s numbers are so inconsistent but he is one of the few reliable targets for Kaepernick . Davis is from the DC area and will be clamoring for more action than usual in this one.

Garrett Graham vs. Jacksonville (7+): Graham comes off a 136-yard performance in Week 11 and now faces a Jacksonville team which yields 70 yards to opposing tight ends. I like Graham’s chances for a nice encore.

The post Fantasy Football: Week 12 Startability Index appeared first on The Football Girl.