Kansas City Chiefs @ Cincinnati Bengals

Keith:  Cincinatti - TJ is lucky that he already doesn’t have to walk to work since they could easily lose this game.

Howard:  Kansas City - two terrible teams, one of ‘em has to win

Oakland Raiders @ Tampa Bay Bucaneers

Keith: Tampa Bay -  They have something to play for.

Howard:  Tampa Bay - In a must win for the Bucs, the D shows Jamarcus Russell he still has a long way to go.  Howard’s Lock of the Week

Cleveland Browns @ Pittsburgh Steelers

Keith:  Pittsburgh -  They could rest half their starters and still win this game 21-0.

Howard:  Pittsburgh - I mean, come on.  The Browns are down to their 4th QB

New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills

Keith: New England -  Man those Bills fell apart.

Howard:  New England - Regretfully

St. Louis Rams @ Atlanta Falcons

Keith: Atlanta - Rams suck.  Keith’s Lock of the Week.

Howard:  St. Louis - Because Daddy needs a big Rams win.

Chicago Bears @ Houston Texans

Keith: Houston -  The Bears’ pass defense is very overrated.

Howard:  Houston - Taking my business to the firm of Schaub, Slaton & Johnson

Tennessee Titans @ Indianapolis Colts

Keith:  Indianapolis -  I’m still not to sure that the Titans will be able to win a big game on the road.

Howard:  Indianapolis - Neither can improve their playoff seeding so I’ll take the home team.

New York Giants @ Minnesota Vikings

Keith: NY Giants - Bastards.

Howard:  NY Giants - If Coughlin wants a W, the team will give it to him. 

Carolina Panthers @ New Orleans Saints

Keith: Carolina - A very good team.

Howard:  Carolina - Panthers want the division and the bye week

Detroit Lions @ Green Bay Packers

Keith:  Green Bay -  We thought that Detroit would pull it off last week.  Nope, they really are awful.

Howard:  Green Bay - It’s hard to go 0-16, but the Lions find a way to do it.

Seattle Seahawks @ Arizona Cardinals

Keith: Arizona -  Not a layup though.

Howard:  Arizona - Cards need a statement game before headed into the playoffs.

Dallas Cowboys @ Philadelphia Eagles

Keith:  Dallas -  One more guys.

Howard:  Dallas - Eagles should be eliminated from playoffs after the early games.

Miami Dolphins @ New York Jets

Keith:  Miami - You just know that Howard will pick the Jets here.

Howard:  NY Jets - Because I’m a sucker.

Washington Redskins @ San Francisco 49ers

Keith:  Washington -  The 49ers are just not that good.

Howard:  San Francisco - Singletary loses “interim” tag, team celebrates with win..

Jacksonville Jaguars @ Baltimore Ravens

Keith: Baltimore -  Jacksonville just doesn’t have the offense to score against this D.

Howard:  Jaguars - Because I have false hope that the Jets may actually make the playoffs.

Denver Broncos @ San Diego Chargers

Keith:  San Diego - Will salvage their season with a big win over hit or miss Broncos.

Howard:  San Diego - Just playing much better football right now

Last Week:

Keith:  7-9

Howard:  7-9

Overall:

Keith:  139-84-1

Howard:  142-81-1

Lock of the Week:

Keith:  10-5

Howard:  12-2-1

The last round up, huh? Time to ride off into the sunset....after I read this.

Well folks, this is it.  The final round up of the season. 

“But Howard, there’s still another week of football left.”

Yes, that is true, but let’s face facts.  This is a site that is supposed to be centered around fantasy sports and in almost every league (every league with a commish who has atleast half a brain), the playoffs are over.  The champs have been crowned.  Too often, NFL teams that have clinched playoff spots rest their starters thus rendering some fantasy powerhouses punchless at this time of year.  Fantasy seasons are usually done by week 16 if not sooner.  So, without further delay, lets talk about who helped you win it all or who pulled the rug out from under you.  It’s round up time…

Week 16 Studs

Remember when you were getting ready to sell your Colts off back in week 4?  The turnaround has been fantastic for fantasy owners and those that drafted Peyton Manning (364 yards, 3 TD), Reggie Wayne (108,1) and Dallas Clark (105,1) and trudged through with them all year are probably wearing the fantasy crown today.

The losing side of that Colts/Jags game also gave a few fantasy highlights as David Garrard may have thrown a pick but his 329 yards with a TD definitely overshadowed it.  Also, if you were smart enough to pick up (and start) Dennis Northcutt, his 101 yards and a score could have been a nice little dagger into your opponents heart.

We knew the Ravens/Cowboys game was destined to put up some fantasy points in the air, but I don’t think anyone saw the LeRon McClain/Willis McGahee train coming through.  247 combined yards on the ground with 2 TDs….mostly on 2 plays.  And another nod to Tashard Choice.  He’s been more than adequate as a replacement for Marion Barber.

No f—in around for Phillip Rivers and Antonio Gates come playoff time.  Rivers 287 yards with 4 TDs was just what the fantasy doc ordered, and while Gates didn’t have too much in the yardage department, his TD catches more than made up for it.

If you’re looking for a second half fantasy MVP, how about Antonio Bryant?  Jeez!  His 127 yards with a TD on Sunday gives  him 5 100+ yard games since week 7 and 5 TD in his last 4 games.

While Big Ben had himself a nice fantasy day, it was Hines Ward and Justin Gage that stole the fantasy honors from this game.  Both put up just over 100 yards and each had a TD grab.

Sure Steven Jackson rushed for 108 yards, but no TD puts him in the same category as all the other Niners and Rams you didn’t start…booooooorrrrrrring!!!

Who is this Tom Brady you speak of?  The Pats certainly took care of business, but who woul dhave thought, in that weather, Matt Cassel would put up 345 yards with 3 TDs?  Special nod to all the other Pats who helped your fantasy day, like Randy Moss and Wes Welker.  Sure LaMont Jordan had a great game with 2 TDs but I seriously doubt anyone had him in this week.

Let’s give it up to Larry Fitzgerald’s garbage time 78 yard bomb!!!  It didn’t do anything for the game, but it gave Larry and his owners yet another 100+ yard game with a score. 

Another solid fantasy performance from Chad Pennington (making us Jets fans cringe even more) as he throws for 3 TDs and 235 yards against the hapless Chiefs.  Bonus for Anthony Fasano owners that started him as two of the TD grabs were his.

Retro night for K.C. as Larry Johnson cracked the 100+ yard barrier for just the third time this year.

I guess Drew Brees caught last week’s article as he peed on RotoBuzz’ stats analysis with his 351 yards and 2 TDs.  He definitely got help from the running game, but still managed to hit 9 different receivers, including former BFF Marques Colston for 99 yards and 2 TDs.

While the rest of the Lions sucked it (see the Duds section), Kevin Smith made a case for himself as he rushed for 111 yards and, for the second week in a row, found the endzone.

I should probably put Cedric Benson’s name here since he rushed for 171 yards, but he didn’t score and the whole Bengals/Browns game was a complete waste of time.  I dont even think this game mattered to anyone in Ohio.

Jamarcus Russell had his best game of the year.  To bad no one started him and no one even watched it.  The game was blacked out in the Bay Area [click here].

While Brandon Marshall racked up 129 yards, it was Jay Cutler who was a “do-it-yourself” madman this week as he threw for 359 yards but ran both TDs in himself. 

He may not have rushed for over 100 yards, but Michael Turner’s TD was his 16th of the season and should be heavily considered for MVP as his work is the reason the Falcons are in the playoffs.

Was anyone paying attention when I was hyping Visanthe Shiancoe earlier this year?  136 yards and 2 TDs could have vaulted you to a championship if you had him in.  That gives him 582 yards and 7 TDs on the season and should be a top 7 TE in next year’s draft.

Think the Giants and the Panthers are showing everyone that it’s all about the run?  While DeAngelo Williams (108 yards, 4 TD) and Brandon Jacobs (87, 3) appeared to get all the glory (and fantasy points), it was Derrick Ward who came up the biggest in the yardage department as he racked up 215 on 15 carries.

And finally, Keith gets a nod here as his team Doggie Style wins the championship in our Sleep With the Phishes league.

Week 16 Duds

The playoffs are where it counts most and now LaDainian Tomlinson is failing there too.  A subpar regular season capped with a 90 yard no TD performance in week 16.  It all comes full circle, doesn’t it?

Now I know Cadillac Williams has been poaching carries, but 20 yards from Warrick Dunn?  20?  Against the Chargers?  Ugh!

So much for Willie Parker’s success in the absence of Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch.  29 yards on 18 carries?  Secretly I’m giggling because Keith came to me before the season started and offered up Brandon Jacobs ($7) for Fast Willie at $10 in our league….keeper league to boot!!

Well, it’s not like you weren’t warned by us and EVERY other site going into week 16.  Both Kurt Warner and Tim Hightower have a nice home in the “duds” category this week.

Where have you gone, Ronnie Brown?

Former favorite target, Dwayne Bowe comes up short this week.  28 yards?  Pffffft!

Not even Calvin Johnson showed up for this week as every Lion (except Kevin Smith) deserves a regular spot here as they head towards the first ever 0-16 season.

Schaub?  Slaton?  Johnson?  Texans? Anyone?

Stupid Jets.

Not a good time for Brian Westbrook to falter, because that ALWAYS brings Donovan McNabb to CrappyStats, USA.  Philly’s golden boy couldn’t get anything going against a weak little Skins team.

Solid time for Adrian Peterson to shut down, huh?  76 of the weakest, most non-helpful yards you can imagine.

And last but not least…if Steve Smith’s speed is “incendiary“, what word would you use to describe his week 16 fantasy production?  How about “Supercrappythanksfornothingdamnyoureallydouchedus“?

Enjoy the final week of football and good luck to your teams in the playoffs!

Baltimore Ravens @ Dallas Cowboys

Keith: Dallas -  Screw the Ravens

Howard:  Dallas - The passing attack still may be a bit much for the Ravens secondary. Close game though.

Miami Dolphins @ Kansas City Chiefs

Keith: Miami - The Chiefs cant compete with a team this hungry.

Howard:  Miami - A must-win for a versatile offense against the crappiest defense out there.

New Orleans Saints @ Detroit Lions

Keith: Detroit- You heard it here first.

Howard:  Detroit - And by “here” he means this site.  We’ve been talking about this one for weeks.

Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

Keith: Cincinnati - They still suck though.

Howard:  Cincinnati - There’s just no hope for the Browns these days

San Diego Chargers @ Tampa Bay Bucaneers

Keith: San Diego - Will stay classy this week.

Howard:  Tampa Bay - Defense wins this one as the Bucs attempt to stay in the race

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans

Keith: Pittsburgh - Best team in AFC.

Howard:  Pittsburgh - Big holes in the Titans D should help the Steelers gain home field.

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams

Keith: St. Louis - San Francisco without Gore is just pathetic.

Howard:  St. Louis - Ready to spoil Isaac Bruce’s return.

Arizona Cardinals @ New England Patriots

Keith: New England - Bad weather game.

Howard:  New England - Weather and experience take this one.  Howard’s Lock of the Week

Buffalo Bills @ Denver Broncos

Keith: Denver -  The Bills are my biggest letdown this season.

Howard:  Denver - A win clinches the division

New York Jets @ Seattle Seahawks

Keith: NY Jets -  They will finish strong.  Keith’s Lock of the Week.

Howard:  NY Jets - Because if they don’t I’m taking a dozen rotten eggs to throw at Weeb Ewbank Hall

Houston Texans @ Oakland Raiders

Keith: Houston -  Too much O.

Howard:  Houston - Raiders are actually worse than the Browns still.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins

Keith:  Philadelphia - I hope I’m wrong.

Howard:  Philadelphia - Skins are biggest letdown since the Bills.

Atlanta Falcons @ Minnesota Vikings

Keith: Atlanta - Vikings will choke this away.

Howard:  Atlanta - Even with Turner neutralized, the Falcons should come out on top.

Carolina Panthers @ New York Giants

Keith: Carolina - NY is not as bad as they looked last week, but Panthers are playing better right now.

Howard:  NY Giants - Big Blue’s run D and the welcomed return of Brandon Jacobs allows me to give them the nod.

Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

Keith: Chicago - Packers borderline suck.

Howard:  Chicago - If the Vikings lose, the Bears come out even stronger.

Last Week:

Keith:  12-4

Howard:  8-8

Overall:

Keith:  132-75-1

Howard:  135-72-1

Lock of the Week:

Keith:  10-4

Howard:  11-2-1

Saturday

Baltimore Ravens @ Dallas Cowboys

This game couldn’t be coming at a worse timefor both of these teams.  Dallas needs to run the table in order to maintain their playoff hopes, and with yesterday’s Colts win and the state of the AFC East, the Ravens need to as well.  With the Ravens ranking 3rd in both rushing and passing D and Dallas ranking 7th in each, this should prove to be a great game to watch.  Fantasy merits?  I don’t see any of the RBs having that strong a game, so the winner should be decided in the air.  The Good:  Tony Romo, Terrell Owens, Jason Witten, Joey Flacco, Derrick Mason  The OK:  LeRon McClain, Todd Heap, Tashard Choice  The Ugly:  Marion Barber, Mark Clayton

Sunday

Miami Dolphins @ Kansas City Chiefs

Normally, walking into Arrowhead at this time of year would be tough for any team, but not so much here.  Miami is in a must-win situation while the Chiefs are just a catsatrophe.  K.C.’s offense can put some points up on the board, but their defense is a sieve.  Chad Pennington should control this one while Joey Porter holds court on D.  The Good:  Chad Pennington, Davone Bess, Ronnie Brown, Dwayne Bowe, Tony Gonzalez  The OK:  Tyler Thigpen, Larry Johnson, Ted Ginn, Jr.  The Ugly:  Ricky Williams, Anthony Fasano, Mark Bradley

New Orleans Saints @ Detroit Lions

The classic trap game.  The Saints have nothing to play for and just lost Reggie Bush (not that he was doing much anyway) for the rest of the season.  They are 1-6 on the road this season and if you look at Drew Brees’ split stats, his road numbers look awful.  If you don’t want to click and look, how about 9 TDs and 12 INTs on the road to 19 TDs and 4 INTs at home?  The numbers get worse the deeper you look.  Detroit is going to be desperate as this is their last game at home and certainly don’t want to have to go to Lambeau next week still looking for their first win.  New Orleans ranks 17th against the run, allowing almost 109 YPG while their pass defense ranks 26th (227 YPG).  This game should put some points on the board.  The Good:  Calvin Johnson, Kevin Smith, Lance Moore, Pierre Thomas  The OK:  Drew Brees, Marques Colston, Dan Orlovsky  The Ugly:  Jeremy Shockey, John Standeford

Cincinnati Bengals @ Cleveland Browns

Two evenly matched crappy teams here.  But the difference is that the Bengals have been playing with the same crap for longer while the Browns’ crap is a little more recent with Ken Dorsey taking over at QB.  Maybe consistency wins out?  Probably.  But for the sake of fantasy, you should relish in the fact that, weather permitting, you could get a good day out of your Bengals.  Your Browns, save for Jamal Lewis in this one, are still pretty useless.  The Good:  Cedric Benson, Jamal Lewis, Ryan Fitzpatrick, T.J. Houshmandzadeh  The OK:  Braylon Edwards, Chad Ocho Cinco, Chris Henry  The Ugly:  Ken Dorsey, Danell Dinkins, Donte Stallworth

San Diego Chargers @ Tampa Bay Bucaneers

I’m loving all of these must-win situations.  The Chargers need to run the table and still get some help, while the Bucs are in a playoff dogfight in the NFC and also need gto finish the season with a pair of victories.  This one’s coming down to defense, and despite their recent struggles, the Bucs are on top there.  The Chargers will probably try to exploit the 20th ranked rushing defense since Tampa’s pass D ranks 3rd, but LaDainian Tomlinson just isn’t the same.  He should do well, but he can’t carry the team on his own anymore.  Looks like Jeff Garcia should be back under center, so expect the Bucs to come out firing.  The Good:  Jeff Garcia, Antonio Bryant, Warrick Dunn, LaDainian Tomlinson, Vincent Jackson, Antonio Gates  The OK:  Phillip Rivers, Chris Chambers, Ike Hilliard, Alex Smith  The Ugly:  Joey Galloway, Malcolm Floyd

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Tennessee Titans

Game of the week?  Hell, they all feel like a game of the week!!  This one decides home field advantage throughout the playoffs, so both want the W pretty badly.  Unfortunately for the Titans, they dropped an easy one last week and are now without Albert Haynesworth and Kyle Vanden Bosch for this matchup.  It makes things a little easier for Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore and that in turn should make it easier for the Steelers passing attack.  Kerry Collins is going to have to be near perfect since his RBs are going to have another very tough game.  The Good:  Ben Roethlisberger, Hines Ward, Willie Parker, Heath Miller  The OK:  Kerry Collins, Justin Gage, Chris Johnson, Mewelde Moore  The Ugly:  LenDale White, Bo Scaife, Santonio Holmes 

San Francisco 49ers @ St. Louis Rams

While you have to be excited for this matchup for fantasy purposes, it doesn’t come at a very good time.  You want a game like this around week 5 or 6 when you can play around with a guy like Marc Bulger or Shaun Hill; not when your championship is on the line.  But if you’re a gambler, then this could be fun.  Neither defense is particularly strong and while the Niners seem to have the edge, the Rams could come up big for their hometown crowd.  Plus, it’s Isaac Bruce’s return.  Oh baby!!!  The Good:  Steven Jackson, Tory Holt, Shaun Hill, DeSean Foster (if Gore is out), Isaac Bruce  The OK:  Marc Bulger, Dane Looker, Frank Gore (if he plays), Vernon Davis, Bryant Johnson  The Ugly:  Donnie Avery, Jason Hill

Arizona Cardinals @ New England Patriots

It’s tough to think that, for championship week, you may have to think about benching some of your Cardinals.  While no one wants to head into the playoffs on a down note, the Cards have already clinched a spot and can’t do much to improve on their seeding.  Anquan Boldin is questionable and with snowy, 30 degree weather coming in New England, the teammay not want to risk anything and save it for their final game at home vs Seattle.  The Pats are in a must-win spot here in order to keep their playoff hopes alive and I have confidence in Bill Bellichek here.  The Good:  Matt Cassel, Sammy Morris, Kevin Faulk, Wes Welker, Larry Fitzgerald  The OK:  Kurt Warner, Anquan Boldin (if he plays), Steve Breaston (if Boldin sits), Randy Moss  The Ugly:  Tim Hightower, Jerheme Urban, Ben Watson

Buffalo Bills @ Denver Broncos

Here’s the interesting aspect.  If Denver wins, then they lock up their division.  But, if the Chargers lose early in the day, Denver still clinches their division but the pressure comes off a little for this contest.  A win for the Bolts might be what Broncos fans and fantasy owners are pushing for though.  The Bills are eliminated and with the exception of Trent Edwards returning, they have nothing to really get excited about.  The Broncos need to control this one and Jay Cutler needs to prove he can lead them to the promised land.  The Good:  Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall, Tony Scheffler, Lee Evans, Marshawn Lynch  The OK:  Trent Edwards, Josh Reed, Eddie Royal, P.J. Pope  The Ugly:  Tatum Bell, Selvin Young, Steve Johnson, Roscoe Parrish 

New York Jets @ Seattle Seahawks

Another team in a must-win (even though they shouldn’t be but came up with stupid losses in SF and at hom eto Denver — bitter?  um, yeah…a little) situation against a team with nothing to play for and nothing going for them.  The Seahawks have the worst passing D in the NFL so maybe this is what Brett Favre needs to head towards the playoffs.  If he gets into a rhythm, it could be a HUGE game.  Seattle ’s run D is pretty bad as well allowing an average of 119.5 YPG.  Pro-Bowler Thomas Jones will look to maintain his lead in the AFC rushing contest.  The Good:  Brett Favre, Thomas Jones, Dustin Keller, Laverneus Coles  The OK:  David Clowney (sleeper alert), Jerricho Cotchery, Leon Washington, Seneca Wallace, John Carlson, Deion Branch  The Ugly:  Chansi Stuckey, Bobby Engram, Maurice Morris

Houston Texans @ Oakland Raiders

Pride?  I don’t know.  Maybe.  For Houston that is.  The Raiders are a complete mess.  You could get some decent garbage time fantasy points from a guy or two, but there’s no one on this team that I would ever start this week.  Ever.  And I’m a huge Zach Miller fan.  This is championship week, so no screwing around.  Starting your Texans, on the other hand, is highly recommended.  The Raiders D is terrible and I even caught Ndami Asomugha getting burned by the Pats.  The Good:  Matt Schaub, Steve Slaton, Andre Johnson  The OK:  Kevin Walter, Owen Daniels  The Ugly:  Any Raider.  Seriously…even Darren McFadden.

Philadelphia Eagles @ Washington Redskins

The Iggles need a win to keep their slim hopes alive and the Skins are just spiraling out of control.  Spiraling.  I mean…losing to the Bengals?  How could you even trust any of these guys this week?  And Philly’s D is far superior to Cincy’s.  There’s also a very strong chance that Clinton Portis sits.  He was held out of practice today and will be a gametime decision.  Washington’s D is pretty solid, but with a healthy Brian Westbrook and desperation in the air, the Eagles should have a good day.  The Good:  Brian Westbrook, Donovan McNabb, Kevin Curtis  The OK:  Jason Campbell, Chris Cooley, Santana Moss, DeSean Jackson  The Ugly:  Clinton Portis/Ladell Betts

Atlanta Falcons @ Minnesota Vikings

I really can’t remember a year when so much was riding on so many games in week 16.  The Vikings may be able to lock up the division with a win here and the Falcons must win to stay alive as they are just barely on the outside looking in.  It’s also a nice feature of 2 of the league’s premier running backs.  Michael Turner should have a tough day with the league’s best run D while Adrian Peterson should find plenty of holes in the Falcons run D that allows over 120 YPG.  Neither team’s passing D is too solid, so if Tavaris Jackson can keep his momentum, this could be a fantasy point explosion.  The Good:  Adrian Peterson, Bernard Berrian, Matt Ryan, Roddy White  The OK:  Michael Turner, Tavaris Jackson, Michael Jenkins, Visanthe Shiancoe, Bobby Wade  The Ugly:  Harry Douglass, Sidney Rice

Carolina Panthers @ New York Giants

Seriously.  Just ridiculous.  If every other hot matchup wasn’t enough, how about the Sunday night game determining home field advantage for the NFC playoffs?  This should be a fantastic game.  Both in reality and fantasy.  The Giants could/should be getting a huge boost with the return of Brandon Jacobs which will definitely help re-open the passing game and take some of the pressure off of little Eli Manning.  I think the key here is the Giants D.  The Panthers have a tremendous RB tandem and the passing attack with Steve Smith is explosive (I’d use ‘incendiary’ if it wasn’t for ESPN).  Fantasy-wise, you’re going to want all your skill players involved active.  The Good:  Eli Manning, Brandon Jacobs, Domenick Hixon (someone get Clifford Franlin here some stick-um), DeAngelo Williams, Steve Smith  The OK:  Jake Delhomme, Jonathan Stewart, Mushin Muhammed, Derrick Ward, Kevin Boss  The Ugly:  Amani Toomer, Derek Hagan, Jeff King, D.J. Hackett

Green Bay Packers @ Chicago Bears

In actuality, this game only has meaning if the Vikings lose to the Falcons this week.  If not, then the Bears have nothing to play for, so you can take away that one edge they may have had.  On the other hand, they’re both great franchises and play with pride.  It’s a big rivalry, so don’t sell the game too short.    You’ll see a lot of Green Bay passing as Aaron Rodgers takes on the league’s 28th ranked passing defense while on the other side you’ll see plenty of Matt Forte battling through the league’s 26th ranked run D.  I can see a lot of points coming here as long as there’s no heavy precipitation.  The Good:  Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Donald Lee, Matt Forte  The OK:  Kyle Orton, Devin Hester, Greg Olsen, Donald Driver  The Ugly:  Ryan Grant, Rashied Davis

Indianapolis Colts @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Keith:  Indianapolis - Despite the Colts nearly blowing it against Detroit, this is a layup.

Howard:  Indianapolis - Jags can’t make it 2 in a row, especially at home.  Colts clinch playoff berth tonight.

Indianapolis Colts @ Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jags have been a huge disappontment this year, both in reality and in fantasy.  Maurice Jones-Drew hasn’t been as productive as he should have been and David Garrard has been playing virtually receiverless all season long.  With Matt Jones being suspended and Jerry Porter placed on IR, it’s looking even worse.  I don’t care if they beat the Packers last week.  It was only their second home win of the year and even though they usually play the Colts tough, I don’t see them making it 2 in a row.  The Colts will be looking to try and cinch up a wild card berth and will undoubtedly attack the Jags every which way.  But with Joseph Addai a game time decision, look Peyton Manning to command the troops through the air most of the night and avenge that early season loss.  The Good:  Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark  The OK:  Joseph Addai (if he plays), Dominic Rhodes (if Addai doesn’t), Marvin Harrison, Maurice Jones-Drew, David Garrard  The Ugly:  Anthony Gonzalez, Marcedes Lewis, any Jags WR

Bring on my round up!

Just 2 weeks left in the NFL season, but most fantasy leagues have either finished up or have their championship games this coming week.  So far Keith is still active as he moves to the championship game in our Sleep With the Phishes Football league, and I just won the championship in my nephew Ben’s All Stars League.  Another successful football season for us here at RotoBuzz.  So how’d we do it?  How are other teams dominating their leagues?  Here’s a look at some of the fantasy performance highlights from week 15…

Week 15 Studs

In an up and down year for the Saints where names like Brees and Moore usually dominate the highlights, the week 15 hero, once again, was running back Pierre Thomas.  Reggie Bush owenrs had to be flipping out as they watched the “other” running back gain 87 yards on the ground, 84 via receptions and score 2 TDs.

The Toilet Bowl highlights were dominated by the losers of the game, the Rams as Steven Jackson gains 127 all-purpose yards with a score while Tory Holt — still benched in almost every league — grabbed himself 64 yards with a TD as well.

In yet another losing effort (see — your guys don’t need to win in the real world), Marshawn Lynch outrushed the AFC leading rusher (Thomas Jones) with 127 yards against the Jets.  Another solid performance but without a TD, it comes up a little short, I’m sure.

Another efficient performance from the Fins Chad Pennington.  He may have only thrown for 152 yards, but with 2 passing TDs (one of which was for 61 yards) and no INTs, it was a very serviceable performance.

A late comeback throws the hero tag on Phillip Rivers who broke out in the 4th quarter to not only lead the Chargers to victory, but saved ton of fantasy owners with his 346 passing yards and 2 TDs.  Suddenly, the INT doesn’t matter anymore.  Special thanks to his slump-busting buddy Vincent Jackson who had another solid day with 89 yards and one of those TDs.

Tony Gonzalez, K.C.’s president of the Ponce de Leon Fan Club, continues to outshine all of the younger TEs in the league as he puts up another 64 yards and his 8th TD of the season.

The Packers may have lost, but they certainly put a new WR weapon on display as James Jones grabbed 132 yards on just 4 catches.  Too bad no one started him this week.

How ’bout them Jags???  First win at home since September as David Garrard threw for 238 yards and a pair of TDs while unheralded Dennis Northcutt grabbed 127 of those yards with one score.  Too bad no one started either of these guys either. 

Calvin Johnson continues to put up fantastic numbers as his 110 yards with a TD give him 1,165 yards and 10 TDs on the year.  Boy is he going to be a nightmare when his contract is up.

While Peyton Manning was his usual delightful self throwing for 318 yards and a TD, the real heroes of the Colts’ win were backup RB Dominic Rhodes (112 all purpose yards with 2 TD) and TE Dallas Clark (142 yards, 1 TD).

Tell me Andre Johnson doesn’t have a man-crush on Matt Schaub.  11 catches for 207 yards and a TD against the Titans.  Wow.  I wonder if Kevin Walter and Owen Daniels cry as much as the Cowboys’ locker room.

Welcome back Santana Moss.  72 yards and a TD are solid, but considering what he’s done this season, this week was like a Christmas miracle.

Antonio Bryant just amazes me this year.  108 yards and a TD in a losing effort against the Falcons.  The Bucs continue to plummet while Bryant continues to soar.

If the Falcons make the playoffs, I’m writing in Michael Turner for MVP.  His 152 yards with a TD gives him 1.421 rushing yards on the season, 15 TDs and 7 games with 100 yards or more.  Any thoughts of him only succeeding as LaDainian’s backup have long been put to rest.

So Adrian Peterson’s 165 yards are to be expected, but the stud tag in Minnesota goes to Tavaris Jackson.  Another guy no one starts but comes up big with 163 passing yards and 4…count ‘em….4 TDs.

Sure it was against the Raiders, but every skill player…and some of their backups too….on the Patriots get a nod here.  Sammy Morris, LaMont Jordan, Wes Welker, Randy Moss and Matt Cassel all had stellar fantasy days.  Special nod to Cassel who threw for 218 yards and 4 TDs in the wake of his father’s death earlier this week. 

Sure DeAngelo Williams (88 yards, 1 TD) continues to dominate for the Panthers, but the passing game is never forgotten so long as Steve Smith is out there.  165 yards and a TD were just what the fantasy doctor ordered.

He may not have grabbed the controversial winning TD, but Hines Ward looked sharp agains tthe ravens secondary as he grabbed 8 catches for 107 yards. 

Confession:  I had both Marion Barber and Tashard Choice waiting in the wings just before gametime.  They announced Barber was active and I still left Choice in!  Oh baby!!

Week 15 Duds

I love it when newbie fantasy owners put stock in guys like Kyle Orton when it comes time for the fantasy playoffs.  Even a lame duck D like the Saints’ was able to keep him down for 172 yards and 2 INTs.

Lee Evans just can’t catch a break, no matter who the QB is.  22 yards?  A total washout for a guy who usually puts up a 70+ yard TD against the Jets twice a year.

Ronnie Brown continues to come up short in the latter part of the season.  Only 64 yards on the ground this past week with no scores.  In fact, he only has 1 TD now in his last 5 games.

Toe or no toe, 70 odd all purpose yards with only 1 TD against the hapless Chiefs is considered a dud weekend for LaDainian Tomlinson.  He’ll probably never go #1 overall in fantasy drafts ever again.

Ryan Grant goes from hero to zero in just a week.  His meager 56 rushing yards against the Jags had his owners kicking themselves for not leaving him on the bench again.

Another 22 yards for Marvin Harrison who has gradually faded into fantasy obscurity once again.

Chris Johnson and LenDale White combine for 91 rushing yards and no TDs againat Houston.  Can you say fantasy playoff nightmare???

Titans coach Jeff Fisher gets a nod here for not letting Rob Bironas (one of the top kickers in the NFL) kick the game winning field goal and instead putting the ball in the hands of Kerry Collins.  It was like putting Shane Falco in during the Sugar Bowl.

How about Clinton Portis?  Another hero to zero in the fantasy playoffs as he turns in another stinker against the hapless Bengals  That’s 3 straight subpar performances and he hasn’t found the endzone since week 7.

Matt Ryan shows his rookie colors this week as he throws for a paltry 206 yards with 2 picks and no scores.  Not what we were looking for come playoff time, buddy.  Oh yeah, and thanks for crapping up Roddy White’s day too.  Fantasy owners were dying with his meager 61 yards and no score.

How about Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin combining for 86 yards and no TDs?  The Cards have clinched the division and can’t improve on the home field advantage front, so I don’t know how much they have to play for in the coming weeks.  A cold day in New England might just be enough of a reason to put them on the bench if you have a decent alternative.

Maybe it was the lack of a running game, but Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall and Eddie Royal all stunk it up this week against Carolina.  Just piss poor timing for those that rode Cutler’s arm to the fantasy playoffs.

Welcome back to earth, Joey Flacco.  115 yards with 2 picks is about right when he’s facing the #1 defense in the NFL.

Oh Eli.  You won’t be making it back to the big one if you continue to put up 191 yards and 2 picks this late in the season.  This time last year you were turning it all around just in time.  Maybe the loss of Plaxico Burress is bigger than we thought.  Probably not.  This one, to me, is blamed on the absence of Brandon Jacobs.

Is it even allowed to put Ken Dorsey’s name here with his 152 yards and 2 picks?  Probably not.  I mean….it’s Ken Dorsey.

If you’re still playing, then good luck this week.  We’ll try and help you out with the Game by Game later on…

Tampa Bay Bucaneers @ Atlanta Falcons

Keith: Atlanta - Tampa facing another great two-headed running attack.

Howard: Atlanta - Bucs D looks like it’s getting tired

Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams

Keith: St. Louis -  In the Irrelevant Bowl.

Howard:  St. Louis - flipped a coin

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets

Keith: NY Jets -  Will get back on track against my sleeper pick for the playoffs.

Howard:  NY Jets - Jets break their tailspin by contributing more to Buffalo’s

San Francisco 49ers @ Miami Dolphins

Keith: Miami -  Amazing progress from last year’s one-win season.

Howard:  Miami - Time for the Niners to come back to earth

San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs

Keith: San Diego - Still better than the Chiefs.

Howard: San Diego - Still alive at 5-8 so they have something to play for.

Green Bay Packers @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Keith: Jaguars -  Green Bay a huge disappointment this season.  Favre is laughing.

Howard:  Green Bay - Jags’ loss of Jones and Taylor will hurt already hurting offense

Washington Redskins @ Cincinnati Bengals

Keith: Washington -  No doubt.

Howard:  Washington - This should be the Clinton Portis Show

Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans

Keith: Tennessee -  Run, baby, run.

Howard: Tennessee - Chris Johnson carries team to home field throughout the playoffs.

Detroit Lions @ Indianapolis Colts

Keith: Indianapolis -  Only Detroit chance to win is next week. Keith’s Lock of the Week

Howard: Indianapolis - This one is just plain silly.  Howard’s Lock of the Week

Minnesota Vikings @ Arizona Cardinals

Keith:  Arizona -  WIll outscore mediocre offense.

Howard: Arizona - Cards put a damper on Vikes divisional title hopes

New England Patriots @ Oakland Raiders

Keith: New England -  Oakland is better than we first thought, but still not good.

Howard: Oakland - Questions surround Pats offense and we’re due for another big upset.

Denver Broncos @ Carolina Panthers

Keith: Carolina - Denver can’t stop the run.

Howard: Carolina - Looking to overtake the Giants for home field advantage

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens

Keith: Baltimore -  Big upset comin’. 

Howard: Pittsburgh - Ravens D might be tougher, but Steelers O is much better

New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys

Keith: Dallas -  Whole new ballgame now.

Howard:  NY Giants - Dallas internal strife can only benefit Big Blue

Cleveland Browns @ Philadelphia Eagles

Keith: Philadelphia - Browns are just a mess.

Howard:  Philadelphia - Even McNabb can’t blow this one

Last Week:

Keith:  11-5

Howard:  13-3

Overall:

Keith:  120-71-1

Howard:  127-64-1

Lock of the Week:

Keith:  9-4

Howard:  10-2-1

Tampa Bay Bucaneers @ Atlanta Falcons

The last time these two played, Brian Griese was Tampa’s QB and the game was more about trading field goals than it was about putting up TDs in the red zone.  Now, it looks like the Bucs will have their third QB change of the season with Jeff Garcia’s injury and that’s no good.  The Falcons are surging and looking for a playoff possibility and the Bucs D is faltering — hence last week’s beating from the Carolina backfield.  By no means does that mean Atlanta’s defense is sound either.  The Good:  Michael Turner, Matt Ryan, Roddy White, Warrick Dunn  The OK:  Antonio Bryant, Michael Jenkins  The Ugly:  Harry Douglas, Luke McCown/Jeff Garcia, Alex Smith, Ike Hilliard

Seattle Seahawks @ St. Louis Rams

Are the guys on the NFL pre-game shows calling this the Toilet Bowl yet?  Two absolutely awful teams — piss poor offenses (although the Seahawks came to life a little last week) and even worse defenses.  That could lead to killer fantasy points, but not for all.  The Good:  Steven Jackson, Maurice Morris, John Carlson  The OK:  Deion Branch, Seneca Wallace, Torry Holt  The Ugly:  Marc Bulger, Donnie Avery, Bobby Engram 

Buffalo Bills @ New York Jets

I just don’t know what to say anymore.  The Bills are in a tailspin, but then again…so are my Jets.  2 losses in a row that shoul dhave been victories does not sit well with me — especially the way Brett Favre has been playing.  When these two squared off in week 9, it was all about the Jets defense.  The Bills should have J.P. Losman at QB, so don’t count out the deep passing game, especially against the Jets.  The Good:  Thomas Jones, Marshawn Lynch, Lee Evans  The OK:  Brett Favre, Dustin Keller, Laverneus Coles, J.P. Losman  The Ugly:  Jerricho Cotchery,  Roscoe Parrish

San Francisco 49ers @ Miami Dolphins

The chatter from 49ers fans here in the Bay Are is abundantly annoying.  The delusions of an 8-8 season and domination next year are laughable.  But, I can appreciate their support of their team.  It’s not every day you see a San Franciscan supporting a losing team.  They usually just clam up and hide away.  Maybe the lack of Frank Gore this week and a surprisingly strong Fins squad can shut them up.  The Good:  Ronnie Brown, Chad Pennington, Davon Bess  The OK:  Ted Ginn, Jr., Anthony Fasano, Shaun Hill, DeSean Foster, Isaac Bruce  The Ugly:  Bryant Johnson, Arnaz Battle, Vernon Davis

San Diego Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs

Two extraordinarily poor defenses, one high powered offense that just can’t seem to remain consistent and one offense still on the rise.  When they met just 5 weeks ago, the Chargers barely edged out the Chiefs in what produced several fantasy heroes for week 10.  This week should be no different.  I see fantasy points galore here.  The Good:  Phillip Rivers, LaDainian Tomlinson, Vincent Jackson, Antonio Gates, Tyler Thigpen, Dwayne Bowe, Tony Gonzalez  The OK:  Chris Chambers, Larry Johnson, Mark Bradley  The Ugly:  Malcolm Floyd, Both D/ST

Green Bay Packers @ Jacksonville Jaguars

Undoubtedly playing for pride here as neither team has a shot at making the playoffs this year.  Both have better pass defenses than run defense so expect a pretty strong ground attack from both sides.  After that, Aaron Rodgers should have a good time airing it out to his much-better-than-the-Jags WR corps.  Oh…and Matt Jones’ suspension finally arrived.  The Good:  Ryan Grant, Aaron Rodgers, Greg Jennings, Maurice Jones-Drew  The OK:  David Garrard, Mike Walker, Donald Lee, Donald Driver  The Ugly:  Jerry Porter, Marcedes Lewis

Washington Redskins @ Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals are just pathetic.  No way else to say it.  And now, Cedric Benson is dissing his O-line saying that he’d have 1000 yards too if he had the holes to run through that Matt Forte (the guy who replaced him in Chicago for the simpleton’s of the football world) has in the Windy City.  I’m sure that’s gonna go over real well.  Look for Clinton Portis and the Skins offensive line to show Benson how it’s done.  The Good:  Clinton Portis, Jason Campbell, Chris Cooley  The OK:  Sanatana Moss, T.J. Houshmandzadeh  The Ugly:  Ryan Fitzpatrick, Cedric Benson, Chad Ocho Cinco, Antwaan Randle-El

Tennessee Titans @ Houston Texans

The Texans 24th ranked run defense will get a heavy dose of Chris Johnson and LenDale White and undoubtedly fall behind early only to force the offense to play catch up in the late second half.  Hmmmm.  Seems to be a pretty consistent M.O. for the Titans.  Should be business as usual here, even with Matt Schaub back.  Only difference is that the Texans WRs should be a better play without Sage Rosenfels under center.  The Good:  Chris Johnson, LenDale White, Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson  The OK:  Kerry Collins, Justin Gage, Kevin Walter, Steve Slaton  The Ugly:  Owen Daniels, Bo Scaife

Detroit Lions @ Indianapolis Colts

I’m lucky enough to still have the Colts available to me in my King of the Hill pool, and this is their “lock” week for me.  Dan Orlovsky takes over for Daunte Culpepper and the Colts shouldn’t have any trouble with this one.  Joseph Addai probably won’t play which makes Dominic Rhodes a fantastic start.  The Good:  Peyton Manning, Reggie Wayne, Dominic Rhodes, Dallas Clark, Calvin Johnson  The OK:  Marvin Harrison, Anthony Gonzalez  The Ugly:  All other Lions

Minnesota Vikings @ Arizona Cardinals

This game could really be a defining moment for the Cardinals.  They’ve already clinched the division and home-field advantage in the playoffs isn’t going to happen.  So what do they have to play for?  Nothing really, but you don’t want to be going into the post-season with a lackluster finish.  If they want to win in the playoffs, they’re going to have to build momentum.  The Vikings, on the other hand, have a chance to distance themselves in the NFC North and solidify themselves as playoff contenders.  If they lose, the Bears could find a way to sneak past them.  The Good:  Adrian Peterson, Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald, Anquan Boldin  The OK:  Bernard Berrian, Visanthe Shiancoe, Steve Breaston  The Ugly:  Tavaris Jackson/Gus Frerotte, Tim Hightower

New England Patriots @ Oakland Raiders

When Matt Cassel’s father past away (our condolences from RotoBuzz) it looked like this could be a golden opportunity for the Raiders.  The Pats would have been in deep sh*t with this one and could have gone the way of the Jets in Oaktown.  But Cassel should play and although it’s a tough matchup against a surprisingly good Raiders pass D, he and the rest of the boys from Beantown should do just fine.  The Good:  No one really standing out here  The OK:  Kevin Faulk, Sammy Morris, Matt Cassel, Wes Welker, Randy Moss, Darren McFadden, Justin Fargas, Zach Miller  The Ugly:  Andrew Walter, any Raiders WR

Denver Broncos @ Carolina Panthers

This should push the Panthers into a better position for the division, a playoff bye and home field advantage while it could cloud up the AFC West even more.  Look for the usual attack from Carolina as their ground game is sure to punish the weak Denver defense.  The Broncos, on the other hand, should be forced into the air most of the day.  Without Peyton Hillis now, they’re looking at atleast 5 different possibilities at tailback with Tatum Bell (eeeew!) and Selvin Young (yuck!) leading the way.  The Good:  DeAngelo Williams, Jonathan Stewart, Jake Delhomme, Steve Smith, Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall  The OK:  Mushin Muhammed, Eddie Royal, Tony Scheffler  The Ugly:  Whichever Denver RB you decided to put in.

Pittsburgh Steelers @ Baltimore Ravens

Great matchup this late in the season for football;  crappy matchup this late in the season for fantasy purposes.  Both defenses are strong and there’s plenty at stake in the AFC North.  There probably won’t be whole lot of good, a decent amount of OK, and a whole lot of ugly.  If you can avoid using guys from this game, I would.  The stats could look pretty similar to their Week 4 matchup, but without the 137 receiving yards for Derrick Mason.

New York Giants @ Dallas Cowboys

The Giants have already locked up the division, but with Carolina surging, home field advantage isn’t a sure thing anymore.  They’ll need to avoid distractions and play tough if they want to win this one.  Dallas is desperate for a win and will probably need to run the table if they want to lock in a wild card spot.  Marion Barber being a game time decision again (I bet he sits) doesn’t help, but it should all come down to how well Big Blue’s secondary holds up.  The Good:  Eli Manning, Domenick Hixon, Derrick Ward (if Jacobs sits), Tony Romo, Terrell Owens, Jason Witten  The OK:  Amani Toomer, Brandon Jacobs (if he plays), Kevin Boss, Patrick Crayton, Tashard Choice/Marion Barber  The Ugly:  Steve Smith, Roy Williams

Cleveland Browns @ Philadelphia Eagles

This one seems like a lay-up unless of course Donovan McNabb decides to punk out as usual.  Fortunately for him, Brian Westbrook is ready to go and the defense shouldn’t have too much trouble with the floundering Browns.  Then again, that’s what I though when the Eagles played Cincy back in week 11.  The Good:  Brian Westbrook, Donovan McNabb, DeSean Jackson  The OK:  L.J. Smith, Reggie Brown, Phil Dawson  The Ugly:  Any Browns player that’s not the kicker.

Good luck to you all this week!!

New Orleans Saints @ Chicago Bears

Keith: Chicago -  They will control the ball, run all day.

Howard:  New Orleans - As bad as their D can play, they still have tons of firepower on offense.