Love/Hate Week 7

Yes I’m late again. It’s been a busy week at RIT so we’ll get this going.

Quarterback who will perform exceptionally this weekend:

QB: Cam Newton will be forced to throw the ball against the Rams because they have allowed 7.2 yards per pass attempt, the 26^th in the NFL. This could shape up to be a monstrous day for Newton and the Panthers passing game.

QB: Is putting Tony Romo in here cheating? I’m not sure, but he’s going to have a huge day against the Eagles. Last time they met? Romo had 512 yards and 5 touchdowns.

QB: Andrew Luck is going to have to throw, throw, throw, throw, and then throw a little more against the Broncos. The Colts are going to be down all game, well because it’s the Broncos, so the Colts will rely on Luck to keep them in the game. On top of that, the Broncos are ranked 31^st against the pass this season.

QB: Geno Smith is playing a depleted Patriots defense and we all know that Bill Belichick will figure out how to squeak out a win, but I can see Geno finding a way to have a good day too.

Running backs I don’t hate this week:

           
    RB: Bilal Powel. I know Curtis hates him this week, but I can see a lot of upside. He’s going up against an injured Patriots defense that is missing its three best players in Wilfork, Talib, and Mayo. I think this game is going to be a lot closer than people think because of that. Powel will have a solid game.

           
    RB: Gio Bernard receives the easiest matchup this week against the Lions who are allowing 5.4 yards per carry to opposing running backs. Bernard is looking to absolutely hammer the Lions this week.

     RB: I’ll go with a bold prediction with Stevan Ridley against the Jets. He finally played up to his potential last week fantasy-wise, and I can see him doing the same this week.

Wide receivers that are just awesome:

                WR: Justin Blackmon seems to be playing up to his potential when he drew comparisons to Calvin Johnson. He’ll do it again against the Chargers who allow the 7^th most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers.

                WR: Victor Cruz may not have anyone to get him the ball, but he can match up well with the Vikings defense that allows 219 yards per game to opposing wide receivers. Also, possibly not a relevant fact, but he’s had a big game every third week so far, and guess what, it’s that week for him.

             
  WR: Keenan Allen is playing very well of late, and is only owned in 11.2% of leagues, so pick him up and start him. He’s the top producing wide receiver on a team that gets to play the Jaguars this week.

                WR: Antonio Brown is on a hot streak and is playing a defense in the Ravens that allows the 7^th most points to opposing wide receivers. He’ll continue on his hot streak.

                TE: ROB GRONKOWSKI IS ACTIVE. I can see a couple #GRONKSPIKE’s this week.

                TE: Charles Clay is playing the Bills who always seem to have problems with good tight ends. Clay is also only owned in 41.9% of leagues. Pick him up people! He’s on a three week touchdown streak and don’t expect him to end it this week.

                TE: Antonio Gates gets to play the Jaguars. Can’t my whole team play the Jaguars every week?

Defense:

                D/ST: I know the Chiefs defense is the best defense in the league this season, but they are playing the Texans. The Texans are probably going to turn it over and over and over this week. The Chiefs could score 25 points this week for you.

There are a couple players I don’t like at all this week so here they are:

                QB: Aaron Rodgers. Yeah he’s on my team, and everyone’s going to start him anyway, but he won’t play that well. They have two starting receivers left in Jordy Nelson and Jermichael Finley on the Packers that aren’t hurt and Joe Haden is pretty good. I can see Haden covering Nelson with a safety stuck over the top to help him out leaving Rodgers virtually no more options left.

                QB: Texans QB. I don’t know his name but he’s going to suck this week. Why? Because all Texans QB’s do.

                RB: Doug Martin is actually going to have a solid day, but I can’t see him getting in the end zone. Once again. He’s having a solid season in reality, but in fantasy he’s awful. Against a Falcons defense that has only allowed two touchdowns to opposing running backs this season I don’t see Martin getting in either.

                RB:  Ben Tate isn’t only not going to play much because of Arian Foster and the fact that he lost a fumble last week, but he’s also playing the Chiefs so he won’t get a lot of touches and he won’t do much with the ones that he does get.

                RB: Demarco Murray is going to be part of a shootout against the Eagles. Romo’s going to have to throw the ball a lot which means Murray isn’t running it.

                TE: Jermichael Finley is probably going to get shut down by the Browns because the Browns really don’t have to shut down much against the Packers. With just one other starting receiver on the Packers that isn’t injured, the Browns will slow down an already slow-producing Finley.

D/ST: The Colts are playing Peyton Manning and the Broncos.

 Until next week, adieu my friends.

Week 7- Love/Hate

6 weeks down, 11 to go. We're right in full swing in the NFL season and I couldn't be more enthralled. Week 6 was host to a lot of surprises and disappointments fantasy wise, and Week 7 should be no different. Let the Week 7 love-hate list commence!

Players I love in week 7:

QB- Eli Manning, NYG
He's awful. He's on pace for 38 Interceptions and hasn't shown any signs of being a competent quarterback this year. Yet he's playing the Vikings, who have the 3rd worst defense in the league, and with the Giants a dismal and desperate 0-6, Eli HAS to do something this week, right? Not to mention the weapons he still has available at wide receiver. It may be a bit of a gamble but against such a bad defense you can give Eli the green light this week

QB- Nick Foles/ Mike Vick, PHI
A huge divisional matchup with Cowboys awaits this week as the Eagles look to gain sole possession of the top spot in the NFC East. Against the last ranked Cowboys pass defense I see either QB having a hay day. Whoever plays, scores. Start the starter.

QB- Jay Cutler, CHI
He's actually a competent fantasy quarterback this season! Against an absolutely dismal Redskins D this week you should be playing any Chicago Bear that you have available on your roster. Look for Cutler to have a huge week


RB- Adrian Peterson, MIN
This is completely hypocritical of me but I feel the need to stress just how good this man can be this week. Look at the factors here, you have one of the best to ever play the game, add a horrible defense facing him, a terrible quarterback situation that is in question, a bad week prior to this, and a man on a mission after having his son pass away less than ten days ago. It's the perfect storm and this is somewhat bold, but I believe he posts 35 this week against the Giants.

RB- Giovani Bernard, CIN
After proving me wrong last week for having him on my hate list he deserves the recognition. Facing a soft Detroit defense and having been consistent the past few weeks, the odds are in his favor this week. Thus far he has 2 touchdowns on the ground and 2 receiving, look for him to add to those totals this weekend.

RB- Fred Jackson, BUF
He's been rather consistent through six games, he's the steady hand that Buffalo can always fall back on. He's consistently been involved with the pass game, catching at least 4 passes in 5 of 6 games. And when you factor in a Miami Defense giving up the 5th most fantasy points to running backs this season, the fact that Spiller still isn't 100%, and that the starting Bills QB this week is still fresh off the practice squad, you can expect Jackson to put up some good numbers.

RB- Ray Rice, BAL
He's been amongst the kings of underproduction this season, but remember that he's still Ray Rice. I look for him to play well against the division rival Steelers this week in what you could say is a gut call.

RB- Frank Gore, SF
He's ran for 81+ yards in each of his last 4 games and has 2 TDs over that span, and I see that trend continuing against a sub-par Tennessee rush defense this week. San Francisco has established its running game and Gore as always is a huge part of it.

WR- Keenan Allen, SD
Philip Rivers guaranteed a Chargers' victory in Jacksonville this week after a huge win Monday night against the Colts. Allen has quickly become one of Rivers' two favorite targets as over the last three weeks he's amassed 20 catches for 302 yards and a pair of scores. The real catch? He's still available in 80% of ESPN leagues. Grab this guy and you'll have a solid WR2 or Flex play this week and for weeks to come, count on it.

WR- Justin Blackmon, JAX
Since I can't love Cecil Shorts this week due to injury, I have to give the nod to the man filling his number 1 WR spot on the depth chart. Since returning to action in week 5 Blackmon has been a monster, posting a whopping 19 catches for 326 yards and a score. There's not much to like in Jacksonville right now, but against a wretched San Diego Pass Defense you can like the only reliable target in the Jags receiving core. He's still available in a third of leagues so snatch him if you can.

WR- Steve Smith, CAR
This man defies logic. He's undersized, He's 34 years old, his QB is inconsistent. Yet he still produces. Look for the Mighty Mouse to hoist some solid numbers this week against St. Louis as the Panthers look for a way to keep winning.

WR- Kenbrell Thompkins, NE
BOLD PREDICTION.
I once again rave about Gronkowski's return to New England and how it effects Thompkins' fantasy value, then Gronk decides to pull a Derrick Rose and sit out another week for unknown reasons and Thompkins has another solid fantasy week against the Jets.

WR- Brandon Marshall, CHI
Another perhaps hypocritical choice but at this point I just don't care. It's scary to think how well this man could perform this week, a top tier receiver up against Washington's sad excuse for a defense. Start him, Cutler, and any other Bear on your roster.

WR- T.Y. Hilton, IND
This is one of two games on the schedule I could see the Broncos losing. If so, The Indianapolis receiving core will have to help Andrew Luck keep pace with his predecessor, Peyton Manning. The Broncos Defense has given up some heinous stats to opposing wide receivers so far in 2013 and I look for that trend to continue Monday in Indy.

WR- Reggie Wayne, IND
See Hilton, T.Y.

TE- Jordan Cameron, CLE
After a couple mediocre weeks it's easy to sell Cameron's stock. However with an ideal matchup this weekend against a Packers defense that has allowed the 4th most points to opposing tight ends, Cameron is poised to get back on track with a good week this week.

TE- Tony Gonzalez, ATL
The Falcons sit at 1-4 and desperately need a victory this Sunday. With Julio Jones on IR and Roddy White being a HUGE question mark this season, someone will have to step up in Atlanta's passing game. Cue Mr. Gonzalez.

TE- Charles Clay, MIA
He's quietly having a very good season for Miami, as he has the 9th most points scored by a tight end. He's still available in 65% of leagues and he'll look to extend his touchdown streak to three games as the Dolphins welcome the Bills to town.

D/ST- KC
THEY'RE THE BEST YOU COULD HAVE AND THEY STILL AREN'T OWNED IN ALL LEAGUES. SGNKUSHFGLKAFHGKJSNHGLRGHDUSVYSUHG

D/ST- NE
Look for the Pats D to pick apart Geno Smith just as they did earlier in the year, Bellichick is a genius I swear.

The week 7 hate list:

QB- Andy Dalton, CIN
He shined last week at Buffalo, but he's still just too inconsistent for my liking. Detroit's defense isn't anything special but eh.. its a gut call.

QB- Texans QB, HOU
I didn't even care to remember his name. Whether it's Schaub or his backup I don't care, the Chiefs defense is good and the Texans QBs have thrown a pick 6 in five, count em, FIVE STRAIGHT GAMES.

QB- Colin Kaepernick, SF
There will be a time and a place to love Kaep again, unfortunately that's not this week against Tennessee. The Niners are so run oriented right now that unless they fall behind early, Kaep will be limited yet again come Sunday.

RB- Patriots Running Backs, NE
Ya see, Ridley went HAM last week but they still are a congregation that splits the workload. Against the Jets Defense you shouldn't be starting any of them.

RB- Bilal Powell, NYJ
I see the Jets playing from behind in this one which will greatly reduce Powell's workload. Look for the Pats to shut him down this week.

RB- Chris Johnson, TEN
His grace period is over, I can't make excuses for his lack of production any longer. Until he's finding the endzone consistently again don't play him, and I can't see this weekend in San Fran being the week he starts that trend again.

WR- Andre Johnson, HOU
With the QB situation such a mess and all-pro corner Brandon Flowers covering him this weekend, Johnson's value is greatly reduced. Look for the Chiefs Defense to get into the end zone a couple of times before Johnson even gets a catch.

WR- Larry Fitzgerald, ARI
Palmer has been a mess this season and corners Richard Sherman and Brandon Browner will have their attention fully on Fitzy throughout the game Thursday night, greatly reducing his upside this week.

WR- Stevie Johnson, BUF
Just a lack of production this season has been his storyline. With him not being 100% and Thad Lewis running the offense I see him being held to very little production yet again this week.

TE- Rob Gronkowski, NE
Reverse Psychology in full effect here. I've been so high on him recently and he hasn't touched the field, maybe if I predict him to not play, he plays and has 3 scores. Hmmmmm.....

D/ST- IND
They're Playing Denver LOL

D/ST- DEN
Denver doesn't believe in defense anymore.

D/ST- CLE
I just have too much faith in Green Bay's Offense... even without Cobb and Jones.

And that concludes the week 7 love-hate list. Happy Footballing!

Love/Hate Week 6

I know this is really late but I was super busy this week and I’m just going to bang this out real quick with just a few guys. So here we go:

Quarterbacks I Love:

                QB: Ben Rothlisberger is going to have to show up this week to get his first win against the Jets. The lowly Steelers are going to win sometime this season and I think against the Jets is their best chance. Rothlisberger is going to have to do something right to force his team into the win column this week.

                QB: Tom Brady will have to throw the ball a lot against the Saints and I like his chances with finally having figured out his receivers. He’ll look like his old self by tearing the Saints defense apart this week.

                QB: Sam Bradford will play well against a tough Texans defense because his O-line is heating up and finally giving him some protection. In this Rams win, Bradford’s going to find the end zone multiple times.

Running Backs I Love:

RB: Pierre Thomas is going to give the Patriots some serious trouble this week without Wilfork there to clog up the middle. Thomas isn’t even the Saints first running back but he is their runner and I can see him playing a lot if the Pats can find a way to slow down the pass offense somehow.

                RB: Darren Sproles is also a running back I love because of the attention the linebackers are going to have to give to Jimmy Graham. I think the Patriots goal against the Saints is going to be to shut down Jimmy Graham and if that happens, with some extra attention going his way, it will leave the flats and other short-running back-routes wide open to Sproles.

                RB: I’m going to stray away from the Saints v. Pats game and go with Knowshon Moreno because he’s so consistent and he is playing the Jaguars. The Jaguars. Enough said.

                RB: Chris Johnson is going to have a good week. He’s matched up against an intimidating Seahawks defense. A Seahawks defense that is actually somewhat deceiving. They are only the 19^th best rush defense in the NFL this season, allowing 109 yards per game on the ground. We’ll see how CJ2K can stack up against a shaky run defense.

Wide Receivers I Love:

                WR: Torrey Smith is looking good every week but I think he’ll go off against a weak Packers D.

                WR: Jordy Nelson will rack up some good points for you because he’s playing a Ravens defense that allows the 13^th most points to opposing wide receivers. Also, another stat to prove Nelson is at least going to be put in the position to score a lot; he’s always on the field. He was on the field for 64 of 67 of last week’s snaps for the Packers.

                WR: ANY BRONCOS RECEIVER

                WR: Pierre Garcon is playing a terrible secondary in the Dallas Cowboys that have allowed 30 receptions and 356 yards in the last two weeks to opposing wide receivers. Garcon is licking his lips at this matchup.

Tight Ends I Love:

                TE: Julius Thomas is a Broncos receiver. And yeah I put in the top fantasy tight end this week but how can I not love Thomas this week with what is predicted to be one of the biggest blowouts in NFL history.

                TE: Jason Witten seems to be a big part of every close game for the Cowboys. With this Cowboys v. Redskins game looking like it could be a great one, I like Witten this week.

                TE: Yes I know, 3 tight ends! This is a bit of a bold prediction though. Scott Chandler is going to be Chad Lewis’ security blanket this week because Lewis is a practice squad QB, not an NFL one.

Defenses I love this week:

                D/ST: Go pick up the Titans defense because they’re only owned in a quarter of leagues right now and they’re the third highest scoring defense this season with 11 turnovers thus far.

                D/ST: Cardinals defense will fare well against a struggling Kaepernick and I can see Patrick Peterson going crazy this week.

On to people I hate this week.

Quarterbacks I really, strongly, dislike this week:

                QB: Eli Manning. I know he already played this week but who knows, he may still have an interception in him before next week.

                QB: Collin Kaepernick will look awful this week against a pretty good Cardinals defense that has Patrick Peterson.

                QB: Matt Shaub is on the same level as Eli Manning. Almost. I mean how someone can be that bad is beyond me.

Running Backs that are going to have bad games:

                RB: If you haven’t figured out to bench Trent Richardson, yes, even if you wasted your first round pick on him, then you really should take my advice and do so. Maybe even drop him. He’s worthless in fantasy.

                RB: Doug Martin’s getting too many touches and against the Eagles who will be having a rough game without Vick, he’ll be exhausted. Somewhat of a bold prediction.

I don’t really hate any other running backs, but what baffles me is that Maurice Jones-Drew is owned in 100% of leagues, but Pierre Thomas is only owned in 32.2% even though Thomas has scored 29 more points than MJD.

Wide Receivers that won’t see enough action this week:

                WR: Anquan “So Strong” Boldin won’t play well because his quarterback can’t really get him the ball effectively.

                WR: Nate Washington is matched up against the third best pass defense in the NFL. More specifically, he’s matched up against Richard Sherman who is a beast.

                WR: Denarious Moore is matched up with Brandon Flowers and is really the Raiders only weapon on offense. The Chiefs shut down Moore with Flowers and probably a safety over the top and Moore won’t even see a target.

Tight Ends I’m not in favor of in Week 6:

                TE: I’m very tempted to go with Jimmy Graham because of Bill Belichick, but I have a feeling the Saints will find a way to get him the ball anyway. So, I’m going with Brent Celek because why not.

Defenses I really, really, really hate this week:

                D/ST: The Jaguars are awful. LOL

What is Love? Baby don't hurt me, don't hurt me, no more. Week 6 Love/ Hate

I'll be honest, week 5 made me feel like a genius and an idiot at the same time. Why does the NFL love to surprise us? Oh yeah, I forgot it's the best source of entertainment in the United States. Who in the world predicted that in the Broncos-Cowboys game there would be almost 100 points scored? That Peyton would put up 30 fantasy points and Tony Romo would outscore him by double digits? That's ludicrous, but it's why I'm in love with football and fantasy football. There's nothing, and I do mean absolutely nothing, that you can accurately predict from week to week. But I'm still going to try, no matter how foolish I appear at times.

Speaking of the unpredictable, there's one particular guy in our league that has outshown everyone. And although he is the defending league champion, it's still surprising. This league is so competitive that 8 of the 12 teams rest at either 3-2 or 2-3 after 5 weeks, myself included who currently sits in 6th place in possession of the final playoff spot. This guy, named David, has completely obliterated everybody and nobody really understands how. He's 5-0 and facing my co-writer, Alex this week (who I lost to last week, however Alex is still a measly 1-4 and is currently 11th in the league) who is a much lesser opponent by David's standards. Looking at 6-0 we're left to ponder, how is David so much better? The answer: overproduction and unpredictability.

Looking at David's team, appropriately named "The Abusement Park" you really have to appreciate just how good it is. His typical starting lineup is as follows:
QB- RGIII
RB1- Reggie Bush
RB2- Fred Jackson
WR1- Calvin Johnson Jr.
WR2- Pierre Garcon
TE- Jimmy Graham
Flex- Le'veon Bell/ James Jones
His defense and kicker usually vary week to week on who's matchup looks good.

This is the team that has destroyed everything in its path. He's the proud owner of 2 of my 3 losses this year and has left me scratching my head multiple times. But when you look into it, he's had some ridiculous production from his lineup all year long. Reggie Bush has hoisted 25 points (it's PPR format) in 2 of the 3 games he's played in full, Fred Jackson has been in double-digit point territory week in and week out. Before missing last week due to injury Megatron was the 7th best receiver points-wise in the league. Jimmy Graham has had one of the best fantasy seasons for a tight end of all time, his point totals through 5 weeks are 14, 34, 34, 27 and 23. What? Are you kidding me? What's even better is last week David had the absences of RGIII, Megatron and Pierre Garcon, leading everyone to believe he was susceptible to defeat for the first time on the season. In their places he started Terrelle Pryor, James Jones, and Alshon Jeffery. He still scored 164 points as the three posted 21, 23 and 39 points, respectively. How? How is it possible for every freaking guy this guy plays to perform like he's top 5 at his position? Unpredictability. That's the only solution and he's loved the unpredictability of the NFL so far. I don't know how he does it but it goes to show that no one in the world can accurately predict this stuff all the time. That being said, here's my best attempt at a week 6 Love-Hate List.

Love:

QB- Jay Cutler, CHI
Taking on a pitiful 29th ranked Giants pass defense Thursday night the Bears quarterback will look to light it up. With emerging receiver Alshon Jeffery who's combined for a whopping 15 catches, 325 yards and 3 touchdowns over the past two weeks and seasoned veterans Brandon Marshall, Matt Forte, and Martellus Bennett, the Chicago offense is littered with a plethora of weapons for Mr. Cutler.

QB- Alex Smith, KC
Alex Smith a fantasy stud? Far from it, right? Wrong. Over the first 5 games Smith has put up the 11th most QB points, with his first two home matchups producing 511 yards through the air, 84 yards on the ground and 5 touchdowns. With a matchup at home against a 24th ranked Oakland defense that has given up over 1,000 passing yards and 6 passing TDs in the last 3 weeks I could see him putting up huge numbers.

QB- Tom Brady, NE.
He's had a disappointing start but with it being fair to assume Gronkowski finally makes his season debut this week against the Saints Brady could be right back on track to having another big fantasy season. Gronkowski has 38 touchdowns through 43 career games and I could see him finding his way to the end zone multiple times his against a Saints defense that has given up points to opposing tight ends.

RB- Danny Woodhead, SD
Don't let the mediocre rushing stats fool you into thinking he has no value. Especially in PPR leagues this guy can come up big time as he does his best Darren Sproles impression, and with Ryan Mathews out Monday against Indianapolis Woodhead will see the majority of the workload.

RB- Knowshon Moreno, DEN
While Manning has put up absolutely gaudy numbers Moreno himself has quietly had a good fantasy season. With the Broncos hosting the dismal Jags and being 28 point favorites, Moreno will see a good amount of carries as the Broncos play from ahead. I mean, wayyyyyy ahead.

RB- Trent Richardson, IND
Now that he's had a couple weeks to become acclimated in Indy Richardson faces a San Diego defense that is giving up about 5 yards per carry to opposing running backs. Monday night could be a breakout game for Richardson to kick start his already hectic 2013 season.

RB- Maurice Jones-Drew, JAX
The Broncos-Jags game this week could be an epic display of grotesque hideousness. Yet the Broncos D has given up the 7th most points to opposing running backs this season, and with MJD coming off his most productive outing of the year I see him potentially breaking out this week.

WR- Cecil Shorts III, JAX
I had to include the third in his name because this is the 3rd time he's been in my love section this year. Shorts is leading the NFL in targets with 61 and his 31 catches are good for 10th best. The return of Justin Blackmon took coverage away from Shorts last week and allowed him to take advantage and get into the endzone for the 1st time this season, and this week against a defense that gave up 4 TDs to Cowboys wide receivers last week I see him going off. Unless you have wide receivers on top of wide receivers, Shorts is a no brainer this week.

WR- Danny Amendola, NE
The return of Gronkowski will help everyone in New England's passing game, especially Amendola. Look for him to get his fair share of looks against New Orleans this week in a game I believe could be a shootout.

WR- Reggie Wayne, IND
Facing a horrendous 30th ranked pass-defense in the Chargers on Monday night it's fair to assume that Andrew Luck's favorite target could hoist some pretty serious numbers. The ageless wonder has had at least 3 catches in an NFL record 69 consecutive games, meaning that he's among the most consistent receivers in NFL history. Give him the nod as he's a lock to extend that streak to 70 games this week.

WR- DeSean Jackson, PHI
He's incredibly hit and miss, but its just a gut call this week. 24 of his 28 catches have gone for first downs, and that 85% ratio is the best in the league. HE's also fifth amongst qualified receivers in yards per catch, averaging 18.8 yards every time he gets the ball. Averaging 105 yards a game I really don't think it matters who is under center in Philly, as Jackson's value will stand tall.

TE- Rob Gronkowski, NE
Assuming that the waiting game is finally over in New England, Gronkowski is the man. As I mentioned previously he's got 38 touchdowns in 43 career games, leaving it at an 86% chance he finds the endzone this week, or any week for that matter.

TE- Vernon Davis, SF
Reasons to like him this week: Arizona is giving up the 4th most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this year. He's coming off a performance of 88 yards and a touchdown. His Quarterback goes by the name of Copernicus.
Start him.

D/ST- KC
How is this not obvious yet? Hello? *Herm Edwards Voice* YOU PLAY. TO WIN. THE GAME. Simple as that. They still aren't owned in every league and they're the number one defense in the land. Start 'em start 'em start 'em.

D/ST- BUF
It's fair to say that the Bills Defense is enjoying a good year thus far. Forcing turnovers is of the essence in Buffalo, Ranked 1st in the league in interceptions and T-4th in the league in total turnovers forced. The Legend of Kiko Alonso and the Bills D will live on in week 6 at home against the Bengals.

The Week 6 Hate List:

QB- Colin Kaepernick, SF
San Francisco will still throw the ball but recent success on the ground will lead to consistently lower stats for the man known as Copernicus. Although I love his tight end this week I can't lead myself to invest in the QB himself against a Patrick Peterson led secondary.

QB- Eli Manning, NYG
I gotta face facts here. The man is a turnover machine in 2013 as the abysmal Giants are looking dead in the face of 0-6. It doesn't get any easier for them this week against Chicago. Being on pace for 38 INTs is an automatic spot on the bench or on waivers for Eli.

RB- Giovani Bernard, CIN
Buffalo's defense is good... And it's the first time anyone has honestly said that since the turn of the millennium. Facing the 2nd ranked run defense and splitting carries with The Law Firm are two factors that don't bode well for Bernard's value this week.

RB- Pierre Thomas, NO
Although a massive week 5 performance led to a rush on Thomas he isn't consistent enough for my taste, and against the Pats this week I see fellow running back Darren Sproles as a much better option for the Undefeated Saints.

WR- Antonio Brown, PIT
He's had a breakout season thus far and coming off the bye I could see him playing well this week, unfortunately the other Antonio that is covering him for the Jets this week will most likely shut him down all game.

WR- Julian Edelman, NE
He's the one man in the rotation that isn't benefited from the returns of Gronk and Amendola. His spot in the slot will be handed back over to Amendola and Gronk will see alot of looks this week, and with emerging WR Kenbrell Thompkins, Edelman seems to be the odd man out moving forward. His return duties could maintain his flex play value, however.

WR- Nate Washington, TEN
Against Seattle's D this week I can't see any Titans wide receiver really getting going behind Ryan Fitzpatrick. Until Locker returns almost all Tennessee Wide receivers will have depreciating value.

TE- Jared Cook, STL
Since a massive week 1 performance, he's been a fantasy no-show. After everyone jumped on his bandwagon I was among the last laughing, as I was wise to choose Jordan Cameron over repeat disappointment Mr. Cook.

TE- Scott Chandler, BUF
With a practice squad QB with just 1 NFL start under his belt Chandler's value is decreased significantly. The Cincinnati linebacking core will have their sights set on the 6'7" Chandler this week as Lewis makes his Bills debut  in place of the injured Manuel.

D/ST- WAS
The Redskins Defense has been torched all year long and with a high octane Dallas offense being this week's
opponent I don't see that improving. Romo threw for 500 yards and 5 TDs last week, and although I won't say he's going to repeat that I will say that he could again hoist some good-looking numbers.

D/ST- JAX
Not like they're owned in any leagues anyway, I just thought I oughta point this out. They're projected for a staggering -10 this week against Denver. The amount of points that experts think Denver will put up? 58. That is the first time in my life I've ever seen such a projection. Just... wow.

And that wraps up this week's edition of the love-hate list. Until next time, my fellow fantasy footballers, i bid you farewell.

Week 5 Love-Hate

Okay so last week I was feeling lazy. More lazy than the average 80 year old sloth. But, I digress. Here are my week 5 picks for you idiots, lets go.

Quarterbacks I love in week 5:

QB, Phillip Rivers, SD
With 11 touchdowns and only 2 picks through the first four games, Rivers hasn't been quite Manning-esque (referring to Peyton of course) but he has looked sharp nonetheless. He has 20+ points in 3 of 4 games and is a top 5 fantasy quarterback through the first quarter of the season. The most unbelievable stat is that he is only owned in 87 percent of leagues. Pick him up and start him, he's a fantasy stud in 2013.

QB, Mike Vick, PHI
He Should go back to his ways of running free as he did the first two weeks as the Eagles take on a Giants team that is, mediocre. At best. The Eagles should be putting up some big points against the G-Men and Vick will be a part of it.

QB, Matthew Stafford, DET
He's Had two touchdowns in each of his first four games. He'll be engaged in a shootout against the Packers this week so i see him putting up huge numbers. He's throwing to Megatron, let's be real here.

Running Backs I Love In Week 5:

RB, Giovani Bernard, CIN
He was one of my sleeper picks that has come to fruition, as he has 10+ points in each of his last three outings in PPR formats. He's a receiving back who has quickly replaced The Law Firm in Cincy, and against a Vince Wilfork-less Pats squad this week I see him having a field day.

RB, Matt Forte, CHI
He's just so consistent doe.

RB, Chris Johnson, TEN
He needs to get in the end zone, but with Fitz getting the nod in Tennessee with Locker out, He'll need to produce. Maybe if I write about him he'll show up. For how good KC's defense has been they are indeed giving up 5.4 yards a carry. I like his odds and so should you. C'mon CJ2K, C'mon!

RB, Fred Jackson, BUF
Spiller isn't looking 100% and with the man called Haden amongst other men in the Cleveland secondary the Bills should be running the football. Alot. Not to mention they're the second best rushing team in the league. Start him.

RB, Ray Rice, BAL
This should be common sense, if he plays in any given week you'll play him. But against a Miami defense that got torched by Darren Sproles last week I like him. Another thing to consider- they benched their stud last week in a loss at Buffalo. Super Bowl Champs don't make the same mistake twice, right?

Wide Receivers I Love In Week 5:

WR, Cecil Shorts, JAX
He's getting catches no matter who is under center and I feel he's due for a trip to the end zone. He's the only member of the Jags worthy of a start this week and they will be throwing, alot. When don't they play from behind? Against St. Louis on the fast turf this weekend I like Shorts to put up numbers.

WR, AJ Green, CIN
Simply because the last two weeks from him have been mediocre at best, and my co-writer is hating on him this week because he's a biased Pats Fan. Not a fan of the whole "Talib Island" thing... Not very original Alex. Nut up or shut up, Mr. Green.

Denver Receivers-
If you have one, I don't care if he's 5th string, blind, on the IR, retired. Start him. The man throwing to him is on pace for 64 touchdowns and no interceptions. Lol. Wut.

WR, Randall Cobb, GB
The Lions-Packers game could easily end up looking like an Arena Football League scoring game at the end of 60 minutes. I wouldn't be shocked if the QB's combined for 1,000 yards and 10 TD's. So much offense... I can't even put it into words. The Packers need this one, expect them to throw to their best target.

Tight Ends I Love In Week 5:

TE, Antonio Gates, SD
I had every doubt in the world about this man at the start of the season and avoided him in every draft I've done. Given I was smart enough to buy into every share of Jordan Cameron stock left in the world, Gates proved yet again to me that he's the man. Did I mention they play Oakland this weekend and his QB has a 118.6 rating this season? ..The more you know.

TE, Julius Thomas, DEN
See "Denver Receivers"

Defenses I love In Week 5:

STL Defense
Why? *licks lips out of devious satisfaction* Guess who they play? The Jags. Muahahahahaha.

KC Defense
By now this should be obvious. It doesn't seem to matter who they play, they're almost a sure 15 points. Given they haven't Played Mr. Manning yet... Oh wait, they did. I meant to say, Given they haven't played Peyton*** Manning yet.

Hate is a strong word, but I Really, really, really don't like you.

Quarterbacks I Hate in Week 5:

QB, Andrew Luck, IND
Once upon a time in a place known as Seattle, there lived a scary and ravishing defense that allowed no mercy to its opponents. There were many a good defensive back in that magical place known as Seattle, and they liked to make being a quarterback a living hell. Let's stop being cute. Luck will be happy to walk away from this one with less than 3 picks.

QB, Carson Palmer, ARI
He's the original garbage time hero. Unfortunately I don't foresee alot of garbage time in this one.

Running Backs I Hate in Week 5:

RB, Ryan Mathews,
Have you seen him play? Uglier than my aunt's hairless chihuahua. Woodhead and Brown are taking his touches, slowly but surely.

RBs, James Starks and Johnathan Franklin, GB
Starks is out, and there's a big man back in town, his name is Lacy.

RB, DeMarco Murray, DAL
It oughta be a shootout in Dallas with the Broncos in town, which means Dallas isn't going to be giving Murray 25 carries, that's for sure.

Wide Receivers I Hate in Week 5:

WR, Reggie Wayne, IND
Richard Sherman is just too damn good. The entire Colts offense will struggle this week against Seattle.

WR, T.Y. Hilton, IND
He is a return threat so i don't hate him as much as Wayne, but still. He plays for the Colts, Who are playing the Seahawks.

WR, Stevie Johnson, BUF
Joe Haden is pretty good if you haven't heard... And Johnson is a little injured too. And the Bills aren't home, and you probably have better options on your team. Sit him down.

WR, Mike Wallace, MIA
This is somewhat of a gut call but after the disappointing loss in Buffalo I like Baltimore's defense to look sharp against Miami, and Wallace has been much too inconsistent for my liking this year.

Tight Ends I Hate in Week 5:

TE, Jimmy Graham, NO
This is crazy, I'm stupid, I'm an insult to fantasy players everywhere. Whatever. Say what you'd like. I still think he gets 8-10 points in standard leagues but I don't think he puts up 25 again this week. He can't be this good all the time right? Major gut call here but I feel he has an off week. We'll see. I gotta be bold somewhere along the lines and if this works out and I'm right, I'm a genius.

most other tight ends not named Cameron, Gronkowski, or Gonzalez.

Defenses I Hate in Week 5:

DET Defense
"Who's Detroit playing this week?"
"Green Bay, Sir."
"Oh? Green Bay is it?"
 *drops defense* *picks up whoever plays Jacksonville*
"We're all good son, fetch me some coffee"

And now we're done here. Good luck in week 5!

Love/Hate Week 5

So I was notoriously average last week. Only two of my six love picks scored over 16 points, and none of my hate picks had less than 12, but no more than 16. So this week I’ll try to be bolder, most likely make worse picks, but we’ll see how it goes anyway.

Love:

QB: Tony Romo is going to be behind most of the game so he’s going to have to throw the ball more than usual. The running game will be non-existent. Since Romo has only thrown one interception I think he’ll keep the ball safe this week and rack up the yards in garbage time.

QB: I’m gonna go with Terrell Pryor here because I want to. I need a bold prediction so here it is.

RB: Chris Johnson is going to get the ball a lot with Ryan Fitzpatrick starting at quarterback this week. In Buffalo Fitzpatrick threw a lot of screens and also I can see a lot of check-downs coming this week because Fitzy is going to have trouble moving the ball without CJ2K.

RB: Giovani Bernard will play very well this week with the absence of Vince Wilfork clogging up the middle for the Patriots. I think Bernard can get into the end zone and will have success running up the middle for a lot of short gains.

                RB: Here’s my bold prediction. Fred Jackson will be EJ Manuel’s savior this week when I see him struggling against the Browns. Jackson will score twice in the red zone.

                WR: Calvin Johnson Jr. is going to get the ball a ton this week against Green Bay because their secondary isn’t great and Stafford is going to need him to stay in the game. Also I did say I’m not going to put top five wide receivers in this and I’m not. Megatron is the 7^th ranked wide receiver right now in my league.

                WR: Josh Gordon is going up against a depleted Buffalo secondary and he’ll thrive. With Brian Hoyer finally being a solid starter (so far… it is the Browns so something will go wrong) Gordon will get the ball plenty this week and probably find the end zone.

                WR: Bold prediction: DeSean Jackson. The Giants are going to find a way to lose this week and I think it’ll be because of Jackson. They really should pay a lot of attention to him since he’s the Eagles biggest threat, but he’s going to go off anyway.

                No tight end this week folks, sorry.

Hate:

                QB: EJ Manuel is playing a solid Cleveland defense this week. Also, I think it’s about time for the Bills to start tanking. However, I do think the Bills will win because their defense will keep them in it.

                RB:  Trent Richardson won’t have a good game for a couple reasons. First off, it’s going to be a shootout against Seattle so he won’t get the ball a lot. Second, he is playing the best defense in the NFL in the Seahawks so he is going to have trouble with that.

My opinion on Richardson is that we all know he isn’t a huge part of the Colts offense and he hasn’t played well so far, but anyone that picked him has to play him because he’s a first round pick. I know I’d still start him because his upside is way too high and you’ve got to expect him to break out eventually, but this week it won’t happen against the Seahawks.

                WR: AJ Green. Two words. Talib Island.

That’s all this week folks. I’m busy during this week so I probably won’t be back until the next Love/Hate. I hope this week is a bit better.