Fantasy Sports

BY ADAM RONIS

Quarterbacks
Matt Schaub (Texans): I was high on him before the season and he started slowly. He had a 30-7-yard, 3-TD performance this week. Grab him if he was released in your league.

Marc Bulger (Rams): He's the starter again and has struggled so far in tough matchups. He's a No. 2 QB for now, who could start with the right matchup.

Kyle Orton (Bears): He had a career-high three TDs against the Eagles. He's an option if you are in really need of a QB. He faces the Lions and Falcons the next two weeks.

Running backs
Deuce McAllister (Saints): He goes from fantasy irrelevant to 20 carries last week with a TD. Bush is more of a wide receiver right now and McAllister should get carries as long as he stays healthy.

Mewelde Moore (Steelers): He should see the bulk of the carries this week and will at least backup Willie Parker when he returns. Should also see some passes thrown his way.

Rudi Johnson (Lions): He's the starter now and showed some signs in Week 3. He's not going to catch a lot of passes and the Lions are likely to be down big often, but he's worth the add while he's healthy.

Wide receivers
Lance Moore (Saints): Drew Brees spreads the ball around. This past week he hit nine different receivers, but Moore was one of his favorites. He has had seven receptions each of the last two weeks. He had 101 yards and two TDs Sunday. The Saints throw a lot and with Marques Colston and Jeremy Shockey out and David Patten hurting, Moore will be the beneficiary.

Kevin Walter (Texans): He fared well in the absence of Andre Johnson last season and had eight catches for 76 yards and two TDs this past week.

Steve Breaston (Cardinals): His value depends on the status of Anquan Boldin. He had nine catches for 122 yards, but keep in mind the Cardinals were in passing mode after trailing 34-0.

Bobby Engram (Seahawks): He is expected to return this week.

Matt Jones (Jaguars): He has been the most targeted wideout on the Jags. He's been hyped up over the years and he may finally be living up to it. He has at least five receptions in each game this season and has 21 catches for 244 yards and a TD.

Robert Meachem (Saints): He's not as valuable in PPR leagues because he doesn't get many receptions, but he is a deep threat. He has just five catches in the three games he played, but he has 204 yards and has scored two TDs. He caught a 52-yard pass Sunday and a 74-yard catch the week before.

Tight ends
Anthony Fasano (Dolphins): He may have been released after having a bye this past week.

BY ADAM RONIS

The Steelers running back situation has turned into the Seahawks wide receiver situation. The running backs continue to go down for the Steelers. Rashard Mendenhall is out for the season after being placed on injured reserve with a fractured left shoulder. Willie Parker, who missed last night's game, is out this week and is expected to return in Week 7 following the team's bye. Mewelde Moore, Gary Russell and Najeh Davenport should see time in the backfield. Carey Davis was also injured in Monday night's game. He sprained his ankle.

BY ADAM RONIS

New Rams coach Jim Haslett has given Marc Bulger the starting job at QB after he was removed last week in favor of Trent Green. The offensive line has been bad, but he should be owned in most leagues and has the potential to be good.

BY ADAM RONIS

The next fantasy sports chat will be this Thursday right here at 3 p.m.

BY ADAM RONIS

This week's edition will discuss the Mets collapse and the latest happenings in fantasy football with Jason Sarney from fantasyphenoms.com. The show begins at 4 p.m. Wednesday.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/A-Ron/2008/10/01/Fantasy-Baseball-Bonus-with-Adam-Ronis

BY ADAM RONIS

The Lions have named Rudi Johnson the starting running back and rookie Kevin Smith will be the backup. Smith has 29 carries for 102 yards with one TD and Johnson has 99 yards on 18 carries. Johnson should be owned in all leagues, but health and a team that could be trailing very often don't bode well for Johnson. Smith will still be involved, so don't release him.

BY ADAM RONIS

REDSKINS 26, COWBOYS 24
I have no idea what the Cowboys were thinking in this game. They have one of the best backs in the league in Marion Barber and another back who has shown he deserves more touches in Felix Jones, yet the Cowboys run just 11 times and give Barber just eight carries. Are you serious? This wasn't a lopsided game. It was a tight game the whole way. The Cowboys trailed 23-17 and got the ball with 10 minutes left and threw three consecutive incomplete passes. This team falls in love with the pass way too much and it burned them in the postseason last year. The Cowboys passed 47 times and it cost them in time of possession, too. The Redskins had the ball for 38:09. Tony Romo owners won't complain. He threw for 300 yards, three TDs and one INT. It seemed like the team was trying to appease Terrell Owens after he had just two catches last week. They targeted him 18 times and tried to force it to him when he was covered. He had 7 catches for 71 yards and a TD and even had two carries. Patrick Crayton had seven catches for 87 yards and Miles Austin had three catches for 45 yards and a TD. The TD was not set up for him. It was an improvised play and Austin doesn't hold much fantasy value.

Jason Campbell looks much better. He's poised and doesn't force throws. He looks to his secondary and third options and has yet to turn over the ball. He went 20 of 31 for 231 yards with two TDs. Clinton Portis had 121 yards on 21 carries. Santana Moss continued his fast start with 8 catches for 145 yards.

CHARGERS 28, RAIDERS 18
Phil Rivers didn't have another three-TD game. He struggled, but is still a solid option. He went 14 of 25 for 180 yards, one TD and two INTs. LaDainian Tomlinson's toe looks fine. He rushed for 106 yards on 20 carries with two TDs.

Darren McFadden didn't look good and is still injured. He had 20 yards on seven carries. Michael Bush had 48 yards on 14 carries and 80 yards on 7 catches. The team has a bye this week and his value depends on the health of McFadden and Justin Fargas. Zach Miller had 95 yards on five catches and a TD, but he's tough to count on as a No. 1 TE in this offense. Sebastian Janikowski attempted a 76-yard FG before the first half ended. He missed.

BILLS 31, RAMS 14
Trent Edwards had a good matchup and was OK. He went 15 of 25 for 197 yards, 1 TD and one INT. Marshawn Lynch didn't score for the first time this season. He had 57 yards on 19 carries and four catches for 24 yards. No worries here. Fred Jackson had 46 yards on 7 carries and a TD and three catches for nine yards. His touches are inconsistent from week to week.

Trent Green isn't the answer at QB. He went 17 of 32 for 236 yards and one INT. Steven Jackson had his best game so far. He had 24 carries for 110 yards and one TD and 78 yards on 5 catches.

BEARS 24, EAGLES 20
Kyle Orton went 18 of 34 for 199 yards, three TDs and two INTs. He's not a good option. Matt Forte had 43 yards on 19 carries and had 42 yards on five carrries. Brandon Lloyd had two catches for 33 yards, but left with a knee injury.

Brian Westbrook didn't play because of an ankle injury. Correll Buckhalter left the game with an injury but returned. He had 66 yards on 16 carries and a TD and 24 yards on 2 catches. DeSean Jackson had 71 yards on five catches and a TD.

BY ADAM RONIS

SAINTS 31, 49ERS 17
It doesn't matter who the receivers are for the Saints. Drew Brees will still perform and put up big numbers. He went 23 of 35 for 363 yards with three TDs and one INT. He hit nine different receivers. Lance Moore had the biggest day with seven catches for 101 yards on two TDs. Robert Meachem, a deep threat I mentioned as a good play this week, had two catches for 99 yards and a score. The biggest news is Deuce McAllister carried the ball 20 times in his first significant action of the season. He had 73 yards and a TD and could be available in many leagues. How long he'll stay healthy remains a huge question. Pierre Thomas had one carry for one yard. Reggie Bush had just 31 yards on 10 carries and five catches for seven yards.

J.T. O'Sullivan wasn't great in a good matchup. He went 18 of 36 for 257 yards with one TD and two INTs and was sacked six times. He'll be inconsistent and is a spot starter. The one good thing is he will throw often with Mike Martz calling the plays, but he doesn't have a great supporting cast. Frank Gore had 82 yards on 16 carries and two catches for 31 yards. Arnaz Battle had seven catches for 120 yards. That won't happen every week. Isaac Bruce is a solid option in deeper leagues. He had five catches for 54 yards and a TD.

JETS 56, CARDINALS 35
When I saw the Jets were leading 34-0, I was ecstatic as a Kurt Warner owner. That meant passing incessantly the rest of the way and despite his six turnovers, he still gave me excellent numbers. He went 40 of 57 for 472 yards, two TDs and three INTs. Edgerrin James salvaged a 9-carry, 29-yard day with two TDs. Anquan Boldin took a vicious helmet-to-helmet hit and was taken to the hospital in an ambulance. He is reportedly ok as all tests were negative and he was heading back to Arizona with the team. He had 119 yards on 10 catches and a TD. Steve Breaston had 122 yards on nine catches, but that won't happen often. The circumstances dictated a passing attack giving him more chances than usual, although Boldin's injury status will determine his value. He's an option in deeper leagues. Larry Fitzgerald had 122 yards on 8 catches.

Brett Favre came though with 289 yards and six TDs and it looks like Lavernaues Coles is his new best friend. He had 8 catches for 105 yards and three TDs. Jerricho Cotchery had 4 catches for 67 yards and two TDs.

BROWNS 20, BENGALS 12
Not a great performance by Derek Anderson, but he got the team its first win of the season. He went 15 of 24 for 138 yards with one touchdown and one interception. I;d be concerned if I owned him. If you can't shred the Bengals defense, it's not a good sign. Jamal Lewis rushed for 79 yards on 25 carries and a TD. Braylon Edwards finally found the end zone. He had three catches for 22 yards.

Carson Palmer didn't play because of elbow soreness. An MRI showed no structual damage. Ryan Fitzpatrick started and went 21 of 35 for 156 yards, one TD and three INTs. Palmer is expected to play against the Cowboys next week. Chris Perry had just 28 yards on 12 carries. Chad Johnson said he's ready to explode. Maybe next week amigo. Three catches for 28 yards and a TD doesn't fit that category.

JAGUARS 30, TEXANS 27 (OT)
If you own Matt Schaub, I hope you didn't give up on him. He showed his potential with a 29-for-40, 307-yard and three-TD performance. Steve Slaton had just 33 yards on 10 carries, but came through with eight catches for 83 yards and a TD. Owen Daniels had 87 yards on seven catches. Kevin Walter had 8 catches for 76 yards and two TDs. Andre Johnson had three catches for 38 yards. Buy low before it's too late.

The Jaguars rushing attack came to life last week, but was bad again this week. Maurice Jones-Drew had 32 yards on seven carries and Fred Taylor had 25 yards on 10 carries. That banged up offensive line is still a concern. Matt Jones is still unowned in many leagues, but is emerging as the No. 1 target. He had 71 yards on five catches and a TD.

PANTHERS 24, FALCONS 9
Jake Delhomme looks like he is back from his surgery. He went 20 of 29 for 294 yards with two TDs and 0 INTs. He injured his quad in the first quarter and played through it. Jonathan Stewart and DeAngelo Williams are still splitting carries, but Stewart has more value. He had 52 yards on 14 carries and a TD. Williams had 16 carries for 57 yards. Mushin Muhammad had eight catches for 147 yards and a TD and Steve Smith had 96 yards on six catches and a TD.

I said to sell high on Michael Turner. He will be erratic, especially on the road with Matt Ryan under center. Turner had 56 yards on 18 carries. Roddy White had 90 yards on seven catches. He's a solid player and is targeted frequently, but plays in an inconsistent offense.

CHIEFS 33, BRONCOS 19
Anyone takes the Chiefs in their survivor pool? I hear crickets. Certainly a shocking result here. Larry Johnson had 198 yards on 28 carries and two TDs against a very bad Broncos defense. Now is the time to sell high. Dwyane Bowe and Tony Gonzalez are much better options with Damon Huard at QB. Bowe had seven catches for 85 yards and Gonzalez had 47 yards on 3 catches and a TD.

Jay Cutler is an excellent fantasy QB, but he showed today he still has some learning to do. He went 29 of 49 for 361 yards and one TD and two INTs. The Broncos rushing attack is still muddled. Selvin Young had 49 yards on 11 carries, Michael Pittman rushed for 36 yards on four carries and Andre Hall had 14 yards on four carries. Eddie Royal had 104 yards on nine catches after a few down weeks. Brandon Marshall had 77 yards on seven catches and a TD. Matt Prater looks like the real deal. He went 4 of 5 on FGs, including two over 50 yards.

BUCCANEERS 30, PACKERS 21
Aaron Rodgers might have a separated shoulder. He went 14 of 27 for 165 yards with two TDs and three INTs. If he misses time, Matt Flynn would likely start in Week 5 against the Falcons. Ryan Grant was a guy I didn't want this season and he's showed why so far. He had 20 yards on 15 carries. Greg Jennings continues to pile up the numbers. He had 109 yards on 6 catches with two TDs.

Brian Griese didn't throw more than 60 times this week and if he had, he might have been intercepted six times. He went 15 of 30 for 149 yards with one TD and three INTs. Don't count on him as your No. 1 QB. Earnest Graham had 111 yards on 20 carries and a TD. Warrick Dunn remains in the mix with 16 carries for 63 yards.

TITANS 30, VIKINGS 17
Who picked the Vikings to go to the Super Bowl again? Gus Frerotte threw for 266 yards, but no TDs and one INT. He hurt his hand late and was replaced by Tavaris Jackson. Adrian Peterson had 80 yards on 18 carries and two TDs. Chester Taylor had just one carry for 0 yards.

Chris Johnson had 61 yards on 17 carries and two TDs. LenDale White won't have as many yards as Johnson, but he will get goal-line carries, although Johnson got a few today. White had just 13 yards on 11 carries, but scored a TD. Justin Gage has more value with Kerry Collins at QB. He had 92 yards on five catches.

BY ADAM RONIS

Here are my fantasy baseball awards for the season.

http://www.newsday.com/sports/ny-spfantasy0928,0,6466073.column

Since the link isn't working, here it is.

It was a wild fantasy baseball season full of major surprises. The journey has come to an end and it’s time to hand out the awards. (Statistics entering the final Friday of the regular season).

Fantasy Most Valuable Player: Manny Ramirez (Dodgers). He was a force in both leagues after being traded from the Red Sox in late July. He’s hitting .330 with 102 runs, 37 home runs 121 RBIs and three stolen bases. He carried the Dodgers to the NL West title with a .393 average, 36 runs, 17 homers and 53 RBIs in just 183 at-bats with a 1.235 OPS.

Best American League offensive player: Alex Rodriguez (Yankees). His numbers would be even better if he didn’t spend time on the disabled list. It was a difficult task to come close to last season’s numbers, but he hit .300 with 103 runs, 35 home runs, 101 RBIs and stole 18 bases in just 503 at-bats. Honorable mention: Dustin Pedroia (Red Sox).

Best National League offensive player: Albert Pujols (Cardinals). Like A-Rod, he spent time on the disabled list, but was still prolific. He hit .353 with 97 runs, 35 home runs, 112 RBIs and stole seven bases. Honorable mention: David Wright (Mets).

Best American League pitcher: Cliff Lee (Indians). An easy selection here, although Roy Halladay made it much closer than people think. Lee was dominant going 22-3 in 31 starts with four complete games, including two shutouts. He went 223 1/3 innings, allowing 214 hits, 12 home runs, 34 walks and struck out 170. he had a 2.54 ERA and 1.11 WHIP. Honorable mention: Roy Halladay (Blue Jays).

Best National League pitcher: Tim Lincecum (Giants). He was dominant on a team that was one of the worst offensively. He went 17-5 with a 2.66 ERA and 1.18 WHIP. He allowed 178 hits, 11 home runs, 82 walks and struck a franchise-record 252 in 220 innings. Honorable mention: C.C. Sabathia (Brewers).

Best American League relief pitcher: Francisco Rodriguez (Angels). He wasn’t the best relief pitcher this season, but it’s hard to not give him the award with a record 62 saves. He struck out 76 in 67 1/3 innings with a 2.27 ERA and 1.31 WHIP. Honorable mention: Mariano Rivera (Yankees).

Best National League relief pitcher: Brad Lidge (Phillies). Converted 40 of 40 saves and was a steal for the Phillies. He pitched 67 1/3 innings and allowed 47 hits, two home runs, walked 34 and struck out 89 with a 1.87 ERA and 1.20 WHIP. Honorable mention: Jose Valverde (Astros).

Best American League rookie: Evan Longoria (Rays). He missed more than a month with a wrist injury, but was instrumental in the success of the surprising Rays. He hit .275 with 67 runs, 27 home runs, 85 RBIs and seven stolen bases in 437 at-bats. Honorable mention: Alexei Ramirez (White Sox).

Best National League rookie: Geovany Soto (Cubs). Tight race here but the catcher gets the edge. Soto hit .286 with 66 runs, 23 home runs and 86 RBIs. Honorable mention: Joey Votto (Reds).

Biggest American League surprise: Cliff Lee (Indians). He had an ERA over six last season and was sent to the minor leagues and he bounced back to win 22 games on a team that struggled most of the season. Honorable mention: Carlos Quentin (White Sox).

Biggest National League surprise: Ryan Ludwick (Cardinals). The 30-year old outfielder never got the opportunity to play full time until this season. He had 14 homers in 303 at-bats last season and no one saw his huge year coming. He hit .295 with 102 runs, 36 home runs and 108 RBIs. Honorable mention: Edinson Volquez (Reds).

Biggest American League bust: Victor Martinez (Indians). He missed almost three months with elbow surgery, but didn’t hit a home run the first two months when he played. He was one of the top catchers drafted . Honorable mention: Erik Bedard (Mariners).

Biggest National League bust: Andruw Jones (Dodgers). Jones showed some decline last season, yet still had 26 home runs and 94 RBIs. This season he was so bad he would likely get cut by the Brooklyn Cyclones. He hit .158 with three home runs, 14 RBIs, and 76 strikeouts in 209 at-bats. Absolutely abysmal. Honorable mention: Eric Byrnes (Diamondbacks).

American League comeback hitter: Aubrey Huff (Rays). Welcome back Mr. Huff. He had some good seasons with the Rays, but wasn’t a factor the last two years. He hit. 306 with 96 runs, 48 doubles, 32 home runs and 108 RBIs. Honorable mention: Milton Bradley (Rangers).

National League comeback hitter: Carlos Delgado (Mets). He was hitting .224 on June 1 and Mets fans wanted him shipped out. Now, the fans chant “M-V-P” when he steps to the plate. He had 24 home runs and 87 RBIs and looked to be on the way down last year. He is batting .273 with 96 runs, 38 home runs and 114 RBIs. Honorable mention: Jorge Cantu (Marlins).

American League comeback pitcher: Cliff Lee (Indians). Lee continues to pile up the awards in an amazing season. Honorable mention: Mike Mussina (Yankees).

National League comeback pitcher: Ryan Dempster (Cubs). He had a 4.72 ERA, 1.34 WHIP and 28 saves as a closer last season. He’s now the Game 1 starter in the NLDS for the best team in the NL after becoming a full-time starter for the first time since 2003. He went 17-6 with a 2.99 ERA and 1.21 WHIP. In 201 2/3 innings, he allowed 170 hits, walked 75 and struck out 183. Honorable mention: Brad Lidge (Phillies).

Fantasy All-Stars
Catcher: Joe Mauer (Twins)

First base: Albert Pujols (Cardinals)

Second base: Dustin Pedroia (Red Sox)

Shortstop: Hanley Ramirez (Marlins)

Third base: David Wright (Mets)

Outfield: Manny Ramirez (Dodgers)

Outfield: Matt Holliday (Rockies)

Outfield: Josh Hamilton (Rangers)

Starting pitcher: Roy Halladay (Blue Jays)

Starting pitcher: Cliff Lee (Indians)

Starting pitcher: C.C. Sabathia (Brewers)

Starting pitcher: Tim Lincecum (Giants)

Starting pitcher: Johan Santana (Mets)

Relief pitcher: Mariano Rivera (Yankees)

Relief pitcher: Francisco Rodriguez (Angels)

Relief pitcher: Jonathan Papelbon (Red Sox)

Relief pitcher: Joakim Soria (Royals)

BY ADAM RONIS

Quarterbacks

Trent Edwards (Bills): He has thrown for at least 200 yards and one touchdown in his first three starts and has fared well against some good defenses'. He rallied the team against the Raiders last week to put up solid numbers after a slow start. He gets a good matchup this week against the Rams.

Brian Griese (Buccaneers): He had 67 attempts last week and there's still ice packs on his shoulder. He completed 38 passes for 407 yards and two touchdowns with three interceptions. Don't expect the high number of passes to continue. He's a solid bye week fill in and a No. 2 QB.

Kerry Collins (Titans): He won't pass often as the Titans think run first, second and third. He can throw the deep ball, but don't expect prolific numbers.

Brady Quinn (Browns): He could take over any week with Derek Anderson struggling. There's no guarantee he's the answer, but he could be the spark with some good weapons around him that the Browns might need. Worth a look in deep leagues.

Running backs

Rashard Mendenhall (Steelers): With Willie Parker out this week and possibly next week, Mendenhall will start. Parker was ruled out early in the week, which isn't a good sign. He gets a bad matchup this week against the Ravens and already provided bulletin board material by texting Ray Rice that he will have a big game Monday night.

Steve Slaton (Texans): He had 115 yards on 18 carries in his first start against a very good, physical Titans' defense last week. He can break the big play and is an excellent pickup.

Correll Buckhalter (Eagles): Brian Westbrook has yet to practice and he will likely be a game-time decision. Buckhalter will see a lot of touches if he plays. He faces a tough Bears defense against the run this week.

LeRon McClain (Ravens): McClain looked like a one-week wonder early on, but he is heavily involved in the offense now surpassing Ray Rice. The Ravens will run a lot.

Rudi Johnson (Lions): He received just four carries the first two weeks and surprisingly had a productive game last week. He rushed for 83 yards on 14 carries and had three catches for 48 yards and a TD.

Wide receivers

Antonio Bryant (Buccaneers): He's valuable as long as Joey Galloway is out. Don't expect 10 catches and 138 yards consistently. Should be owned in deeper leagues.

Kevin Curtis (Eagles): Curtis underwent hernia surgery and is expected to be back soon. With Donovan McNabb looking very good, Curtis is an excellent pickup.

Bobby Engram (Seahawks): The Seahawks have a bye this week, but he's expected to return in Week 5. Some leagues may have forgotten about him. He'll be one of the top targets for the Seahawks.

Deion Branch (Seahawks): He is also expected to return in Week 5, but he is coming off ACL surgery and has never been a great fantasy player. He should be owned in deep leagues.

Lance Moore (Saints): With injuries to several Saints receivers, Moore is a short-term option. He had seven receptions last week for 78 yards and Brees looked for him often.

Brandon Lloyd (Bears):He has always been a disappointment, but he's been the top target for the Bears so far. he had six catches for 124 yards and a TD last week and had five catches for 66 yards in Week 2.

Chansi Stuckey (Jets): He's scored in each game so far and is an option in deep leagues.

Tight ends

Jeramy Stevens (Buccaneers): Every week we see a tight end emerge and then they hibernate. He had five catches for 61 yards and a TD last week.

Billy Miller (Saints): Jeremy Shockey is out and Miller will start. Brees loves to spread the ball around and Miller could get some targets.

BY ADAM RONIS

Darren McFadden was limited in practice for the second consecutive day and will be a game-time decision.

Donte' Stallworth (quad) is doubtful after not practicing Friday.

It looks like LaDainian Tomlinson's toe is getting better. He practiced fully yesterday for the first time and did so today as well.

LeRon McClain practiced fully on Friday and is listed as probable. Willis McGahee (eyelid) is also probable.

Steven Jackson (groin) is listed as probable. Expect him to play.

Devin Hester (ribs) will be a game-time decision against the Eagles Sunday night.

Kenny Watson (hamstring) didn't practice Friday and will likely be inactive.

Justin Fargas (groin) won't play this week.

James Jones (knee) is listed as doubtful. Jordy Nelson will be the No. 3 receiver.

Sidney Rice (knee) was limited in practice Friday. He will be a game-time decision.

Adrian Peterson (hamstring) was limited in practice Friday and is questionable.

Jerry Porter (hamstring) is probable and is expected to make his debut with the Jaguars after a full practice Friday.

Bryant Johnson (hamstring) will be a game-time decision.

David Patten (groin) will be a game-time decision.

http://www.newsday.com/sports/football/ny-spfant0926,0,1498137.column

Talk fantasy sports with Adam Ronis today in a live chat at 2 p.m.

BY ADAM RONIS

This week's edition of the Fantasy Bonus with Adam Ronis featured Lenny Melnick of melnickandgrecofantasysports.com. We discussed some of the players that surprised and exceeded expectations in fantasy baseball and if they are for real and what their value is for next season. Click on the first block to hear the show. The other three blocks are the first three shows. The show airs live every Wednesday at 4 p.m. on Blogtalkradio.com's Fantasy Sports Channel.

BY ADAM RONIS

Tyler Thigpen will head to the bench after throwing three interceptions against the Falcons. Damon Huard will start on Sunday against Denver.

BY ADAM RONIS

Bills wide receiver Roscoe Parrish will miss 4-6 weeks after undergoing thumb surgery involving a ligament Tuesday. He injured the thumb in last week's game. He had three catches for 42 yards against the Raiders. James Hardy and Justin Jenkins should see more time. Parrish is also a lethal punt returner with a 15.2 average that puts him third in the league. Leodis McKelvin is the likely replacement and he is explosive so the Bills special teams won't take a huge hit.

BY ADAM RONIS

The Giants suspended Plaxico Burress for two weeks without pay and since the Giants have a bye this week, he will miss just one game. He won't play Week 5 against the Seahawks. Burress didn't show up Monday and didn't respond to calls Tuesday to explain his absence for both days. He has 18 receptions for 259 yards and one TD. Domenik Hixon will likely start in his place. Burress filed a grievance with the NFL against the Giants.

BY ADAM RONIS

The Rams will start Trent Green this week in favor of Marc Bulger. This isn't the Rams' biggest problem. The offensive line has given Bulger no protection. He has passed for less than 200 yards in all three games. Don't expect Green to jumpstart this offense.

BY ADAM RONIS

Willie Parker will not play Monday night because of a sprained knee. The injury occured late in the game against the Eagles on Sunday. Rashard Mendenhall will start against the Ravens, which isn't a good matchup.

BY ADAM RONIS

The next fantasy sports chat will be 2 p.m. Thursday. I'll be answering your questions right here, make sure you are here for some valuable advice.

This week's guest is Lenny Melnick. Tune in at 4 p.m. Wednesday.

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/A-Ron/2008/09/24/Fantasy-Baseball-Bonus-with-Adam-Ronis

BY ADAM RONIS

BRONCOS 34, SAINTS 32
A fantasy player's dream game. Why couldn't I grab Jay Cutler or Brandon Marshall? I loved both before the season (check preseason rankings). Cutler went 21 of 34 for 264 yards with two TDs and one INT and it looks like the Broncos will throw often. The Broncos RB situation is a mess. I'd stay away. Michael Pittman is getting goal-line carries, but does very little else. He had five carries for two yards and a TD. Selvin Young had 65 yards on 11 carries and Andre Hall had 25 yards on six carries. Brandon Marshall had 155 yards on six catches and a TD. Drew Brees went 39 of 48 for 421 yards, but just one TD. He connected with nine different receivers. Reggie Bush rushed for 73 yards on 18 carries and a TD and had 11 catches for 75 yards and a TD. I own him in a PPR league and he's so valuable. Pierre Thomas had 15 yards on six carries, but had two TDs. Robert Meachem had 86 yards on two catches.

49ers 31, LIONS 13
Boy do the Lions stink!!! Jon Kitna sprained his knee and said it felt pretty bad after the game. The Lions have a bye next week. It looks like Rudi Johnson could be a factor again. He had 14 carries for 83 yards and 3 catches for 48 yards and a TD. Pick him up if available. Kevin Smith had 14 yards on three carries. J.T. O'Sullivan was a good play against this awful defense and went 16 of 23 for 189 yards and two TDs. Frank Gore rushed for 130 yards on 27 carries and a TD and had four catches for 32 yards.

SEAHAWKS 37, RAMS 13
Boy do the Rams stink and it's killing Steven Jackson. He rushed for 66 yards on 23 carries and had five catches for 62 yards. Despite no weapons at WR, Matt Hasselbeck went 12 of 20 for 172 yards and one TD. Julius Jones rushed for 140 yards on 22 carries and a TD. I saw a lot of Jones with the Cowboys. Sell high. The schedule will get tougher and Maurice Morris will be back soon. T.J. Duckett had 79 yards on 19 carries with two TDs. If only he could face the Rams every week. Mike Holmgren said that Bobby Engram and Deion Branch are expected to play in Week 5 following this week's bye.

EAGLES 15, STEELERS 6
Be concerned if you own Ben Roethlisberger. He left the game with a right hand injury and was getting beaten up by the defense. He was sacked eight times. Willie Parker had 20 yards on 13 carries as the Eagles defense dominated. Brian Westbrook injured his ankle and will have an MRI Monday. He was on crutches after the game. He had 12 yards on five carries. Backup Correll Buckhalter had 43 yards on 10 carries and had 44 yards on six catches with a TD. Make sure he is owned. Reggie Brown returned and didn't record a catch.

RAVENS 28, BROWNS 10
Derek Anderson is looking over his shoulder now after an 0-3 start. He said his confidence is shaken. He could still be suffering from the preseason concussion. Either way, Brady Quinn's name will continue to surface. He went 14 of 37 for 125 yards with one TD and three INTs. Braylon Edwards had three catches for 27 yards and Kellen Winslow Jr. had two catches for 14 yards. LeRon McClain had 66 yards on 17 carries and two TDs and should be owned. Willis McGahee had 64 yards on 15 carries and a TD and Ray Rice had five carries for 21 yards.

JAGUARS 23, COLTS 21
Peyton Manning went 15 of 29 for 216 yards with one TD and two INTs. Joseph Addai finally had some room to run and had 78 yards on 16 carries with two TDs. Dallas Clark returned and had 47 yards on four catches. The Colts defense just isn't the same without Bob Sanders. Fred Taylor rushed for 121 yards on 26 carries and Maurice Jones-Drew had 107 yards on 19 carries with a TD and four catches for 59 yards.

COWBOYS 27, PACKERS 16
Tony Romo didn't have his best game and still was solid. He went 17 of 30 for 260 yards with one TD and one INT. Marion Barber will be a beast this season. He rushed for 142 yards on 28 carries with a TD and three catches for 15 yards. It's going to be difficult to keep Felix Jones out of the offense. He looks very good and had 76 yards on six carries with a TD. Miles Austin had two catches for 115 yards and a TD. He is the Cowboys No. 3 WR. Aaron Rodgers went 22 of 39 for 290 yards, but threw no TDs. He rushed for a score. Greg Jennings had 115 yards on eight catches.

BY ADAM RONIS

Count me as one of those who had Ronnie Brown's big day on the bench. He was released in one of my leagues last week and claimed him off waivers Saturday. We only start two running backs with no flex spots and I started Steven Jackson and LenDale White. It was supposed to be a tough matchup against the Patriots, but it turned out to be a great day for Brown. I am up by 45 and my opponent has Thomas Jones, LT and Gates Monday night. Hopefully, the benching of Brown won't hurt me this week.

DOLPHINS 38, PATRIOTS 13
Wow!! Who saw this coming? Welcome back Ronnie Brown, who might get a call from the Vikings to play QB. Brown passed for a 19-yard TD and rushed for 113 yards on 17 carries with four touchdowns. He lined up at QB several times. I thought he would have more value than Ricky Williams this season and it's only a matter of health. He looked great today. Williams rushed for 98 yards on 16 carries. Chad Pennington went 17 of 20 for 226 yards. Anthony Fasano had three catches for 66 yards and a TD. He's a No. 2 TE. Matt Cassel went 19 of 31 for 131 yards with one TD and one INT. I can't see Randy Moss putting up half the numbers he did last season. He had just four catches for 25 yards.

FALCONS 38, CHIEFS 14
I thought Herm Edwards said if Tyler Thigpen doesn't play well, he wouldn't hesitate to go to Damon Huard. Is three interceptions not enough? Matt Ryan must feel like he's in college facing the Lions and Chiefs in two of his first three starts. It's really not this easy. Larry Johnson rushed for 121 yards on 24 carries and a touchdown. Sell now!!! Jamaal Charles rushed for 38 yards on seven carries. Michael Turner rushed for 103 yards on 23 carries and scored three touchdowns. He's good, but he's had two dream matchups. See what you can get for him while his stock is high. Jerious Norwood rushed for 75 yards on 11 carries and had one catch for 30 yards. He won't get this many carries against the better teams. Roddy White had five catches for 119 yards and a touchdown.

BILLS 24, RAIDERS 23
Trent Edwards passed late often with the team trailing to finish with a decent game. He went 24 of 39 for 279 yards, one TD and one INT. Marshawn Lynch rushed for 83 yards on 23 carries with two TDs. I love him this season. He also had four catches for 31 yards, an excellent sign for PPR owners. Fred Jackson rushed for 24 yards on five carries and had one catch. He's not going to get enough touches to play each week, but he should be owned and stashed on the bench in case Lynch goes down. Darren McFadden started and rushed for 42 yards on 14 carries. Michael Bush had 55 yards on 14 carries.

GIANTS 26, BENGALS 23 (OT)
Carson Palmer was sacked six times and under constant duress while bleeding from his nose, but showed signs that he could be turning it around. He went 27-for-39 for 286 yards, 1 TD and 0 INT. Stick with him. T.J. Houshmandzadeh had 146 yards on 12 catches and 1 TD. Chad Johnson -- where are you?? -- had just three catches for 29 yards. Brandon Jacobs rushed for 35 yards on 14 carries with a TD. Derrick Ward looked good with 80 yards on nine carries.

TITANS 31, TEXANS 12
If Steve Slaton is available in your league, grab him. He rushed for 116 yards on 18 carries with a TD against a good defense. He also had four catches for eight yards. Chris Taylor rushed for 15 yards on six carries. Andre Johnson had just 29 yards on two catches. Buy low. I have said it several times. Even with Chris Johnson starting, LenDale White still has value. He will get most of the goal-line carries. He had 49 yards on 16 carries, but scored two TDs. Johnson rushed for 74 yards on 16 carries and had two catches for five yards.

BUCS 27, BEARS 24 (OT)
Brian Griese needs the ice pack more than the Mets relief pitchers. He completed 38 of 67 passes for 407 yards with two TDs and three INTs. The running game was stymied with Earnest Graham getting 16 yards on 12 carries and Warrick Dunn getting 31 yards on 5 carries. Antonio Bryant had 138 yards on 10 catches and should be the top target with Joey Galloway out. He should be owned in deep leagues. Jeramy Stevens returned and had 61 yards on five catches and a TD. Ike Hilliard had 57 yards on six catches and a TD. The Bucs won't do this every week, so he's a reserve in most leagues. Matt Forte continued his strong start with 89 yards on 27 carries and had 7 catches for 66 yards and a TD. Brandon Lloyd had 124 yards on six catches with a TD.

REDSKINS 24, CARDINALS 17
Kurt Warner wasn't great, but he had a solid day going 16 of 30 for 192 yards with two TDs and one INT. His 62-yard TD pass to Larry Fitzgerald is why he's a fantasy starter. He can still throw the ball very well. Edgerrin James had 93 yards on 18 carries, but didn't score. Anquan Boldin had the big game last week and this time it was Fitzgerald, who had 109 yards on seven catches and a TD. Jason Campbell has looked much better the last two weeks. He went 22 of 30 for 193 yards and two TDs. He's a solid backup. Santana Moss had 75 yards on seven catches and a score. Chris Cooley had 72 yards on seven catches and is a good buy low.

VIKINGS 20, PANTHERS 10
The Panthers couldn't run the ball on the Vikings. DeAngelo Williams had 27 yards on 10 carries and Jonathan Stewart had 15 yards on seven carries with a TD. Steve Smith returned from a two-game suspension and had four catches for 70 yards. Gus Frerotte went 16-for-28 with 204 yards, one TD and one INT. Adrian Peterson started despite a sore hamstring and had 77 yards on 17 carries.

BY ADAM RONIS

http://www.newsday.com/services/newspaper/printedition/sports/ny-spfantasy215851159sep21,0,4264390.column

BY ADAM RONIS

Say what you want about Alex Rodriguez, but he has still put up very good numbers despite missing several weeks with injury. He is hitting .304 with 35 home runs, 101 RBIs, 103 runs and 18 stolen bases. He is still a top-five pick next season.

Mariano Rivera's dominant season has gone under the radar. He has a 1.47 ERA and has converted 37 of 38 saves. He has a 74/6 K/BB ratio. Will this guy ever slow down?

Looking for a bright spot with the Brewers? Wait...still searching. Well, Rickie Weeks went 3-for-3 with his 13th homer. How bad have things gotten for the Brew Crew? Even C.C. Sabathia can't win or get past the sixth inning. He went 5 2/3 innings and allowed seven hits, four runs -- one earned -- walked one and struck out three. He doesn't win the Cy Young award. It goes to Tim Lincecum.

Roy Halladay won his 19th game against the Red Sox. He is 19-11 with a 2.81 ERA.

B.J. Upton didn't start, but went 0-for-2 as a pinch hitter. He hasn't hit for a power because of an injured shoulder and could be undervalued in drafts next season. He is expected to start Sunday.

Chris Young could also be undervalued next season. He missed time this season because of the line drive he took off the face from Albert Pujols. It might be a good thing since it means less innings on his arm. He threw seven scoreless innings and allowed two hits, four walks and struck out five. He is 6-6 with a 4.11 ERA.

If you still have Pedro Martinez in your lineup I hope you haven't checked your team in months or you are related to him. I said he wouldn't be much of a fantasy factor this season. He allowed nine hits, walked three and allowed four runs with seven strikeouts in six innings to fall to 5-6 with a 5.50 ERA.

Curtis Granderson hit his 20th homer. He could be a bargain next season.

Remember when I said to target Joakim Soria as a closer before the season? He got his 41st save and has a 1.63 ERA. Closers on bad teams should not be dismissed.

Brad Lidge picked up his 39th save.

Matt Holliday was scratched with a back injury and is expected to miss Sunday too.

BY ADAM RONIS

Shaun Marcum will have Tommy John surgery and could miss all of next season. He missed one month earlier this season with an elbow injury. He left a start against the Orioles on Tuesday in the third inning with pain in his right forearm and numbness in his throwing hand. He went 9-7 with a 3.39 ERA in 25 starts.

BY ADAM RONIS

Don't worry. He's not hurt. Jake Peavy was scratched from his start tonight to be with his wife, who went into labor. He will likely miss the weekend series with the Nationals and have one more start for the rest of the season.