17.22

If the Pittsburgh Steelers move on from Hines Ward, the vet might sign with the Arizona Cardinals given the coaching connection with HC Ken Whisenhunt. He could be a mentor to the younger receivers, Andre Roberts and Early Doucet, and be a complement to Larry Fitzgerald. This still won't give him much fantasy football value, though. - Tim Heaney

17.20

Rashard Mendenhall hasn't been involved as much lately because the Pittsburgh Steelers have been leaning on Ben Rolethlisberger's arm and have been incorporating Isaac Redman more, which is coincidentally keeping Mendy fresh for the postseason. Mendenhall has been nicked up a bit of late. - Tim Heaney

17.20

The Pittsburgh Steelers could still clinch a first-round bye, and they're playing at the same time as the Baltimore Ravens, so there's reason to start a less-than-100-percent Ben Roethlisberger (ankle). - Tim Heaney

16.45

Our sources say there is a better than 50 percent chance the Eagles trade wideout DeSean Jackson and/or cornerback Asante Samuel this offseason. Other plans may include the first-round selection of a quarterback. Sounds strange, huh? Looking deeper, Michael Vick will be 32 years old in 2012, and a successor could then be groomed for a few years. It is safe to say that Mike Kafka didn't wow anyone in the organization. In what could be the strangest turn of events, it isn't out of the question that Andy Reid may step down next week. While we do not expect it to happen, do not entirely discount it. It should be noted that team president Joe Banner and owner Jeffrey Lurie have both been awfully quiet on this front, failing to endorse Reid's return in 2012. - Cory J. Bonini

16.35

Rumors swirling regarding St. Louis Rams head coach Steve Spagnuolo's potential return to the Eagles are simply that - conjecture. Tampering rules prohibit the Eagles from speaking with Spags or about hiring him, and it is even a lock that current defensive coordinator Juan Castillo will be fired since the Eagles' D has turned it around down the stretch. One speculative suggestion points to Spagnuolo joining the Eagles as a consultant to Castillo - a co-defensive coordinator, if you will. - Cory J. Bonini

16.21

The New York Giants have employed a lot of man-to-man coverage lately, and it didn't work in their favor in Week 14 against the Cowboys' Miles Austin. He caught only four passes for 63 yards and a touchdown, but Austin likely would have hauled in a long scoring strike if Tony Romo had not overthrown him late in the game. It could be another long day for Giants cornerback Aaron Ross if Romo is on his game. - Cory J. Bonini

16.15

Rashard Mendenhall (Pittsburgh Steelers) should have a solid ground day versus the Cleveland Browns, but Cleveland's run D has been better in recent weeks thanks to the improving play of defensive tackle Phil Taylor and defensive end Jabaal Sheard. Taylor, especially, has helped strengthen the middle of the front seven along with fellow T Ahtyba Rubin and stud MLB D'Qwell Jackson. - Tim Heaney

16.05

Madden strikes again: Peyton Hillis won't be wearing Cleveland Browns threads in 2012. He has burned too many bridges off the field. It has yet to be seen how Cleveland fills the ground gap, but they probably just want to move on more than anything else. Stay tuned in the offseason. - Tim Heaney

16.02

The G-men will have Mario Manningham (knee) and Hakeem Nicks (hamstring) this week, but the latter could be limited. This may mean more work for Ramses Barden, but it didn't translate to any last week. The Giants will likely avoid using four wideouts. Running back Ahmad Bradshaw could catch a few balls out of the backfield instead. - Cory J. Bonini

15.57

The New England Patriots will probably be aggressive this coming offseason in looking for a third wide receiver, with Deion Branch slipping a bit. If they feel they can get along without Brian Waters' leadership and skills (the best among their OLs this year), he could be a cap casualty, as well. - Tim Heaney

15.55

Those considering Bill O'Brien as an NFL head coach candidate for 2012 should remember that he has benefited a ton from Tom Brady and that the New England Patriots' assistant coach tree hasn't exactly been the most fruitful. - Tim Heaney

15.54

Standout defensive end Dwight Freeney (7.5 sacks) is having a down year by his standards, but he hasn't appeared to have lost a step. He is still seeing a lot of double-teams and has struggled because of the team playing from behind so much this year. He is set to cost million against the cap in 2012, which is the final year of his contract, so expect an effort to restructure him through a short-term extension. - Cory J. Bonini

15.51

Stevan Ridley is the closest thing to a No. 1 RB that the New England Patriots have right now. He has set career highs in carries in each of his last two games as he's pushing BenJarvus Green-Ellis to the side. It isn't set in stone, but BJGE is a risky play for Week 17 fantasy Super Bowls. The Pats might even let BJGE walk this offseason if he demands RB1 money. - Tim Heaney

15.49

The only way Tom Brady's left shoulder will become an issue is if he lands hard on it. Either way, it's not an overwhelming concern. Expect the New England Patriots to try to jump out early to a big lead to avoid a repeat of both Week 16 and their Week 3 loss to the same Buffalo Bills they'll face in Week 17.

15.48

Don't expect the Jeff Fishers and Bill Cowhers to be considered for the Jacksonville Jaguars' head coach job. New owner Shahid Khan wants someone with an offensive mind. One name floated around: Rob Chudzinski, the Carolina Panthers' OC that has aided the rise of Cam Newton. The TE-friendly Chud could extract more out of enigmatic talent Marcedes Lewis. - Tim Heaney

15.46

As he looks to hang on for the NFL rushing title, Maurice Jones-Drew should get upwards of 30 carries for the Jacksonville Jaguars, with the added benefit of protecting Blaine Gabbert from having to deal with the Indianapolis Colts' Robert Mathis and Dwight Freeney more than needed. - Tim Heaney

15.45

Week 17 will be Matthew Stafford's first game at the Green Bay Packers' Lambeau Field; he was injured when the Detroit Lions made previous trips. The Southern boy might not have blood to consistently handle cold weather, but don't expect them to shy away from having him unleash through the air or rest any of their top offensive pieces. They can lock up the No. 5 seed, and the Pack might be resting plenty of starters. Jim Schwartz prepared the team for the elements, to some degree, by holding practice outside Friday. - Tim Heaney

15.44

The Green Bay Packers have successfully stifled Brandon Pettigrew in the past; the Detroit Lions won't shy away from going to him, but GB's coverage history against him forewarns of a dud game from the emerging tight end. - Tim Heaney

15.42

The Detroit Lions' offseason could get tricky. Most of their offense, including Jahvid Best (concussion), should return, but they might have to make a decision on left tackle Jeff Backus, depending on whether they can find an alternative. On defense, they might be forced to part with CB Eric Wright or LB Stephen Tulloch. They'll probably ink Cliff Avril for big money, and between him, Matthew Stafford, Calvin Johnson (after 2012) and Ndamukong Suh, they'll have a bunch of cash tied up in four players. - Tim Heaney

15.42

If the Colts beat the Jacksonville Jaguars this weekend and lose the No. 1 overall pick, Indianapolis could address their offensive line by taking Southern California tackle Matt Kalil. They may move Anthony Castonzo to right tackle in that event. The option to trade down also remains, or Indy could select Oklahoma State wideout Justin Blackmon, especially if Reggie Wayne leaves in free agency. - Cory J. Bonini

15.41

Kevin Smith (ankle) should get at least 15 touches for the Detroit Lions backfield this week, with Maurice Morris and Keiland Williams following on the depth chart. If the weather proves overly inclement, they could be more involved on the ground. - Tim Heaney

15.23

Expect the Colts to offer Reggie Wayne a contract this offseason. We believe defensive end Robert Mathis will return, but center Jeff Saturday may retire. All three players are free agents entering 2012. Should Peyton Manning (neck) return to the team, he could make a strong push to convince Saturday to return for one more year. At 36 years old, the veteran center may have had enough even though he is still playing at a high level. - Cory J. Bonini

15.03

Expect the Colts to return their top three running backs in 2012, although there is a miniscule chance that Joseph Addai is released for cap relief. Donald Brown emerged this season and will be given the chance to compete for the starting job next summer. - Cory J. Bonini

14.40

Who rests for the Green Bay Packers in Week 17? Aaron Rodgers may not even be active! Clay Matthews (knee) and Charles Woodson (knee) could be down, too, and not because of injuries. The Pack's wideouts, on the other hand, probably don't have the luxury; Greg Jennings (knee) and Randall Cobb (groin) are out. Fantasy beneficiaries this week: Donald Driver and James Jones. How much Jermichael Finley (knee) plays is up in the air. Green Bay may rest him for a good portion of Sunday's contest, but he's had so many problems with drops this season that they may choose to give him the work. If quality alternatives are available, consider going with one of them instead. - Nicholas Minnix

14.14

By the way, Jimmy Graham needs 77 yards to surpass the record for most receiving yards by a tight end, set by Kellen Winslow's papa back in 1980. The New Orleans Saints' tight end is in his own tangle with a New England Patriots player, too. Graham is only six yards behind Rob Gronkowski for the distinction of record setter, should either of them gain enough to do the deed. - Nicholas Minnix

14.13

The most intriguing matchup of the weekend with fantasy football ramifications? Drew Brees versus ... Tom Brady? The former will be attempting to hold off the latter for most passing yards in a season. New Orleans isn't paying attention to records? That's BS. They'll probably have someone monitoring Brady's total. It matters to them. More evidence that fantasy owners shouldn't be concerned about how much some of their New Orleans Saints will play in Week 17. - Nicholas Minnix

13.57

Will the New Orleans Saints rest their stars? One forecast: only if the San Francisco 49ers appear to be in total control of their tilt with the St. Louis Rams. Who, it should be noted, will be starting Kellen Clemens at QB. Still, it's hard to envision players like Drew Brees, Jimmy Graham and Marques Colston not playing for at least a half. In this offense, that's enough time to do some fantasy football damage, and we're talking about a conservative estimate. - Nicholas Minnix

13.51

Curious about how the Washington Redskins are going to approach the quarterback position in 2012? Here's a clue: Mike Shanahan, a bit unexpectedly, revealed that he's already begun evaluating college passers. The 'Skins are highly unlikely to land one who starts right away, so they'll probably try to re-sign Rex Grossman to serve as a bridge. - Nicholas Minnix

13.16

Brandon Lloyd has already said that he'd like to follow Josh McDaniels wherever he goes; it's likely McD won't be running the St. Louis Rams' offense. If Lloyd can stick with him, he'll still be a reliable fantasy pick; Lloyd knows McDaniels knows how to use him to his optimal impact. The Rams, meanwhile, have a bunch of cap space for next season and should be active in free agency; they might try to keep Lloyd but probably could try netting a wideout to join their group of Danny Amendola, Danario Alexander, Greg Salas and the suspended Austin Pettis. - Tim Heaney

13.13

He's probably not in the Washington Redskins' 2012 plans, but this season, Donte' Stallworth proved that he can still play. He's probably not a No. 2 wideout in the NFL, but he could definitely carve out a niche, be a No. 3 man or third-down. As Stallworth said, he's been in a variety of systems and has proven that he can pick up an offense quickly. He'd have to end up with a fairly prominent role, but don't eliminate him as a relevant player in very deep leagues next year. - Nicholas Minnix

13.08

Roy Helu Jr. has clearly emerged, and the Washington Redskins are interested in bringing back Tim Hightower (torn ACL), but Evan Royster has done enough to work himself into the mix in 2012. It'll be interesting to see what they do. Mike Shanahan's group may put on yet another unpredictability party every week, but Royster could be at least a Helu handcuff next season. - Nicholas Minnix

13.08

Don't expect Steve Spagnuolo to be retained by the St. Louis Rams, especially not after a potential 2-14 season with their atrocious defense and the high possibility they'll wind up scoring their fewest points in a season since 1944. Sure, injuries and a brutal schedule played a part, but a sweeping change is justified. Heck, Josh McDaniels is still being mentioned as a head coach candidate elsewhere, too. His departure would weigh heavily on the future of Sam Bradford, who'd have to learn another offensive system. There's still hope for the slinger, but he needs a better environment to facilitate growth. - Tim Heaney

13.05

If Mike Martz leaves the Chicago Bears, will offensive line coach Mike Tice be retained? 'Da Bears have done well on the ground this year, and he deserves to stay. This could impact their rushing attack next season, which wouldn't be a nice welcome back for impending free agent Matt Forte. - Tim Heaney

13.05

Josh McCown showed last week that he can run an NFL offense, unlike poor Caleb Hanie. The Chicago Bears face a spotty - to say the least - Minnesota Vikings defensive backfield; it could be a productive day for Earl Bennett, among others. - Tim Heaney

13.04

Expect the Chicago Bears, besides doing all they can to keep Matt Forte around, to keep Kahlil Bell as their backup carrier for 2012 and cut Marion Barber III, who's due nearly $2 million next season. Bell is more versatile and will cost them far less to roster. Though Chicago doesn't view him as a fallback plan to carry the load if they can't re-sign Forte, Bell could be a nice late-rounds fantasy pick in deep leagues next season. Oh, and he'll be extra-motivated this week against the Minnesota Vikings, who cut him back in '09 and left a bad taste in his mouth. - Tim Heaney

16.28

Expect the New England Patriots to try to shut down the over-the-middle portion of the Miami Dolphins' passing game, especially Davone Bess, who has made them pay when left uncovered. This could mean a big day for Brandon Marshall, making him a top fantasy play, but the Pats are probably OK with allowing Marshall's inconsistency to beat them than Miami to keep moving the chains consistently. - Tim Heaney

16.26

The New England Patriots had trouble setting the edges against the Denver Broncos' superb running game in Week 15. With Andre Carter (quadriceps) out for the year, Mark Anderson becomes the primary pass rusher, but his run defense isn't as stout. Reggie Bush, a highly potent edge rusher, should take advantage on the ground to add to his receiving skills for the Miami Dolphins.- Tim Heaney

16.21

New England Patriots locker-room sources say Wes Welker has been a good soldier in not talking about his expiring contract. He's not letting it distract from his efforts, even with the possibility of facing one or two years with a franchise tag. - Tim Heaney

16.20

The Miami Dolphins won't contain Rob Gronkowski as effectively as the Denver Broncos did in Week 15. They had the right combo of pass rush forcing Gronk to block and defensive attention paid to him on pass routes. The New England Patriots won't need Gronkowski to shadow block Cameron Wake. Aaron Hernandez, meanwhile, doesn't necessarily need a bad Gronk day to have his own good day; he's the third option behind Gronk and Wes Welker.  -  Tim Heaney

16.11

Jabar Gaffney needs 158 receiving yards to record his first 1,000-yard season. Expect the Washington Redskins to involve the 31-year-old often to help him reach that goal; a matchup versus a weak Minnesota Vikings secondary will go a long way toward helping him realize that dream. - Tim Heaney

16.09

It looks like Roy Helu Jr. (toe) will play this weekend for the Washington Redskins, but he'll probably have a touch percentage split of something like 60-40 with Evan Royster. If Helu can't go, Royster would have a 60-40 advantage, approximately, over Ryan Torain, who'd be forced onto the active roster. - Tim Heaney

16.04

A vital difference between the last Dallas Cowboys-Philadelphia Eagles matchup: Dallas linebacker Sean Lee had to leave that game early, and Philly took advantage of LB Keith Brooking. Lee is much better in pass coverage, and maybe Brent Celek won't have as many openings over the middle as many think. - Tim Heaney

16.03

The Philadelphia Eagles run well versus 3-4 defenses. LeSean McCoy has torn up the Dallas Cowboys already this year; in fact the two biggest games of his career have come in his last two meetings against them. - Tim Heaney

16.02

Some reports say Nnamdi Asomugha will guard Jason Witten this weekend, like they did effectively in Week 8. However, Laurent Robinson wasn't as big a factor for the Dallas Cowboys in that meeting, and the Philadelphia Eagles won't have cornerback Asante Samuel (hamstring) this weekend, so they'd be thin against Dallas' wideouts if that were to happen. Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie will probably play the outsides with Joselio Hanson in the slot, with Asomugha likely matching up with Dez Bryant. Miles Austin and Laurent Robinson look primed to continue their momentum. - Tim Heaney

16.01

As if Blaine Gabbert wasn't already a shaky slinger: He'll have right tackle Cameron Bradfield making the first start of his career. That's a weak spot the Tennessee Titans can exploit; their pass rush hasn't been the same since Jim Washburn left, but this opens a sack door for their fantasy defense, which is a solid waiver wire play. - Tim Heaney

15.39

Veteran wideout Hines Ward is just nine catches away from 1,00 receptions, which would make him the eighth player in league history to accomplish the feat. Emmanuel Sanders (foot) is out, and Charlie Batch may feel most comfortable working with Ward. - Cory J. Bonini

15.27

The G-men will be without Mario Manningham (knee) and Jake Ballard (knee); they also may not have third-down back Danny Ware (foot). Look for a lot of checkdowns to Ahmad Bradshaw, and our sources feel Hakeem Nicks will have Darrelle Revis locked on him all day. Nevertheless, Eli Manning will not be afraid to challenge Revis. Fantasy owners should play Nicks with tempered expectations. - Cory J. Bonini

15.20

Every fantasy football gamer has only one concern about their Green Bay Packers: Will mine sit? If the San Francisco 49ers lose to the Seattle Seahawks on Christmas Eve, the Pack could think about it in the second half of their Sunday night matchup with the Chicago Bears. But, let's not over-think this one. Mike McCarthy has given the impression that he wants his team to get rid of the taste from last week's ugly loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, and he wants his boys to remain sharp. This isn't the time to get gunshy with your Green Bay good guys. - Nicholas Minnix

15.19

Don't expect the Jacksonville Jaguars to acquire a better backup plan to Blaine Gabbert next season. They still have faith in Luke McCown; they think he has made progress already. Plus, he wouldn't lose the backup job to a 2012 draft pick, which wouldn't come before the fourth round considering the other holes Jacksonville has. If anything, they'd try to develop another project QB. - Tim Heaney

15.18

The San Diego Chargers' Ryan Mathews could pose a problem for the Detroit Lions, who've been vulnerable to perimeter rushes and misdirections - two of Mathews' specialties. Maybe San Diego decides to run a bit more to keep Detroit's pass game off the field. - Tim Heaney

15.17

Kevin Smith (ankle) is probable for Saturday and was running better this week in practice. The Detroit Lions could involve Smith more if they need to play things close to the vest against the San Diego Chargers. - Tim Heaney

15.17

Calvin Johnson was highly successful last week because the Detroit Lions moved him around to get him favorable matchups against linebackers and safeties. Also, teams are starting to respect Detroit's short passing game - Nate Burleson, Titus Young and Brandon Pettigrew - more, so Megatron could be open more often. Still, you shouldn't expect the San Diego Chargers to let him have another monstrous Week 15-like effort, because the attention Eric Weddle will probably pay toward him. - Tim Heaney

15.16

James Starks (knee) will suit up for the first time in three weeks in the NFL's only Christmas Day matchup, scheduled for prime time. The Green Bay Packers aren't expected to lean on him quite as much as they would if this were a midseason game and he was 100 percent; he should see a slight majority of the touches, and Ryan Grant will probably get the rest. In your fantasy football Super Bowl, neither back is an enticing play against the Chicago Bears' quality run defense. - Nicholas Minnix

15.15

The Detroit Lions' hobbled secondary will probably play more man-press coverage against the San Diego Chargers' receiving options, who have notable size advantages nearly across the board. Chris Houston and company will look to disrupt the Chargers' routes via bump and run. - Tim Heaney

15.14

Anquan Boldin (knee) being out means Torrey Smith will probably line up against rising Cleveland Browns CB Joe Haden, who could trail him better on deep balls than the other Cleveland options. The Baltimore Ravens' passing game is already likely to take a back seat to Ray Rice, who's looking to reprise his 204-yard performance from a few weeks ago against the runner-friendly Browns D.  -Tim Heaney

15.14

Physique isn't a long-term issue for Colt McCoy (concussion). It's that he's short and failing to make competent throws to the outside. The Cleveland Browns will probably be looking for a different arm for the future if that is their main critique. - Tim Heaney

15.13

Week 16 should be a big day, at least workload-wise, for Kahlil Bell. The Chicago Bears don't know what type of passing game they'll have with Josh McCown replacing Caleb Hanie and Johnny Knox (back) on Injured Reserve. Maybe Earl Bennett can help on the midrange routes that he couldn't connect with Hanie on, but it's safer on Bell being the best receiving option. - Tim Heaney

14.53

In their first meeting of 2011 with the Atlanta Falcons, the New Orleans Saints' game plan called for passing, passing and more passing, with a small helping of ... passing. They know that's how they're able to exploit Atlanta's D, which is strong against the run. N'Awlins called only 15 runs or so. There's no reason to expect much deviation. For fantasy football players who own a Saints receiver and have made it this far: Play your stud; if you have a fringe target, he's a candidate for your lineup, too. - Nicholas Minnix

13.20

Rookie receiver Austin Pettis has been suspended four games for violating the league's performance-enhancing drug policy. He reportedly took Adderall, which is a prescription med for attention deficit disorder. His long-term standing with the team shouldn't be in jeopardy, and he seemed contrite for making the mistake. Don't expect the Rams to sign anyone to replace him at this stage of a losing season; Dominique Curry should serve as the seldom-used fourth Rams receiver. - Cory J. Bonini

13.16

The Rams will be without Sam Bradford (ankle) again this week, but he could have learned a thing or two from Kellen Clemens' pocket awareness and timing in Week 15. Clemens is playing for a future backup role in St. Louis, with A.J. Feeley being a 34-year-old soon-to-be free agent. The Oregon product took three sacks and came up short on a would-be touchdown pass to Brandon Lloyd last week, but Clemens' 95.7 rating was tops among Rams passers in 2011. Go figure.... - Cory J. Bonini

13.08

The Falcons held New Orleans Saints running back Darren Sproles to one total yard of offense in Week 10 by chipping him a lot as he came out of the backfield. Expect that strategy to be employed once again by Atlanta, but they also have to contend with Jimmy Graham and Marques Colston. The tight end went for 82 yards and a score on seven receptions in Week 10, while Colston posted an 8-113-0 line that game. Stopping one guy is possible. All three ... think again. - Cory J. Bonini

16.33

If Dan Orlovsky can get time against the Tennessee Titans, the Indianapolis Colts' wideouts could benefit; maybe Cortland Finnegan can contain Reggie Wayne, but the vet, Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie could see bumps if Indy can stifle Tennessee's mediocre pass rush. See Orlovsky's performance versus the New England Patriots (time to throw) compared to that against the Baltimore Ravens (not so much). Then again, New England was playing prevent because they were up big, so.... - Tim Heaney

16.32

It's baffling how the Indianapolis Colts have toyed with Delone Carter, the most physical and hardest-running back they've had in years. They're overrating his fumbling issues, and it seems to be in his head. Donald Brown's newfound ability to bounce to the outside of a clogged interior can only carry him so far. - Tim Heaney

16.32

Brandon Jacobs could give the Washington Redskins problems this Sunday, as he has done in recent years. Their linebackers are on the small side and have trouble with large bruisers; the physical Perry Riley's emergence might not be enough to handle No. 27. - Tim Heaney

16.31

It's time to recognize the growth of New Orleans Saints left tackle Jermon Bushrod, who was thrown into the fire in 2009, won a Super Bowl and is continuing to develop, even while he's being placed on an island often. He'll get Jared Allen this week but might not require as much help as other LTs get. New Orleans will move the pocket often for Drew Brees anyway. - Tim Heaney

16.28

Though it's hard to bench Rob Gronkowski, you should at least lower your expectations for him this week. He might have to stay in to block more often versus the Denver Broncos' emerging pass rush this week. We might see more Aaron Hernandez. Wes Welker probably won't have Champ Bailey following him around, either, even those he's capable of playing the slot. - Tim Heaney

16.28

Though it's hard to bench Rob Gronkowski, you should at least lower your expectations for him this week. He might have to stay in to block more often versus the Denver Broncos' emerging pass rush this week. We might see more Aaron Hernandez. Wes Welker probably won't have Champ Bailey following him around, either, even those he's capable of playing the slot. - Tim Heaney

16.26

Matthew Stafford has been more willing to take what defenses give him lately; hence his increased attention toward Nate Burleson (their leader in receptions since the bye), Titus Young and Brandon Pettigrew and a slight drop-off for Calvin Johnson. The Detroit Lions tried moving Megatron around last week, especially in the slot, but it initially helped Young more. The Oakland Raiders don't have their corners travel, per our Detroit insider, so expect Detroit to try creating mismatches on the inside again. And Detroit knows Oakland is run-first, so they'll probably want to jump out early on offense to force Carson Palmer into heave-ho mode. - Tim Heaney

16.25

If Kevin Smith (ankle) goes in Week 15, expect the Detroit Lions to ride him as much as possible. Keiland Williams was taking RB2 reps in practice, and he and Maurice Morris are merely complementary and spell pieces as long as Smith is active. - Tim Heaney

16.19

Our sources say wideout Earl Bennett is frustrated with his lack of involvement since Caleb Hanie replaced Jay Cutler (thumb), but he isn't vocalizing it publicly. Bennett could be worked in a little more this week, but we have a hard time recommending him in Week 15 playoff matchups. - Cory J. Bonini

16.15

The Bears threw to their running backs nine times last week, which is somewhat uncharacteristic of this offense in 2011. The Denver Broncos' pass rush and cornerbacks forced Chicago to utilize the backs more in Week 14. Marion Barber III made a costly mistake late in the game that could lead to Kahlil Bell seeing more PT this week. - Cory J. Bonini

16.09

Tight end Benjamin Watson (concussion) was placed on Injured Reserve. He says he will return to the team next year, but Watson has had three concussions. That is scary for a father of three young children. Backup Evan Moore will not be using the next three games as an audition for the starting job next season, since he is not a very good blocker and would share time with another tight end if Watson indeed opts to retire. - Cory J. Bonini

15.58

Ahmad Bradshaw (foot) was benched for the first half last week for violating team rules. He is probable for Week 15 but may not see his typical workload; the team wants him to take it easy as he isn't 100 percent yet. Look for a split closer to 50-50 with Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs this week. - Cory J. Bonini

15.41

The Pittsburgh Steelers will try to lean on the run extensively against the San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football, whether or not Ben Roethlisberger (ankle) plays. If they don't have success, they'll eventually go away from it; they'd probably move to screens (we'd see a good bit of Isaac Redman) and try to get Heath Miller more involved than he's been lately. The running game will be huge, because if Big Ben plays, he won't have the option to run for his life when protection breaks down. The running game has been improving, but it's not a great situation. Fantasy owners have a tough time viewing Rashard Mendenhall as more than a low-end RB2 or a flex play in this one. - Nicholas Minnix

15.23

If, at the beginning of the year, someone had asked what would happen if the Philadelphia Eagles missed the playoffs, the response would've been that they'd fire Andy Reid. The players seem to think he'll back, however; he has their support. Michael Vick is Reid's and Co.'s project. Juan Castillo at defensive coordinator? Also Reid's decision. He's so overmatched in games. Maybe he was dealt a bad hand, but he made the least of it. He's gone. But that won't be enough to satisfy fans. Will Reid be back? It's truly 50-50. Howie Roseman, the GM, deserves just as much blame as Reid, but he's Joe Banner's protege, so it's doubtful that he'll take the fall. - Nicholas Minnix

15.10

Hakeem Nicks has come to life lately since he is finally healthy and defenses have been forced to pay more attention to Victor Cruz. Nicks, who has 22 receptions in his past three games, could very well keep it up against the Washington Redskins this week. - Cory J. Bonini

14.41

Along with what could be a complete rebuild of the O-line, the St. Louis Rams could be looking at an offense in flux heading into 2012. They hope to retain impending free agent Brandon Lloyd and could eye drafting Oklahoma State wideout Justin Blackmon in the first round to go with emerging slotters Danny Amendola and Greg Salas. Changes in the offense could be even more drastic if Josh McDaniels takes a vacant head coaching position. - Tim Heaney

14.33

Those in dire straits in their fantasy football backfield should consider John Kuhn this week if James Starks (ankle) and Brandon Saine (concussion) can't go. Kuhn will probably be in on all passing situations and could rack up some receptions while splitting touches with Ryan Grant. Lest not we forget Kuhn's abilities around the goal line. - Tim Heaney

14.33

Jermichael Finley should benefit the most with Greg Jennings (knee) likely out for the remainder of the regular season. (Don't expect him back even if the Green Bay Packers are staring at a perfect season in Week 17.) Green Bay will use Finley in similar ways to Jennings' M.O. - stuff across the middle, down the seams while splitting out wide. Randall Cobb's touches should increase, and maybe James Jones will record a few more grabs. Is Jordy Nelson strong enough to fight off double teams? - Tim Heaney