There was a Thursday game, which means some owners missed their free-agent waiver wire period because the waiver period was earlier than normal. That’s what happens when there are Thursday games! Some leagues do offer first-come, first-served. Top players this week, such as running backs Justin Forsett (Seattle Seahawks), Jason Snelling (Atlanta Falcons), Jerious Norwood (hip, Falcons), Bernard Scott (Cincinnati Bengals) and Larry Johnson (Bengals), are gone. So who is there? I hope some of the wide receivers, place kickers and defenses I’m listing.

Kansas City WR Chris Chambers is listed because Dwayne Bowe is serving a four-game suspension for violating the league’s policy on performance-enhancing substances. Chambers, in my eyes, only has two weeks of calculable data as his stint was with the San Diego Chargers before the Chiefs signed him. In those two games, he has gone 6-130-2 with nine targets. View him as a No. 3 or flex fantasy receiver. He’s not going to post numbers as good as Bowe simply because he doesn’t have the chemistry with quarterback Matt Cassel yet, nor, at 32 years old, does he have Bowe’s skills. Greater detail on Chambers and the Bowe suspension is provided at Keith Hernandez’s blog: “Four-game suspension for Kansas City Chiefs WR Dwayne Bowe.”

St. Louis Rams WR Brandon Gibson will replace Keenan Burton (knee), whose season is over with a torn patella tendon. He went 7-93-0 with nine targets last week. Remember, he was part of the trade that sent linebacker Will Witherspoon to the Philadelphia Eagles. Many thought Gibson would eventually eat away at Burton’s playing time anyway. The kid has talent and at one time some saw him as a Day 1 draft prospect that fell to the sixth round. Some believe his poor senior season was because of bad quarterback play and double-teams. If you’re desperate, such as some owners in deep leagues or high-stakes leagues, give him a shot.

Gaining chemistry?

Tennessee Titans WR Nate Washington has come alive the last few weeks with touchdowns but that’s it. His only value is in leagues that don’t have point-per-reception scoring rules and touchdown only leagues. He’s only averaging 2-28-0.67 with an average of 3.3 targets per game. In total over three games, 10 targets, 7-85-2.

Oakland Raiders WR Chaz Schilens is available on some waiver wires, and for those that don’t know, he is arguably the team’s best receiver. While he only went 3-27-0 with four targets, the team has a new quarterback in Bruce Gradkowski after benching JaMarcus Russell, who I call, JaAwful Russell! In deep leagues he’s worth grabbing for a couple of weeks to see what happens. I’ll say this, I love tight end Zach Miller’s talent, but both he and Schilens fall under the “start at your own risk” philosophy.

New York Giants TE Kevin Boss is available in some leagues and over the last three weeks he’s seen 16 targets, an average of 5.33 per game. He has produced 8-122-2. Obviously the two touchdowns make him attractive, so riding the hot hand is what we’re looking at here. I also like his matchup this week against the Atlanta Falcons. They’ve allowed tight ends to gain either yardage or touchdowns the last few weeks, so the Giants can exploit that.

Tennessee Titans PK Rob Bironas is unlikely to be available in most leagues after the initial free-agent waiver wire period. I was able to grab him in one first-come, first-served league, and he may still be available in your league. He’s kicking at a 90.9 percent clip over the last five games. Over the last three games he has posted 12 XPs, 7 FGs, including a 51-yarder and a 48-yarder. Right now the Titans are playing with anyone, so pick him up while the team and Bironas are hot!

Cincinnati Bengals DT is for real, and though they’re probably gone with this week’s initial waiver wire period, they may still be available in a few leagues. They face the hapless Oakland Raiders this week. Over the last five games they have recorded nine interceptions, forced four fumbles and generated 13 sacks. Damn impressive numbers, breaking up to 2.6 turnovers and sacks per game. I like them long-term regardless of who they play after giving the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers a beat down!

Houston Texans DT is a good stretch-run D to grab. Sure, this week and next week (Weeks 11 and 12) they’re not recommended as they face the Tennessee Titans and Indianapolis Colts not being great options but when you enter the fantasy playoffs in Week 13-16, they face the Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks, St. Louis Rams and Miami Dolphins.

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

I’m happy; bye weeks are over, and to boot, I went 7-0 in all my fantasy leagues this past week. I do represent KFFL in four expert, leagues and I’m at 29-11, for a .725 win percentage, in those leagues. I’m happy and not bragging, just sharing my joy with you!

One reason I bring this up is because I study waiver wire players, matchups, trends, schedules and whatever else I can dig up to help me with decisions. I always, always, always consult someone to hear their thoughts and to challenge me as well as to catch something I may not have considered. I hope these blogs help and I hope you get something out of it just as I do when I research and decide who to pick up and waive.

Some free agent players to consider on your waiver wire:

Seattle Seahawks RBs Justin Forsett and Louis Rankin will share the load for the injured Julius Jones (rib, lung). I’m including Rankin in this list because Forsett is only 5-foot-8, 194 pounds. There is concern about his durability. If you miss Forsett and have the roster space, give Rankin a shot. Forsett is quick, elusive and can make players miss.

Rankin just came off the practice squad a few weeks ago. He’s similar in that he can be elusive because of his quickness and has speed to get to the outside and make big plays. However, he’s bigger at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds. But it’s Forsett’s job, possibly for the rest of the season if he can stay healthy and produce. Jones has been a big disappointment this year with a 3.7 yards-per-carry average and only two touchdowns.

Forsett is an easy choice on the waiver wire

Atlanta Falcons RBs Jason Snelling and Jerious Norwood (hip) are in similar positions. They will see increased carries this week because of Michael Turner’s high ankle sprain. Neither running back will replace Turner or his production, but Snelling, just a few weeks ago, was in the news, with the team stating they want to get him more touches. However, he had developed a hamstring injury.

Look for Snelling to see most of the utilizations with Turner out, because Norwood is just coming back from a hip strain and has been out for about a month. It would be unrealistic to believe he’ll come in and take most of the carries. He’s probably not even in great game shape after the time off!

Grab Snelling first, and then look toward Norwood if Snelling is gone. For the record, don’t believe the team when it states Turner may only miss one game. While technically that could be true, his return date is anyone’s guess as we have to see how long it takes him to heal and get back to form. Just because Turner has stayed fairly healthy in his career does not mean he’ll return from this injury in one week. That’s simply being optimistic without reason.

Cincinnati Bengals RBs Bernard Scott and Larry Johnson are on this list only because the team is facing the Oakland Raiders this week, and they have one of the league’s worst run defenses. The team needs Cedric Benson (hip) healthy for the long run, and they may be able to get by with Scott starting and resting Benson. At 5-foot-11, 220 pounds, Scott should have the power to run between the tackles, but some question his ability to do that. However, he has speed to get to the outside and break it big, so target him this week.

Benson's hip injury may open the door for Bernard Scott and ... LJ?

I added Johnson for no reason outside the fact some believe his statistics in Kansas City this year are due more to the team around him than his abilities. Others state otherwise, but if you have the roster space, why not stash him? For much more details on LJ, Benson and Scott, check out Hot off the Wire Analyst Keith Hernandez’s blog “Cincinnati Bengals expected to sign RB Larry Johnson.”

There are other running backs many view as better to stash than LJ. Those are: the Pittsburgh Steelers‘ Willie Parker and the New England Patriots‘ Sammy Morris and Fred Taylor.

Thursday, let’s tackles some wide receivers, place kickers and defenses you should target via the waiver wire or first-come, first-served pickups.

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

What’s wrong with the Green Bay Packers? From a fantasy perspective, there’s nothing wrong, though there is disappointment among fantasy owners of running back Ryan Grant and wide receiver Greg Jennings. The problem is from an NFL perspective and the team’s win-loss record of 4-4. Let’s take care of the fantasy problem first.

Grant, their No. 1 rusher, is averaging 20.6 touches, 93.1 offensive yards and 0.50 touchdowns per game this season – not too shabby. In his last four games he’s averaging 22.3-101.3-0.5. There’s a perception he’s underperforming, but those numbers show he may be coming around. Now he has to show he can consistently produce like that against better teams.

The other player disappointing owners, especially in non-point-per-reception leagues (non-PPR), is Jennings, who this season is averaging 4.38-63.1-0.25 with 7.50 targets per game. He has eight red zone plays on the year, which leads the team. He is playing slightly better in the last four with an average 6.00-66.3-0.25 with an average of 9.50 targets. Perhaps he and quarterback Aaron Rodgers are slowly getting it together? No one can argue that Jennings has been a huge disappointment, especially in a pass-first offense!

This A-Rod can't stay upright

The real problems are their 4-4 record and their offensive line woes. That should concern all fantasy owners of quarterback Aaron Rodgers and his capacity to absorb a hit and ability to stay healthy! He leads the NFL in sacks with 37 and at this pace will
approach former Houston Texans quarterback David Carr’s record of 76 from 2002. That is brutal and why the Packers offensive line is in the news. As a team they are struggling and hit their lowest low in recent memory by losing to a winless Tampa Bay
Buccaneers unit that has seen more embarrassment in recent memory than I can remember. That includes watching the Bucs play in their early years!

This week head coach Mike McCarthy stated parts of the problems could be Rodgers holding on to the ball too long or the receivers not getting open. There could be truth to this, but Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, at times, holds on too long and pays the price – but wins.

When you look at Rodgers statistically, he’s averaging 21.0 completions, 281.9 yards and 2.00 touchdowns, which makes him one of the league’s best young quarterbacks. However, Rodgers’ 63.1 percent accuracy rate is nowhere hear Big Ben’s 70.6 rating. I’m willing to say that difference probably translates into a few key plays that contribute to wins for Roethlisberger, whereas Rodgers deals with losses. Rodgers can help improve the situation by getting rid of some balls earlier, allowing him to grow and mature into the position. While there is room for improvement this year, Rodgers’ best years are still ahead of him.

Another potential problem is their No. 1 back. Grant is not a natural pass receiver. Sure, that is no longer a prerequisite for the West Coast offense … but when you see what other backs are accomplishing – such as the Houston Texans‘ Steve Slaton, the  Philadelphia Eagles‘ Brian Westbrook and the Chicago Bears‘ Matt Forte (last year’s version) – you wonder about Grant’s lack of versatility. How much does that hurt this West Coast offense? Just last week I saw an easily catchable pass go in and out of his hands. A check down pass to a running back is just as good as a hand off in the West Coast philosophy and takes pressure off the quarterback. Grant is only seeing an average of 2.00 receptions per game this year, which tells me the team may not be using the check down pass as effectively as it could. Hell, the total number of sacks allowed proves that! This is a position the team is trying to work on by bringing in Ahman Green for his receiving skills (and special teams play), but long-term the team will need to address this. In Grant’s defense he is more than serviceable as a starter, especially if Green and Brandon Jackson can pick up the receiving slack.

Can Grant be a factor as a receiver?

Let’s not forget the tight end position, which has not flourished as well as many believe it should have since the days of Keith Jackson and Mark Chmura. Donald Lee is not the answer; while he’s serviceable, he does not stand out. Jermichael Finley (knee), talented but injury-prone, is following the same path of unfulfilled promise trailblazed by players such as Lee, Tory Humphrey, Bubba Franks, David Martin, Tyrone Davis and others. This position is also key to help take pressure off the quarterback. While some may argue these tight ends have been serviceable, in the end, a multidimensional tight end in a West Coast offense can take an offense to the next level.

Others also believe defense and special teams are the problem here, and I agree. However, I believe in defensive coordinator Dom Capers and his 3-4 defense, but he still does not have all the necessary players to fit the schemes. The defense will improve. Capers’ reputation and track record guarantee that.

I believe there is no excuse for special teams play contributing heavily to their losses. It’s unsatisfactory for any NFL team because there are base fundamentals on special teams that do not change from team to team. The team is so desperate it has the 32-year-old Green working special teams. In the end, fundamentals and focus will alleviate the problem, and those come from coaching and instilling discipline. Either this unit improves, or I’m sure special teams coach Shawn Slocum is gone after the season.

What about coaching? I like what McCarthy and general manager Ted Thompson are doing. However, I do blame the front office for their offensive line woes, and while I view this season as the continuance toward building a Super Bowl team, I understand they’re not there yet. I’m willing to give this front office and coaching staff one more year after this one. However, the onus is on McCarthy to make the playoffs. Though this Packers squad may not be Super Bowl-ready, it’s good enough to be a playoff team. If they don’t make the playoffs, then McCarthy may not make it back next year, which would be wrong because it would set the team back two years at least.

In the end, I believe the offensive line is the key to the Packers’ success because you win in the trenches. You control the game by controlling the lanes and gaps while also protecting the quarterback. Right now, they can’t do any of that consistently. McCarthy believes the team’s problems are correctable through adjustments, and while there is technique that can be improved, in the end you either have the talent to keep your quarterback upright and the ability to open running lanes, or you don’t. Right now the Packers don’t, and thus their 4-4 record stands out. I don’t see a short-term fix for this season, so we owners of one Aaron Rodgers better hope he is as tough as his predecessor (without the need of Vicodin) and can remain healthy long enough to help us to a fantasy championship!

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

I took a beatdown this week I will not forget. Most of my teams had the opportunity to create some separation with the pack but instead fell back to earth. The halfway point is here, and I’m taking a hard look at some of them, as should you.

While our teams may be competitive, we need to make sure they’re built for the stretch run. Questions are abound for players like Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis, wide receiver Santana Moss, San Diego Chargers running back LaDainian Tomlinson, Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte, free agent running back Larry Johnson and others like them. Do we trade them, waive them or hold on to them? Is there even anything better on the waiver wire? Probably not, but the ones listed are only trade-worthy so we’re probably stuck.

Other players such as New Orleans wide receiver Lance Moore, Buffalo Bills wide receiver Terrell Owens or Pittsburgh Steelers RB Willie Parker may not even be trade-worthy – so many questions and not enough answers. Once you review your team you’ll be able to decide how good it is to make a playoff run. One key to review is your player’s upcoming schedule. From there you’ll be able to make a better decision on whom to trade, keep or waive.

Some players to consider short and long term:

Washington Redskins RB Ladell Betts will be this week’s fantasy darling for good reason. Head coach Jim Zorn said to look for Clinton Portis, the starter, to be doubtful this week. Betts is not a high-quality No. 1 back for the team, but he’s the best they have. That makes him a waiver wire pickup. When Portis went out, Betts came in and saw 16 touches, 70 yards and one touchdown. He faces a Denver Broncos team this week that is slowly falling apart since their bye week three weeks ago.

With this guy hurt, Betts will be a popular pickup

Oakland Raiders RB Justin Fargas will probably begin to hit many waiver wires as most owners believe Darren McFadden will see most of the carries upon his return. That may be so, but head coach Tom Cable likes Fargas, and there’s no guarantee how effective McFadden will be when he gets back. If you own McFadden, Fargas is a definite grab – even if you don’t have McFadden and are in a deep league with enough roster space, grab Fargas! Let’s see how he and McFadden coexist before deciding what to do with him. Over his last four games, Fargas is averaging, per game, 17.0 utilizations, 73.6 total yards and 0.25 scores (one total touchdown in that span) – not exactly earth-shattering numbers, but good enough for a bye week or injury fill-in role.

Cincinnati Bengals WR Laveranues Coles was on my list last week, and he’s on it this week again. Why? Wideout Chris Henry (forearm) is out for the year, which chips away at the receivers that cannibalize one another. This past week Coles went 6-72-0 with 10 targets, and in his last three games he has gone for 12-149-2. Not too shabby; I picked him up in one league already as I’m struggling with Santana Moss‘ inconsistency.

Cincinnati Bengals WR Andre Caldwell runs in the same thought process as Coles because of Henry’s injury. He’s not a high-target receiver; he’s a clutch receiver. Quarterback Carson Palmer loves him in the red zone and when the team is playing from behind – 19 of Caldwell’s 29 receptions have come with the team trailing. In the last four weeks (three games) he has gone for 11-91-1 with 16 targets including one in the red zone, and for the season he does have three touchdowns. He’s nothing more than a bye week or injury fill-in.

Kansas City Chiefs WR Chris Chambers will probably be a hot pickup after his two-touchdown game. He went 3-70-2 with four targets. If you have the roster space, grab and stash him and see what happens. No one knows what to expect, but odds are one of these two things will happen: Chambers will play solid football because he’s in a contract year, or this game is an aberration and what we see out of Bobby Wade is what we’ll get out of Chambers. For the record, Wade is averaging 3.50-37.7-0.33 on the year – OUCH!

Drink from this Stroughter

Tampa Bay Buccaneers WR Sammie Stroughter is someone I’ve stayed away from because of whom he plays for and an unproven rookie quarterback in Josh Freeman. However, he has been fairly steady the last three games, averaging 3.00-49.0-0.33 (one touchdown in that span) with 16 total targets, including one in the red zone. He’s only worthy in larger leagues and as a bye week or injury fill-in.

Miami Dolphins WR Greg Camarillo is streaky, but as with Stroughter, if you’re in a larger league, take a look. He’s averaging 3.50-43.5-0.00 in the last four games, seeing 20 targets in that time span. He’s only worthy in larger leagues and as a bye week or injury fill-in.

Green Bay Packers TE Jermichael Finley is 50-50 to play this week, and he said he doesn’t feel anything and the doctors are being cautious. It’s time to pick him up and stash him if you can. He was starting to play well before the injury; let’s see if he can pick up where he left off. In Weeks 4 and 6, when healthy, he posted 11-182-1 with 12 targets. Donald Lee is not a fantasy option for any owner.

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

There are still some leagues out there that have yet to process free agents and many that have first come, first serve (FCFS) rules in place. For those that don’t know what that is, it’s when you can go to the waiver wire and add/drop players immediately.

Some players to pick up that may still be out there:

Jacksonville Jaguars WR Mike Thomas can be considered by desperate owners in deep leagues. Let’s make something clear, three of the last four weeks have been great for him. Let’s remove the joke of a game they played against Seattle in Week 5. Then take the last three games. He’s posted 16-138-0, which averages to 5-46-0. That would translate into 9.6 points in most point-per-reception leagues, giving him bye week or injury fill-in value. In those three games he’s also seen 20 targets.

Cincinnati Bengals WR Laveranues Coles has improved his fantasy numbers the last two weeks but mostly because of two touchdowns. He’s averaging 3-46-1 the last two games. If you’re desperate pick him up and see what he does. For the record, in the last two games he’s seen nine targets.

Washington Redskins TE Chris Cooley (leg) is out for about three more weeks. He’s on many waiver wires as most owners thought he was done for the season. He’s a potential stud during the fantasy playoffs, so grab Cooley and stash him!

Inconsistent production

New England Patriots TE Benjamin Watson is also on many waiver wires because he’s inconsistent. However, if you’re in need of a bye week or injury fill-in, give him a shot. He’s only posted 6-122-2 with 10 targets. The key here is the fact he has two touchdowns over the last month and four for the season.

Green Bay Packers TE Jermichael Finley (knee) may not play this week but in his limited time he’s shown he’s clearly the fantasy future for the tight end position over Donald Lee, who is well past his prime. Finley has been inconsistent but could turn it around in the second half. In Weeks 5 and 6, when healthy and finally showing chemistry with quarterback Aaron Rodgers, he posted 11-182-1 on 12 targets. If he can get back to health there’s a chance he can once again show us what we expected of him: quality tight end numbers.

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

It was a brutal week for me! Bye weeks finally caught up to me. In a few leagues, I maxed out my points, but it wasn’t enough to deal with teams who still had their studs going. For example, in my NFL.com Experts league, I lost by nine points this week. Had I not dropped Nick Folk for Matt Prater I would have tied my opponent but would have lost anyway; every player on my bench was on a bye, and that’s used for breaking ties.

In the end, it is what it is. In representing KFFL this year, so far I’m doing well. I’m either in first or battling for first. In four leagues I have a combined record of 23-9 and some close losses, so I like where I’m sitting near the halfway point. Just remember, you need to assess your team to determine how true a shot you have for the playoffs. I say that because it will help decide how risky you get in all facets of the game: waivers, trades, who to start (do you get conservative or become a risk taker?) and any other area you feel needs tweaking.

Time to dive into this Moats?

We still have bye weeks. That makes the waiver wire that much more important, but I’m confident my teams have turned the corner as most of my players have wrapped up their byes. This week’s fantasy darling will be Houston Texans RB Ryan Moats. He thrilled us, and the 2 percent that started him, they look like geniuses.

In Week 6, Moats was one of my listed players in my waiver wire queue in one league. This was because of the bye week and I needed a body. It was that bad; I was hoping for a miracle and just wanted someone who would see some touches. I wound up with Jason Snelling – but what about the owner this past week who did what I did but picked Moats up and started him? He’s laughing as he does his victory dance all over you then takes your woman for good measure! Unless it’s me, odds of the latter happening are unlikely! My try at humor may be lame, but my point, never leave a starting slot open or assume the scrub is just a scrub. RESEARCH!

We knew starting running back Steve Slaton was struggling with fumbles, and after that fifth lost fumble (seventh overall), Moats saw his opportunity and took advantage. For the record, I’m thrilled for Moats, after the heartbreaking incident in which the cop stopped him and prevented him from making it to the hospital during a family emergency. That incident kept him from seeing his mother-in-law before she passed.

Moats and others to target

Moats ran it up, 23-126-3, to earn more playing time. While we don’t know if it is Coach Speak or reality, head coach Gary Kubiak stated he would think of a running back committee using Slaton, Moats and Chris Brown. Slaton and Moats are mirrors of each other, whereas Brown is the short-yardage specialist. I believe the team still wants Slaton to succeed so most of the playing time will go to him. When Slaton does fumble I can see them shift to Moats regardless of what the situation is. That’s what makes it difficult for fantasy owners. You don’t know how much production Moats may see any given week. It’s all up to Slaton’s play or fumbles. Moats finally showed us his potential, though it took years of waiting. He is in his fifth season and has been nothing but a disappointment until now. Was last week a mirage or a preview of what to expect of his true talent? Obviously the safe answer is somewhere in the middle, but also the right answer as he’s in an offense that suits his skills.

Are we sure Jamaal Charles is the answer?

Kansas City Chiefs RB Kolby Smith should see a shot to be the between-the-tackles runner. Let’s be frank here: If Jamaal Charles was the answer for the Chiefs, wouldn’t he already be eating into Larry Johnson’s carries? He isn’t, and we want to believe the grass is greener on the other side of the ball, thus our love for Kolby Smith. Smith at least brings some hope to fantasy owners.

New England Patriots WR Sam Aiken is out there as well, and while he’s technically the No. 3 wideout right now, Julian Edelman is questionable heading into this week. However, because the Patriots have shown such a high-powered offense recently, Aiken has value. As the No. 3 the last two games, Aiken has posted 6-96-1 with 10 targets. Just remember with Edelman possibly back, Aiken’s value takes a big hit.

Washington Redskins TE Fred Davis is filling in for Chris Cooley and had a great game in Week 6 (8-78-1) while seeing 10 targets.

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

No one ever said Kansas City Chiefs running back Larry Johnson was the smartest of individuals based on past actions, but this latest outbreak in slurs and negative comments towards his coach could cost him. He has put management and the league in a bad light, and with his past I can’t see how this will not result in some suspension. Jamaal Charles owners are happy, but odds are he’s on the waiver wire, so go ahead, take a flier and let’s see what happens!

One note on LJ: I started him over Ricky Williams this week in one league. We did it against our guts and went with the numbers, but luckily we still easily won. LJ may be done with the Chiefs, but he is when it comes to my fantasy team. I put him on waivers Tuesday.

Washington Redskins TE Chris Cooley went down with a broken right ankle and may be heading toward Injured Reserve. Cooley has easily been a top 10-15 tight end depending on your scoring rules. Where does that leave us? One thing is for sure: Don’t waive Cooley just yet as he may be back as early as four weeks from now. Let’s see where he stands before cutting him loose.

That way to the IR?

Oakland Raiders TE Zach Miller may be out there, and his production will be inconsistent because of quarterback play. However, in the last month he’s averaging 3.75-64.0-0.25 per game. One touchdown every four games is not great, but he catches the ball and sees yardage. Solid points-per-reception-league value.

Denver Broncos TE Tony Scheffler is interesting because he has been improving over the last four games. He has gone one, three, four and six in receptions with yardage increases every game. He’s 3.50-46.5-0.25 per game in his last four and is showing solid rapport with quarterback Kyle Orton. Just remember, there are other pass-receiving targets there, and he’s in a system that spreads the ball around.

Those are arguably the best two out there. Sure, Benjamin Watson is out there, but he’s on bye. One name on bye to consider if you can take the hit this week is Chris Cooley’s backup, Fred Davis.

Davis had a phenomenal night in replacing Cooley after he went down. Don’t forget, the Philadelphia Eagles are cream puffs to tight ends this year. While the numbers are outstanding, they will also artificially inflate his true value. He’s sticking around the Washington D.C. area during the bye week now that he’s the starting tight end. Grab him if you can and watch to see if this wasn’t a one-game fluke.

I’m sure like me many of you were gaining an edge of a few points with Cooley as your tight end. Those points are hard to replace, so find the every-week starter, bench Davis and see what he can do.

Before I forget, New York Jets running back Shonn Greene will undoubtedly see an increase in playing time now that Leon Washington (leg) is out for the season suffering a compound fracture of the tibia and fibula. That just sounds painful. Thomas Jones is long in the tooth, and the team is going to give Green most of Washington’s carries. He belongs on your roster and this past week showed talent in going 19-144-2.

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

KFFL is taking part in a weekly series of roundtable discussions with other Web sites – Fantasy Football Xtreme, Rotoprofessor, Junkyard Jake’s Fantasy Football Network, Lester’s Legends, Fantasy Pros 911, Top Fantasy Football and the Football Jabber.

A question is presented every week, and all organizations give their answers with some detail. You should tune in every week; here is KFFL’s answer to their question entering Week 7.

In two weeks we’ll be past the halfway point of the season. I’ve rounded up their questions and am hoping my take can also give you some insight and help you with your leagues. We are entering a crucial point at which you either make your playoff run or slowly lose interest in your fantasy teams!

When I’m losing, I enjoy being the team that ruins others’ playoff chances, so never quit, as it’s more fun to trash-talk to fellow owners about how you ruined their chance at the all-elusive title!

Among the midround players who have disappointed, who do you think owners should cut ties with and why?

• St. Louis Rams QB Marc Bulger is a product of a high-powered Mike Martz offense. Once Martz left, so did Bulger’s numbers. Another quarterback who may or may not lose you a game if he can stay on the field. The team will look to upgrade this position in the offseason, if anything, because they can’t trust Bulger to stay healthy. Dump him if you still own him.
• Tennessee Titans RB LenDale White came into camp in the best shape of his life. However, in the end I guess the team employed the bigger, slower, but harder-to-bring-down White more than the new version! A per-game average of 7-26-0.2 is squat when you remember by Week 6 of last year he already had eight touchdowns. It’s time to dump him if you need the roster space.
• San Francisco 49ers WR Josh Morgan was a mid- to late-round acquisition this year but posted only mediocre numbers the first five weeks. He has to 22 targets, which translates to only 4.4 targets per game, and he has averaged 3-40-0.2. Entering this week, he has ceded his starting job to rookie Michael Crabtree. Dump him.
• Two disappointing players who can’t be dropped but need to be mentioned:
  • Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck’s inconsistencies have shown me he’s only worth being a fantasy backup. Don’t cut ties with him but use him only as a backup! The Seahawks show up one week then get beat down the next. That’s the last thing you want out of a team whose quarterback you own. You need consistent points every week, and he does not provide that. Trade him or only use him as a bye week or injury fill-in player.
  • Chicago Bears TE Greg Olsen supposedly is the next elite tight end. For all the bluster about the trade for quarterback Jay Cutler, Olsen has yet to produce the results the team was hoping for. I will say: Give him time. However, for now, Olsen has 35 targets for the season, an average of seven per game. His per-game average is 3-30-0.6, but let’s give him credit, as he has caught one touchdown pass in Weeks 4 through 6. He’s getting there, but a true disappointment so far. Many owners were able to forego the position on draft day and grab a quality tight end off the waiver wire. Don’t believe me? I’ve seen players such as Heath Miller, Vernon Davis, John Carlson, Todd Heap and even Visanthe Shiancoe picked up. You can’t drop or trade Olsen, but I will say he should improve, so he is a buy-low candidate.

It's time to cut ties with White

Every year a handful of receivers emerge from obscurity to become fantasy relevant. Who are your 2 or 3 favorite surprise receivers for this season?

• Minnesota Vikings WR Sidney Rice was one of a few receivers I highly coveted in drafts, and I believe what we’ve seen so far this year is merely the tip of the iceberg. His per-game average of 4-68-0.33 puts him at or near the top 30 among fantasy receivers so far. His play the last three weeks puts him in the top 10. I do expect to see him with at least eight touchdowns before the season is done. Trade for him if you can.
• Dallas Cowboys WR Miles Austin was a receiver I wanted to be high on and looked for everything positive to prop him up. However, a lackluster training camp hurt his value, and while I picked him up in a couple of leagues, his lack of play found him quickly jettisoned once the season began. However, he’s emerging now because of injury to Roy Williams (ribs), and his Week 6 performance – 15 targets, 10-250-2. This allowed Austin to usurp Patrick Crayton. I believe he can become a big-play receiver if he can stay healthy. However, quarterback Tony Romo has to get better protection to take full advantage of his abilities. Pick Austin up if you can.
• Jacksonville Jaguars WR Mike Sims-Walker is a player many were high on, and after a slow start he has proven everyone correct. Over his last four games he has seen 41 targets and has translated that to average 7-100-0.75. Monster numbers for someone most claimed off the waiver wire! Barring injury he’s going to have a great season. However, he is injury-prone, so trading him at his highest value is not bad strategy if you have depth and can afford to lose him.

Sims-Walker is the real deal, but will he stay healthy?

I’ll answer a few more roundtable questions next week, but until then, good luck in this week’s matchups … unless we’re playing!

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

It was a brutal fantasy week as my opponent in a high-stakes league had both New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady and wide receiver Randy Moss! You add Houston Texans running back Steve Slaton, and it was brutal. The surprise was that I had a great week despite the loss. I’m third in total points, the leader of which earns the other entry into the championship game. I’m sure many have similar tales as the scoring once again was wild with some players. Some of those are on the waiver wire!

New England Patriots RB Laurence Maroney is on everyone’s free-agent pickup list this week and for good reason. Fred Taylor (ankle) is out indefinitely, and Sammy Morris (knee) has shown himself to be a slow healer when hurt. It appears as if Maroney is heading into Week 7 as the starter by sheer attrition! Look for the team to begin using BenJarvus Green-Ellis as well. In deep leagues you may want to make a play for him. Don’t expect much, but Maroney could have a great week against the hapless Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

New Orleans Saints WR Lance Moore is on one of my waiver wires. I found that shocking, and so should you if he’s on yours. Grab him as he’s one of quarterback Drew Brees‘ intermediate targets and will come around. He saw seven targets for 6-78-1 Sunday. However, he is not a starting wideout; Marques Colston and Devery Henderson start. Does it matter the way Brees spreads the ball around? Not as much as it would with others.

San Francisco 49ers TE Vernon Davis is on a couple of my waiver wires, and if he’s still out on yours, he’s worth grabbing. I’m assuming if wide receiver Michael Crabtree can show enough for defenses to fear him, maybe that helps Davis out. I don’t find Davis’ numbers from his last two games – 16 targets, 8-94-1 – disappointing, because overall the position is what it is, and that’s why there are only a few top-tier tight ends. I’m thinking second-tier numbers.

Oakland Raiders TE Zach Miller is going to be another high-profile free-agent pickup after his 6-139-1 performance that saw 11 targets go his way. Last week I told you if you only if you absolutely needed a body to drop, drop him. I said that because we know he’s capable of posting great games, though this one was much better than most. Regardless, if you need a tight end, grab him, or if he’s you’re backup tight end, trade him while his value is high. Remember, they played the Philadelphia Eagles, a team that allows tight ends to run free.

Davis is still available in some fantasy leagues

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions for me to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or ask me through Twitter.

Larry Johnson and the Kansas City Chiefs

Despite the fact that LJ is playing as bad as any running back I’ve seen over the last 20 years, the Chiefs do not plan to give up on him. Head coach Todd Haley states LJ is running hard, but he’s stuck in there and needs help. He also went on to say the offensive line has been poor and has not created any running space for him. While some of that is true, LJ is simply not a great fantasy back anymore.

There are many reasons that have led to this. The team ran Johnson into the ground during his heyday a few years back. There is now a new head coach and system to learn, and the team has one of the worst offensive lines. They are just a bad team overall. Those that drafted him will tell you he has no value and is not a starter or flex position fantasy running back. Regardless of the matchup! The question then becomes: Is there anyone else on the Chiefs roster?

For fantasy purposes, the rest of the running backs consist of Jamaal Charles and Kolby Smith (knee), when he eventually returns; Dantrell Savage and Jackie Battle (shoulder) haven’t done anything to impress anyone, and Battle is now on IR. While Charles appears not to have made any headway into locking down the No. 2 spot, the team hopes, at worst, he becomes a solid situational player.

Are you an LJ owner? Will you still be one a month from now?

The real hope is that Smith can come in and make some impact at the position, but the reality is that Johnson is the best back they have on roster, and it’s just not working. I believe in the next two to four weeks you’re going to see Johnson on more and more waiver wires! There’s no happy ending here! It’s inevitable as eventually the roster spot will be needed.

Some players you may still find on first-come, first-served waiver wires:

New Orleans Saints RB Mike Bell is out there in most of the leagues I play in. If you’re in a deep league, pick him up and stash him. Let’s see if Pierre Thomas or Reggie Bush can stay healthy the rest of the way. My recommendation is only for those with the roster room to store a body that will not impact your roster. The way teams now use offenses, we’re seeing more and more receivers demanding a roster spot through production.

San Francisco 49ers WR Josh Morgan is slowly beginning to improve and raise his fantasy stock. He’s averaging a little more than six targets over the last three weeks; one look came in the red zone, and he has one touchdown. He was high on many cheat sheets as a potential sleeper, and while we see the 49ers offense for what it is, run-first, quarterback Shaun Hill is finding him. I don’t see Michael Crabtree taking over his spot too soon and feel Isaac Bruce would be the odd man out. However, Morgan’s yardage is not great as his statistical output in the past three weeks is 10-164-1, which breaks down to 3-55-0.33 per-game average. Right now, he’s only a deep league prospect.

Cincinnati Bengals WR Chris Henry just bears watching to see if there are any noticeable trends that may begin after a solid Week 5 performance that saw him produce 92 yards on three catches. However, before Week 5 he was averaging 1.25 receptions for 19.5 yards per game. His targets went from an average of 2.75 per game to five in Week 5. As stated, something to look for next week to determine if it’s a one-game fluke or if something’s happening.

New Orleans Saints PK John Carney and San Diego Chargers PK Nate Kaeding are coming off bye weeks and on several waiver wires. Carney is on there because of the bye but also because he’s outside the top-10 kicker rankings. However, we know Drew Brees will get back to his gunslinging form. If you need a solid kicker, he has been kept around by the team for at least one week despite the return of place kicker Garrett Hartley. Kaeding is on waiver wires mostly because of the bye. Now, he’s more of a long-term pickup. He’ll easily be a top-10 kicker this year.

Just remember, it’s up to you to make sure the players listed conform and are good fits with your league’s scoring rules. For other players and detailed breakdowns, check out KFFL.com’s own Waiver Wire and other articles. You can also check out my videos at http://www.kffl.com/static/video-archive.php.

Don’t forget, I’m a Tweeter and post what’s happening in a breaking or timely manner. I also point you to solid links that can help you win your leagues. Follow me at http://twitter.com/wdelpilar.

Do not leave fantasy questions to answer here. Please go to KFFL.com forums and my specific forum, Q&A with KFFL’s William Del Pilar, or through Twitter.