Tony's 5 College Picks

I'm 18-8 for the season and it's conference championship weekend, so here are the picks;

1. MAC-Central Michigan vs. Miami of Ohio @ Detroit

Neither of these teams are very good, but the MAC has to have a championship and these were the 2 teams that survived. Central Michigan won the title last year and is led by QB Dan LeFevour who leads the MAC in total yards and leads Central Michigan in both passing and rushing. The Chippewas are lucky they score so much because their D gives up 38 ppg, but Miami only puts up 20 ppg. I'm going with Central Michigan and their 1 man show at QB.

PICK: C. Michigan

2. C-USA-Tulsa vs. Central Florida @ Orlando

This game is a rematch from earlier this season where C. Florida beat Tulsa 44-23. C. Florida is led by Co-C-USA player of the year RB Kevin Smith (2164 rush yds) while Tulsa has the other Co POY QB Paul Smith (4327 pass yds). Tulsa doesn't play too much D, and UCF gets the title game at home, but something tells me Tulsa's spread offense wins out. PICK: Tulsa

3. ACC-#5 Virginia Tech vs. #12 Boston College @ Jacksonville

This game is also a rematch, in the first game V-Tech dominated the Eagles, but allowed them to score 2 TDs in the final 2:11. Virginia Tech has been on fire since that loss/wake up call and will have both of the QBs this time around as Tyrod Taylor missed the first game. Boston College has struggled in the 2nd half of the season but they have ACC POY QB Matt Ryan who seems to win games by himself, like the first VT game and another game BC got outplayed in, against Clemson. Its hard to beat a team twice in a season and the Hokies have been on the way up since the last meeting and BC on the way down. PICK: Virginia Tech

4. SEC-#7 LSU vs. #15 Tennessee @ Atlanta

LSU had a disastrous loss last week against Arkansas but that's what happens when you play in the SEC, LSU is easily one of the top 3 teams in the country, but because of their SOS, talent in the SEC and the BCS, LSU will not play in the BCS title game. Tennessee has finished the season with 5 straight wins, but this game would be a lot more entertaining had Georgia been playing LSU. LSU is also dealing with the possibility of coach Les Miles leaving for Michigan as well as D-coordinator Bo Pelini being a hot coaching prospect, who is long deserving of a head coaching job. PICK: LSU

5. Big 12-#2 Missouri vs. #8 Oklahoma @ San Antonio

I was really impressed with how Missouri sliced up Kansas last week, but now they play a game with even bigger stakes against a team they lost to earlier this year. Oklahoma won the first game 41-31, although the Tigers were without RB Tony Temple. Oklahoma lost to Texas Tech, 2 weeks ago after losing QB Sam Bradford to a concussion. "But for" the injury to Bradford Oklahoma would have the inside track at the BCS title game. As mentioned above with LSU, I think Oklahoma and USC, with a healthy JD Booty are the 3 best teams in the nation, none of which will be in the BCS title game (my guess is Ohio State vs. West Virginia) PICK:Oklahoma

Rankings used are from the USA Today Poll, check back later in the week for results.

NFL 6 Pack Week 13 Picks

I'm 21-9 for the season, and here are this week's picks;

1. Green Bay vs. Dallas (Thurs)
Both teams come in 10-1 and look to be the class of the NFC. Dallas seems to be getting more attention then the Packers, but that suits Green Bay just fine. I think these teams when healthy are pretty evenly matched, but Favre is 0-8 in Dallas for his career, the Packers will be missing 2/4 of their secondary with Woodson and Rouse out. I'm going to have to go with Dallas at home. PICK: Cowboys

2. Cincinatti vs. Pittsburgh

Although the visiting team has won the last 4 meetings between these teams, the Bengals D has been awful this year. The Steelers should be able to control this game on the ground with RB Willie Parker. Last week the Steelers played the Dolphins in the mud on an awful field, and Pittsburgh is due for more rain this Sunday night, so it may be another mud bowl. PICK: Steelers

3. New England vs. Baltimore (Mon)

The Patriots escaped last week against a Philly team that gave them some trouble. This week New England should be more focused to prove that last week was a fluke. The struggling Pats D, now without Rosey Colvin should get a break this week vs. the dismal Ravens O. The only way the Ravens D could hang with the Pats O is to turn back the clock to 2000 when their D could single handily win a game. PICK: Patriots

4. NY Giants vs. Chicago

Last week the Eli Manning looked as if he was playing for the Vikings, throwing them 4 INTs, 3 returned for TD's. The Giants have made a habit of a second half implosion the past few seasons, so this game is important to their playoff hopes. The G-Men will be without RB Brandon Jacobs, CB Aaron Ross, and S Gibril Wilson, but should have RB Derrick Ward back. The Bears and QB Rex Grossman made a heroic comeback last week against Denver scoring 2 TDs late to force OT and getting the win. Devin Hester had 2 return TDs (Why is any team still kicking to this guy?) The Bears D has been banged up this year and here is to hoping Eli Manning has some pride and proves last week was not what Giants fans have to look forward to. PICK: Giants

5. Cleveland vs. Arizona

Both teams are fighting for playoff spots after years of playing for draft position. This game has the potential to be the shootout game of the week, Both teams can score, but only the Cards play a little defense. The Cards could be without WR Larry Fitzgerald and the Browns could be without WR Braylon Edwards. In a high scoring game at home I think the Cards find a way. PICK: Cardinals

6. NY Jets vs. Miami

In a game that IS really for draft position, this is the best chance for the Dolphins to grab a win, they are at home in the S. Florida heat vs. a team that is probably just as bad as they are. The Dolphins are coming off the short week and the Jets off a long break having played on Thanksgiving. It's either this week or next against the Bills for the Dolphins or they are going 0-16. PICK: Dolphins

Check back later in the week for results.

Fantasy 5x5x5 Week 13

Each week I list 5 players I would start, 5 I would bench and 5 I might take a chance on.

Also, by now you should know to start your studs like Manning, Brady and LT, if not, you need more then my help. Now that bye weeks have ended most teams should have their core lineup set up, but some people are in leagues that start 2 QBs or 3-4 WRs, and we all must deal with the ill timed injury, so some owners may still need to adjust or tweak their lineups from week to week.

Also, Remember going forward there will be a Thursday night game every week.

5 guys I'm starting this week;

1. QB Kurt Warner AZ-Last week "Captain Flattop" threw for almost 500 yards last week against the 49ers, and this week expect a shootout with the Browns. The Browns are much improved on offense but not so much on D this year.

2. RB Justin Fargas Oak-Since getting the starting nod for the Raiders "Huggy Bear Jr." has been averaging 96 rushing yards per game. This week Oakland takes on Denver who is one of the worst run D's allowing 146ypg on the ground.

3. RB Steven Jackson Stl-S-Jax appears to be healthy again, has a favorable matchup vs. Atlanta and with QB Marc Bulger likley out this week look for S-Jax to carry the load. He was able to get 90 yds and a TD last week with Bulger missing most of the game.

4. RB Adrian Peterson Min-Look who's back! and he gets the Lions. Peterson was out on the field running and cutting before the Giants game last week, so I'm starting him and expecting big things from him.

5. QB Vince Young Tenn-Young has actually been carrying the Titans the last few weeks, especially since they have been playing from behind, you should remember what he did down the stretch last year.

5 guys I'm sitting this week;

1. RB Kevin Jones Det-I know I said to sit him last week and he had a big day, but that proves my point that he is inconsistant, after rushing for a combined 21 yds, he put up 93 and a TD vs. a good Packers D. Well, this week The Lions play the Vikings and unless your Ryan Grant they don't allow 100 yd rushers, and Detroit should be looking to exploit the Vikes weak secondary. I don't trust Jones.

2. RB Kolby Smith KC-I told you to take a chance on him last week and if you did, you should have been happy with 150 yds and 2 Tds, but this week he gets the Chargers who unless they are facing Adrian Peterson are a top run D. Sit Smith this week but have him ready for Denver in Week 14. Smith might be the first player to hit all 3 of my lists in a 3 week span.

3. WR Lee Evans Buf-News that Trent Edwards is back under center is bad news for Evans who had his best games with JP Losman leading the Bills O. He hasn't done much the last few weeks anyway.

4. Baltimore D-Not the invincible force of years past, but still a solid option, just not this week against the Patriots, who should be out to prove last week's close game with Philly was a fluke, you have to be able to find a better option for this week.

5. RB LenDale White Ten-Not a bad matchup but White hasn't been involved the last few games because the Titans have been playing from behind instead of letting him wear teams down in the 2nd half to protect a lead. Risky play because there is no inbetween with White, either a hundo or 12 yards, Is that a chance you want to take?

5 players I'm taking a chance on this week;

1. WR Patrick Crayton Dal-Crayton missed last week's game with an ankle injury, but is probable for Thursday's game. Shutdown corner Al Harris (Did you give him your Pro Bowl vote yet?) will be on Owens and with the possibilty of Charles Woodson missing the game, Crayton should have a mismatach in his favor.

2. Denver RB-Whoever is starting against Oakland they have given up big days as of late to "Fat" Ron Dayne, Chester Taylor and Kolby Smith. It looks like Selvin Young should be the healthy back this week, with Travis Henry and last week's starter Andre Hall both likely to be out. Keep an eye on the situation, if Young is out, Cecil Sapp and Mike Bell would be the other options.

3. WR Deion Branch Sea-After DJ Hackett left the game last week (likely out 2-4 weeks) Branch reclaimed his role as goto guy and with the Seahawks throwing alot, Branch should benefit. Also consider Bobby Engram.

4. RB Thomas Jones NYJ-He Hasn't given you much this year, but if he is going to do anything this is the week, the winless Dolphins coming off a short week, the only thing working against him besides the Jets offense being so bad is the South Florida heat.

5. QB Gus Frerotte Stl-The big chance of the week, he has a favorable matchup against Atlanta, he has Tory Holt to throw to, and S-Jax should attract a lot of attention in the box. Frerotte may be able to be your 2nd QB this week.

Sean Taylor 1983-2007

Another great athlete lost before his time. Prayers and condolences to the Taylor family.

NFL 6 Pack Week 12 Results 5-1

I was 5-1 this week, and 21-9 for the season.

1. Green Bay vs. Detroit
PICK:Packers RESULT Packers 37-26 Brett Favre had his way with the Packer's NFC North rival and set themselves up for their showdown Thursday with the Cowboys.

2. NY Jets vs. Dallas
PICK: Cowboys RESULT Cowboys 34-3 The Jets were no match for the Cowboys, who continue to look like a possible Super Bowl contender. Thursday's game against the Packers will determine the top team in the NFC.

3. Indianapolis vs. Atlanta
PICK:Colts RESULT Colts 31-13 After Atlanta jumed out to an early lead it was business as usual as Peyton Manning led the Colts to victory.

4. Philadelphia vs. New England

PICK: Patriots RESULT Patriots 31-28 A little bit of their own humble pie for the Pats, but they got it done. The Eagles just like the Colts showed that putting pressure on Brady is the key to slowing down the Pats passing game. When pressured, Brady's accuracy declined and he was not helped by his receivers who dropped a lot of passes. The Patriots running game continues to struggle and will force the Pats to live or die with the passing game going forward this season.

5. Miami vs. Pittsburgh

PICK: Pittsburgh RESULT Steelers 3-0 If you thought the field in London was bad, the NFL and Steelers should be embarrassed by the field in Pittsburgh last night, Field Turf should be expecting a call today for an estimate. The field made this game unsafe and unplayable. Thi was probably the best chance for the Dolphins to grab a win thus far but couldn't score any points.

6. NY Giants vs. Minnesota
PICK: Giants RESULT Vikings 41-17 There wasn't much the Giants did right, Eli Manning completed more TDs (3) to the Vikings then he did for his own team (1). The Giants continue to show how far a gap there is between the top teams in the NFC (Cowboys, Packers) and themselves.

Fantasy Football "On the Rise"

Here are some players who could see an increase in value this week, players are not listed in order of value.

1. WR Keenan McCardell Wash-Basically picked up off the street earlier this season, McCardell has been steady for the Skins, he has averaged 5.5 receptions and 68 yds in the last 2. WR Brandon Lloyd was put on IR last week and Santana Moss has had a case of the drops lately.

2. QB AJ Feeley Phi-Feeley accomplished something Donovan McNabb hasn't been able to do as of late, no not stay healthy, Feeley energized the Eagles offense. Feeley almost helped upset the mighty Pats by throwing for 345 yds, 3 TDs but also 3 INTS (2 late in the game) McNabb may be healthy next week, but there may be a QB controversy in Philly, could Feeley be this year's Jeff Garcia?

3. RB Adrian Peterson Chi-The "other" Adrian Peterson is not the beast that the rookie star is but this AP is not too bad. For weeks I have been wondering why the Bears would not give this guy more carries, with Ced Ben struggling big time. Well, after Benson's ankle injury (rumored to be season ending) Peterson got more carries, he didn't light the world on fire 17 carries for 45 yards, but he did have a TD and added 5 receptions for 41 yards. If Benson is out I think Peterson is the pick up of the week, provided you listened to Tony and picked up RB Kolby Smith last week.

4. QB Gus Frerotte Stl-Marc Bulger left yesterday's game with a concussion and his status for next week will not be known until later in the week. Hopefully if you have Bulger you have a better backup then having to pick up Frerotte, but he did throw a TD yesterday, does have Torry Holt to throw to, and the Rams play the Falcons next week.

5. RB Andre Hall Den-With Henry and Young out, Andre Hall got the start and nobody can make a nobody a star like the Broncos. Hall followed up his limited duty 89 yd, TD performance in Week 11 with 167 total yds and a TD in Week 12. Keep an eye on the status of Henry and Young this week. Hall's start also shows how far last year's undrafted gem Mike Bell has fallen in the pecking order.

6. WR Reggie Williams Jax-Williams has averaged 65.5 yds and has scored 3 TDs in his last 4 games. I'm not so high on Williams, he has most of his catches on unreliable long bombs and the Jags are a run first team.

7. WR Mike Williams Ten-The Titans reunite Mike Williams with former USC o-coordinator Norm Chow, and teammate LenDale White. Williams was a bust in Detroit after sitting out a year of football, former USC/current Raiders coach Kiffin gave him a shot and called him lazy and early reports have Williams reporting to the Titans weighing over 270 lbs. The Titans plan to give him a look at TE and H-back. Williams doesn't appear to be an immediate factor and shouldn't be added to your team.

Also, some readers have asked me about WRs Greg Lewis and Jabar Gaffney who both had big games in the Sunday nigther. I don't like either of them going forward. Lewis only had 4 catches on the season before last nights 4 catches, and he sits behind Westbrook, Curtis, Brown and Smith for looks. Gaffney has been a little more involved in the the offense than Lewis but he sits behind Moss, Welker, Stallworth, Watson and the Pats use K. Brady and Vrabel in the red zone. I think both players had their big games and no further attention should be given to them.

Remember to send your fantasy questions by clicking on the envelope below the article.

Tony College Top 5

Tony Top 5

Rank Team (Record) wins over ranked opponents
1. Missouri (11-1) Texas Tech, Nebraska, Kansas

2. West Virginia (10-1) Rutgers, Cincinatti, UConn
3. Ohio State (11-1) Penn State, Wisconsin, Michigan

4. LSU (10-2) Virgina Tech, S. Carolina, Florida, Auburn, Alabama

T5. Oklahoma (10-2) Missouri, Texas
T5. USC (9-2) Nebraska, California, Arizona State

Fell out of last week's top 5; Kansas

Tony 's 5(6) College Picks Results 6-0

A big week for Tony, 6-0 puts me at 18-8 for the season.

1. #12 USC vs. #6 Arizona State

PICK: USC RESULT USC 44-24 USC dominated the Sun Devils and with Oregon's loss took control of the Pac 10. The Trojans are yet to lose a November game under Pete Carroll. A victory next week vs. UCLA will but USC in the Rose Bowl, an unlikely berth just a few weeks ago.

2. #14 Florida vs. Florida State
PICK: Florida FLORIDA 45-12 Not even the magnitude of this rivalry could get the Seminoles going, Florida pounded their instate rival, lead by QB Tim Tebow who added 5 more TDs to his Heisman resume, giving him 51 for the season. Tebow finished the game after breaking his right non throwing hand while scoring a TD early in the game. WR Percy Harvin returned to the lineup with 224 total yards and a TD.

3. #2 Kansas vs. #4 Missouri @ Kansas City

PICK: Missouri RESULT Missouri 36-28 For a lot of people this was the first time they got to see Kansas play and through the first 3 quarters you may have been asking yourself, how this team was undefeated as they couldn't execute on offense and looked to have no answer for Missouri's spread attack on D. Chase Daniel led Missouri's offensive attack with precision connecting with 9 different receivers on the night, and RB Tony Temple chipped in 98 bruising yards. Both teams had exciting freshman WRs Dezmon Briscoe for KU and Jeremy Maclin for Mizzou to keep your eye on in the next few years. Missouri moves on to face Oklahoma in the Big 12 title game and Kansas, as one sign read "Football tradition since, September" will get ready for basketball season. And please, someone in Lawrence, get coach Mangino on a treadmill, I held my cell phone in my hand ready to call 911 the entire game, figuring he could drop at any moment.

4. #8 Virginia Tech vs. #15 Virginia
PICK: Virginia Tech RESULT Virginia Tech 33-21 V Tech got the better of their rival in a back and fourth game and earned the rematch against Boston College in the ACC title game. Since the loss to BC, the Hokies have been playing their best ball outscoring opponents 144-59 and winning 5 games.

5. #17 Boise State vs. #13 Hawaii

PICK:Hawaii RESULT Hawaii 39-27 Hawaii finally got the monkey off their back by beating WAC rival Boise State, and capturing the division title. QB Colt Brennan threw 5 TDS giving him 126 for his career and moving him past former BYU Heisman QB, Ty Detmer who had 122. If Hawaii remains undefeated by beating Washington next week they would be in position to secure a BCS bowl berth, it would be the 2nd straight year a WAC team would crash the BCS.

6. #21 UCONN vs. #3 West Virginia

PICK:West Virginia RESULT West Virginia 66-21 UCONN's defense just couldn't keep up with the track meet the Mountaineers were running. QB Pat White has been carrying WVU the past few games and will try to carry them to the BCS title game.

Fantasy 5x5x5 Week 12

Each week I list 5 players I would start, 5 I would bench and 5 I might take a chance on.

Also, by now you should know to start your studs like Manning, Brady and LT, if not, you need more then my help. Now that bye weeks have ended most teams should have their core lineup set up, but some people are in leagues that start 2 QBs or 3-4 WRs, and we all must deal with the ill timed injury, so some owners may still need to adjust or tweak their lineups from week to week.

5. players I'm starting this week

1. QB Brett Favre GB-Favre has found the fountain of youth and is already talking about playing next year. Favre has thrown for 10 TDs vs. 2 INTs in his last 4 games, and faces Detroit's 24th ranked D.

2. QB Tony Romo Dal-you should be starting him every week anyway, but last year on Thanksgiving Romo threw for 5 TDs against the Bucs, and this year he gets the dreadful Jets, So look for an extra big day from Romo.

3. RB Willie Parker Pit-The Steelers play the Dolphins this week. Parker averages over a hundred yards per game at home and the Dolphins are one of the worst run Ds.

4. WR DJ Hackett Sea-Last week, he was on the take a chance list, this week he gets the start. Since returning from his high ankle sprain, Hackett has increased his receptions and yards each week, he is averaging around a hundred yards and a TD in his last 3 games.

5. RB Maurice Jones-Drew Jax-He has scored a TD in each of his last 2 games, he has a good matchup against a Buffalo team that was demoralized by the Patriots last week. Also, consider last year MOJO Drew scored 10 of his 13 TDs in the 2nd half of the season.


5 guys I'm sitting this week

1. RB Kevin Jones Det-Jones has only rushed for 21 yards in the last 2 games combined, and Detroit should be playing from behind in this game and Jones may not get the carries, his only benefit may be in the passing game where he has 11 catches in the last 2 games.

2. RB Brian Westbrook Phi-You are never going to sit him but, he could be in for a tough night against the Pats. The Eagles will likely be without QB Donovan McNabb and that will allow New England to stack the box against Westbrook, his greatest benefit may be in the passing game with Feeley looking for the short dump off, often.

3. RB Jesse Chatman Mia-Believe it or not since Chatman took over the starting RB job, he has averaged over a 100 total ypg in three games. This week he gets the Steelers tough D, the Dolphins will be starting rookie QB Beck for his 2nd game and there is the possibility that RB Ricky "Smoke" Williams may be activated to steal some carries. Overall, just a bad matchup.

4. WR Lee Evans Buf-The Losman to Evans connection had been on fire until last week against the Pats where they only connected for 40 yards. The Bills draw another tough game against the Jags, and Evans will face CB Rashean Mathis this week. But there is always the chance of the big play with Evans, but that makes him a risky play. UPDATE: Mathis may miss the game for the Jags, if he is out Evans would benefit and have a slightly better matchup.

5. Seattle D-The Seattle D has been a solid play this season, especially against the weak NFC West where they are only allowing 8 pts per game. However this week they face a recently healthy Rams team that has won 2 straight and have moved the ball a lot better since QB Bulger and RB S-Jax have returned to the lineup.

5 guys to take a chance on this week

1. TE Donald Lee GB-The Packers are airing the ball out and everyone has been involved including Lee, who has averaged over 5o yds and a TD in the last 3 games.

2. RB Kolby Smith KC-With the retirement of RB Priest Holmes, and the ongoing injury to Larry Johnson, Smith is the only available RB, and has a good matchup against Oakland, who has allowed big games recently to "Fat" Ron Dayne and even Cedric Benson, Smith could be a guy to take a chance on. Smith also has a favorable schedule going forward.

3. RB Ron Dayne Hou-"Fat" Ron has averaged over hundo in his last 2 games and the Browns are allowing over 400 yds per game and over 136 yds on the ground. With RB Ahman Green's knee injury continuing to keep him out, Dayne may be a good play.

4. K Steven Gostkowski NE-Even though the Patriots, seem content on no longer attempting FG's, all those Xpts add up as Gostkowski has averaged 8.7 ppg.

5. WR Armani Toomer NYG-This is the big chance of the week pick, The Giants will likely be looking to pass the ball alot this week, with RB Brandon Jacobs likely out and the Vikings tough run D. The Vikings will try to take Burress out of the game plan and focus on Shockey which, could allow a lot of one on one coverage on Toomer. Toomer is usually good for one monster game a year, this could be it.

Tony's 5 College Picks

I'm 12-8 for the season, and there are so many good games this week, I'm going to pick 6.

1. #12 USC vs. #6 Arizona State

Both teams are still alive in the Pac 10 and one of these teams could end up in the Rose Bowl. Both teams lost to Oregon this season on the road. USC is finally healthy and has the experience needed to finish the season strong compared to an inexperienced ASU team. PICK: USC

2. #14 Florida vs. Florida State

Major rivalry, that has lost some of its luster over the past few years, due to Florida State's lack of success. No matter the records, both teams always play tough and this game should be no different. The Seminoles will try to do something not many teams have been able to do so far, stop QB Tim Tebow (46 total TDs) he is the most complete player this season and the likely Heisman front runner. The Gators will also benefit from the return of WR Percy Harvin. There are no league titles on the line for either team, just bragging rights. PICK: Florida

3. #2 Kansas vs. #4 Missouri @ Kansas City

Another major rivalry, (53-53-9) that takes on national attention this season because the winner gets a spot in the Big 12 title game vs. Oklahoma. Both teams have appeared to have come out of nowhere this season. Both teams have solid, undersized and underrated QBs Chase Daniel for Missouri and Todd Reesing for Kansas. Both teams can put up points averaging over 40 per game. Kansas has the better D, but these 2 teams are pretty evenly matched. #2 ranked teams have not fared well this year and while both QB's are winners, Chase Daniel was getting it done last year. PICK: Missouri

4. #8 Virginia Tech vs. #15 Virginia

88th meeting between these in-state rivals with a date in the ACC title game against BC on the line, not to mention a year of bragging rights. Virginia is 5-0 at home this season and their average margin of victory is only 6.9 this season. Tech has won 7 of the last 8 meetings. Both teams rely on their defenses. If not for their collapse in the final 2 minutes against BC, the Hokies may be in the national title picture. Look for V-Tech to get the rematch with BC.

PICK: Virginia Tech

5. #17 Boise State vs. #13 Hawaii

This game is for the WAC title, and possibly a BCS at large bid. The Broncos leave their blue turf to travel to Hawaii (sounds awful) Boise St. has won the last 6 WAC titles and has won 7 straight against the Warriors. QB Colt Brennan missed most of last week's game with a concussion, but is expected to start, he has thrown for 15 TDs with just 2 INTs at home this season and his next TD pass will make him the Division 1 all time leader in TD passes. It's Hawaii's turn to crash the BCS. PICK:Hawaii

6. #21 UCONN vs. #3 West Virginia

This one is for the Big East title and a BCS berth. UCONN brings its stingy D to the table while West Virginia relies on their speed option O, led by QB Pat White. With a chance at the BCS title still on the line, WVU will not be denied as their big game experience will trump UCONN. PICK:West Virginia

NFL 6 Pack Week 12

Here are this weeks picks a little early to incorporate the Thurs. schedule. I'm 16-8 for the season;

1. Green Bay vs. Detroit

The Packers are on fire and flying under the radar as the Cowboys are getting all the attention in the NFC. Both teams are working on the short week, the Packers have yet to lose on the road this season and the Lions lost for the first time at home last week to the Giants. Look for the Packers underrated defense to force the Lions to pass, and face their top CB tandem of Harris and Woodson. Al Harris is one of the top CBs in the NFL, he is the other guy with long flowing hair coming out of his helmet and covering his name (Polamalu) I encourage you to go to NFL.com and vote for Harris for the Pro Bowl. PICK: Packers

2. NY Jets vs. Dallas

Also a Thurs. game so teams are playing on short rest. The Cowboys are coming off a tough win against the Redskins where T.O. caught 4 TDs. The Jets upset the Steelers last week, besides that the Jets have been awful this year. Last year on Thanksgiving, Tony Romo threw for 5 TDs he may be able to surpass that this year. PICK: Cowboys

3. Indianapolis vs. Atlanta

This is the primetime game for turkey day on NFLN a channel that most of America can't even get yet. I'm sure this looked like a much better matchup before Mike Vick was found out to be the Don King of dog fighting. The Colts come limping into this one, having lost 2 of their last 3, just beating KC last week 13-10. Manning has few healthy bodies to throw to besides Wayne, Clark wasn't targeted much last week coming off the concussion in Week 10. Gonzalez was active last week but didn't play, Harrison has been out since week 3 with a strained knee? (I'm not a Dr. but, a strained knee doesn't cost you 9 weeks of the season), Moorehead went on IR this week, get to know the other TEs Utecht and Fletcher and former FSU player Craphonso Thorpe should get some time at WR. RB Joesph Addai should be heavily involved. The Falcons are starting Joey Harrington this week, and hoping that Louisville QB Brian Brohm doesn't hurt himself this week. PICK:Colts

4. Philadelphia vs. New England

Regardless of who starts for Philly at Qb the Eagles are in trouble against the Pats. I mean they don't even kick FGs anymore, asking a team to stop them on 3 downs is tough, 4 is impossible. The Pats will roll to 11-0 this week. PICK: Patriots

5. Miami vs. Pittsburgh

Well on paper this looks like an awful Monday nighter, but the Steelers just loss to the Jets last week and will likely be without WR Santonio Holmes and SS Troy Polamalu and besides the Dolphins need to win sometime right? Not this week, the Steelers could run Willie Parker every play and still beat the Fins at Heinz. PICK: Steelers

6. NY Giants vs. Minnesota

The Giants will look to pressure QB Tavaris Jackson who has little talent to throw to. Chester Taylor had a monster game last week (202 total yds, 3 TDs) but as Vikings coach Childress said you don't play the Raiders every week when asked what he thought of Taylor's performance (nice positive reinforcement.) The Giants may be without RB Brandon Jacobs (hamstring) but will need to win this game through the air anyway. PICK: Giants

Check back next week for results

NFL 6 Pack Week 11 Results 4-2

I was 4-2 this week, making me 16-8 for the season. Due to travel and time constraints this week the results article will be limited.

1. New England vs. Buffalo

PICK: Patriots RESULT: Patriots 56-10 As expected the pats demolished the Bills scoring on every possession but one. I have tried to defense the Patriots for the notion that they have been running up the score, and sticking with the if you don't want them scoring stop them theory but, after the Pats chose not to kick FGs on two 4th downs while they already had a huge lead, I'm gravitating towards the other side. A few weeks ago after the Colts game and the half handshake, half get out out of my way that Belichick gave Tony Dungy a few ESPN commentators said while Belichick is a great coach he is a dirt bag with no respect for his opponent or the game. I think the Pats had already proven they could do whatever they wanted to the Bills, and there was nothing left to prove by going for TDs instead of FGs. What ahppens if Gostkowski needs to kick a big FG, and he hasn't had any attempts in weeks? I realize the Patriots team may be the best ever (in fact I wrote an article for two websites stating so) but I'm not sure Belichick is familiar with a thing called Karma. For any team to win a SuperBowl, a team needs a little bit of luck throughout the year and as we know the best team in the league usually doesn't win the SuperBowl. But if Belichick continues to disregard the "unwritten rules" teams will take notice and maybe someone cheap shots Tom Brady after a play. "O'Doyle, I got a feeling that your whole family is going down," I just don't think the Pats will go all the way this year.

2. Tennessee vs. Denver

PICK: Titans RESULT Denver 34-20

3. NY Giants vs. Detroit

PICK: Giants RESULT Giants 16-10

4. Chicago vs. Seattle

PICK: Seahawks RESULT Seahawks 30-23

5. New Orleans vs. Houston

PICK: Saints RESULT Texans 23-10

6. Cleveland vs. Baltimore

PICK: Browns RESULT Browns 33-3- OT In one of the stranger games, The Browns had appeared to miss the game tying FG has time ran out, After the referees consulted (watched a few replays?) they ruled that the ball had hit the upright and then hit the support for the crossbar before bouncing back towards the field. they ruled the FG good, called for the players to return to the field and play OT in which the Browns won by kicking a FG, (That's a little of that luck I was talking about earlier) this game was big for the Browns as they fight for a wildcard spot in the AFC. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DEy2UAHKNE&feature=related

Friday Night Lights "Pantherama"

Tami is still overwhelmed by being back at work and asks, not so BFFs Tyra nad Lyla to plan the entertainment for "Pantherama" (I think it's a bigger pep rally than the ones they seem to have every other week.) Julie is writing an article about "Pantherama" for the school newspaper, not from a football perspective but, where does the money raised end up? angle. Her advisor is "John from Cincinatti!" Now a creepy teacher in Dillon (Noah) who spends a little too much one on one time with Julie. Julie seems to like the attention now that Saracen is all hot and heavy making out in the halls with his new girlfriend, the "Transfer Cheerleader." Riggans packs up his stuff and moves out of the house he shares with his brother, who is now dating the lady from across the street that Riggans was hooking up with last season. Where has her kid been? Riggans asks Tyra if he can crash at her place, she says he gets 48 hours. Riggans still has nowhere to go, Tyra's stripper sister Mindy gives Riggans the # of a guy who will let him stay if he helps take care of his pets (?) When Riggans shows up a fat shirtless guy who is probably on Dillon's list of registered sex offenders answers the door, Riggans agrees to stay. Tyra and Lyla have a hard time getting any students to perform at "Pantherama" so Tyra seduces the football players into signing up to perform a dance routine. College recruitment has begun and Coach Taylor warns the players not to accept any gifts from recruiters because they will be ruled ineligible and asks players to set up appointments through his office. Smash jumps out of bed on the first day of recruiting and begins working out in his room, looking at all of his recruitment letters hanging on his wall. The phone is ringing off the hook at the Williams' residence. Smash and his momma meet with a recruiter from a traditionally black university, who tells Smash they can offer him a great education, but they don't offer athletic scholarships, that if he works hard he can get an academic scholarship. Smash basically laughs the man out of the room and tells the man his football team sucks. Smash also meets a girl at school whose brother went through the recruitment process a few years prior and she tells Smash that the fictional South Florida school he chose gave him a Porshe to sign. Smash goes home and tells his momma he doesn't need her to attend the meetings any longer, that he is man and will pick the school that will prepare him the best for the pros. His momma cries and asks what if you pull a Jason Street and can't play? Smash says that won't happen to Smash (3rd person) Anyone familiar with the book "Friday Night Lights" knows that the arrogant star running back James "Boobie" Miles destroys his knee and ends up with no future without football because he hadn't made good grades. Kids, Stay in School! Besides, in all the game footage they show, Smash isn't really that good, he had a 1 yard TD this season, WOW! Coach later sees Smash meeting with a recruiter that wasn't set up through Taylor, he warns Smash not to screw up the season for everyone. Saracen is having a hard time learning his dance moves and grandma's nurse helps him work on some hip movements. Saracen's "transfer cheerleader" girlfriend helps him negotiate a deal on a used car. At "Pantherama" the football team performs a striptease dance for the school that leaves both Tami and Coach Taylor disappointed with Lyla and Tyra. After the dancing, out in the parking lot Saracen thanks the nurse for helping him with his moves and kisses her. An awkward moment follows, then an awkward breakfast the next morning. But kids, its going to happen, just as Tony predicted. What about "Transfer cheerleader?" Santiago seems to be catching on to this whole football thing and Coach Taylor asks him to go see his wife and make sure his grades are ok to play football. Tami discovers that Santiago has no family and wrestles with whether she should call social services. (Not sure she really has the option in real life, but...) Coach Taylor convinces good old Buddy Garrity into being Santiago's guardian. After all what a great example Buddy is for his real kids, cheating on his wife and getting kicked out of his house. Santiago moves into his new room as the Taylors tell Buddy this is for real, he needs to do a good job. Buddy apologizes for the old furniture it was Buddy Jrs, a small desk and bunk bed. (if Riggans was still a Panther, Buddy could give him the other bunk, right?) Santiago tells Buddy its the first room he has ever had and when Buddy leaves the room Santiago puts some letters under his pillow. Also in the episode there was a creepy scene where Tami walked in on Noah and Julie talking and Tami has a strange exchange with Noah after Julie leaves. It doesn't look like any good is going to come out of this situation and we see that Julie still has a thing for the older guys.

No episode this week, the following week: Landry confesses to the police, will he implicate his dad for lighting the car/evidence on fire?

Fantasy Football-On The Rise

Here are some players who may see an increase in value this week, the players are not listed in order of value.

1. RB Ricky Williams Mia-Ricky is supposed to start practicing this week, he hasn't played in the NFL in 2 years, and spent an unproductive season in the CFL. I doubt he is in any kind of football shape, the nearest comparison would be Priest Holmes coming back this year and he took the whole preseason and the first 6 weeks of the season to get into game shape and hasn't been that successful. Williams may see some carries before the season is over to try and create some trade value for the offseason. I wouldn't put much faith in Williams, he is one more failed drug test away from a possible lifetime NFL ban.

2. RB Brandon Jackson GB-Jackson may get another turn in the Green Bay musical chairs RB situation, Ryan Grant has a high ankle sprain (usually a 2-4 week injury) and the Packers have a short week and play Detroit on Thursday. Look for Jackson to get the start on Thanksgiving.

3. WR Drew Carter Car-Steve Smith was a late scratch and grandpa Vinny and Carter hooked up for 132 yds and a TD. Who else was he going to throw to? Carter has some value until Smith is healthy, but not after, as the Panthers can't seem to get their best player, Smith the ball.

4. AJ Feeley/Kevin Kolb Phi-QB Donovan McNabb suffered his annual November injury (sprained ankle) which the severity is unknown right now. Feeley finished the game, most likely because Kolb was the emergency QB. If the injury will cause McNabb to miss any time, look for Feeley to start while the Eagles are still in contention for a Wildcard spot, if they are eliminated they would likely turn to Kolb, who already has excellent keeper value.

5. WR Justin McCareins NYJ-Coles was another player to suffer a high ankle sprain and because the Jets play the Cowboys on Thursday will likely miss the game. McCareins a bust since coming to NY would get the start opposite Cotchery. I wouldn't expect much from him.

6. RB Heath Evans/Kyle Eckel NE-The Pats who reveal as little injury info as possible lost RBs Kevin Faulk (head) and Laurence Maroney (foot) during last nights game and Evans and Eckel filled in. There is no way to know what is going on with the Pats until the inactive lists are released before the game, example being Maroney earlier in the year, expected to play every week only to be deactivated right before the game. The Pats play the Eagles next Sunday Night, so if you own Maroney, you might want to grab one of these guys just in case.

7. RB Kolby Smith KC-There is news that Priest Holmes will retire on Wed at a noon (central) press conference. Smith is the only RB left on the roster and would likely start in Week 12. I have heard some speculation that KC might be interested in Lamont Jordan if he is granted his requested release from the Raiders. Jordan played for Herm Edwards in NY. Unlikely that Al Davis would want to help a division rival and may keep Jordan just to spite the Chiefs

Tony College Top 5

Tony Top 5

Rank Team (Record) wins over ranked opponents

1. LSU (10-1) Virgina Tech, S. Carolina, Florida, Auburn, Alabama
2. Kansas (11-0) Kansas State

3. Missouri (10-1) Texas Tech, Nebraska
4. West Virginia (9-1) Rutgers, Cincinatti
5. Ohio State (11-1) Penn State, Wisconsin, Michigan

Fell out of last week's top 5; Oregon, Oklahoma

Tony's 5 College Pick Results 2-3

I was 2-3 for the week, my first losing week of the season. I'm now 12-8 for the season. There were a lot of good games this week, and I personally watched 4 of the 5 games I picked, here are this week's results;

1. #3 Oklahoma vs. Texas Tech
PICK: Oklahoma RESULT: Texas Tech 34-27 Oklahoma (my favorite to play LSU in the BCS title game, prior to this week) lost QB Sam Bradford to a concussion early in the game, allowing Texas Tech to jump out to a large lead. Oklahoma backup QB Joey Halzle finally settled down in the 2nd half and almost led Oklahoma all the way back, but a controversial replay call that upheld an incomplete pass on 4th down that on replay appeared to be a TD, allowed Texas Tech to hold on for the upset. Oklahoma still has a chance to play in the Big 12 title game and a BCS bowl. Also, Texas Tech players NEVER get any credit for their stats, because scouts will argue that they run a gimmick offense, I don't care what they say, freshman WR Michael Crabtree (125 rec, 1861yds and 21 TDs) is one of the best players in the country.

2. #5 West Virginia vs. #25 Cincinatti
PICK: West Virginia RESULT: West Virginia This game ended up being a battle of the QBs, Cinci's Ben Mauk had 375 yds of total offense and 2 TDs, but Pat White (295 yds, 2 TDs) was able to lead west Virginia to victory and a showdown next week with UCONN possibly for the Big East title and a BCS bowl berth. West Virginia also has an outside chance at the BCS title game.

3. #7 Ohio State vs. #23 Michigan
PICK: Michigan RESULT: Ohio State 14-3 The game was played in sloppy conditions as players had a tough time holding onto the ball. Michigan came out and marched the ball down the field for a FG and then were stifled the rest of the day by Vernon Gholston and the Buckeye D. QB Chad Henne and RB Michael Bush both started and were ineffective, Henne left midway through game and would return but could not lead Michigan back. Ohio State's RB Chris Wells ran for 222 yds and 2 TDs. Ohio Stat wins the Big Ten and the Rose Bowl berth, they also have an outside chance at the BCS title game, but may be hurt by the fact that their season is over and some teams play next week, and conference title games. The Michigan Seniors finish their careers 0-4 against Ohio State, it also appears likely coach Lloyd Carr will retire after the defeat.

4. #20 Kentucky vs. #9 Georgia
PICK:Georgia RESULT: Georgia 24-13
Kentucky jumped out to a 10-0 lead on the road, before the Bulldogs running game took over 184 yds and 3 TDs. Georgia need a Tennesseeloss next week to make the SEC title game, Tennessee was down to Vanderbilt yesterday before kicking a FG with no time remaining to win 25-24.

5. #18 Boston College vs. #16 Clemson

PICK: Clemson RESULT: Boston College 20-17 Boston College proved me wrong by winning a tough game on the road, Clemson came in with the highest scoring offense and highest rated qb in the ACC and BC held them to only 17 points. Clemson QB Cullen Harper was let down by his wr's who dropped a number of passes, including 3 consecutive on their final drive, Harper definately is the real deal and should go into next season with some Heisman hype. BC killed Clemson with their boring Dink and Dunk offense, where they continue to cripple Matt Ryan's on life support Heisman hopes. Ryan averaged 6.7 yds per pass, and when he was allowed to throw the ball downfield (43 yd TD pass) the announcers asked aloud why Ryan isn't allowed to do that more often. BC will play the winner of next week's Virginia/Virginia Tech game in the ACC title game.

NFL Inactive Lists

Check out the NFL inactive list, to make sure your players are active this week:

http://www.nfl.com/fantasy/story?id=09000d5d80444ed4&template=without-video&confirm=true

NFL 6 Pack-Week 11 Picks

For the season, I'm 12-6, here are this week's picks;

1. New England vs. Buffalo

Giving the Patriots 2 weeks to prepare for the Bills, is that fair? The Pats may put up 80 points. The Bills will likely be without star RB Marshawn Lynch. I just don't see this as the week the Pats fall. The Patriots roll to 10-0. PICK: Patriots

2. Tennessee vs. Denver

Tennessee has one of the top run D's in the league and can show America they are a real playoff contender by taking advantage of Denver's 32nd ranked run D. Look for RB LenDale White to lead the Titans. I never like picking against Denver at home because of the altitude, but this Denver team seems lost this year. PICK: Titans

3. NY Giants vs. Detroit

Both teams are fighting for wildcard spots in the NFC. Both teams can put up points, but the difference will be the Giants pass rush and how effective they are at getting to Lions QB Jon Kitna. The Lions are 4-0 at home this year, but the Giants pass attack and the bruising running of Brandon Jacobs will be too much for the Lions. PICK: Giants

4. Chicago vs. Seattle

Seattle has declared themselves a pass first team, after the early season struggles of the running game. RB Shaun Alexander is expected to miss the game, and the passing frenzy should continue. There has been nothing consistent about the Bears this year, their D is banged up and their offense has been sporadic and this week they turn back to Mr. Inconsistent Rex Grossman. Look for Seattle's D to put pressure on Rex and force him into some mistakes.

PICK: Seahawks

5. New Orleans vs. Houston

The Saints have been one of the hardest teams to figure out this year, after their NFC championship game loss, this team was expected to do big things this year. Houston is coming off their bye and will get WR Andre Johnson and QB Matt Schaub back from injuries, and will hope that RB Fat Ron Dayne can follow up his 122 yd performance from Week 9. The Saints offense has looked to be back on track in the last 5 games, and you know RB Reggie Bush will be looking to show Houston that they shouldn't have passed on him in the 2006 draft. PICK:SAINTS

6. Cleveland vs. Baltimore

Baltimore is starting QB Kyle Boller this week because of McNair's injuries/ineffectiveness. The Browns are averaging 32 points per game and will have to limit their mistakes against Baltimore's D. One interesting thing to watch is both QB Derek Anderson and RB Jamal Lewis will face their former team. These teams are moving in opposite directions and the Browns are on the rise. PICK:Browns

Check back later in the week for results.

Tony's 5 College Picks

I'm 10-5 for the season, here are this week's picks;

1. #3 Oklahoma vs. Texas Tech

The high flying Red Raiders are putting up 542 ypg and give teams fits with their spread offense. Oklahoma has a pretty powerful offense of their own (460 ypg) and a defense that only allows 16.8 ppg. Oklahoma needs one win in their final 2 games to clinch a spot in the Big 12 title game. With #2 Oregon's loss last night, whomever survives the Big 12; Oklahoma, Kansas, or Missouri have the best chance to make the BCS title game, so there is a lot at stake. Oklahoma rolls and will prove that they should be #2 in the BCS. PICK: Oklahoma

2. #5 West Virginia vs. #25 Cincinatti

With Cinci's win over UCONN last week the Big East and BCS bowl berth are still up for grabs. UCONN's defense couldn't slow down QB Ben Mauk and Cinci's spread offense last week, and they should have success against West Virginia, but the difference may be that West Virginia's O is unlike any the Bearcats have seen this year. The Mountaineers speed option offense is led by QB Pat White, (who was believed to have suffered a concussion last week, but that diagnosis has not been confirmed, nor has he been listed as having an injury this week) RB Steve Slaton and freshman RB Noel Devine (9.2 yards per carry). WVU will kill the Bearcats with their speed and set up next week's game with UCONN as the Big East title game. PICK: West Virginia

3. #7 Ohio State vs. #23 Michigan

This game is the unofficial Big Ten championship game, the winner goes to the Rose Bowl. This rivalry has been going on for over a hundred years (HBO did a documentary this week) Jim Tressel has held the Michigan seniors without a win in their careers and QB Chad Henne, RB Mike Hart, and OT Jake Long all said they passed up NFL money to get one more chance at beating Ohio State. Michigan held Hart out in last week's loss to Wisconsin to get him ready for the Buckeyes, Henne is still dealing with a shoulder injury and will start, QB Ryan Mallett will relieve Henne if he can't finish. Ohio State is coming off their 1st loss of the season to Illinois, and after losing their national title hopes, may lose their chance at a BCS bowl. This game is in the Big House, and Michigan hasn't had a healthy team on the field in weeks yet won 8 straight before their loss last week. The Michigan seniors find a way to stop the Buckeyes and claim the Rose Bowl bid. PICK: Michigan

4. #20 Kentucky vs. #9 Georgia

Between the hedges, Georgia needs to beat Kentucky and hope Tennessee loses one of their last 2 games to get Georgia into the SEC title game. Kentucky hasn't won in Athens in 30 years, but this is not the same old Wildcats, this team beat #1 LSU earlier in the season. QB Andre Woodson had carried this team and Georgia will need to contain him to get the W. The Bulldogs will also need big games from QB Matthew Stafford and RB Knowshon Moreno. Look for the Bulldogs to get their 5th straight win. PICK:Georgia

5. #18 Boston College vs. #16 Clemson

My how the Eagles have fallen, Some guy Tony's Blog predicted this a few weeks ago. BC has dropped two straight and now find themselves in a battle for the ACC Atlantic division and a possible birth in the ACC title game. Clemson is at home, with the top scoring offense in the ACC (37 ppg) led by the ACC's highest rated QB, Cullen Harper (154.07) and a 2 headed monster at RB (Davis and Spiller.) BC QB Matt Ryan can resuscitate his Heisman hopes by pulling out a win in Death Valley, but I think BC follows the course of another former paper #2, South Florida and drops 3 straight. BC make your plans for the Meineke Car Care Bowl. PICK: Clemson

check back next week for results.

Fantasy Football 5x5x5 Week 11

Each week I list 5 players I would start, 5 I would bench and 5 I might take a chance on.

Also, by now you should know to start your studs like Manning, Brady and LT, if not, you need more then my help. Now that bye weeks have ended most teams should have their core lineup set up, but some people are in leagues that start 2 QBs or 3-4 WRs, and we all must deal with the ill timed injury, so some owners may still need to adjust or tweak their lineups from week to week.

Here are the 5 guys to start this week:

1. QB Donovan McNabb Phi-The Eagles are coming off the come from behind win against the Redskins and get the 0-8 Dolphins at home. McNabb had 258 yds and 4 Tds last week, and for as much criticism as he has taken this year, McNabb has thrown for at least 226 yds and at least 1 TD in each of the last 5 games. Those aren't numbers you expected when you drafted him but are reliable for a #2 QB. McNabb also had his big game last week after talk that it was time for Kevin Kolb to get a shot at QB. Look for McNabb to have a another big day against the Fins.

2. QB Kurt Warner AZ-Captain Flattop had 259yds and 3 TDs last week and finally looks comfortable playing with the elbow injury to his non throwing elbow. The Bengals have the 31st rated Defense allowing 383 yds per game.And believe it or not the Cards are in a fight for the NFC West.

3. WR Larry Fitzgerald AZ-Despite the revolving door at QB for the Cards and the double teams when Boldin was out, Fitzy is still averaging 90 yds per game, however he was not getting into the endzone. That changed last week, with 2 scores, and the favorable matchup this week and Boldin saying that his hip is still bothering him, Fitz is a good bet to score again this week.

4. RB Chester Taylor Min-Starter to backup to starter. Taylor gets another shot with Peterson down, how long Taylor gets to play we don't know, but this week he gets Oakland, who allowed Fat Ron Dayne to get 122 yds and a TD, 2 weeks ago. As mentioned numerous times on this site the Vikes have no passing game and are forced to run and Taylor will be getting the majority of those carries.

5. RB Steven Jackson Stl-SJax has been fighting injuries all year but looked healthy last week rushing for a TD and throwing one as the Rams got their 1st win of the year. Stl gets a San Fran team that got hammered in Seattle on Monday and they allowed Mo Morris to run wild on them, imagine what S-Jax can do to them.

5 guys to sit this week:

1. RBs Marshawn Lynch/Anthony Thomas Buf-Lynch has been on a nice little 3 game run, but appears to be out this week with an ankle injury, and may be replaced by the A-train who had some solid games as the starter, late last season. No matter who starts, i'm sitting them against the Pats, especially since the Bills will probably be playing from behind most of the game.

2. RB Justin Fargas Oak-After being named the starter for Oakland last week he put up a 100 total yards. This week he gets the tough Vikes run D, who I told you not to start Ryan Grant against last week but, that was the first 100 yd rusher they allowed all year and more the exception then the norm. Also, compare the Packers passing game setting up the run and the Oakland passing game, get my point? Fargas should be on your bench this week. Also Mike Bush may be activated from the PUP list to steal some carries going forward.

3. RB Thomas Jones NYJ-Believe it or not, some owners are still starting Jones, whose struggles are more a product of the Jets O being bad, then his lack of talent, but this week against the Steelers is not the game he gets it going.

4. QBs Rex Grossman Chi and QB Brodie Croyle KC-One is getting his first career start the other is getting his first start since getting benched. It is never safe to play a QB in his first start and there is a reason Grossman was benched for Brian Griese. Stay away form these two and QB Josh Beck and Kellen Clemens while your at it.

5. K Shayne Graham Cin-Much like when Rob Bironas kicked 8 FGs, I warned not to expect another 8, Graham had 7 FGs last week and shouldn't be expected to match that. You don't need to bench him just temper your expectations.

5 guys to take a chance on:

1. WR DJ Hackett Sea-Even with WR Deion Branch set to return this week?(or last week, or the week before) Since returning from his own injury Hackett has averaged 79.5 yds and a TD per game. Combine that with Seattle becoming a pass first team, Hackett seems poised to have a big day against Chicago's 21st ranked D.

2. WR Mark Clayton Balt-Much like when I recommended Lee Evans when JP Losman got his starting job back (I told you so) Kyle Boller and Mark Clayton seem to have a special bond, that Clayton doesn't have with McNair.

3. WR Reggie Brown Phi-As I mentioned in the "On The Rise" article earlier this week Brown has been averaging 72 ypg over the last 3 games and with the matchup against the Dolphins I look for him to keep it going.

4. TE Heath Miller Pit-5 Tds in the last 5 games, Pittsburgh seems to be throwing more in the red zone this year and Miller is on a nice little streak. With Vilma out for the Jets, Miller may fins himself open in the endzone.

5. QB Daunte Culpepper Oak-The desperate play of the week, and for no other reason then, the only good game C-Pep had this year was his 75 yd, 5 TD game against the Dolphins. This week he gets a shot at his other old team, the Vikings. How lucky do you feel?

NFL 6 Pack Week 10 Results 4-2

I was 4-2 again, for the 3rd straight week putting me at 12-6 for the season.

1. Dallas vs. NY Giants

PICK: Dallas RESULT: Cowboys 31-20 Dallas sweeps the season series and takes control of the NFC East. The Giants were able to hang with the Cowboys, but as predicted the Giants secondary was their weakness and Dallas exploited them especially on the 2 long scores to Terrell Owens. The Giants must now focus on securing a Wild Card and not having the second half slumps that have plagued them under Tom Coughlin.

2. San Francisco vs. Seattle

PICK: Seattle RESULT: Seahawks 24-0 The Seahawks absolutely dominated the 49ers allowing them only 6 first downs the whole game. the Seahawks were successful with their new pass first attack and then were able to control the clock with Mo Morris, after they got the lead. The 49ers O continues to struggle particularly the passing game, the one bright spot was Frank Gore who averaged 5.5 yards per carry, however the 49ers abandoned the run in the 2nd half due to the score. As mentioned here earlier this week San Fran continuing to lose, won't help them come April because the Patriots have their 1st round pick,

3. Cleveland vs. Pittsburgh

PICK Pittsburgh RESULT: Steelers 31-28 The Browns showed this year is not a fluke, hanging with a tough Steelers team despite being outgained 401 yds to 163 yds. Most of the Browns damage came on special teams where former college QB Joshua Cribbs had 223 return yards and 2 TDs.

4. Indianapolis vs. San Diego

PICK: Indianapolis RESULT: Chargers 23-21 San Diego along with New Orleans continue to be the hardest teams to figure out this year. San Diego after getting embarrassed by the Vikings in Week 9 jumped out to an early lead on the Colts 23-0. The Chargers D almost allowed the Colts to comeback despite forcing 6 Peyton Manning INTs (3 to Antonio Cromartie.) Adam Vinatieri missed 2 FGs in the game including a potential game winner with 1:31 left to allow the Bolts to hang on for the win.

5. Jacksonville vs. Tennessee

PICK: Tennessee RESULT: Jaguars 28-13 The Titans came in with the #1 rush D and allowed MOJO Drew and Freddy Taylor to rack up over 160 yds rushing. Vince Young finally stepped up for the Titans, but LenDale White missed the 2nd half of the game with an injury.

6. Minnesota v. Green Bay

PICK Green Bay RESULT: Packers 34-0 With all the hoopla surrounding Adrian Peterson and his near 300 yd game in Week 9, the Packers held him to 45 yds before he left the game in the 3rd with a LCL tear. The Packers continue to be one of the best teams in the NFC, and nobody is talking about them. Favre seems to have found the fountain of youth and seems happy to be playing again. Also of note, RB Ryan Grant ran for over a 100 yards on the #2 rush D, it was the first time all season the Vikes allowed a rusher to put up a hundo on them.

Friday Night Lights "How Did I Get Here"

The episode begins with Tami getting ready to return to work at Dillon High, her sister is coming to visit the Taylor's. Coach Taylor gets his first paycheck which is dramatically less than what he expected and only 40% of what he was paid last year. Taylor goes to straighten out the situation with Buddy Garrity, who tells Taylor he is working on it. Riggans has been kicked off the team for his trip to Mexico with Street, he finds out when he shows up for practice and his locker is empty. A new student, who happens to be a good looking cheerleader introduces herself to Saracen in the hallway and tells him it will be an honor to cheer for him and the Panthers. Buddy shows up at practice, still working on coach Taylor's salary situation, with juvenile delinquent turned student, Santiago and says Taylor should put him on the team. They work him out and he shows strength and speed but can't seem to catch the ball. Landry's dad is told that fibers found on the body, Landry and Tyra dumped, matched the kind of station wagon that Landry drives. Landry's dad waits for him to come home that night and tells Landry its time to trust him, he tells Landry to follow him. They both drive off into the rain and Landry's dad, douses the car with gasoline and lights it up to destroy the evidence and protect Landry. Julie shows up at the fast food place that Saracen works at and she apologizes to him for what she did with "the Swede" and for hurting him and hopes they can still be friends. Taylor goes to see Street and asks him to return to coaching, that he needs him and Street accepts. Lyla asks Riggans to help Santiago learn some football fundamentals and Riggans tells her no. Smash invites Riggans over to dinner after a day of taking a beating at practice because the new fullback isn't a good blocker. Smash tells Riggans that he needs to do what he needs to do to get back on the team, that they both need football to be who they are in Dillon. In a attempt to fix Taylor's salary problem they offer him the Athletic Director job, but that still leaves him at less money then he was promised. Riggans and his brother go to see Tami, at her guidance counselor's office to help him catch up with his school work but more importantly in hopes of getting him back on the football team. Street's parents throw him his 19th birthday party, and everyone sits around watching old footage of Street as QB1 for the Dillon Panthers, after everyone leaves he donates his old game tapes to the football team and tells coach Taylor that he can't be a coach, that he needs time to find himself. As Julie and Tyra are leaving the party they see Saracen and the "new girl" making out in her car. Julie is obviously upset at what she sees, apparently she is unhappy now that the shoe is on the other foot. What is a teen drama without some hurt feelings? Besides I'm still sticking to my prediction, that Saracen and his Grandmother's nurse get together this season. Riggans is sitting on the bleachers drinking a beer, when he sees Santiago trying to hit the blocking sled, and not having much success. He first asks Santiago if he is trying to sleep with Lyla, Santiago says they are just friends. Riggans starts to give Santiago some pointers, and then they are joined by Smash and Saracen who go on to run some plays with Santiago at FB (Riggans' old position.) Coach Taylor walks by and tells the boys to keep up the good work, and invites Santiago to attend practice the next day. Riggans asks if this means he is back on the team? Taylor says, not even close, not even close.

Next week, has the women of Dillon looking for some attention, The Football team stripping at a school pep rally? and Santiago has a secret.

Loss of Draft Pick=Penalty?

As a part of the spygate punishment the NFL is stripping the Patriots of their 2008 1st round draft pick. But are the Patriots really worried? They own San Fran's first round pick for 2008 which right now sits as the 4th or 5th pick in the draft, much better then the high 20's, low 30's pick the Patriots will give up. When the punishment was handed down the NFL was aware that the Pats had the 49ers pick and had every opportunity to say that they would forfeit the highest 1st round pick they had. If anything this will do nothing more then to save the Patriots from having to pay large guaranteed signing bonuses to two 1st round picks.

Fantasy Football-On The Rise

Here are some players who may see an increase in value. The players are not listed in order of value.

1. QB Rex Grossman Chi-Rex may be relevant again, especially if you play in a 2 QB league where just about every breathing starting QB has value. We have all seen the roller coaster ride that is Rex Grossman as a QB and hopefully you won't need him to help your team.

2. QB Brodie Croyle KC-Croyle replaced Huard on Sunday and has been named the starter in KC. He has a tough matchup against the Colts, but may have some value in certain weeks or for next season in keeper leagues.

3. RB Antonio Pittman Stl-The rookie from Ohio State had 7 carries for 53 yards and may see carries as the #2 back behind Steven Jackson. Brian Leonard only got 2 carries as he returned to his FB position with S-Jax healthy.

4. RB Chester Taylor Min-After the success of Adrian Peterson, Taylor saw his number of carries drop and many fantasy owners dropped him. With Peterson out for at least Week 11, Taylor gets the start against a dreadful Oakland defense. RB Mewelde Moore may also see an increase of touches with Peterson out.

5. WR Reggie Brown Phi-After a slow start this season, Brown as quietly averaged 71.6 yards in his last 3 games, and he had a TD Sunday against the Skins. Brown has a decent matchup against the Dolphins this week and could help a team missing a WR such as Marvin Harrison owners.

The Next Great RB, Not So Fast

Adrian Peterson has once again been bitten by the injury bug, suffering a tear of his lateral collateral knee ligament. The injury is expected to keep him out between 2-4 weeks. Adrian Peterson has had 2 monster games this year for a lack luster, one dimensional, Vikings offense. Peterson has raised Minny fans hopes he could be the next great RB. But for the same reason Peterson fell in the draft to the Vikings at #7, he just can't seem to stay on the field for a full season. Their have been plenty of talented backs to come into the NFL over the years but if you can't play, you can't be great. Hopefully the Vikings realize and appreciate the special talent they have in Peterson and they don't try to rush him back before he is ready. The Vikings need to protect Peterson for the future and develop a plan to build around him in the offseason, first they need to find him a legitimate QB either through the draft or free agency and they need to give this QB some impact receivers, This team has made the mistake of drafting wr's from Steve Spurrier's offense (Williamson and Rice) who since his Florida days have been notorious for being disappointing at the pro level. Otherwise, Peterson will never reach his full potential trying to beat 8 and 9 man fronts, look what happened to Frank Gore this year in San Fran.

Tony's College Top 5

Tony Top 5

Rank Team (Record) wins over ranked opponents

1. LSU (9-1) Virgina Tech, S. Carolina, Florida, Auburn, Alabama

2. Oklahoma (9-1) Texas, Missouri

3. Oregon (8-1) Michigan, USC, Arizona State

4. Kansas (10-0) Kansas State

T5. Missouri (9-1) Texas Tech, Nebraska

T5. West Virginia (8-1) Rutgers

Fell out of last week's top 5; Ohio State

Tony's 5 College Picks Results 3-2

This week I went 3-2, making me 10-5 for the season.

Here are this week's results:

1. #15 USC vs. California

PICK USC RESULT: USC 24-17 RB Chauncey Washington rolled over Cal for 220 yards and a TD. This was the 4th loss for Cal in a season that had them ranked in the top 5 with BCS title aspirations a few weeks ago.

2. #17 Auburn vs. #10 Georgia

PICK Georgia RESULT: Georgia 45-20 Auburn's #5 defense was no match for Georgia led by QB Matthew Stafford and RB Knowshon Moreno. Georgia scored 4 TDs in the second half beating Auburn into submission.

3. #12 Michigan vs. Wisconsin
PICK: Michigan RESULT Wisconsin 37-21 Michigan found themselves down by double digits for the 3rd straight game after playing an uninspired 1st half. Michigan lost QB Chad Henne early in the game and RB Mike Hart did not play. QB Ryan Mallet rallied Michigan to within 2 points in the 4th but Wisconsin's D was too much for the Freshman QB hurrying him and forcing a late interception and a turnover on downs with about 2 mins. left. Overall, a good game by the Badgers, and regardless of the loss, Michigan will still play for the Big Ten title next week against Ohio State.

4. #16 UCONN vs. Cincinatti

PICK: UCONN RESULT: Cincinatti 27-3 Both teams came into this game boasting stingy defenses but the team everybody was talking about was UCONN. However Cinci's D held UCONN to 3 points. The Big East is still up for grabs, Cinci and West Virginia play this week followed by UCONN and West Virginia the next week.

5. #18 Florida vs. South Carolina

PICK: Florida Florida 51-31 Florida showed flashes of what could have been this season for them with a dominating win over S. Carolina and former coach Steve Spurrier. Regardless of losses this year, Florida's Tim Tebow is the best player in the country, 7 total TDs and and 424 yards of offense.

NFL 6 Pack Week 10 Picks

I'm currently 8-4 on the season, and here are this week's picks:

1. Dallas vs. NY Giants These two met to open the season with the Cowboys winning 45-35. The Giants have won 6 straight games and come into this game playing much improved defense led by the pass rush. Dallas' lone loss came a the hands of the Patriots. The Cowboys passing should be able to exploit the G-Men's secondary, provided they can slow the pass rush.

PICK: Cowboys

2. San Francisco vs. Seattle Seattle's passing offense has resurfaced with the return of WR DJ Hackett, and they will possibly get back WR Deion Branch this week. San Francisco may get RB Frank Gore back this week, but the San Fran O has been unable to get anything going with him in the lineup. The 49ers have been a major disappointment this season. PICK: Seahawks

3. Cleveland vs. Pittsburgh Who would have thought the Browns would be battling for the division. The Steelers will be coming off a short week, but have played well at home this year. The Steelers have won the last 8 meetings between the two. PICK: Steelers

4. Indianapolis vs. San Diego The Chargers have been another major disappointment this season and will try to rebound from the beating they took from Adrian Peterson and the Vikes last week. The Colts are banged up and coming off the loss to the Pats, that saw them give up the lead in the 4th quarter. Look for the Colts to rebound this week. PICK: Colts

5. Jacksonville vs. Tennessee Both teams are fighting for a spot in the playoffs and have been relying on their defenses. Look for the Titans 5th ranked run D to slow down MOJO Drew and Fred Taylor. LenDale White looks to continue his streak of 100 yd games, but could use some help from Vince Young. PICK: Titans

6. Minnesota vs. Green Bay the Packers are playing great football right now and may be the outside favorite to win the NFC title. The Packers will not be able to run on Min, so they will look to take advantage of the weak secondary. The Vikings offense is very one dimensional, and maybe the Packers will realize what the Chargers couldn't, they are going to give the ball to Peterson. PICK: Packers

Tony's 5 College Picks

I'm currently 7-3 for the season, and here are this week's picks:

1. #15 USC vs. California

Despite their struggles this season both teams have a lot of talent. USC got back QB John David Booty last week, who was a Heisman candidate before his broken finger cost him 3 games. Cal finally got a win last week after dropping 3 straight. This game is not the Pac 10 showdown many had hoped for, before the season but should still be an entertaining battle. PICK: USC

2. #17 Auburn vs. #10 Georgia

The SEC has shown itself to be the most talented conference again this year. Both teams have a chance of making it to the SEC championship game. Auburn has a 3 game winning streak in the series. Both teams have a win this year over last year's National Champs Florida.

PICK: Georgia

3. #13 Michigan vs. Wisconsin

Wisconsin draws its 2nd straight tough matchup after playing #1 Ohio State last week. Michigan needed a 4th quarter rally to survive at Michigan State and once again plays on the road this week. RB Mike Hart and QB Chad Henne are expected to play and provided they don't get caught looking ahead to next week's game with Ohio State, Michigan should take care of business. Michigan has won 7 out of the last 8 against the Badgers. PICK: Michigan

4. #16 UCONN vs. Cincinatti

UCONN find themselves undefeated in the Big East and pushing towards a BCS bowl game. UCONN protects the ball well on offense and plays solid Defense. Cincinatti was ranked earlier in the year but two losses took them out of the league title run and the national rankings. Cinci plays a wide open spread offense, led by Wake Forest transfer QB Ben Mauk, this offense should be a good matchup up against UCONN's stingy D. PICK: UCONN

5. #18 Florida vs. South Carolina

Both teams had cracked the top 10 rankings this year. As mentioned above the SEC is the most talented division and in another league these 2 teams may still be undefeated. Florida is led by perhaps the best player in the country, that won't get Heisman consideration because of Florida's losses, QB Tim Tebow and a slew of other fast athletic players. South Carolina has lost 3 straight after starting the season 6-1, but remember Steve Spurrier teams always play tough against his former team. PICK: Florida

Check back later in the week for results. Rankings used are from the USA Today Poll

Twellman's Bicycle Kick Goal!

Check out the game winner in the MLS playoffs:
http://www.revolutionsoccer.net/mediacenter/index.cfm?ac=VideoNewsdetail&pid=28968&pcid=117

Mailbag

I'm in first place in my league heading towards the playoffs, my RBs are Westbrook, Portis, R. Bush and Fargas. Should I trade Portis and Bush for LT and have Fargas as my third back?

Eric S.

Hartford, CT

Lets take a look at their schedules the rest of the year:

Reggie Bush 434 rush yds, 50 rec, 277 rec yds 5 total TDs

week schedule(rush D rank)

10 Stl (25)

11 Hou (21)

12 Car (20)

13 TB (17)

14 Atl (23)

15 Ari (18)

16 Phi (7)

So Bush has a favorable schedule every week except for 16

Clinton Portis 629 rush yds, 19 rec, 248 rec yds 6 total TDs

10 Phi (7)

11 Dal (5)

12 TB (17)

13 Buf (19)

14 Chi (26)

15 NYG (11)

16 Min (2)

Portis has a tough sched but nice matchups in 12-14 actually better then Bush, but with both you have tough matchups in week 16

LT 657 rush yds, 32 rec, 248 rec yds, 9 total TDs

10 Ind (15)

11 Jax (16)

12 Balt (3)

13 KC (14)

14 Ten (1)

15 Det (12)

16 Den (32)

LT has a pretty tough sched the only break you would get is in week 16 if you get there.

It seems like you are getting similar rushing production out of Portis and better receiving yards/recs out of Bush. The only place LT may bring an advantage is he seems to get more TDs but he has really only had 1 monster 4TD game against Oak. I think you are better off keeping Bush and Porter as your #2 playing their matchups along with Westbrook as your #1.

Also don't rely too much on Fargas, Mike Bush is supposed to come off of the PUP list in week 11 and will probably split carries with Fargas. Rhodes may get cut and who knows what they do with Jordan the rest of the year, he really fell out of favor there pretty fast and then who knows how good or bad Oakland's O will be when JaMarcus Russell finally takes over.

Eric, Thanks for the question and Good Luck

Fantasy 5x5x5 Week 10

Each week I list 5 players I would start, 5 I would bench and 5 I might take a chance on.

Also by now you should know to start your studs like Manning, Brady (bye this week) and LT, if not you need more then my help.

5 players I'm starting this week:

1. QB Drew Brees NO-The Saints offense has scored 122 points in the last 4 games (30.5 ppg) during that span, Brees is averaging 311.5 ypg and 2.75 TDs per game. This week the Saints get the 0-8 Rams who are allowing 27.4 ppg and have allowed 12 passing TDs on the year.

2. RB Marshawn Lynch Buf-This is the third week in a row I have recommended Lynch and he has gotten better each week, and the Dolphins are one of the worst teams against the run. I would expect Lynch to break a hundred and get a TD. But beware after this week Lynch gets the Pats and Jags, so he may end up on the sit list next week.

3. TE Tony Gonzalez KC-Gonzo had 3 100 yard games in his last 4 games and 3 TDs in that span. With LJ out, Gonzo has a good chance to be the go to guy on offense, he also got 13 looks last week. Denver's D has struggled and is allowing 28.3 ppg.

4. WR Marques Colston NO-See Brees above, Colston has been heavily involved the last 2 games averaging 9 catches 122 yards and 1.5 TDs. The Saints Offense seems to have found its stride and Colston is the #1 WR and red zone option, so play him.

5. RB Willis McGahee Balt-The Bengals D is allowing over a 140 ypg on the ground and McGahee should continue his quietly successful season. Willis left week 9's game against Balt early with a concussion (or they just wanted to save him from the beating the Ravens were taking) but is expected to play in week 10 (check status).

These are 5 guys I'm sitting:

1. WR Steve Smith Car-Smith has only 5 rec for 33 yards in the last 2 games, this is the product of losing Jake Delhomme for the season. Smith may be paired with rookie QB Matt Moore this week and his no longer an every week start.

2. RB Ryan Grant GB-Last week's waiver wire gold nugget had a respectable 92 total yards. What was lost in last week's Adrian Peterson show was that Minny's D held that guy LT to only 40 yards on the ground. So Grant is a good candidate for your bench this week.

3. RB Cedric Benson Chi-Not such a bad matchup but, he is back who has not lived up to his preseason hype. Benson has a per game rushing average of 58.3. "The other" Adrian Peterson has averaged over 5 yards per carry, in limited work, but after this week against Oakland, the going gets tough for Ced Ben and he may start to lose carries. If your teammates don't like you, its hard for a fantasy owner to like you. You have to have a better option then Benson.

4. QB Vince Young Ten-The Titans are winning games but they are doing behind the LenDale White not VY. Young hasn't thrown for more than 184 yards this season and hasn't thrown a TD since Week 3. He isn't running as much this year after sustaining his quad strain although he had a rushing TD last week, only his 2nd of the season. Going up against a solid Jax D doesn't seem like this will be his rebound game.

5. WR Dwayne Bowe KC-Bowe was held without a catch last week (after leaving the game with a hamstring injury) and hasn't scored since week 4. Also, Bowe will be matched up against Champ Bailey this week, so likely won't see many looks.

These are 5 guys I may take a shot on:

1. QB JP Losman Buf-Losman gets his 2nd straight start against his 2nd straight bad D (Mia) Last week he put up a respectable 295 and a TD. If you need a fill in for maybe Tom Brady or play in a 2 QB league Losman is worth a play. If Losman is playing you should also be playing WR Lee Evans.

2. RB Priest Holmes/Kolby Smith KC-I don't think after 7 carries this season Holmes is going to be able to carry the full load, so I think both players make good flex players or 3rd RBs. Denver has the worst run D in the league, see Ryan Grant week 8, and Kevin Jones Week 9 for recent success.

3. RB Justin Fargas Oak-Fargas has been named the starter for Oakland, Huggy Bear Jr. has averaged 141.5 yards rushing in games he got 20+ carries this season. This week, Oakland plays the Bears who are surprisingly 7th worst against the run.

4. RB Jesse Chatman Mia-While yes the Dolphins O is awful, Chatman ran pretty well (100 total yds) on a soggy field in London vs. the Giants, 2 weeks ago. This week the Fins get Buffalo who is 19th against the run. It looks like Chatman is going to be just as involved in the O as Ronnie Brown was before his injury. Just call this my hunch pick of the week.

5. WR Aaron Moorehead Ind-With the absence of Anthony Gonzalez, and Marvin Harrison questionable. Moorehead could get the start at WR opposite Reggie Wayne. Dallas Clark will be the 2nd option and Addai likely the 3rd. Moorehead is 6 feet, 3 inches, so that makes him a possible red zone target, and he has been in this offense for almost 5 seasons. With the Colts O relying so heavily on the pass, Moorehead could see an increase in looks. This play is a big chance but...