Fantasy Football Pitfalls: Week Nine

Before we get started, click here for my Week 9 NFL Picks .

I’m going to look at the matchups each week and pick five fantasy starters that could be in for a tough week. Here’s a look at players who could struggle this week.

With the bye weeks upon us, you can’t necessarily sit the guys on this list unless you have great depth, but expect a drop in production.

Matt Schaub, QB, Houston Texans

Schaub has been outstanding this year, but faces a very tough defense this week against the Colts in Indianapolis. Dwight Freeney and company attack opposing quarterbacks, which will pressure Schaub into making a quick decision, which could throw his timing off.

The last time he faced them he threw for 236 yards with one TD and two INTs, and was sacked three times. Schaub also has to face them without Owen Daniels, who is lost for the year with a knee injury.

Tony Romo, Dallas Cowboys

I know he’s looked like a different quarterback in recent weeks, thanks to the emergence of Miles Austin, but he’s facing the Eagles’ attacking defense in a hostile environment. Here’s how Tony has fared against attacking defenses this year:

- Week 2 vs. NYG:  13-for-29, 127 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs
- Week 4 @ DEN:  25-for-42, 255 yards, 0 TDs, 1 INT, 1 Fumble

Plus, we all know what happened in Week 17 last year in Philadelphia when he went 21-of-39 for 183 yards, an INT, and two fumbles.

Matt Forte, Chicago Bears

Just when it looked like Forte had figured things out, he draws Arizona, one of the toughest run defenses in the league, despite being shredded by the Panthers last week. The Cardinals have more trouble stopping the pass, so Cutler will be very active.

If Forte doesn’t pick up yards in the passing game, his fantasy owners are in trouble. Also, Chicago’s defense has struggled at times, which could make them even more reliant on Cutler.

Rashard Mendenhall, Pittsburgh Steelers

Mendenhall has a tough test coming out of the bye as he faces Denver, who has been tough against the run this year. They are playing in Denver to further complicate matters.

This figures to be a knock-down drag-out battle where yards are hard to come by. As a matter of fact, I don’t recommend Knowshon Moreno for the Broncos either.

Steve Smith, Carolina Panthers

Smith had a nice little run going, but will have a battle on his hands as Carolina takes on New Orleans. He’ll have to rely on a banged up Delhomme or a very green Matt Moore.

Originally published at LestersLegends.com