Fantasy Football Game of the Week–Week 9

This week’s game that will most likely tip the scales of many fantasy matchups this week is between the Arizona Cardinals and the St. Louis Rams. Quickly before we get to the fantasy ramifications of this game, shockingly if the Rams are able to win this game they will be just one game behind the division leading Cardinals. I’m not sure if that is more a commentary of the Rams resiliency or the hot, steaming dump that is the NFC West. I’m thinking the latter.

The Cardinals have one of the best passing games in the league. Kurt Warner, who I believe was born in 1936, is having his best season since his MVP days. He is second in the NFL in passing yards, and is third in TD passes with 14. There is no reason to think that Warner won’t continue to pad these stats against the Rams. Look for another 300 yard game and two or three scores. Not only do they have two of the best receivers in football in Larry Fitzgerald and Anquan Boldin, but with Boldin’s injury they found that third receiver that they needed in Steve Breaston. It has been four consecutive weeks that Breaston has had at least seven catches, as he has proven that he is much more than just a kick returner. I don’t expect that production to continue, but he should do enough to stay on your roster. The wild card in this game for the Cards is Tim Hightower. There have been rumors that he might even start this game over Edgerrin James, but it at least seems that he will continue to take carries away from Edge. He has been a great short yardage guy so far this season, but it looks like he will get an opportunity to have his role expanded.

The Rams offense has been recharged by the emergence of Donnie Avery. The rookie has been amazing lately, and appears to have taken over the role that Torry Holt used to play back in the late 90s. Avery knows how to spread the field, and with his arm, Marc Bulger knows how to get him the ball. Look for these two to hook up for another long score this week. Holt has been a shell of his former self this season, and I think his best days are obviously behind him. He is still worth being on a roster, but not someone you want to count on for big production. Dante Hall has been making some plays, but I don’t think he is worthy of your team as of now. Stephen Jackson appears that he will be a game-time decision, but if I had to guess I think he will play. If not, you are looking at Antonio Pittman again running the ball. If Jackson is unable to go, I would look for a better option than Pittman. Bulger has gotten himself back on the fantasy map but right now I still see him as a bye week/injury replacement than someone you would start every week.

This game has the potential to have both teams score in the 30s, and could make or break your week.

As always, your comments and questions (adds/drops, trade advice, lineup questions, etc) are welcome at [e-mail]. I guarantee a response within 18 hours.