NFL Week 10 Predictions: Looking Ahead to Top Fantasy Football Performers

Nine weeks into the season, it's become much easier to get a better handle on who the top fantasy performers have been.

Still, predicting the top performer at each position is never an easy task midway through a 16-game season. Too many games; too many chances for players to shine or reverse their struggles remains over the course of these next two months.

Matchups are almost everything in fantasy football, and for the following players, it suits them well in Week 10.

QB: Aaron Rodgers, Packers (vs Vikings)

The last time Aaron Rodgers went up against the Vikings he threw for 335 yards, three TDs, zero picks, and had a completion percentage of 80 percent. Talk about unreal. But then, that word aptly describes Rogers's performance this season.

However, this time around Green Bay gets Minnesota at home and no matter how much the Vikings prepare, stopping Rodgers just isn't possible. Therefore, expect Aaron to throw for over 400 yards, four TDs, and zero picks en route to another Packers victory.

RB: Maurice Jones-Drew, Jaguars (at Colts)

The only player really worth mentioning on the moribund Jacksonville Jaguars, running back Maurice Jones-Drew still averages over 90 rush yards per game despite having the No. 32 ranked pass offense (dead-last in the league) "supporting" him.

In Week 10 the Jags make the trip to Circle City and play the winless Colts, who allow almost 150 rush yards per game, along with 260 through the air.

Those who know football can't be surprised by MJD's production, however. Look for the former UCLA star to rack up over 150 total yards and two TDs against what is a very weak Indianapolis defense.

WR: Steve Smith, Panthers (vs Titans)

The Carolina Panthers have been subject to a rough schedule, but still have an offense that fits into the NFL's top 10.

Obviously much can be attributed to rookie QB Cam Newton, who has been sensational for a first-year starter, but veteran WR Steve Smith has been just as impressive.

Against the Titans at home in Week 10, Smith should compile around 130 receiving yards and score two TDs.

Tennessee ranks No. 15 against the pass, but they'll be deceived as Carolina runs the ball to setup the play-action early on.

TE: Owen Daniels, Texans (at Buccaneers)

Although it's a home game for Tampa Bay, the Buccaneers still have to prove they can play well on a consistent basis—home or away. Well, that's one thing the Houston Texans have improved upon recently, and TE Owen Daniels has played a major role with star receiver Andre Johnson out.

Daniels leads the Texans in receiving yards, TDs, and receptions, whereas the Bucs rank 27th against the pass and 26th against the run.

So it seems safe to predict that Daniels catches about five passes for 75 yards and scores one TD.

Not bad for TE who often goes overlooked because of the Texans' solid ground game and stingy defense.

Kicker: David Akers. 49ers (vs Giants)

The 49ers offense has the ability to move the rock well, but they're nowhere near as good in the red-zone with no big time receiving threat. In turn, defenses stack the box and RB Frank Gore is lucky to punch one in from inside the 10 yard-line.

Well, enter kicker David Akers because the Giants have a bend but don't break defense, as evidence by their performance against New England in Week 9.

San Francisco will move the ball, but Akers will be lining up for multiple FGs like he did against Washington. He has been a rock for the team, and boasts four competed field goals of over 50 yards this season.

And since kickers aren't usually on the top of everyone's "watch list" it's quite possible that Akers is available, that is, if you want a kicker that will score you points.

Defense: Philadelphia Eagles

In Week 10 the Eagles are playing host to the 2-6 Arizona Cardinals whose only legit offensive threat is WR Larry Fitzgerald.

Therefore, expect Philly to double Fitz all game long and employ man defense on everyone else. That will then force Arizona to run the ball, which is their weakness and on the flip-side, Philly's strength.

Here is where the Eagles can force a few turnovers and once the Cardinals offensive line is worn out from all the run-blocking, then the Eagles bring the pressure and get some INTs later on.

This could be a game where Philly may not have to score on offense to, their defense should dominate that much.

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report. 

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