Week 11 Start Em Sit Em: The Inside Scoop on Must-Start Players

Okay, here's the scoop. Not all must-start players are going to dominate the opposition. While that may go without saying, it's better to prepare for disappointment than to not see it coming at all.

That said, it's also better to not get hopes up in the event of a possible solid performance, because it may shield you from what lies beneath. Namely, reasoning and logic.

So, here is the inside scoop on three must-starts in Week 11 and, although they have solid odds for producing well, the key is to become aware of the matchup, and then work the rest of your lineup around it.

Michael Bush: RB, Raiders (at Vikings)

According to Vittorio Tafur of The San Francisco Chronicle, Oakland RB Darren McFadden's status is up in the air:

"

"McFadden and Jacoby Ford were not at practice Monday, and seem like big long shots to come back from their sprained foot injuries in time to play Sunday in Minnesota."

"

So, not only should we anticipate for Michael Bush to be in the backfield for Oakland, but he should be starting for you in fantasy as well. The concern, however, is how Bush will perform on the road against a stout Vikings' rush defense that ranks No. 6 and allows just 94 yards per game.

Counter-intuitive to that, Minnesota ranks No. 30 in pass defense, so it would come as no surprise if Bush produces more receiving yards. That said, be aware that although Bush is a must start this week, his numbers may not live up to expectations, as Minnesota plays much better at home and is solid against the run. 

Brandon Jacobs: RB, Giants (vs Eagles)

If you have Giants' RB Brandon Jacobs, give him the nod to start this week against the Eagles. Not only is defending the run Philadelphia's biggest weakness, but even if fellow RB Ahmad Bradshaw suits up, Jacobs should earn the bulk of the carries.

In an article by Simon Garron-Caine of Giants 101, Bradshaw was out Wednesday:

"

"Ahmad Bradshaw has 'made a little bit' of progress, but he also will not practice today."

"

Also, with the Eagles allowing 120 rush yards per game, you have to expect that New York will attack on the ground before testing Philly's sound pass defense. Jacobs is a go and should produce decent numbers as well. However, keep an eye on Bradshaw's situation, because he's played injured before.

Larry Fitzgerald: WR, Cardinals (at 49ers)

Perhaps the most concerning thing about Larry Fitzgerald is whether his QB, John Skelton, can maintain playing at a solid level.

Skelton has led Arizona to two straight wins, but division rival San Francisco knows they have been able to isolate Fitz before. Every player just has that team, the one who always seems to have their number, and the 'Niners are that team for Larry Fitzgerald.

Now, that doesn't mean you bench him, because he's a must start. And it's not like Fitz isn't use to playing with sub-par or less-established QBs. Just know that it's possible for Larry to be shut-down this week, so prepare the rest of your lineup as well as you can.

Thereafter, the good will only take care of itself. Especially since the 49ers are vulnerable to defending the pass.

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report. 

You can follow him on Twitter @ Sportswriter27.