Chiefs vs. Patriots: 3 Fantasy Football Gems That Emerged on Monday Night

Heading into Monday night's showdown between the Kansas City Chiefs and New England Patriots, it was obvious that the only people who were actually going to enjoy the game were Patriots fans and fantasy owners with Patriots players. 

To this end, the game didn't disappoint. The Patriots shook off a slow start to win 34-3, and usual suspects like Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski racked up plenty of fantasy points.

However, we saw some unusual suspects rack up points, too. As is usually the case when these things happen, the question now is whether or not these unusual suspects are worth picking up.

Let's discuss the matter, shall we?

Thomas Jones, RB, Kansas City Chiefs

Despite the fact Jamaal Charles has been hurt all year, Thomas Jones has been invisible for the better part of 2011. Kinda weird when you think about it.

On Monday night, though, Jones got some work in. Todd Haley gave him eight carries, with which he gained 48 yards to lead the Chiefs.

Modest totals, to be sure, but not exactly surprising either. With Matt Cassel out, Haley needs as many running backs as he can use, and Jones is one of them. I take Monday night's sudden spike in production to be a sign of things to come.

Don't expect huge point totals out of Jones, but if you need a running back, he'll get you carries and a few yards, and maybe a cheap touchdown if you're lucky.

Shane Vereen, RB, New England Patriots

Shane Vereen got hurt before the start of the season, and the rookie pretty much disappeared into thin air as soon as the season started.

Vereen reappeared during garbage time on Monday night, and he was able to sneak in eight carries for 39 yards and a touchdown.

I'd only recommend picking up Vereen if you are in a really deep league and totally desperate. The Patriots run a pass-first offense, and Vereen is not taking BenJarvus Green-Ellis' job any time soon.

However, it wouldn't surprise me if he took Danny Woodhead's job. Vereen can do everything Woodhead does, and he's bigger and faster.

I viewed Vereen as the next coming of Kevin Faulk when the Patriots drafted him, and I still think he can be just that.

New England Patriots' Defense

Three points allowed, three sacks, three picks and one return touchdown.

Not a bad night for any defense, much less a defense that has a reputation of being the very worst in the NFL. 

Because of that, I can understand if your first instinct is to be cautious about New England's big defensive night. However, if you take a look at the Patriots' schedule, you'll notice they don't have to face many good offensive teams the rest of the way. The Patriots are in prime overachieving territory.

So, if you're looking for a defense, I'd pick up the Pats and keep them ready. If your primary defense has a bad matchup, you might want to consider starting New England's defense. Odds are the Patriots will be playing a lousy team that week.