NFL Week 12 Predictions: Projecting the Week's Most Dominant Receivers

In Week 12 of the NFL season, the following eight receivers should put together the top performances of the weekend: 

1. Steve Smith, Panthers: Smith has cooled off a touch in recent weeks (just 10 catches for 74 yards the last two games), but a matchup with the Colts could be just what the doctor ordered. Indianapolis is 31st against opposing receivers in 2011 and has allowed at least one touchdown in nine of 10 games.  

2. Roddy White, Falcons: White went off last Sunday against the Titans, as he caught seven passes for 147 yards with Julio Jones on the sidelines. This week, White gets the Vikings' banged-up secondary and Jones should be back. One of the two receivers should have a big game, and we're banking on it being White for the second straight week. 

3. Vincent Jackson, Chargers: The roller-coaster ride of V-Jax should stay high for at least another week, as the Chargers take on the Broncos in San Diego. There is some risk here, however. Jackson hasn't been over 100 yards receiving in back-to-back games in 2011, and he had 165 yards last week against the Bears. Still, the Chargers should be throwing it plenty to beat Denver. 

4. Larry Fitzgerald, Cardinals: No matter who is throwing him the football, Fitzgerald continues to produce catches and touchdowns. Over the last three weeks, Fitzgerald has four receiving touchdowns. Facing the No. 27-ranked fantasy defense against receivers in the Rams, Fitzgerald should go off again.  

5. Hakeem Nicks, Giants: The Saints have been beat up by opposing receivers in recent weeks, and Nicks is due for a big performance after dealing with a couple of injuries. The Giants have enough passing options to keep double coverage off Nicks, too.

6. Marques Colston, Saints: Many have picked Drew Brees as the top fantasy quarterback in Week 12, so Colston figures to be a major beneficiary. In the Saints' last game before their bye, Colston had seven catches for 113 yards. The Giants gave up a couple of scores to receivers last week against Philly. 

7. DeSean Jackson, Eagles: A taunting penalty robbed Jackson of even more fantasy points against the Giants, but you get the feeling that Jackson is playing for more than just big fantasy stats. He needs a new contract, whether it's in Philly or not, and making big plays is the fastest way to the cash. 

8. Antonio Brown, Steelers: Call me crazy for not having Mike Wallace here, but I think the Chiefs do their best to keep Wallace from hurting them deep on Sunday. In return, Kansas City will keep single coverage on Brown, who has emerged as the Steelers' clear No. 2 target. With that kind of attention, Brown should shine.