Week Seven: Automatic/Don't Do It

By Ted Cahill

I had hoped to provide some clarity on what’s happened with the Buffalo Bills this year, but my insider source came up with nothing this week.

Nothing, that is, except a declaration that the Sabers are “baller.”

That threw me for a loop, since I’m still trying to figure out when the NHL started its regular season.

But on with what I can help you with. Remember I’m not here to say start Tom Brady and sit Josh Johnson, you’re smarter than that.

Start

Ben Roethlisberger, Steelers vs. Minnesota
The Vikings have already allowed two 300-yard passers this season, and Roethlisberger seems to be in line to become the third. Because, hey, if Joe Flacco can do it, Big Ben better be able to.

LaDainian Tomlinson, Chargers at Kansas City
Tomlinson has proved that he’s still the feature back in San Diego. Sproles did nothing running the ball last week and failed in an especially crucial situation. This should be a big game for LT.

Panthers’ running backs vs. Buffalo
The Bills have allowed more than five yards per carry this season. With an already run heavy attack, feel free to start either DeAngelo Williams or Jonathan Stewart; or Mike Goodson for that matter.

Lance Moore, Saints at Miami
In case you missed it, New Orleans proved they were for real last week. The Dolphins’ defense is nothing compared to the Giants, who Moore had 78 yards and a touchdown against.

Sit

Sidney Rice, Vikings at Pittsburgh
The Steelers allow 201 passing yards per game, but this isn’t a great spot for Minnesota. Rice will likely draw a matchup with cornerback Ike Taylor, who has already shut down high-profile receivers this year. Rice is a hot pickup right now, but I wouldn’t put him in the starting lineup this week.

Donnie Avery, Rams vs. Indianapolis
Avery has two touchdowns in the past two weeks, but this is not his week. The Colts have allowed only two touchdown passes all year and opponents are averaging fewer than 200 yards per game through the air.

Donovan McNabb, Eagles at Washington
McNabb traditionally doesn’t do well against the Redskins, who have a tough pass defense this season. It’s hard to say that McNabb should be on the bench given Andy Reid’s propensity to throw the ball, but I’m thinking there are better quarterback options.

Ronnie Brown, Dolphins vs. New Orleans
Once again, the Saints are for real. That includes shutting down Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs last week. Miami figures to be behind and trying to throw the ball, like every other team that’s played the Saints so far. Unless you think Brown gets plenty of pass attempts out of the Wildcat, stay away.

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