Chargers' Fantasy Corner

Last week was a mixed bag with my picks. Mike Sims-Walker, Knowshon Moreno, and Nate Washington all met or exceeded expectations, while Ryan Grant, Matt Hasselbeck, and Tony Romo didn’t really follow through with their expectations. However, at least I can say I didn’t really bust on any of my picks (except Nate Kaeding). This week is the first week of Thursday Night Football, so let’s take an early look at what might happen in week 10, which starts tomorrow.

DREAM MATCHUPS

Joe Flacco (BAL) vs. Cleveland
Cleveland isn’t that bad against the pass, but only because they are so bad against the run. I expect the Browns to continue not tackling opponents so that means 5 yard passes can go for 50 yards and a touchdown. Expected Stat Line: 315 yards, 3 TDs

Mike Bell (NO) vs. St. Louis
If you enjoy seeing cute little seals being clubbed then you’ll enjoy watching this game. I expect this game to be over at half and that means Pierre Thomas hits the bench and Mike Bell runs up his fantasy points in the second half. Expected Stat Line: 3 receptions, 25 yards, 125 rushing yards, 2 TDs

Sidney Rice (MIN) vs. Detroit
As stated on this site last week, the Detroit Lions are not very good. Rice has developed into a really good receiver and should be in your lineup almost every week. Against a bad secondary that gave up over 300 yards to Hasselbeck, expect more of the same this week for Rice and company. Expected Stat Line: 7 catches, 130 yards, 2 TDs

NIGHTMARE MATCHUPS

David Garrard (Jax) vs. New York Jets
The Jets are #2 against the pass and Jacksonville coach Jack Del Rio has already told Garrard that he is not allowed to audible out of runs, so expect the opportunities to be limited. I don’t see Garrard being set up for success in this matchup and nor should you. Expected Stat Line: 175 yards, 0 TDs

Matt Forte (Chi) vs. San Francisco
Forte’s season has been nothing short of a bust. This week he plays a 49ers team that gives up less than 100 yards a game and is starting to find balance in their offense. Like last week, the Bears will fall behind early and be forced to throw and will have to abandon the run game. Expected Stat Line: 60 yards, 3 receptions, 30 yards

Santana Moss (Wsh) vs. Denver
Denver is allowing less than 200 yards receiving per game and they are clearly superior to Washington. I know that the Redskins will be forced to throw, but I think that Denver will win the time of possession battle and hold the ball most of the game. That gives the ‘Skins a minimum amount of opportunities to get you points. Expected Stat Line: 2 receptions, 29 yards

Chargers vs. Eagles

DREAM MATCHUPS

Philip Rivers (SD)- The Eagles did something that nobody in the NFL has done all year, make Cowboys receiver Roy Williams relevant. Now here comes Rivers and Co.

Antonio Gates (SD)- The Eagles have been burned by the TE this year, expect more of the same with Gates running the middle.

Vincent Jackson (SD)- After a great game last week there is no doubt Jackson is an elite wide receiver. He’ll keep the pace up this week against a solid secondary.

Brent Celek (Phi)- The Chargers still can’t stop the tight end and last time I checked, he’s a tight end.

NIGHTMARE MATCHUPS

LeSean McCoy (Phi)- Westbrook might play and the defensive line for the Chargers is playing a lot better. Limited opportunities will lead to a dismal fantasy day.

David Akers (PHI)- His range isn’t what it used to be and when the Chargers defense gets after McNabb then drives will stall.

Jeremy Maclin (Phi)- A big threat guy who doesn’t like physical corners. It’s time to meet Quentin Jammer, Mr. Maclin.

Malcolm Floyd (SD)- He has been a starter for two games and still hasn’t gotten into the rhythm of the offense. I’d wait to see him bust out before I go inserting him into my starting lineup.