In a fantasy world that is ripe with weekly disappointments, isn't it nice to be able to have some reliable players out there to hang your hat on, so to speak? Players like Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Adrian Peterson, Jamaal Charles, Calvin Johnson and Jordy Nelson have all been players you can put in with no fear and they usually exceed expectations. These guys, plus many others, are all obvious fantasy names but they are obvious because of their weekly production. Make sure to take note of everyone who falls under this category this year because there is a good chance they will do it again next season.
Here's my Love-Hate for week nine. Maybe some of these guys will end up in the same category as those mentioned above.
James LeBeau is an avid fantasy sports participant and a sports contributor for CraveOnline Sports. You can follow him on twitter @Jlebeau76 or “like” CraveOnline Sports on Facebook.
Week 9 Love Hate
-
Alex Smith QB – Kansas City
Smith has been a blessing in disguise for the Kansas City Chiefs. In desperate need for a steady hand at the most glorified position in the NFL, the Chiefs have struck gold with Smith. Not a flashy guy, Smith just keeps plugging away with solid production. Coming off a 225 passing yard, 40 rushing yard and two touchdown day against the Cleveland Browns, expect Smith to post similar numbers against a Bills team that is reeling after a tough loss to the New Orleans Saints.
LOVE
-
Chris Johnson RB – Tennessee
Johnson comes into this week's matchup against the St. Louis Rams having not rushed for more than 40 yards in each of his last four games played. Facing one of the league's toughest defensive lines is not the answer to the question of when is he going to start rushing better? While it is always possible for a home run rusher like Johnson to put up yards fast, don't expect a big game from him this week.
HATE
-
Dez Bryant WR – Dallas
Coming off of a week in which he was pretty much the center point of conversation for his sideline antics, Bryant will be looking for some on-field payback to alleviate frustrations. Luckily for him, the Cowboys face a Minnesota Vikings squad that is practically waving the white flag already. Look for a big day out of Dez with triple digit yardage and at least one score.
LOVE
-
Harry Douglas WR – Atlanta
Harry Douglas has stepped up in a big way to fill the void that the absence of Julio Jones has left in the Atlanta Falcons offense. Recording back to back 100 yard games, Douglas will face a real test in week nine as the Falcons face the stingy Carolina Panthers. The Panthers rank ninth against the pass, allowing just 222.1 yards through the air. More importantly to Douglas owners, the Panthers are allowing the fifth fewest fantasy point per game to wideouts. To sum it up, if you have another viable option to Douglas, it may be best to use him instead.
HATE
-
Kellen Clemens QB – St. Louis
Despite a good showing from the Rams against the formidable Seattle Seahawks on Monday night, things aren't all wine and roses for Rams quarterback Kellen Clemens. The starter practically, by default, failed to lead the Rams on a touchdown drive against the Seahawks. Facing the Tennessee Titans this week, the Rams will continue to pound the ball inside and hope Clemens will make a play or two. Unless you are desperate, stay far away from Clemens because a good fantasy day isn't in his five day forecast.
HATE
-
LeSean McCoy RB – Philadelphia
Wow, the Philadelphia Eagles are a prime example of exactly why you need a steady quarterback if you want to consistently compete. With Michael Vick hurt again, Nick Foles is expected to get the start coming back off of his own injury. While I don't expect Foles to be lights out, I do expect the Eagles offense to lean heavily on McCoy as he is the one proven weapon the Eagles have. Going up against a middle of the pack Oakland Raiders defense, expect McCoy to deliver in a big way as the Eagles offense gets back on track.
LOVE
