Off the B-list

Here are some players that could come through as emergency starters on your fantasy squad.

Mewelde Moore, running back, Pittsburgh Steelers

Moore’s shot at playing time looked slim at the start of the season. But with starter Willie Parker and backup Rashard Mendenhall injured, Moore is in the starting role this weekend. The Steelers rely heavily on the running game, and while quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will shoulder more of the offensive load, Moore could have a solid game and should get at least one touchdown. If you’re in a tough spot at running back, be sure to pick up Moore.

Greg Olsen, tight end, Chicago Bears

The top tight ends have performed up to expectations this year, but the rest have been inconsistent at best. If you need some production at the tight end spot, look to Olsen. While teammate Desmond Clark is listed as starting tight end, Olsen gets more looks in the passing game. The Bears have been trying to establish the passing offense. Against a weak Lions squad, they could make a strong statement. It’s a good time to pick up Olsen.

Steve Breaston, wide receiver, Arizona Cardinals

With the injury to wide receiver Anquan Boldin, the door opens for Breaston. He came up big with nine catches for 122 yards in the game last weekend against the Jets, matching teammate Larry Fitzgerald’s performance. The Cardinals like to throw the ball deep. With Fitzgerald facing a potentially tough matchup against Buffalo cornerback Terrence McGee, Breaston could be a diamond in the rough this week, so pick him up soon.

Kerry Collins, quarterback, Tennessee Titans

The Titans are built on defense and lean on the running game to fuel their offense, but Collins is trying to power a balanced attack on offense. Collins doesn’t have to do much to keep the offense on track, other than minimize mistakes, and so far he’s done that. Collins has gradually gotten closer to 200 yards passing through each game this season. He draws a tough matchup against Baltimore this weekend, but beyond that he could be someone to watch if you need a quarterback.

Bold prediction

San Francisco running back Frank Gore will gain nearly 200 yards of total offense and score two touchdowns. Yes, San Francisco plays a rested New England squad, but I think San Francisco, playing at home, may have a little edge. Gore was the key to his team’s offensive success early this season, and he could make more than 100 rushing yards and close to 70 receiving yards, at least that’s the way I see it. But what do I know? I’ve blown the last two calls. There’s a reason these are bold predictions. Still, start Gore and the reward should be high.

— — Edited by Adam Mowder

 

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