November 11, 2012; Tampa, FL, USA; San Diego Chargers wide receiver Danario Alexander (84) runs with the ball as Tampa Bay Buccaneers outside linebacker Lavonte David (54) attempted to defend during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE
Vital Info
Opponent: Denver Broncos
Location: Mile High Stadium (Away)
Record: 4-5
Quarterback
While Philip Rivers had a good day against the Buccaneers, the Broncos defense are much tougher.I would consider Rivers among the quarterbacks on the cusp of being a starter this week although I will say he is more than adequate if your regular starter is one bye or has a tough matchup.
Running Back
I’ve been saying it all season – Ryan Mathews isn’t a legit fantasy starter and we continue to see that week in and week out. He is more a flex starter than a RB2 at this point in the same sort of value as Steven Jackson. Ronnie Brown is once again an intriguing option in PPR leagues but in standard leagues he should stay on your bench along with Jackie Battle.
Wide Receiver
Last week we saw Danario Alexander explode into fantasy relevance as he had a stunning day and he gives the Chargers an element they’ve been missing – a legitimate speedster. He lacks polish and I expect him to be found wanting against Denver but he does merit consideration as a flex option. The more reliable option here is Malcom Floyd who has good chemistry with Rivers but he is also just a flex starter in fantasy at this point as he can’t be relied upon to get good points every week. As for Robert Meachem, looks like it’s time to send him to waivers if you see a better upside option out there.
Tight End
He may have been healthy most of this season but Antonio Gates has been relatively disappointing for fantasy. He has been scoring touchdowns lately and is a good bet to score again this week. He’s right around the value of Jason Witten at this point – he’ll generate fantasy points but occasionally he’ll let you down. He does have the confidence of his quarterback though and that makes him a much better option than some of the more haphazard tight ends down the order.