Quarterback Pickup

[Shogun]

Any fantasy footballers out there?

I need to pick up a QB to fill in for Rivers this week while he’s on bye. I can go for Pennington versus Denver, Ryan versus Oakland, or Big Ben versus Washington (8 team league). Who would you go with?

Thanks.

[Doc Holliday]

Denver is ranked 28th, Oakland 19th and Washington 11th vs. the pass. If Santonio is still out I just don't think you can consider Ben even though I think he is the best QB of the group. The Steeler's line and Washington's pass D should limit him (and I'm a Steelers fan). Pennington has had some pretty amazing games this year considering not many expected it. He threw for over 290 yards against Baltimore of all teams. Ryan has really connected with Roddy White and has shown great poise, but it wasn't until the last 2 games that he really aired it out. He hadn't gone over 200 yds passing until those two games (amazingly vs. Chicago and Philly). I think both Atlanta and Miami will run first pass later since Oakland and Denver have putrid run defenses so far this year. I really see them as pretty even. Both are on the road. I would go with Pennington just because of the D they face. Denver has looked sad this year all around on D. Complete guess on this one. I could be swayed over to Ryan. Anyone else on the wire? No Orton?

[Shogun]

Nope, no Orton. I guess I'll go with Pennington. I'm not sure whether Santonio is going to play, and I think Pennington could tear up Denver's defense. Thanks.

[Doc Holliday]

Looks like he is which will help and the Steelers are very good on Monday nights. Ben is a better pick than he was, but it is still close.

[BigFatHippo]

Doc, I agree with your analysis.

Denver D is the most suspect of this group, but Ben is the best QB. Tough call.

Shogun, don't forget Champ Bailey is out and Dre Bly can't cover anyone. But they're also the 30th ranked run D. I look for Miami to set up in the single wing several times with Ronnie Brown and for him to have a big game. What does that leave for Pennington? He's a check down QB, doesn't air it out much because he has a weak arm. Different top receiver each week doesn't help. One week it's the TE, Anthony Fasano, the next it's Greg Camarillo (who?). Last week it was Tedd Ginn Jr having his only fantasy relevant game ever. Does he do it again? I doubt it.

Big Ben is the only sure bet here with Santonio starting, Hines Ward on the other side and Nate Washington is stepping up. Plus he's pissed off after last week, that may make him dangerous.

That being said, Roddy White may catch 3 TDs from Ryan. Whew, tough call, I'd hate to play in an 8 team league. Too many options.

Bottom line- Go with your gut or pick the best quarterback.

[Doc Holliday]

Yeah, I think with Holmes back Ben is probably the best pick. But I try not to let my homerism get in the way!