October 22, 2007
Coach Gapen
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It's time for the stretch run in your fantasy leagues and there's much still to be done for fantasy managers. Key players have gotten injured, other supposed studs are underperforming, and your team is in trouble! The goal of this column is to help you sift through the trade market. By using our stock tips, you'll be able to make a successful trade or two so that you can take down your league's title! Here's how we'll break them down:

Stock Up - Here's a player that you should consider unloading from your team. His value is at its peak and it's time to sell before his stock drops.
Stock Down - For whatever reason, this player's value is lower than it should be, which translates into an excellent trade target for you!

Lets start with the players to trade, Stock Up!

Stock Up

Reggie Bush, NO RB - With the season-ending injury to Deuce McAllister, Bush is now an every down back. How will he hold up? He's not at USC and Lendale White isn't splitting carries with him anymore. This is the NFL and Bush hasn't been able to top 100 rushing yards even with Deuce out. Trade him!

Maurice Jones-Drew, Jac RB - I know it is hard to get rid of someone this hot, but can he keep it up? Remember he does split carries and Fragile Fred has been very durable the past two seasons and the Jaguars are hesitant to go away from him. If you can parlay this guy into a couple solid players, you need to pounce.

Laveranues Coles, NYJ WR - He has been productive, but what is going to happen at QB? Following Sunday's game, Mangini did not give Pennington his usual support during post-game interviews. Despite the solid statistical performance from Chad, we may see Clemens next week and from here out meaning Coles future is muddy. Get rid of him ASAP while there's still value.

Wes Welker, NE WR - WOW! Why did the Dolphins get rid of him again? He cannot get any hotter than he is now and he's still a No. 3 wide receiver in Beantown. It is unlikely that Brady can keep up this torrid pace the entire season as the Patriots schedule increases in difficulty during the second half. Welker is as valuable as he will ever be right now.

Brian Griese, Chi QB - Griese has been marvelous since taking over for Rex Grossman compiling over 1200 passing yards with 8 TD's, 6 INT's, and a nice 86.0 QB rating. While the run has been impressive, Griese has never been able to handle the pressure of playing the QB position given his history with Denver and Miami. If the Bears return to playoff contention, the interceptions will start piling up.



Now let's take a look at the Stock Down!


Stock Down

Steven Jackson, StL RB - Yeah, he's hurt, but he is too talented when healthy. With the way the Rams are playing as a team, Jackson's value could never be lower than it is right now. He should return to action around week 10 and could lead your team to a fantasy title if you can swoon his services from someone in your league. Remember, he was the unanimous #2 fantasy choice this pre-season.

Frank Gore, SF RB - Most fantasy drafts had him in the top 5 picks. Owners have to be a little skeptical after his slow start and may be willing to entertain a trade. Despite the 49ers offensive struggles, Gore remains a top player. Alex Smith should be returning from injury within the next couple of weeks which will open up the passing game a bit. Gore could be primed for a big second half of the season.

Roy Williams, Det WR - Has not lived up to expectations the last 3 weeks some owners might be getting a little frustrated. That is exactly what we want. Calvin Johnson has returned from his injury and that will allow Williams to go back to seeing single coverages. If MacDonald can pick his play back up, Williams will be a #1 WR again down the stretch.

Chris Chambers, SD WR - Chambers came over in a trade with the Miami Dolphins. He goes from a bottom feeder to a contender and this will certainly revive his season (and career?). Chambers will have LT to tighten defenses, Gates to stretch the middle, and V-Jack on the opposite side. It is entirely possible that Chambers is a free agent in your league. If he is, stop reading and go get him!

Marc Bulger, StL QB - Bulger has been a complete bust this season. The Rams have been terrible and the oft injured QB suffered yet another injury which cost him a month of football. The offensive line is cause for concern, but when Jackson returns, the passing game will open up a bit more. Keep in mind that they still have a mass of offensive talent in Jackson, Holt, Bruce, and McMichael. Take a chance on him.