Waiver Wire Watch: Week 9

It's hard to believe that we're halfway through the fantasy season. It seems like it was only yesterday that we were wondering if the season was even going to start on time.

While Week 7 featured a plethora of injuries, Week 8 was not so bad, though there are a few key players -- i.e. Hakeem Nicks, Kevin Kolb and Montario Hardesty -- that may miss some time.

Let's take a look at the best waiver wire pickups for this week. I'll also include suggested bids for those of you in leagues that use Free Agent Acquisition Budgets.

Regardless of how he performs against the Chargers on Monday night, Cassel has a terrific upcoming schedule with three straight favorable matchups against the Dolphins, Broncos and Patriots. If you're streaming QBs, he's a guy you could start in the short term.

In his last four games, the rookie has averaged 227 yards and 1.5 TDs (to go along with 1.3 INTs). Next up are the Titans, who have been generous to opposing QBs this season. He should be avoided in Weeks 10-11, but has two great matchups in Week 15 (Rams) and Week 16 (Cardinals).

If he can play, Bradford has a great matchup this week against the Cardinals. The key will be his practice participation this week.

In his first two starts, the rookie has averaged 227 yards and 1.5 TDs. He's on bye this week, but has two pretty nice matchups in Weeks 10 & 11.

Palmer's debut with the Raiders was ugly, but coming off the bye, he has a nice matchup with a suspect Broncos pass defense.