Look for Mendenhall and Big Ben

Dec 06, 2009

Oakland at Pittsburgh: The Steelers figure to stay with Rashard Mendenhall, considering the Raiders are allowing 4.6 yards per carry and over 30 points a game in their past four road games. Pittsburgh QB Ben Roethlisberger will return, and look for him to attack the middle of the Oakland secondary.

Fantasy Impact:

today

Greg Olsen misses practice again Thursday with concussion

Carolina Panthers

3 hours ago

Panthers TE Greg Olsen is in the concussion protocol and has not practiced yet this week.

Fantasy Impact:

Olsen suffered a big hit during Sunday’s loss to the Redskins and is looking unlikely to play Sunday in Atlanta. This would give Ian Thomas another chance to run as the starter, like he did last season during Olsen’s foot injury. Thomas was inconsistent during his time as the starter last season but did show flashes of upside. He’s a good pass-catcher and can be a good option in the middle of the field while teams key in on D.J. Moore. Check Friday’s report for the official word but start eyeing Thomas as a potential play in DFS leagues and a deep option, but not a highly recommended one, in the fantasy playoffs.

yesterday

James Conner says he won’t play Sunday

Chris Adamski

yesterday · 2:14 PM EST

Steelers RB James Conner says he will not play Sunday against the Cardinals.

Fantasy Impact:

Benny Snell is now set for yet another day as the featured back with Conner’s shoulder continuing to bother him and no timetable for his return. Snell rushed for 63 yards and a touchdown in Week 13 against the Browns, a week after going for 98 in Week 12.

Dalvin Cook: “I’ll be out there Sunday”

Chris Tomasson

yesterday · 1:29 PM EST

Speaking Thursday, Vikings RB Dalvin Cook said “I’ll be out there Sunday” against the Lions.

Fantasy Impact:

Certainly a lot of confidence and a positive sign after Cook suffered a chest injury in Seattle on Monday, but he was on the practice field Wednesday and obviously feels very ready to go. And against the shaky Lions defense, Cook can be fired up in leagues across the board and owners hope he helps carry them into the fantasy semifinals.