Signs of Life
WHAT WAS THAT breeze on Sunday night? An autumn chill, or a collective sigh of relief? Fantasy owners who had invested picks in heretofore disappointing players finally received some dividends in Week 6, and no breakout was more welcome than Larry Johnson's. The top five pick in almost every draft finally scored his first rushing touchdown and, just as important, had his first 30-carry game this season.
The workload is one sign that Johnson is set for a midseason revival. After sitting out training camp, he's increased his touches in every game, with the exception of his nine carries against Jacksonville in Week 5. Also, check the schedule. The first five defenses Johnson faced have allowed a total of 16 rushing TDs and six 100-yard rushing games by opposing backs. For the next five opponents (including Oakland twice) those numbers go up to 21 and 11, respectively.
If you happen not to buy into these numbers, you can at least use them--and LJ's big week--to puff up his value in trade talks.
Thomas Jones
THIS SEASON is looking a lot like '06 for the Jets' back (130 yards vs. Philly on Sunday), who last year revved up after a slow start. With Cincy and Buffalo up next, expect another surge.
DeAngelo Williams
DON'T CELEBRATE his 75-yard run and his TD against Arizona too much. He still had fewer carries for Carolina than DeShaun Foster.
Reggie Bush
THE SAINTS back had the three longest rushes of his career (19, 22 and 22 yards) against Seattle--suggesting, unfortunately, that this is about as good as Bush can be.
Maurice Jones-Drew
HE WAS finally given the bulk of the Jags' carries, and it paid off with 125 yards and two TDs. The little man is rolling and reliable again.
IN OR OUT
Read Will Carroll's analysis of the latest injury reports, every Thursday at SI.com/fantasy.
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CHRIS PASATIERI/US PRESSWIRE (JOHNSON)
LookingAhead
The Chiefs' schedule promises more good days to come for LJ.
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PETER FOLEY/EPA (JONES)
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OTTO GREULE JR./GETTY IMAGES (BUSH)