NFL fantasy news and views

Halloween is here, which is fitting since it's been such a ghoulish season for several teams around the league. Here's what you need to know heading into Sunday.

News:After another week of high drama in Big D, Brad Johnson will start at quarterback for the Cowboys on Sunday.

Views: After reportedly giving third-stringer Brooks Bollinger some extra practice reps, the Cowboys' appear set to ride it out with Johnson until Tony Romo returns from his broken pinkie. Last week Johnson went 19-of-33 for 122 yards and a touchdown in the win over the Bucs.

Verdict: Johnson is only a desperation play in fantasy, and you should probably lower your expectations for the entire Cowboys' receiving corps as long as he's starting. In fact, that also includes ...

News:Cowboys' tight end Jason Witten has not practiced this week and could miss Sunday's game because of a broken rib.

Views: This would be a big loss for the Cowboys, as Witten is the leads NFL tight ends with 46 receptions and is a favorite target for check-down artist Brad Johnson.

Verdict: Witten declared himself a game-time decision, so you can't question the source here. You'll have to check in Sunday morning to see if Witten is active for the Cowboys' NFC East showdown with the Giants.

News:New 49ers head coach Mike Singletarymooned his team at halftime during last Sunday's loss to the Seahawks.

Views: Hey, no offense to Singletary, but we imagine the view was pretty horrifying.

Verdict: From a writers' perspective, the Mike Singletary era in San Francisco could not have gotten off to a better start. First there was the captivating video of his postgame press conference rant, and now this. Fantasy-wise, none of this matters unless Niners start playing better. Shaun Hill has been named the team's starting quarterback, so if you're desperate -- and you think Singletary's motivational ploys will work -- you could grab Hill as a backup QB. In the meantime, just sit back and enjoy the magic when Singletary and a microphone come together.

News:Raiders' rookie running back Darren McFadden is now suffering from a new turf toe injury, this time in his left foot.

Views: Run DMC flashed his potential in Week 2, when he torched the Chiefs for 164 yards on 21 carries. Since then, he's rushed for 131 yards while playing in just four games.

Verdict: With McFadden hobbled, the Justin Fargas' fantasy value soars. Of course, Fargas has battled his own ailments this season, and only recently returned from a groin injury. If McFadden remains hobbled and Fargas gets hurt again, Michael Bush would be next in line to get the bulk of the carries.

News:The Jaguars face the 0-8 Bengals, the Bears host the 0-7 Lions and the Bucs host the 1-6 Chiefs.

Views: These are three of the more fantasy friendly matchups of the week. The Bengals, Lions and Chiefs are not only the league's three worst teams, but also three of the more pathetic defenses.

Verdict: Get your Jags, Bears and Bucs into your fantasy lineup this week. Even under-the-radar guys like Jags tight end Marcedes Lewis and Bears receiver Rashied Davis are worth a start if you're looking for help at those positions.