NFL

Michael Bush Named the Starting RB in Oakland:

Raiders coach Tom Cable confirmed that Michael Bush will be the starting RB for week five. Bush and Justin Fargas will likely split carries until one of backs establishes himself as the clear interim starter. The Raiders entire offense will have a tough time moving the ball this Sunday against a stout Giants defense.

Matt Hasselbeck Likely to Start Sunday:

Seattle Seahawks QB Matt Hasselbeck (ribs) returned to a full practice on Thursday. Hasselbeck will likely get the start this Sunday, however he is not 100% and the Seahawks offensive line has numerous injuries.

Michael Crabtree will play in Two Weeks:

San Francisco offensive coordinator Jimmy Raye indicated that Michael Crabtree will break into the offense as a slot receiver in the third-down package. “I think it will be easier if he had a concentrated package,” Raye said of getting Crabtree ready for action in two weeks time. “And right now, in my mind, that would be the third-down package.” At this point, Crabtree has low fantasy value but he could be inline for starts in deep leagues in the latter portion of this season.

Roy Williams Status for Week Five is Uncertain:

Dallas Cowboy’s coach Wade Phillips informed reporters that WR Miles Austin would start if Roy Williams (ribs) is held out this week at Kansas City. Williams is in the record as believing he would play, but it appears that Williams playing status could be a game-time decision.

Matthew Stafford Likely to Miss Week Five:

Detroit QB Matthew Stafford (knee) missed practice Thursday and is considered unlikely to play this week. Daunte Culpepper will get the start if Stafford cannot play.

Jerome Harrison to be the Featured RB in Cleveland:

Browns coach Eric Mangini gave RB Jerome Harrison a seal of approval on Thursday. “Now we have two guys that can go in and play first, second or third down, and do it well,” Mangini said. We expect Harrison to be the starting RB in Cleveland for the rest of the season.

Clinton Portis Injury Report:

Washington Redskins RB Clinton Portis (calf, ankles) has not been listed on the Redskins injury report this week. Even though Portis didn’t practice last week, he still received 25 carries. Expect the off-injured RB to have a big day this weekend against the Panthers poor rush defense.

Wes Welker Injury Report:

New England WR Wes Welker (knee) was limited again on Thursday. Welker said Wednesday that his knee feels “as good as can be expected.” Expect Welker to play this Sunday and have a solid game.