Betts, Darby could see more playing time

Good news for Houston wide receiver Andre Johnson (ankle) fans. He says he will play against Oakland this weekend despite not being 100 percent.

Washington running back Clinton Portis (wrist) is expected to start this weekend but how much he plays is anybody's guess. Head coach Mike Shanahan has never been very forthcoming with injuries or starting lineups so it's always a gamble.

Detroit running back Jahvid Best (turf toe) intends to play Sunday. Even if he's only at 80 percent he's still at least a No. 2 RB starter in fantasy.

Don't be surprised if Ladell Betts is the starting running back for New Orleans on Sunday. Pierre Thomas is nursing an ankle problem and Betts has been running with the first-team offense all week. If you need a bye week fill-in, Betts could be the answer.

New York Giants receiver Mario Manningham has a concussion and is considered questionable for Sunday. If he doesn't play, the value of Steve Smith, Hakeem Nicks and Kevin Boss improves slightly.

Oakland wideout Louis Murphy (clavicle) is not at 100 percent and is considered questionable for Sunday. He has a good match-up against the Texans so, if he plays, stick him in your lineup.

St. Louis Rams running back Steven Jackson (groin) will be a game-time decision. The Rams are likely to be cautious with him so Kenneth Darby is more likely to start than Jackson.

If you're desperate for a running back heading into Week 5, Tampa Bay's LeGarrette Blount might be the answer. He has apparently moved ahead of Earnest Graham as the team's short-yardage/goal-line back and will likely steal carries from Cadillac Williams. He's a long shot to be productive but, again, if you're desperate you could do worse.

If you picked up BenJarvus Green-Ellis of New England this week you can probably play him without much concern. The running back is in line to get a significant number of carries since Fred Taylor (toe) has missed practice all week and is unlikely to play.

Indianapolis wideout Pierre Garcon (hamstring) did not practice Friday and will be a game-time decision. Fellow receiver Austin Collie (heel) will play but could be limited. This increases the stock of Reggie Wayne, Dallas Clark and Joseph Addai.