For Better Or Worse

Unforeseen developments--from personnel changes to injured teammates--can make everything go right for one player and nothing go right for another.

MARC BULGER Rams, QB

A coaching change, to Jim Haslett after Week 4, and the emergence of rookie wideout Donnie Avery have combined to give the St. Louis offense new life. On Sunday against the Patriots, Bulger (above left), who was benched in September, had his first 300-yard game since Nov. 11, 2007. Facing the Cardinals at home this week, he has a good chance for a repeat performance.

LEON WASHINGTON Jets, RB

The speedy back is becoming a favorite of the opportunistic Brett Favre. On three carries and three catches against the Chiefs, Washington had 101 combined rushing-receiving yards and two TDs. Washington remains a gamble, but one with a potentially high payoff.

BILLY MILLERSaints, TE

Reggie Bush is on the shelf; Deuce McAllister could be facing suspension for violation of the NFL's drug policy; and Jeremy Shockey is a regular in the trainer's room. All this works in favor of Miller, who has become a big part of the New Orleans offense; for October his 252 receiving yards were in the top five among NFL tight ends.

BENJARVUS GREEN-ELLISPatriots, RB

With Laurence Maroney out for the year and Sammy Morris and LaMont Jordan sidelined, this former practice-squad player is suddenly showing fantasy value. He has TDs in consecutive games and should do more damage this week against the run-challenged Colts defense.

KELLEN WINSLOW JR. Browns, TE