The fantasy football season is halfway through, so now it is more important than ever to start making smart decisions.

First, if you have any players on your roster who have been recently injured and weren’t a team’s top offensive option, get rid of them. It is only hurting your team by holding on to an injured player when you could go pick up someone productive in free agency. Someone is better than no one.

Second, I think everyone has realized by now that the Patriots are pretty good. The New England defense only allows 16.3 points per game and is second in the NFL in interceptions (13) and sacks (28).

So if you have anyone on your team going up against their defense this week, don’t start them. That might hold true for the rest of the season.

Finally, to all you Steven Jackson fans, it is time to give up on him. If you’re still holding on to him and waiting for him to get back to that Pro Bowl level this season, forget about it.

Jackson is questionable this week at New Orleans with a groin injury. Even if he is cleared to play, he is only going to get limited time. Look to trade Jackson if anyone will actually take him off your hands.

Start ’Em

Reggie Bush vs. St. Louis Rams – Bush is coming off a huge week and should put up similar numbers against a Rams defense which allows 130 rushing yards per game.

Steve Smith vs. Atlanta Falcons – He’s been relatively quiet this year, but this could be a break-out game for him. The Falcons give up 21 points per game and 335 yards of total offense.

Jon Kitna at Arizona Cardinals – The Cardinals have lost three games in a row and their defense has not been good. They give up and average of 22 points per game. After having a mediocre game against Denver, look for Kitna to make certain adjustments and have a big game.

Sit ‘Em

Cleveland Browns offense at Pittsburgh Steelers – This is a no brainer. A young inexperienced offense against a defense which leads the league in fewest points allowed and have not allowed a 100-yard rusher in 30 straight games.