Hot pickups: Week 5

RB Deuce McAllister, New Orleans Saints: We knew he’d slowly work his way back from another knee surgery, but last week’s 20 carries, 73 yards and a TD – after only two carries in Weeks 1-3 – signify Deuce is good to go. He’s still the New Orleans Saints’ best inside runner. FIVE STARS (Out of five)

WR Kevin Walter, Houston Texans: He's coming off a two-TD game against the Jaguars and has three this year - that's three more than Andre Johnson, for those keeping score at home. Walter's worth a roll of the dice. FOUR STARS

QB Brian Griese, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sure, he’s thrown a bunch of picks, but coach Jon Gruden is committed to him, he’s capable of airing it out, and he’s playing his former team, the Denver Broncos, who are next-to-last in the league in pass defense. THREE STARS

QB Kyle Orton, Chicago Bears: He's throwing it a little more than expected, and he's coming off a career-high three-TD game. Could be worth a shot against the Lions this week. THREE STARS

RB Mewelde Moore, Pittsburgh Steelers: It's not like I think he's a phenomenal talent or anything ... but Willie Parker's out again this week and Rashard Mendenhall's out for the year. That means Moore likely gets the bulk of the carries this week against the Jags, and in some leagues, that's enough to warrant a start. THREE STARS

WR Lance Moore, New Orleans Saints: He made his presence felt last week against the Niners (seven catches, 101 yards, two TDs) and is getting Marques Colston-level attention from Drew Brees. THREE STARS

Photo by The Associated Press