It can always be hard to decide on what linebackers to start in your IDP league each week, as it is a very fluid fantasy position from week to week.  But, you can never really go wrong with some of the top names at the position, especially when they have a favorable matchup.  Lets take a look at five such players. 

5. Sean Lee, Dallas Cowboys vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Lee is one of the best middle linebackers currently in the NFL and he gets quite the favorable matchup this week against the Chiefs.  Kansas City’s quarterback, Alex Smith, is the perfect west-coast quarterback and makes his living with the tight ends and slot receiver between the hashes, where Lee will be roaming the entire game.  Look for Lee to have plenty of opportunity to make plays. 

Game Projection: Seven tackles, one assist and one pass defended - 14. 9 fantasy points.

4. D’Qwell Jackson, Cleveland Browns vs. Baltimore Ravens

With no receivers left to line up opposite of Torrey Smith, the Ravens will likely work the middle heavily with Ed Dickson, Dallas Clark, Ray Rice and Bernard Pierce - which will give Jackson ample opportunity to pad his stats. 

Game Projection: Six tackles (one for a loss), two assists and one pass defended - 15.5 points.

3. James Laurinaitis, St. Louis Rams vs. Atlanta Falcons

Roddy White and Julio Jones are hampered by injury and might not have much of an impact.  This means Tony Gonzalez and Steven Jackson will be counted on significantly.  Laurinaitis flies all over the field making plays and keeps the area between the hashes completely locked down, which is bad news for Gonzalez and Jackson, but great for Laurinaitis owners.

Game Projection: Eight tackles (one for a loss), three assists and one pass defended - 16.4 points.

2. Patrick Willis, San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks

The Seahawks will look to establish their power-run scheme against San Francisco, after the limited success the Green Bay Packers had against the 49ers last week.  In addition, Russell Wilson is a big fan of leading receivers across the middle.  Both scenarios will allow Willis to feast, early and often. 

Game Projection: Nine tackles (one for a loss), two assists and one pass defended - 18.2 points.

1. NaVorro Bowman, San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks

Bowman and Willis are the best inside linebacker duo in the league.  Just like Willis, Bowman will benefit from Seattle’s play calling and offensive scheme and have a big day. 

Game Projection: 10 tackles (one for a loss), two assists and one pass defended - 18.3 points.