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Fantasy Football: Week 16 Waiver Wire Report |
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Ryan's Hope
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Written by Ryan Carey
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Wednesday, 19 December 2012 12:36 |
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Well, we made it. If you are reading this column today, then that means congratulations are very well in order for you, as you more than likely have survived long enough to have a chance to play this week in your league’s Fantasy Bowl. It’s takes a lot of skill, and more than a little luck to get this far in fantasy football. I myself had only one of my two top-ranked teams survive last week, and one of them was purely due to someone I grabbed off the report last week. My team that didn’t make it past last week lost by 0.55 points, in what turned out to be a tough one to swallow. I won’t go into all of the details of the bad luck that conspired keep this team from glory, it is enough to just list the names of the culprits: Doug Martin, Jamaal Charles, Danario Alexander, Lawrence Tynes and me. Yeah, I am on the list as well because I inserted Alexander in my lineup and took out Eric Decker. It’s a quirky league that doesn’t have a true flex, but let’s you start 3RB/2WR if you like. I went with that alignment and sent Decker to the bench. As they say, the rest is history. But, thankfully I have one more team alive for the big prize, so I’ll once again look to the wire this week to upgrade where I can and look for a defense and K to plug in as I have been doing all year with my lone surviving squad. Good luck to you and all your teams this week.
QB
Russell Wilson, SEA – If you’ve been a regular reader of this column and you had quarterback issues heading into the playoffs, hopefully you already had Wilson in reserve prior to last week’s 4 touchdown explosion against the Bills. Yes, he has a tough matchup against San Francisco this week, but with the way he has been playing, he still rates as a low-end QB1 this week.
Sam Bradford, STL – Bradford didn’t disappoint last week, delivering his best game of the season at home against the Vikings. This week he will travel to Tampa Bay, home of the league’s most generous pass defense. Danny Amendola should be one week healthier, making it even easier for Bradford to have another big fantasy day. I’m not sure I would want to trust my season to him, but if I was in a two-QB league I wouldn’t hesitate to throw him out there again.
Nick Foles, PHI – We warned you last week that Foles would face a tougher assignment against the Bengals, and sure enough he didn’t come close to matching his Week 14 output. But this is another week, and the Eagles are at home against the Redskins. The Redskins are a defense we have advocated picking on all season, and we’re not going to back off that now. Foles is a good bounce back candidate this week.
Digging Deeper:
Kirk Cousins, WAS – The fourth-round rookie stepped in for an injured Robert Griffin III, and promptly showed that he was more than capable of having success in this league. We still don’t know at this point if RG3 will suit up this week, so you could do worse than turn to his backup if he can’t go.
Greg McElroy, NYJ – The Mark Sanchez era is finally over, much too late to save the Jets season. It seems like Rex Ryan is going to hand the ball to McElroy to be the starter, but the fans will be calling for Tim Tebow, who I expect will get more than the one series he did last week.
Ricky Stanzi, KC – Brady Quinn injured his ribs last week, so Chiefs fans will get to see second-year quarterback Stanzi in action. There is nothing to get excited about here unfortunately.
Week 15 Update:
Ryan Tannehill, MIA – Tannehill took advantage of the first of two juicy match-ups so if you grabbed him last week in a two-QB league, you might want to see if he can duplicate last week’s numbers against the Bills.
Brandon Weeden, CLE – The Browns rookie didn’t rise to the occasion last week, tossing a pair of interceptions and struggling to get the ball to his receivers. A long bomb to Travis Benjamin salvaged the day. With Denver and Pittsburgh to close out the season, there is no reason to hang onto him any longer.
RB
Curtis Brinkley, SD – Ryan Mathews got hurt yet again, suffering his second broken collarbone of the year. This guy is Mr. Glass. The Chargers will likely employ a committee of three the rest of the way, but Brinkley will likely serve as the de-facto starter, and early down back. Ronnie Brown will be in the mix on passing downs and veteran Jackie Battle will get some short-yardage work. But the smart pickup, this week is Brinkley. He is better used on your bench as depth, but if you are desperate he should get 10-plus carries this week.
Mark Ingram, NO – Ingram has been a favorite whipping boy of anyone who has invested in him the last two years, but there are signs that he is finally settling into his role in this offense. It doesn’t hurt that he is finally getting double-digit carries on a consistent basis, because he is truly a volume runner. Like many of the names here this week, it’s tough to trust a guy sharing carries, but if you are going to go that route for your flex, at least go with the goal-line guy on an explosive offense.
Dexter McCluster, KC – The injury to Dwayne Bowe figured to open some targets for other players to step up and become fantasy relevant. While we speculated that it might be Jon Baldwin, but instead it was the diminutive RB/WR who led the team in receptions (7) and yards. He specializes in short, quick routes, so expect Stanzi to look his way often on Sunday. He is unlikely to register any carries, so don’t count on him as more than a desperation flex-play.
Danny Woodhead, NE – You just gotta love a player like Woodhead in real life, but for fantasy I just can’t stand players like this. You never know how involved he’s going to be in the offense, and that just makes him a shaky bet at production in any given week. His explosion last week came as the Patriots were frantically playing catch-up, getting Woodhead on the field in the hurry-up offense. Do you see the Patriots falling behind the Jaguars by multiple touchdowns this week? Me neither.
Mike Tolbert, CAR – Tolbert was kind of a surprise name to emerge last week, punching in a pair of short touchdowns against the Chargers. Usually the Panthers give Cam Newton those easy TD’s, so it will be interesting to see if Tolbert will get the same opportunities this week. It makes sense to let him earn his paycheck, while keeping the franchise QB healthy. Carolina gets the Raiders this week, and with Jonathan Stewart still side-lined Tolbert is a sneaky flex start this week.
Digging Deeper:
Ben Tate, HOU – Justin Forsett is banged up, leaving Tate as the clear backup to Arian Foster to end the season. The Texans are still playing for home field advantage this week, but if they wrap it up, Tate will likely get a lot of work in Week 17, if your league still has their championship that week.
Lamar Miller, MIA – Like Tate above, the Dolphins rookie could get a lot of work the next two weeks as the primary backup to Reggie Bush, thanks to an injury to Daniel Thomas. The Dolphins need to see what they have in Miller since Bush will be a free agent after the season. He is another name that could get a big run in Week 17.
Mike Goodson, OAK – Goodson came up big last week, totaling 103 yards against the lowly Chiefs. It puts him back on the radar, but the Panthers defense will not provide the same opportunity for success this week.
LaMichael James, SF – James is another Week 17 stash as he looked good in limited work as the backup to Frank Gore.
Week 15 Update:
David Wilson, NYG – Wilson tanked along with the rest of the Giants last week, and Ahmad Bradshaw has vowed to return to action this week. Even if he does, Wilson will still be the more explosive player and the better fantasy start. The Giants will be in must-win mode and I expect a bounce-back game this week for Wilson. I’d flex him if I had him this week.
Knowshon Moreno, DEN – Moreno kept the ball rolling against the Ravens last week, and should be able to deliver another useful start this week at home against the Browns. He’s become quite the late season hero for those owners smart enough to grab him after Willis McGahee went down.
DeAngelo Williams, CAR – Okay, after two straight weeks of solid production, I guess I have to psoften my stance on Williams with the Raiders coming to town. I still would rather use him as a flex, and have to admit he’s a pretty good one this week.
Bryce Brown, PIT - That’s two straight stinkers from Brown, so his owners will be loathe to start him again this week. LeSean McCoy has been cleared to play, but the Eagles have no reason to rush him back to action. If Brown helped get you to the playoffs, you may have no choice but to plug him in again this week. I think he should be able to have moderate success this week and avoid a third clunker.
WR
Jacoby Jones, BAL – Torrey Smith got his bell rung last week, and looks very iffy for this week’s game. That will open the door for Jones to step in as the No. 2 receiver against a Giants defense that can be beat through the air. If you are looking for a flier to fill out your roster this week, Jones might be the best of the bunch in deeper leagues.
Brandon Gibson, STL – Gibson has benefitted from the schedule the last two weeks, catching 12 passes for 176 yards and a touchdown over that span. The cards are stacked in his favor again this week with the Bucs and their terrible pass defense giving him a great chance to be productive again this week.
Harry Douglas, ATL – Douglas emerged from the shadows to catch 3 passes for a season-high 83 yards last week. The Falcons have already clinched the division, and it seems logical they will not push Roddy White and his injured knee any harder than they need to the next two weeks. If White is a guy you rely on, you might want to add Douglas in case White doesn’t play this week.
Leonard Hankerson, WAS – Hankerson teased us here in the report early in the season, and then promptly disappeared for weeks. He will get noticed thanks to his 2 TD day last week, and if Cousins gets the start again, I guess you could take a shot that the two will connect again. I personally would look for safer options.
Digging Deeper:
Greg Little, CLE – Mr. Drops has been playing much better the last few weeks, actually catching the balls that are being thrown to him. Maybe you want to take a chance in a PPR format, but I don’t love the matchup against a tough Denver secondary.
Joe Morgan, NO – Morgan is a name to file away for next season, as he continues to show his game-breaking ability in the season’s last few weeks. He seems poised to take over the deep-threat role for the Saints next year, and that my friends always has value.
DeVier Posey, HOU – The Texans finally decided to get their third-round rookie involved the last couple weeks, and he has shown enough promise that those in dynasty or keeper leagues might want to speculate and add him to their bench heading into the off-season.
Braylon Edwards, NYJ – Edwards was claimed off the scrap-heap by the Jets and he immediately became their most trusted receiver in his first game back with the team. That’s statement pretty much sums up the state of the Jets passing game this year.
Travis Benjamin, CLE – The speedy rookie displayed his speed with a 69-yard connection, where he just ran past an uninterested Redskins secondary in garbage time. He’s a player to keep an eye on in the future.
Randy Moss, SF – Moss scored a touchdown last week, but you just can’t trust it will happen again. He’s worth more to the Niners than he is to anyone chasing a fantasy title this week.
Week 15 Update:
Josh Gordon, CLE – Gordon came up small last week, but he still remains the Browns best bet for a receiving touchdown in any given week. Peyton Manning will have the Browns in comeback mode early, so Gordon will have a chance to reward owners who stick with him this week.
Dwayne Harris, DAL – Harris solidified his spot as the new WR3 for the Cowboys. He’s worth hanging onto in case Dez Bryant’s broken finger starts acting up again.
Rod Streater, OAK – Streater seems to have overtaken Darrius Heyward-Bey in the pecking order, and has been more reliable than Denarius Moore of late as well. The Panthers D has been hot, which is just enough to pour a little ice-water on Streater. Still, He’s another name to file away for next year.
Alshon Jeffery, CHI – Jeffery had a day to forget with three offensive pass interference penalties that wiped out all of his production, including a TD. He looks like the WR2 of the future in Chicago, but you just can’t trust that anymore this year.
TE
Dennis Pitta, BAL – Wow. That’s all I can say. Pitta singlehandedly saved one of my playoff teams last week after I grabbed him and started him over Jermaine Gresham at the last minute. I was correct in predicting that the Ravens would get him more involved, but his monster 7 catch, 125 yard 2 touchdowns were an early Christmas present. This week he gets the Giants, and without Torrey Smith, Joe Flacco will again look to his TE to produce. I am riding him again this week.
Brent Celek, PHI –Celek will return to action from his concussion this week, and gets to face a Redskins defense that has been good to TE’s this season. He’s worth a look in 2 TE leagues this week.
Digging Deeper:
Lance Kendricks, STL – I don’t think Kendricks has cracked the report so far this season, but he is yeat another player on the Rams who has taken advantage of an easy schedule to at least deliver usuable stats in deeper leagues.
Week 15 Updates:
Tony Scheffler, DET – Scheffler was more a victim of Matthew Stafford’s ineffectiveness last week, but he did get the targets we said he would. The Lions receivers are a wasteland after Calvin Johnson, so if you are scrambling for a TE who will get the ball thrown his way this week, than Scheffler is worth looking at.
Ben Watson, CLE – Watson won’t put up big yardage numbers, but he could be a decent play in touchdown heavy leagues this week against a Broncos team that is susceptible to the TE in close.
DST
Jets – The Chargers looked like they have quit playing for Norv Turner, and the Jets defense can still make some noise.
Panthers – The Panthers defense has been much improved the last few weeks, and will look to do to Carson Palmer what they did to Philip Rivers the week before.
Colts – The Colts will get the chance to welcome Ricky Stanzi to the NFL, and that means a great shot at taking advantage of the many mistakes that are sure to come.
K
Dan Bailey, DAL – I like Bailey at home this week in a must win game against the high-scoring Saints. If I can get a K who doesn’t have to worry about the elements in Week 16, all the better.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 19 December 2012 15:43 |
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Fantasy Football: Week 15 Waiver Wire Report |
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Ryan's Hope
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Written by Ryan Carey
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Wednesday, 12 December 2012 07:07 |
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I haven’t written too much about my own teams this year in the report, and well, that’s because it’s not really why you are reading this column after all. But as we enter the second weekend of the fantasy playoffs, I hope you’ll indulge me as I talk about my squads briefly. I owned four fantasy football teams this year. One, my NFFC OLC squad, was an unmitigated disaster that reminded me of how bad a fantasy football season can get. My FSWA team was a mixed bag as Matthew Stafford helped dig a hole for me early, and a late season 5 game winning streak salvaged respectability, but left me just short of a playoff berth.
However, I do have two teams in the playoffs, in both of my local leagues here in NYC. I am the #1 seed in both leagues, which got me a Bye last week, and makes the the favorite to move on to the fantasy bowl this week. In both leagues I used the same blueprint. I went heavy on RB’s and Wr’s early, a recipe for success that has been highlighted by Greg Morgan in his NFFC columns lately. Both teams boast the same trio of RB’s: Trent Richardson, Doug Martin and Jamaal Charles. A.J. Green is the WR 1 on both squads. I’m going to go as far as those players take me more than likely, although the wild card on both squads at this point is Colin Kaepernick. I picked him up in both leagues a couple weeks back and I am starting him in both this week. We’ll see what happens.
I hope I’ve helped a few of your get as far, but of course the work is not done just yet. Let’s get to this week’s report.
QB
Brandon Weeden, CLE – The Browns did something last week very uncharacteristic for them. They jumped out to an early lead and were able to coast in the 4th quarter for the first time all year. This week Weeden gets to work against the Redskins secondary, which has been torched all season by opposing QB’s, which makes Weeden worth a look in deeper leagues this week. I like him even more if RG3 sits this one out.
Sam Bradford, STL – There aren’t a lot of standout waiver-wire options at quarterback this week, which elevates Bradford into the discussion yet again. He gets the Vikings at home in the dome, and hopefully will have Danny Amendola back as well. Next week the gets the Bucs in Tampa Bay, so Bradford will likely be right back in this spot next week.
Nick Foles, PHI – Foles easily had his best game since taking over for Michael Vick last week, throwing for 381 yards and two touchdowns against Tampa Bay. Owners should be leery of this week’s tilt against a much tougher Bengals defense. The best plan of action here is to grab and stash Foles for his Week 16 game against the Redskins.
Digging Deeper:
Ryan Tannehill, MIA- The Dolphins rookie can’t really be trusted with your playoff lives, but two home starts against the Jaguars and the Bills could result in his first back-to-back 2 TD games of the year. He’s kind of a desperation play in two-quarterback leagues, but at least the matchups are right.
Kirk Cousins, WAS – We still don’t know yet if Robert Griffin III is going to be able to play this week, and if he doesn’t, then Cousins will get the start for the Skins. The Browns defense is on a roll right now, find a better option if RG3 is your usual starter.
Week 14 Update:
Russell Wilson, SEA – I’ve written about Wilson enough the last few weeks, so if you have him on the roster you have to at least consider using him this week against the Bills.
Carson Palmer, OAK – Palmer delivered quality numbers and should continue that trend against the Chiefs this week.
Ben Roethlisberger, PIT- Big Ben came back with a bang last week, albeit in a losing effort. The Cowboys and Bengals will pose tougher tests, and he’s a risk to get re-injured at any point. While last week was great, don’t force him into your lineups this week.
RB
David Wilson, NYG – I guess I’ve got to put Wilson at the top of this list in recognition of his massive breakout performance this past weekend, and because he is still un-owned in more than half of standard ESPN leagues. He did a little bit of everything, and now Ahmad Bradshaw is undergoing tests on his injured knee. He’s going to be flex-worthy the rest of the way, and if Bradshaw sits out, then Wilson skyrockets up the rankings for this week. We told you to grab Wilson in Week 13, after Andre Brown went down and now you see why. It’s yet another reminder to trim the fat from your playoff rosters and grab some RB handcuffs, even if they aren’t your own.
Bilal Powell, NYJ – We had Powell in the DD section last week, highlighting the fact that he had emerged as a solid flex option lately. Well he turned it up another notch last week with a season high 19 carries and another TD. Facing the Titans this week gives him a great chance to hit pay-dirt again this week.
Montell Owens, JCK – I told you last week that Ownes was at least worth grabbing, even if it meant just keeping him off an opponent’s roster. 15 touches, 102 yards and a TD later, and it’s possible the Jaguars just ride him the rest of the way as they play out the string.
Joique Bell, DET – Bell is another returning name from last week’s list as he has solidified his role in the Lions offense to the point where you can start him as a flex knowing he’s going to get his 10-12 touches.
Digging Deeper:
Robert Turbin, SEA – Turbin racked up 20 carries and 108 yards after Seattle buried the Cardinals early last week. Obviously you can’t start him based on that, but if you are a Marshawn Lynch owner, please get his handcuff locked up.
LaMichael James, SF – James saw his first action of the year, and with Brandon Jacobs suspended for the remainder of the year, he is now one Frank Gore injury away from topping this list.
DuJuan Harris, GB- Alex Green will still be the lead back for another week, but Harris got seven carries and scored on a 14 yard scamper when the Packers O-line opened up a nice hole. Green hasn’t been anything special, and actually functions better in a time-share, so expect Harris to keep splitting carries, at least for another week. He’s worth a shot in really deep leagues as a potential winning lottery ticket.
Week 14 Update:
Bryce Brown, PHI – The two week dream run for Brown came to a crushing halt against the Bucs as the waiver-wire darling managed only 6 yards on 12 carries after back-to-back monster performances. If you started him last week in your playoffs, there is a good chance you lost. But if you survived, don’t be afraid to roll with the bruising RB, especially if LeSean McCoy remains sidelined.
Knowshon Moreno, DEN – I told you last week to start Moreno with confidence and worry about the Ravens game this week. With the way the Ravens have been playing lately, and the way Moreno is functioning within this offense, he should be able to have another solid effort this week. Not a monster week, but start-worthy for sure.
DeAngelo Williams, CAR – Williams finally rewarded the poor owners who wasted draft picks or FAAB on him this year. You of course know what happens next right, he’ll kill you if you rely on him this week. If he can do it again this week, maybe I’ll relax my stance against the Raiders in Week 16, but til then my advice stands: Flex him if you must, bench him if you can.
WR
Dwayne Harris, DAL- Dez Bryant broke his finger last week, and while he has sworn to play with it taped, there is the very real possibility that he will not be able to effectively. Harris had already worked his way up to the WR3 spot the last few weeks, and would stand to gain the most value if Bryant isn’t successful in his quest to get on the field.
Kris Durham, DET – Okay, so last week I told you to go out and grab Mike Thomas in the wake of Ryan Broyles’ season-ending injury. I wasn’t expecting much, but I was expecting him to play. Instead it was practice squad find Durham who got the start and was on the field most of the day. I can’t get too excited about him at this point, to tell you the truth.
Rod Streater, OAK- Okay, I was wrong about Streater, who followed up his big Week 13 with another solid performance. I still don’t think you can trust him in any given week, but I’ll give him his due after dissing him last week.
Digging Deeper:
Jeremy Kerley, NYJ- Kerley kind of hit rock bottom last week against the Jaguars, and as such his owners may have finally given up on him this week. The Titans D at least gives Kerley some upside as a desperation flex this week.
Jonathan Baldwin, KC-Dwayne Bowe is out for the year, and his owners will be scrambling for a replacement. Baldwin is the logical option now that he will take over as the Chiefs primary receiver. A date with the Raiders provides opportunity, but this passing game hasn’t been trustworthy all year, and that was with Bowe in the lineup
Alshon Jeffery, CHI- Jeffery finally made it back and scored a touchdown to boot. I still like him, but more because he should help Brandon Marshall hopefully.
Week 14 Update:
Josh Gordon, CLE – Gordon has caught 14 passes for 202 yards the past two weeks and gets the Skins this week. It’s possible you’ve been forced to lean on Gordon like I have in a league where I lost Percy Harvin weeks ago. If that’s the case, I see no reason to sit Gordon this week.
Jason Avant, PHI – Avant had another solid day filling in for DeSean Jackson. Like Foles above I would preach caution for this week, even more so as it pertains to Avant.
TE
Tony Scheffler, DET – I predicted an increase in work for the veteran TE, and an injury to Brandon Pettigrew opened the door to 10 targets and a touchdown grab. With the injuries to the receiving corps in Detroit, Scheffler should see a lot of bals thrown his way again this week.
Clay Harbor, PHI – Brent Celek suffered a concussion and will not play this week opening the door for Harbor to take over. He showed last week that he can be effective in this offense. There are worse long-shots to take with the Redskins looming in Week 16.
Digging Deeper:
Dennis Pitta, BAL- Pitta got back in the end-zone finally last week, and now gets a new OC who hopefully will open things up again in Baltimore.
Ben Watson, CLE – Watson is a deep league name, and only due to the Redskins match-up.
Anthony McCoy, SEA- McCoy put up 105 yards in the blowout of the Cardinals. One fluky game isn’t enough for me to invest in him just yet.
Week 14 Update:
Jared Cook, TEN – Cook indeed found his old chemistry with Jake Locker last week, unfortunately he also suffered a season-ending injury. See you next year.
DST
Lions – The Lions will be the latest team to take advantage of the Cardinals shell of an offense. They are the team to get off the wire this week.
Dolphins- Miami is a sneaky start this week as well against a Jacksonville team that is missing too many playmakers on offense.
K
Dan Carpenter, MIA – Carpenter makes an intriguing playoff K option with two home games against Jacksonville and Buffalo.
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 12 December 2012 09:48 |
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Fantasy Football: Week 14 Waiver Wire Report |
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Ryan's Hope
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Written by Ryan Carey
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Wednesday, 05 December 2012 07:31 |
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I have to admit, I never felt like Brady Quinn got a very fair shake in Cleveland, or in Denver for that matter. He never really got the support a young quarterback needs to have a real chance at success in this league. To add insult to injury, he has taken his licks on the field and in the tabloids, so it really was something to see the former Notre Dame star lead his team out on the field in the wake of tragedy, play the game of his career and then step up to the podium afterwards and hit all the right notes in his post-game comments. I think it is very appropriate that he gets to follow things up with a trip back to Cleveland. With the Raiders and Colts after that, it wouldn’t surprise me if he plays better than he ever did for the Browns the next three weeks. Regardless, he showed that true leadership is sometimes about more than just winning football games. If you haven’t had a chance to catch his post-game comments I urge you to do so when you are finished reading this. It was a pitch-perfect message for all of us, especially as we head into the holiday season.
Now that I’ve said that, let’s get to the real reason you are reading this. The fantasy playoffs have finally arrived. Hopefully you’ve gotten to the promised land and are ready to make some noise this week in your respective leagues. It’s that time of year again to start keeping track of the weather reports heading into Sunday. Now onto this Week’s list.
Russell Wilson, SEA – Wilson was tops on our list to start the year back in Week 1 and since then he has definitely exceeded expectations. He has tossed 11 touchdowns versus 1 interception over his last five starts and has silenced the early skeptics for good. He should be owned in all leagues at this point, as a high-end QB2. His playoff schedule puts a little damper on his upside as the Seahawks face the Cardinals this week, which is a tougher assignment for a QB than you think, and then draws the 49ers in Week 16. The Bills in Week 15 is a nice match-up, but bear in mind it’s still a mid- December game in Buffalo.
Carson Palmer, OAK – Palmer’s ownership numbers are higher that most of the names listed this week, but he’s out there in enough shallow leagues to merit a mention based on his playoff schedule. He get the Broncos, Chiefs and Panthers the next three weeks, and the Raiders will continue to air it out with their running back injuries.
Jake Locker, TEN – Ind – Locker has been another favorite of the report this year, and part of the reason has been an injury marred season that sent the promising second year QB to the wire in many leagues. He’s still shaking off the rust, but the Titans finally started to open things up last week under new OC Dowell Loggains. Hopefully you’ve got a more trustworthy option for this week, but if not a trip to the dome in Indianapolis figures to be a high-scoring affair. In two quarterback leagues, Locker could put you over the hump this week.
Ben Roethlisberger, PIT – Big Ben is scheduled to return to action this week against the Chargers, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should rush him back into your lineup if you have a better option at your disposal. While I would never doubt his tenacity or toughness, it still doesn’t mean I’d feel comfortable betting my season on him if I didn’t have to.
Digging Deeper:
Brandon Weeden, CLE – Weeden makes a return visit to the report thanks to a generous playoff schedule that provides back-to-back home games against the Chiefs and Redskins. Both teams can be thrown on, and Weeden can do enough damage to be a solid desperation start in deeper formats.
Nick Foles, PHI – Like Weeden above, Foles benefits from the schedule-maker with the Buccaneers this week followed by the Redskins again in Week 16. Both of these guys are start worthy in two-quarterback leagues.
Brady Quinn, KC –You read the intro.Hey, they could absolutely build on the wave in KC.
Tim Tebow, NYJ – Greg McElroy took over for an ineffective Mark Sanchez last week, opening the door for Rex Ryan to finally give the fans what they want, and that is a little Tebow-time to close out a lost season. If you are in a real deep league you could take a shot and see what happens next.
Week 13 Update:
Colin Kaepernick, SF – The Kaepernick express hit a little speed bump last week, which is a nice reminder that he is still learning, and fantasy owners should be cautious of trusting him too much, too soon. A little home cooking should help get things rolling again.
Chad Henne, JCK – The parade of injuries in the backfield has taken a little wind out of Henne’s sails. He’s worth hanging onto as a backup, especially if you are looking for some insurance at the position in Week 16.
Sam Bradford, STL – I highlighted Bradford’s favorable playoff schedule last week, but there is no denying he has a much better chance of success with Danny Amendola in the lineup. Keep that in mind when considering your options going forward.
RB
Alex Green, GB – I had originally planned on writing up James Starks and Green together, and was surprised to read the breaking news out of Milwaukee that Starks could be done for the season with a knee injury. With Cedric Benson also done for the year, that suddenly thrusts Green back into a feature role. Green was dumped in a ton of leagues after he lost the starting job, and was basically benched coming off the team’s Week 10 bye. He’ll be the top grab of the week now if these reports are confirmed.
Jonathan Dwyer, PIT – Back in Week 10 we talked about the crowded situation in Pittsburgh, and how you all parties were worthy of owning until the smoke cleared. Well, it’s gotten clearer that Dwyer is at least at the top of any committee, likely for the rest of the year. Redman still will gets 10 touches or so, but Dwyer will get the bulk of them as well as any in close and that makes him a borderline RB2/Flex the rest of the way.
Montell Owens, JCK – I advised you last week to make sure to get your roster set up for the playoffs, especially as it pertained to RB’s. That means you maybe took a stab at a Montario Hardesty or Evan Royster. Owens is in line to get the start this week if Maurice Jones-Drew isn’t ready and Rashad Jennings is still slowed by a concussion. It will be one and done for Ownes, but if a RB is starting at this time of year, he is worthy of owning. Perhaps you just want to keep him off of someone else’s roster. If he starts he’ll be flex-worthy.
DeAngelo Williams, CAR - Williams will likely draw another start this week while Jonathan Stewart continues to heal. Unfortunately, Cam Newton will keep his value capped by stealing carries and stealing touchdowns. Flex him if you must, bench him if you can.
Digging Deeper:
Joique Bell, DET – Bell has worked himself back into flex consideration with a pair of 10 point weeks. The Lions like to use him in their quick-tempo offense, especially when they are in comeback mode, which seems like a pretty good bet heading up to Lambeau this week.
John Kuhn, GB – I mentioned Green above, but Kuhn will also benefit as he will surely get more work, especially in close.
Ben Tate, Hou – I know, I am getting to be a broken record on Tate, but he finally made it back on the field and you just know the Texans might sit Arian Foster in Week 16. If you haven’t already got him, just do it already. Justin Forsett deserves a mention as well, because he’s likely locked himself into the third down back role no matter what happens.
Bilal Powell, NYJ – Powell has gotten double-digit carries three weeks running, so at least you can flex him with more confidence heading into some decent playoff match-ups.
Jeremy Stewart, OAK – If Darren McFadden is out, Stewart could continue to get some looks.
Week 13 Update:
Bryce Brown, PHI – Somehow the guy is still un-owned in a bunch of leagues. Granted not many leagues the regular readers of this column likely play in, but still take a look and help push those ownership numbers up where they belong.
Knowshon Moreno, DEN – Moreno got twenty carries for the second week in a row, and now gets to exploit a tasty match-up against the Raiders. Start him with confidence this week and worry about the Ravens game if you survive this week.
David Wilson, NYG – Wilson is another must-have handcuff that you should have grabbed last week if you are an Ahmad Bradshaw owner.
Chris Wells, ARZ – While I said last week that Wells needed to be owned everywhere, I can now at least safely go back to my Week 12 observation that relying on him in the fantasy playoffs will be a very risky proposition. Of course, if you drafted him you probably don’t have to worry about that now do you.
Top Handcuffs – Just like last week, here is another reminder list of guys you want to grab as playoff handcuffs in case of injury to irreplaceable stud RB’s: Shane Vereen, Robert Turbin, Toby Gerhart, Bernard Pierce, Cedric Peerman, Evan Royster, Montario Hardesty, Brandon Jacobs, Daryl Richardson,
WR
Josh Gordon, CLE – Gordon finally got back in the end-zone last week, and thanks to the Raiders posted his season high in catches (6) as well as his first 100 yard game. He has become the clear No. 1 receiver for Weeden, and can take advantage of the same juicy schedule the next two weeks.
Chris Givens, STL – Givens was mentioned in the DD section last week, and took advantage of Danny Amendola’s absence to vacuum in 11 passes on the day. That kind of volume is hard to overlook with Buffalo on deck and Amendola still not practicing.
Mike Thomas, DET – Ryan Broyles tore his ACL (again), which was a blow to anyone who spent big on him last week. With Titus Young banished to injured reserve, Thomas will now be the latest to assume the plum assignment of starting opposite Calvin Johnson. It makes him roster worthy at the very least.
Golden Tate, SEA – Tate could very well be the most interesting option sitting on your wire right now. Wilson loves him in the red-zone, and that makes him a threat to score each and every week.
Digging Deeper:
Rod Streater, OAK- Denarius Moore apparently got benched during the loss to Cleveland, which allowed Streater to be the recipient of a long touchdown grab as a result. Don’t be fooled into thinking it will happen again soon.
Jason Avant, PHI – Avant took advantage of the loss of DeSean Jackson to get back into the action with a 79 yard day. As we mentioned with Foles, the schedule sets up well for this offense, at least making Avant a quality bench option.
Louis Murphy, CAR – Murphy will get the start if Brandon LaFell can’t go on Sunday. Hopefully you have better option than this.
Eric Weems, CHI – You know things are tough in Chicago if the Bears are forced to run Weems out there opposite Brandon Marshall. The team is likely crossing their fingers that Alshon Jeffery can somehow make it back this week to lend a hand.
Week 13 Update:
Pierre Garcon, WSH – Garcon was everywhere against the Giants, and looked healthy and spry in the process. If you held onto to him, this is what you were waiting for. Hopefully you lasted long enough to take advantage of it.
Mario Manningham , SF – Manningham unfortunately injured his shoulder a week after I mentioned the emerging chemistry between he and Kaepernick.
TE
Jacob Tamme, DEN – Tamme has been getting more looks as the injuries mount in Denver. He was Peyton Manning’s favorite target last Sunday, and could be in for another high-vloume day against the Raiders. If he can somehow find the end-zone, consider it a bonus,
Tony Scheffler, DET – Scheffler will get a big boost in snaps and targets this week with Broyles and Young no longer around. He a great start inleagues that start two TE’s
Jared Cook – With the Titans throwing the ball more, Cook has finally shown some life again. He and Locker made some music in Nashville this time last year, so perhaps they can do it again.
Week 13 Update:
Marcedes Lewis, JCK – Lewis had another productive week, and could get another boost if Cecil Shorts somehow sits this one out.
Rob Housler, ARZ – I made the mistake of mentioning Housler for a second time, and he flopped again. Fool me once shame on…..well you know the rest.
DST –
Minnesota -
Cleveland – Cleveland is not giving up too many points, thanks to a determined running game and a much improved run defense. Kansas City is still the same mistake prone squad they have been all year. The fans will be fired up to boo Peyton Hillis every time he touches the ball. Hopefully they will give Brady Quinn a warmer welcome.
K
Alex Henery – The last few weeks I have hit on a few K’s I like for your playoff run. If you are looking for a little one week magic, why not give Henery a look. The way Bryce Brown is running the ball, the FG opportunities will be there.
Follow Ryan on Twitter @ryanpcarey
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Last Updated on Friday, 07 December 2012 03:33 |
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Fantasy Football: Week 13 Waiver Wire Report |
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Ryan's Hope
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Written by Ryan Carey
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Wednesday, 28 November 2012 12:04 |
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Week 13 has finally arrived, and for most this will be your last chance to get yourself into your league’s playoffs. If you are lucky enough to be looking ahead to the post season, then this week’s waiver run is an important time for you to take a good look at your roster and prepare for the important journey ahead. The injuries to some running backs the last two weeks underscores the importance of padding your roster with as many high-upside players, particularly RB’s, as you can reasonably roster. Don’t be afraid to cut that extra kicker, defense or WR5 types and instead use those roster spots to make sure you fortify your house in case of injury. No players can make a bigger impact if they rise to the rank of starter than those RB’s and the guys ahead of them on the depth chart also happen to be the guys who take the most punishment each and every week. To further drive the point home this week, I’ve listed a bunch of handcuffs that I like at the end of the RB section.
You have to weigh how much a particular handcuff is worth to your team. For example, I own Doug Martin and Trent Richardson on two of my playoff bound squads. This week I grabbed Montario Hardesty in both. I did not grab LeGarrette Blount. I chose Hardesty mainly because T-Rich has already gotten hurt once this year and missed time, but also because he is touching the ball 30 times a week. That workload puts him at risk of injury, so I’ve decided to cover my base here. You get the picture, now go out and make the moves you need to make to make your team stronger in your quest for fantasy glory.
QB
Colin Kaepernick, SF – The Niners rookie tops the quarterback list once again this week after another solid effort against the Saints on Sunday. It is becoming ever clearer that this is Kaepernick’s job to lose now. Alex Smith just doesn’t bring the energy or excitement to the offense that Kaepernick does. If he’s still available in your league, you need to grab him this week since he now has Top 10 potential for the rest of the year. Even if you already have an elite starter on your bench you should make the move just to keep him off an opponent’s roster. I speculated on his talent two weeks ago on my two playoff bound squads, and now I am really excited about have this difference maker around for the playoffs.
Chad Henne, JCK – Henne returns to the list again this week after following up his Week 10 breakout with another solid effort against the Titans. I understand if you wanted to see him do it again before biting, but a matchup with the Bills should be more than enough to get him into some lineups this week. The schedule set up nicely through the playoffs, so he’s a nice backup plan, especially if you have a starter will some cold weather starts late in the year.
Russell Wilson, SEA – If it weren’t for Robert Griffin III and Andrew Luck, Wilson would be getting even more attention for the fantastic rookie season he is engineering in Seattle. The Bears are a nasty matchup this week, but the Cardinals and Bills coming up next make him a great QB2 to have on hand as the playoffs approach.
Digging Deeper:
Sam Bradford, STL – If you are looking a week ahead as you try to bolster your roster for a playoff run, then Bradford’s playoff schedule (@Buf, Min, @TB) should get your attention. He’s no great shakes, but could finish real strong and be a sneaky playoff weapon in two QB leagues.
Colt McCoy, CLE – Brandon Weeden suffered a concussion last week, so it’s possible McCoy will get the start against the Raiders generous defense this week. You’d have to be in a pretty deep league to have to take a shot like this, but at least the matchup is right.
Week 12 Update:
Jake Locker, TEN – I’ve been a pretty big Locker cheerleader this year, and he finally looks like he is healthy again. I mention him yet again since the Titans just fired their OC, so I am interested to see if Dowell Loggains can unlock the potential explosiveness of the Titans skill players.
Mark Sanchez, NYJ – Sanchez was serviceable last week against the Patriots and does have a favorable schedule (Ari, @Jac, @Ten, Sd) that could be enough to make him a factor in two QB leagues in the playoffs.
Ryan Lindley, ARZ – Lindley looked like a rookie on Sunday, as his 4 INT’s indicate. He’ll get another start this week, which isn’t the news Larry Fitzgerald owners wanted to hear.
RB
Bryce Brown, PHI – While I did recommend Brown last week as a player with the size and speed to do damage against a mediocre Panther defense, his breakout performance was a real eye-opener. He looked like a beast, plowing for 178 yards and 2 TD’s, one of which was a beautiful 65-yard scamper down the sideline. LeSean McCoy likely won’t be rushed back on a short week, so Brown will get at least one more week as the main back for the Eagles. It’s also a reminder of why you need to go out this week and back up your stud RB with his handcuff if you can. Don’t be afraid to cut those WR5’s to grab high-upside understudies for your playoff bench.
Knowshon Moreno, DEN – It seemed pretty clear that Ronnie Hillman was the guy to get last week, but that was before John Fox decided to channel his inner Shanahan. While I pumped Hillman, I did warn of the downside that the coaching staff still didn’t trust him in pass protection and had the veteran backs to deploy if that was the case. I obviously didn’t expect 24 touches to 3 for Hillman. Starting RB’s usually don’t appear this late in the year, so Moreno is this week’s top add regardless of format.
Chris Wells, ARZ – I was pretty harsh with my take on Well’s return last week, but I have to give him his due after a two touchdown day in his first week back. I still hate the schedule and the offensive line, but I you have him that means you might not have better options available. Regardless of what I think, he absolutely needs to be owned in all leagues the rest of the way. LaRod Stephens-Howling owners should take notice that he received only one carry. It’s time to move on.
Michael Bush, CHI – Bush’s value this week is directly tied to the health of starter Matt Forte. If Forte sits, Bush is a clear start this week at home against the Seahawks. Forte owners hopefully can continue to ride their handcuff, but those in shallow leagues might just find him sitting on the wire. If so scoop the battering ram up.
Rashad Jennings, JCK – Jalen Parmele suffered a season ending groin injury, which will give Jennings another start while the team waits for Maurice Jones-Drew to finally return to action. Jennings hasn’t done much this year when given the touches, but the Bills defense undeniably makes him much more attractive for this week at the very least.
Digging Deeper:
DeAngelo Williams, CAR – I almost feel dirty having to write about Williams, as he and Beanie Wells basically helped torpedo my NFFC squad’s chances this year (so much for trying to cheat on RB’s in the draft). Regardless, the injury to Jonathan Stewart opens the door for him to get a starter’s workload against the lowly Chiefs, which at least makes him start worthy for the first time in weeks. Unfortunately, if you own him your team is likely trying to do little more than play spoiler in your league this week.
David Wilson, NYG – The season-ending injury to Andre Brown finally opens the door for Wilson to get 5-10 touches a week the rest of the way. He isn’t the solid flex start that Brown had become, because he won’t get the goal-line carries, but he is a must have handcuff for fragile Ahmad Bradshaw owners.
Jacquizz Rodgers, ATL – I hyped Rodgers earlier in the season, but he never really delivered on my belief that he would seriously cut into Michael Turner’s workload. Finally, the Falcons seem to be admitting that they need him on the field more, and a great schedule the rest of the way makes him a solid flex start for those who stubbornly hung onto him.
Brandon Jacobs and LaMichael James, SF – Kendall Hunter tore his Achilles, opening the door for the Jacobs and James to battle it out for the 5-10 carries he was getting as Frank Gore’s backup.
Stud Handucuffs – Rather than write up all the guys that you should consider adding to your bench this week to prepare for the playoffs, I just list a few here that I would consider adding as high-upside plays if the starter ahead of them were to get injured: Ben Tate, Shane Vereen, Robert Turbin, Toby Gerhart, Bernard Pierce, Cedric Peerman, Cedric Benson, Evan Royster, Montario Hardesty
Week 12 Updates:
Jalen Parmele, JCK – Parmele’s injury means all that money you spent to get him didn’t amount to much production. Cut him and move on.
Bilal Powell, NYJ – Powell continued to share carries with Shonne Greene and has emerged as the back of choice in the red zone. He’s worth owning the rest of the way, and deep leaguers could do worse as a flex play the rest of the way.
WR
Pierre Garcon, WAS – Garcon finally looked healthy, and as such needs to be picked up in any leagues he is available in. He was cut in one of my leagues after a lackluster return in Week 11, so make sure you check your wire to see if he’s there. His return to form will be a boon to Griffin’s and the team’s prospects down the stretch.
Ryan Broyles, DET – I said last week that the Titus Young suspension would provide Broyles the opportunity to truly breakout as Calvin Johnson’s running mate. He got 12 targets last week, and I think it is quite possible Jim Schwartz just moves on from Young. If you didn’t heed my advice to grab him last week, this is your last chance.
Julian Edelman, NE – Edelman was profiled last week, and was back at it for the Patriots with a touchdown grab and a special teams TD on a fumble recovery. He has been the biggest beneficiary of the Rob Gronkowski injury, and is worth taking a shot on in deeper leagues due to the explosive offense he plays in.
Digging Deeper:
Davone Bess, MIA – Bess has a nice matchup at home against the Patriots this week. He’s getting a ton of targets lately, which makes him a very safe flex option this week.
Chris Givens, STL – Givens put himself back on the radar with his first 100 yard game of the season. As we noted open in our Bradford blurb, the schedule is nice enough to add Givens to your bench for your playoff run.
Damaris Johnson, PHI – DeSean Jackson is done for the year with broken ribs, which will open the door for Johnson. The Eagles are such a mess, it will be tough to trust anyone in the passing game after Jeremy Maclin, but deep leaguers can certainly take a shot here.
Mario Manningham, SF – Colin Kaepernick’s ability to extend the play with his legs gives Manningham’s value a little boost going forward. The two seem to be building some chemistry and the former Super Bowl hero has shown that he can be a difference maker in big games. I have to admit, I’m intrigued enough to have taken a shot in one of my leagues.
Week 12 Updates:
Justin Blackmon, JCK – While he obviously couldn’t duplicate his ridiculous Week 11 stats, he once again found the end-zone and will continue to be a solid starter in the new Jaguars offense.
T.Y. Hilton, IND – Hilton was at it again on Sunday, scoring on a punt return and a short pass in crunch time. I said it before, when you are looking for WR’s to fill out your bench, go for the guys with exciting QB’s. Andrew Luck and Reggie Wayne will continue to keep Hilton as a WR3/Flex option. The Colts have one of the most pass-friendly schedules the rest of the way.
Brandon Stokley, DEN – Stokley once again did what he does as Peyton Manning’s slot-guy. He’s a boring but safe flex option against Tampa Bay this week.
Mohamed Sanu, CIN – That’s 4 TD’s in three weeks since I wrote up Sanu in Week 9’s report. I think he’s done enough to be owned in most leagues at this point.
TE
Marcedes Lewis, JCK – Lewis had another solid week, with Chad Henne getting him involved in the action yet again. I see no reason why the duo can’t keep it going against the Bills this week.
Rob Housler, ARZ – I wrote about Housler a couple weeks back, and he promptly delivered a goose-egg. Last week, rookie Ryan Lindley dumped the ball to him eight times and will likely have to lean on him again this week against the Jets.
Digging Deeper:
Jacob Tamme, DEN – Manning seems to be leaning on his TE again since Willis McGahee went down, which gives him renewed value in 2 TE leagues.
Dallas Clark, TB – Don’t look now, but the wily veteran is slowly gaining momentum. He’s not producing eye-popping numbers, but it’s clear he’s back to at least being in the discussion for matchup starts again.
Week 12 Update:
Brandon Myers, OAK – Myers topped the list last week, and once again got you something. Cleveland is vulnerable to the TE, so he could finally get back into the end-zone this week.
DST
Jets – Last week it was the Rams here and this week it’s the Jets. The common denominator is the Cardinals offensive line and rookie QB who threw 4 INT’s last week.
Cowboys – I called the Cowboys number when they played the Eagles a couple weeks back, and this time they get them at home in prime-time. Yeah, I like their chances again.
Bengals – Philip Rivers has thrown 14 interceptions on the year, and the Bengals defense is surging as the team makes a playoff push.
Browns – Gotta give my Browns defense for securing the big win against the Steelers last week with an 8 turnover performance. You might want to stash them for the KC game coming up in Week 14.
K
Connor Barth, TB – I profiled Adam Vinatieri as a nice weather-proof kicker to lean on for the playoffs. Barth is another warm weather kicker, with a good offense and a nice playoff schedule to consider hitching your fortunes to.
Follow Ryan on Titter @ryanpcarey
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Last Updated on Wednesday, 28 November 2012 17:47 |
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