Do I start the player with the great matchup, or do I trust the stud that I spent a high draft pick on? We have received that question many a time this season, and in particular throughout the fantasy playoffs. Our advice? While yes, it is great to trust the stud, anything can happen on any given Sunday... or Thursday, Saturday or Monday for that matter. As such, we suggest going with the player that has the right matchup or that has been on a roll at the right time.... Demaryius Thomas owners from last week would know about this. It should be noted that if the player is injured, then roll with someone else. With that in mind here are The Fantasy Dudes waiver wire targets for Week 16 of the NFL that may prove to be of use to you:
Kyle Orton, QB, Kansas City Chiefs: Didn't think we'd be mentioning him again this season, but the fact that he led his team to an upset win over the previously undefeated Packers does persuade us to give him some credit. When he actually started for the Broncos earlier this season he put up decent enough stats (8 TD's in 4 games), the Broncos just weren't winning. Need someone to step in at QB? Kyle could be worth a look against the Raiders. Kyle is owned in 15% of standard leagues.
Rex Grossman, QB, Washington Redskins: You know how we were talking about matchups? Well here is one for you... The Vikings have been terrible at stopping the pass, so expect Rex to post some reasonable statistics. Rex is owned in only 13% of standard leagues.
Donald Brown, RB, Indianapolis Colts: Addai who? Brown rushed on 16 carries for 161 yards and a touchdown on the weekend... a career high. He has 3 rushing TD's over his past 4 games. Donald is owned in 20% of standard leagues.
Khalil Bell, RB, Chicago Bears: With Barber in the doghouse following his gaffes against the Broncos a couple of weeks ago, it has been Bell that has benefited. It is hard to get excited about the Bears right now, and we would only suggest using Bell if in great need for a RB. Khalil is owned in only 1% of standard leagues.
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Denver Broncos: Peaking at the right time? With all the talk about Tebow, some love needs to go out to Thomas. 350 yards, 3 TD's over his past 3 games enough for you? It sure has been for fantasy owners. Demaryius is owned in 32% of standard leagues.
Jabar Gaffney, WR, Washington Redskins: See Grossman, Rex above. He will be one of the key beneficiaries. He has also posted over 150 yards receiving and a touchdown over the past 2 weeks. Jabar is owned in 48% of standard fantasy leagues.
Malcom Floyd, WR, San Diego Chargers: Had a very nice outing against Baltimore in week 15, and has now scored 2 TD's over the past 3 weeks, including over 220 yards receiving. He makes for a decent flex play against the Lions this week. Malcom is owned in 67% of leagues.
Brent Celek, TE, Philadelphia Eagles: Did you know that Brent leads the team in receptions this season? I know, you're telling me. He's much more comfortable with Vick running the show, and that was reflected last weekend when he exploded for over 150 yards receiving. Pick him up now if you need a tight end. Brent is owned in just 25% of standard leagues.
Tennessee Titans D/ST: You don't think losing to the Colts would hurt? They would have been taken to the cleaners this week in training. This week face the Jaguars and Blaine Gabbert... that on paper is enough for me. Owned in 26% of standard fantasy leagues.
Alex Henery, K, Philadelphia Eagles: Like Celek above, he too has benefitted from Vick's return to QB, particularly on the XP's. Expect a high scoring game this week against the Cowboys, hence ample opportunities for Henery. Alex is owned in 39% of standard fantasy leagues.
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Following on from our 2011/12 NBA Fantasy Rankings for use in drafts, comes a word of warning with regard to Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry.
The fantasy stud rolled his ankle in a pre-season game this week -- the same ankle that he had surgery on last season. Test results indicate that there was no structural damange and that the incident can be classified as a "sprain", but it would still be wise to monitor Curry's situation closely.
Given that Curry is a likely first round pick in most formats, it would be a contentious decision to select him if the injury looks to be ongoing.
Check out our Top 20 Fantasy Rankings at each of the five NBA positions.
Here are The Fantasy Dudes starts for Week 15 of the NFL:
Tony Romo, QB, Dallas Cowboys: The Romo-rollercoaster moves on to another turn. Fortunately for Romo, the Bucs give up the 8th most fantasy points to QB's this season. Romo also has his receivers on deck, so look for him to spread the ball around.
Tim Tebow, QB, Denver Broncos: The Pats will throw all sorts of looks at him, and will likely force him to pass (especially with Tom Brady carving up)... the good news for Tebow? The Patriots haven't been able to stop anyone with their secondary, so this is as good a week as any to start throwing.
Felix Jones, RB, Dallas Cowboys: The Buccaneers allow most fantasy points against opposing RB's in the league.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Bucs will try establishing the run game against the Boys, particularly with Freeman hurting.
Marshawn Lynch, RB, Seattle Seahawks: Has rushed for over 100 yards in 5 of his last 6 games, including 6 rushing touchdowns... talk about 'beast' mode!
Cedric Benson, RB, Cincinnati Bengals: Rams have been terrible all season, and we expect this to continue. Benson impressive last week against stingy Texans team, so we like him to up the ante against a team that allows 7th most fantasy points to RB's.
Santana Moss, WR, Washington Redskins: The Giants allow the 2nd most fantasy points to opposing WR's, and no Fred Davis means the WR's will get more targets.
Marques Colston, WR, New Orleans Saints: The Vikings allow the 3rd most fantasy points to opposing WR's, and Drew Brees has been on fire!
AJ Green, WR, Cincinnati Bengals: We love this guy. He is a must start this week as Rams give up 5th most fantasy points to WR's.
Dwayne Bowe, WR, Kansas City Chiefs: I know, its hard to like the Chiefs from a fantasy perspective, but the Packers rank 4th worst against the pass, meaning someone has to benefit against them. Oh, and the Chiefs will likely need to throw as they play catch-up.
Miles Austin, WR, Dallas Cowboys: Solid return last week against the Giants, and led the team in targets. See Romo, Tony above. Like him for a repeat TD performance.
Jake Ballard, TE, New York Giants: His form has been up and down lately, however the Redskins have struggled against TE's, giving up the second most fantasy points to the position this season.
Jermichael Finley, TE, Green Bay Packers: No Jennings means someone needs to see more ball. Chiefs have been vulnerable against TE's this season, so step up Jermichael... let ESPN be talking about you rather than Tim Tebow ☺
Arizona Cardinals D/ST: Have been a respectable unit lately and face a Browns team in disarray.
Cincinnati Bengals D/ST: Clemens in at QB. Rams can't score. Start the Bengals with confidence.
If you are after roster advice... ask The Fantasy Dudes. Best of luck in the playoffs everyone!
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So, the protracted process that was the lockout, leads to a contracted NBA season. As a fan, what's to like?
Perhaps the only silver-lining on the clouds which shroud the approaching 66-game NBA season exist in fact due to (rather than in spite of) its brevity.
Ponder this: year after year we are told that the real season starts when the playoffs begin. Veteran teams rest their players during the dog days of the regular season, holding out those gaffer-taped bodies in preparation for the "real season" to commence.
This time around, with the shortened regular season, each game takes on an increased importance in the final standings. The lesser number of games reduces the likelihood of injuries, as much as it reduces the likelihood that players sit out with minor injuries, "just in case".
On the other hand, this make-do season provides some negatives. Whoever wins it all will have an asterisk firmly affixed to their title, in much the same way as the San Antonio Spurs' 1999 NBA Finals victory was tainted.
The nature of the schedule means that teams will need to be ready on the fly, with little time to acquaint themselves with new teammates or opponents. Whilst veteran squads may have an advantage due to the shorter schedule (due to their experience and lessened chance of injury), conversely the increased number of games per week will mean that young squads with unity under their collective belt like the Oklahoma City Thunder suddenly have a much better shot at things.
Most important of all, it's time for NBA Fantasy Drafts!
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Handcuff, handcuff, handcuff... we can't stress this enough. Need evidence, just ask Jamaal Charles, Matt Forte, Adrian Peterson and DeMarco Murray fantasy owners. So if you have surplus on your team, i.e. players you won't start in the playoffs, then if the handcuff for one of your starting running backs is on the wire, then make the move (even if it is for one week)... we're talking about Ricky Williams, Kendall Hunter, Toby Gerhart, Ben Tate etc etc (keep this in mind for next season). With that said, here are The Fantasy Dudes waiver wire targets for Week 15 of the NFL:
Rex Grossman, QB, Washington Redskins: Ok, he has lost his star TE, but he still has the likes of Moss, Gaffney and Helu available to throw to. This week he faces a Giants secondary that has failed to stop the pass all season, so expect Rex to air it out. Re, or the player mentioned below may be a suitable replacement for Big Ben should he miss some time. Rex is owned in just 9% of standard fantasy leagues.
Andy Dalton, QB, Cincinnati Bengals: Andy has actually had quite a productive season for a rookie. He has faced some pretty stiff competition over the past two weeks in the Texans and Steelers, but remember, he threw for 373 yard against the Ravens (away) just a few weeks ago. Did we mention he has AJ Green to throw to? Oh yeah, he faces St Louis this week. Andy is owned in 30% of standard leagues.
Felix Jones, RB, Dallas Cowboys: Just when things were starting to look good for the Cowboys running game, DeMarco goes down injured. Up steps Felix to claim the spot he had possession of heading into the start of the season before an injury took him down. He subsequently stepped up to the tune of over 100 yards rushing. Faces a terrible Buccaneers team this week, so the future is bright for Felix. It is likely he will be the number one player taken off waivers this week. Felix is owned in just over 70% of fantasy leagues.
Marion Barber, RB, Chicago Bears: Well, what were you waiting for? For him to prove himself? Well besides a couple of bad plays (not staying in bounds, fumbling the ball in OT), Marion actually had a pretty decent game. Faces a Seahawks team in week 15... not ideal, but Stephen Jackson didn't seem to have too much issue, and they will be coming off a slightly shorter week. Well worth an add to your roster. Marion is owned in just 46% of standard leagues.
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Denver Broncos: Fantasy playoffs aren't usually the time to experiment, especially with a rookie, but if you are in a bind, then give Thomas a look. On paper, he faces the worst D's in the league in the Patriots... he's also on a roll, with 11 catches for over 220 yards and 3 touchdowns over the past two weeks. Demaryius is owned in only 9% of standard leagues.
Doug Baldwin, WR, Seattle Seahawks: Talk about grabbing the opportunity with both hands... Rice has gone on IR, meaning that someone had to step up. Sure, we don't want to get carried away because it was the Rams, however 7 catches for 93 yards and a touchdown is impressive. Chicago up on deck and even Tebow was able to throw on them. Doug is owned in only 20% of standard leagues.
Santana Moss, WR, Washington Redskins: Not going to mention much else besides that he has hauled in over 150 yards receiving and a touchdown over his past 3 weeks as he has returned from injury. See Grossman, Rex above. Owned in 65% of standard leagues.
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Cincinnati Bengals: See Dalton, Andy above. Jermaine disappointed last weekend, but we like him to bounce back this week against the lowly Rams. He has caught at least 3 passes over his past 5 games. Owned in just over 27% of standard fantasy leagues.
Cincinnati Bengals D/ST: Notice a trend here? Well it is the St Louis Rams after all they face in week 15... say no more. Owned in 64% of standard fantasy leagues.
Nick Novak, K, San Diego Chargers: Rivers and the Chargers have been moving the chains over the past few weeks, but face a stern test this week in the Ravens, hence Nick will likely be called upon to help out with his boot. Owned in just 22% of standard fantasy leagues.
If you are after roster advice... ask The Fantasy Dudes. Best of luck in the playoffs everyone!
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Here are The Fantasy Dudes fantasy football starts for week 14 of the NFL:
Joe Flacco, QB, Baltimore Ravens: His numbers have been down recently, but no wonder, he has come up against some pretty decent teams, including the 49ers. This week, the Ravens face the Colts, a team that has been terrible against pass (amongst many things). Ray Rice will see a lot of action, but Flacco should get his fair share of the pie for fantasy owners.
Mathew Stafford, QB, Detroit Lions: Don't worry about his broken finger, he's just fine. Touchdowns have been a little disappointing lately, but we like him to do well this week against the Vikings, a team that allows the most fantasy points to QB's in the league. Start with confidence.
Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins: Surely Mike Shanahan knows not to mess with what is currently working. Roy has put together two straight 100 yard rushing performances against pretty stout defenses. No Fred Davis means more touches for Helu, and he has been pretty productive catching passes out of the backfield too.
Michael Turner, RB, Atlanta Falcons: The Carolina Panthers have been turnstiles on defense all season, allowing one of the most rushing yards to opposing running backs in the NFL. Michael will be very much worth starting in all fantasy leagues this week.
Ryan Mathews, RB, San Diego Chargers: Back in the mix now and looking good with 250 yards rushing over his past 2 games, including a 112 yard performance last week against the Jaguars from just 13 carries. He faces a terrible bills defense in week 14.
Marshawn Lynch, RB, Seattle Seahawks: Beast mode should continue. He has averaged well over 100 rushing yards a game over his past 5 outings, including 6 touchdowns. He has a great matchup this week against the St. Louis Rams.
Santana Moss, WR, Washington Redskins: Patriots defense has been dreadful against wide receivers... in fact, they give up the most fantasy points in the league to this position. No Fred Davis means more looks.
Nate Burleson, WR, Detroit Lions: See Stafford, Mathew above. Vikings secondary is woeful... need evidence? Take a look at what Tim Tebow did against them last week. Nate has 25 catches over his past 4 games alone.
Damien Williams, WR, Tennessee Titans: Saints have not been great at stopping the pass this season, and with Chris Johnson hitting some form, it helps set up the pass. They'll need it against the hot Saints. Nate Washington has also been listed as questionable, which also works in his favor.
Percy Harvin, WR, Minnesota Vikings: We had Percy listed here last week and he delivered... and then some. You can't expect him to replicate those stats, but he is definitely worth starting again this week against Detroit. He has 4 touchdowns over his past 3 games alone.
Kellen Winslow, TE, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jacksonville have been susceptible to tight ends all season, and Kellen has caught 18 passes over his past 3 games. We like him to do well this week.
Dustin Keller, TE, New york Jets: Dustin has been pretty inconsistent all season, thanks to the play of Sanchez. However, the Chiefs have allowed 7 touchdowns to tight ends this season, which is the second worst in the league, hence it is an attractive matchup this week.
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If you are reading this, then congratulations... Playoffs baby!!! This is now the business end of the season. Win, or go home! Need some waiver wire suggestions? Well look no further because The Fantasy Dudes have done the analysis and provided you with a list of options below. As we have been all season, we're available on Twitter, Facebook, Email or via the comments section below should you need personalized service. So here we arer with our waiver wire targets for Week 14 of the NFL:
Alex Smith, QB, San Francisco 49ers: This is the first time that Alex has appeared here all season. Ownership actually remains low, which is rather surprising for a 10-2 team. We're not saying bench your star QB, but if you need assistance, then he is worth a look. Alex has scored double-digit fantasy points in 5 of his last 6 games, including a 267 yard, 2 touchdown performance against the Cardinals just two weeks ago. Alex is owned in only 36% of standard fantasy leagues.
Rex Grossman, QB, Washington Redskins: Ok, I know what you must be thinking, its Rex!!! Yes, it is Rex, but consider his opponents this week... The Patriots. He's missing Fred Davis, but he still has a few weapons, including Moss and Helu out of the backfield. Rex has thrown for over 800 yards over his past 3 games. He is owned in just over 8% of standard fantasy leagues.
Matt Moore, QB, Miami Dolphins: He has been mentioned here recently so no need to repeat ourselves any further. We still prefer Smith this week though. Matt is owned in only 5% of standard fantasy leagues.
Marion Barber, RB, Chicago Bears: Yet another running back goes down... for those owners that didn't handcuff their stud Matt Forte, then take advantage now. Barber won't be breaking records, especially with D's stacking the box courtesy of Hanie being the QB, but he could prove to be a helpful flex start. Barber is only owned in 17% of standard leagues.
Toby Gerhart, RB, Minnesota Vikings: AP is currently rated a 70% chance of playing, but who knows what will happen. The Vikings aren't making the playoffs, so there is no real incentive to rush him back. Toby has done a reasonable job filling in rushing for over 130 yards over the past 2 games. If AP were to miss the game, he'll be a serviceable flex play. Toby is owned in 32% of standard fantasy leagues.
Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins: I'm not going to get into this one, you should know he is a must own. Roy is still available in 20% of standard fantasy leagues.
Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers: We advised readers to pick up Michael weeks ago so we hope you took our advice. If you didn't and he is still available, pick him up. He has averaged 90 yards receiving over his past 3 games, with a strong 7 catch, 120 yard performance against the Cardinals in week 11, a team that he faces again in week 14. Michael is owned in 66% of standard fantasy leagues.
Nate Burleson, WR, Detroit Lions: After cooling off mid-season, Nate has really picked things up lately as Calvin Johnson sees more attention his way. Nate has close to 300 yards on 25 catches over his past 4 games, and has a favorable matchup this week against the Vikings secondary. Nate is owned in just fewer than 20% of standard fantasy leagues.
Demaryius Thomas, WR, Denver Broncos: Regular readers will know that we advised of this pickup earlier in the season. He led the Broncos in targets last weekend, and posted a huge game including two touchdowns. If you are in a bind, and in a deep league, give D-Thomas a look. We should note that we prefer Decker to Thomas... at least for this season from a fantasy perspective. Thomas is owned in just 2% of standard leagues.
Jacob Tamme, TE, Indianapolis Colts: Remember this guy from last season? Clark goes down injured and up steps Jacob to become an instant fantasy start. Ok, he doesn't have Peyton throwing to him, but Clark is out again and Dan Orlovsky is an improvement over Curtin Painter. Could be worth a look if you are a Fred Davis owner. Jacob is owned in less than 1% of standard fantasy leagues.
Seattle Seahawks D/ST: The Rams are a mess right now. Seattle has put together a few decent performances in a row including 8 intercepts over their past 4 games. Limited the Rams to just 7 points in week 11. Owned in just 16% of fantasy leagues.
Good luck in the playoffs everyone!
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Here are The Fantasy Dudes starts of week 13:
Percy Harvin, WR, Vikings: Harvin has quietly put together a nice last couple of weeks as his relationship with Ponder builds. With Peterson out, look for Harvin to have an increased role in the offense this week.
Chris Johnson, RB, Titans: I'm officially back on the CJ1K bandwagon this weekend, and I don't see why he doesn't continue last week's efforts against the poor old Bills.
Deion Branch, WR, Patriots: Might not do what he did last week, but I still think he will be productive against the Colts.
Marques Colston, WR, Saints: Brees and his WR's at home against the Lions? Yes please.
DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers: The awful Bucs D couldn't stop a certain other underachieving back last week, so I see no reason why they will stop Williams.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Buccaneers: Yikes, the two worst run D's against each other! I'll get a double helping of that.
Michael Crabtree, WR, 49ers: The Rams give up the 7th most points to WR's, and I can see a similar game for Crab from the previous time the 49ers were at home (120 yards against the Cardinals).
Cam Newton, QB, Panthers: Loving this matchup against the Bucs.
Brandon Marshall, WR, Dolphins: The Raiders are decent against the pass, but I see Marshall getting too many targets to prove start-worthy.
Fred Davis, TE, Redskins: Will get the majority of Grossman's target this weekend, and the Jets do give up fantasy points when they come across opposition who throw to their TE's (27 points to Patriots in Week 10, 15 points to Chargers in Week 7).
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Ability? Yes! Confidence? Yes! Expectations? Yes! Hope? You bet!!! Those are just a few words to describe the Knicks for the upcoming NBA season.
Last season, the New York Knickerbockers made a significant move by acquiring all-star Carmelo Anthony, but in doing so, gave away many pieces of their team. As a result of Melo's huge contract, it has left the Knicks with very little room to move for the upcoming season. Some considered it a bad move, however if the Knicks wanted to consider themselves serious title contenders, then the move had to be made. Now, with Amare also on board, the Knicks are more than capable of taking on the Bulls, Celtics and even the Heat so long as they are firing on all cylinders.
All the talk right now, and has been since last season, surrounds the potential acquisition of New Orleans point guard Chris Paul. This is a story that will likely linger throughout this season. Right now, CP3 has pledged his alliance to the Hornets (as you would expect him to do), but you know that he is thinking of this move, hence look for the Knicks to try their hardest to get him (it goes without saying that the move would bring them right up to title favorites). Paul has a year left on his contract, so the Hornets would be smart to deal him this season in order to get something in return. Apparently the Celtics are also interested, with Rajon Rondo offered to move in the other direction.
Glen Grunwald, the current interim General Manager of the Knicks that replaced Donnie Walsh last season, will likely remain in place for the 2011-2012 season. One of his main goals will be to bring Chris Paul into town.
So Chris Paul aside, what is in store for the upcoming 66 game season? Well, the Knicks are still licking their wounds following their disappointing first round playoff sweep at the hands of the Celtics last season. Chemistry and health will be the keys to their success. Following the Melo trade last season, the Knicks went 14-18... hardly anything to write home about. The lockout certainly hasn't helped, but expectations are still high..
A starting five of Melo, Amare, Billups, Fields and Turiaf, along with head coach Mike D'Antoni, does put the Knicks on the championship radar based on ability and confidence. However, that alone won't be enough. Unfortunately due to the previously mentioned trade, it has left the bench rather bare, and this was highlighted when injuries came into the picture at the back end of last season. It is clear that more help is needed inside in order to help them take the extra step, so look for the Knicks to acquire someone along the lines of Samuel Dalembert or Andris Beidrins.
Interestingly, demand for ticket sales remains strong despite the Knicks being one of the most expensive tickets to buy in the NBA, so if that any indication to go by, then both expectations and hope come into play.
Prediction: One can't expect NBA Champions this season, but a move for CP3 could change that picture dramatically. However, realistically, a second round exit is the likely result based on the current team and the competition in the East.
The Fantasy Dudes are experienced fantasy experts that provide regular fantasy football and basketball advice. Not sure who to pick up off your waiver wire? Potential trades? Draft strategy? Uncertain on who to start? Looking for general NFL/NBA discussion? Talk to The Fantasy Dudes!!!
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The business end of the season is upon us... for some, it may have already started, and for others, will begin next week. It becomes ever so crucial to solidify your lineup, and to also get insurance where possible. The trade deadline has now passed in many leagues, meaning that the waiver wire now becomes your best friend should you be needing assistance, hence it highlights the importance of finding the right player that suits your needs. Luckily for you, The Fantasy Dudes have done the analysis for you, as such, here are the players you should target for week 13 of the NFL... surprisingly, there is still value left on the board:
Vince Young, QB, Philadelphia Eagles: The first of a few Eagles in this article. Vince has stepped in for the injured Vick and has done a fine job from a fantasy perspective... over 650 yards and 3 touchdowns through the air, and a further 45 yards on the ground, in just two games. A short week for the Eagles means that Vick may sit again. If he does, Vince makes another strong case for a start should you need to fill a void as the Eagles face the Seahawks. Vince is owned in only 6% of standard leagues.
Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins: Just who is the starting back at Washington? Tim Hightower? Ryan Torain? Nope, it now appears to be Roy Helu. His powerful running and ability to catch the pass out of the backfield makes him a viable fantasy play. While we do find it hard to hang our hat on any Washington running back given the history, but Helu has put together some strong performances (over 150 all purpose yards last week), hence the Shanahans would be mad not to start him. Roy is owned in 33% of standard leagues.
Maurice Morris, RB, Detroit Lions: Many wrote Morris off after Kevin Smith came into the picture, including us. However, with Smith suffering from an ankle sprain, and Best on IR, Morris is the man right now. His value comes particularly with receptions given the nature of how the Lions play. He had 9 receptions for 81 yards last week. Note, if Smith does play, then Morris takes a back seat. Maurice is owned in only 32% of standard leagues after a huge drop prior to the thanksgiving game.
CJ Spiller, RB, Buffalo Bills: In case you have been living under a rock this past week, Fred Jackson has been placed on injured reserve, meaning CJ now has the chance to show everyone what he has to offer. Last week he only had 55 yards, but he did carry the ball 19 times. Pick him up if he is available. CJ is owned in 74% of standard fantasy leagues.
Donald Brown, RB, Indianapolis Colts: Donald is an interesting one. It is really hard to recommend anyone on the Colts this season, especially given their lack of scoring, but with a new quarterback, they will likely lean more on the run. We should note that his 80 yards on the weekend came against the terrible Panthers run D, hence they made him look good. He, and not Addai, is the one to own right now. Donald is owned in just under 12% of standard leagues.
Peyton Hillis, RB, Cleveland Browns: This may surprise you, but some owners have given up on the Madden cursed running back, and we have received questions recently if he should be picked up. Our answer, and it should have been picked up from the weekend, is absolutely yes... run, don't walk to the waiver wire. Peyton is owned in 84% of fantasy leagues.
Riley Cooper, WR, Philadelphia Eagles: If you are down on wide outs, and sit in a deep league, then Riley is well worth a look. With the team losing some of their wide receivers for various reasons, Riley has been handed a great opportunity, and he has grabbed it with both hands (excuse the pun) having recorded 8 catches for almost 150 yards and a touchdown over the past 2 games. Surprisingly, he is owned in less than 1% of standard fantasy leagues.
Darrius Heyward-Bay, WR, Oakland Raiders: We are big fans of DHB, although he has disappointed a little lately (doesn't help when you get carted off the field). However, last week he did lead the team in targets (10), and he caught 4 of them. Carson is starting to find his feet and DHB should benefit. Darrius is owned in 26% of standard leagues.
Santana Moss, WR, Washington Redskins: Santana returned from injury last weekend, and showed off his usual skills. If he is available, go and get him now. He is owned in only 58% of standard fantasy leagues.
Brent Celek, TE, Philadelphia Eagles: Production continues to increase, especially given DeSean is in the doghouse, and Maclin has been injured. Brent has caught 29 passes for over 340 yards over his past 5 games. With Seattle and Miami on deck, the touchdowns should surely come. Brent is owned in just over 24% of standard leagues.
New England Patriots D/ST: Have showed significant signs of improvement over the past few weeks, and have totaled 9 interceptions over their past 6 games, including two taken all the way to the house. Face a Colts team in disarray, as they start Dan Orlovsky at QB this week (he hasn't started a game since 2008). This unit is owned in 58% of standard fantasy leagues.
Others we have mentioned in the past that should not be forgotten: Andy Dalton, Toby Gerhart, Kevin Smith (could be good down the line come playoffs), Antonio Brown, Laurent Robinson, Nate Burleson, Jake Ballard, Denver Broncos D/ST.
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