this-week-in-fantasy-football

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Looking Ahead - 2015 Wide Receivers

Now that the season is over and the playoffs are about to kick off, we wanted to shine a light on a few names to stash in the back of the mind. These are guys that we here at This Week in Fantasy Football are excited about for next year. Of course, a lot of this game depends on situation and there are plenty of teams that will be shifting gears, so we’ll take a closer look at everyone when training camps start next summer.

Here's the Wide Receivers

Odell Beckham Jr. (NYG) - This one's pretty easy to call because we all saw how much Beckham dominated the game at the end of the season. The reason I have to include him is because I am seriously thinking about taking him as the #1 WR next year. It would be hard to pass on Antonio Brown and Demaryus Thomas, obviously, but I don't think anyone is going to be complaining if they have this guy on their teams.

Keenana Allen (SD) - I know that I am a little biased because I live here in San Diego and Allen did have a fairly disappointing 2014. Yet, I find myself wanting to buy on the reduced price that is surely going to follow. All the talent is still there, so there's no reason to worry here. His slot in last year's draft was probably inflated but now he'll be where we can expect value for his services. Draft Accordingly.

Jarvis Landry (MIA) - By the end of the year, it seemed pretty obvious that Landry was becoming Tannehill's go-to guy in the receiving corps. With the status of the rest of them up in the air, I would expect Landry to continue his ascension. A pure possession receiver who doesn't drop the ball, this guy could catch 100 balls next year.

Martavius Bryant (PIT) - We could go down the line with all of the rookie receivers that impressed and that we're looking forward to seeing in 2015 but this article is about the guys I'm really excited about. As a fan, it was easy to see how Bryant really jumped off the screen a few times last year. It's pretty obvious that Markus Wheaton is just a guy (JAG), so I expect Bryant to make a leap in 2015. Right now, he's the biggest sleeper for me.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Looking Ahead - 2015 Running Backs

Now that the season is over and the playoffs are about to kick off, we wanted to shine a light on a few names to stash in the back of the mind. These are guys that we here at This Week in Fantasy Football are excited about for next year. Of course, a lot of this game depends on situation and there are plenty of teams that will be shifting gears, so we’ll take a closer look at everyone when training camps start next summer.

Here's the Running Backs

Eddie Lacy (GB) - Lacy was really consistent this year, behind only DeMarco when you look at the numbers. It's true that he started out a bit slow but by the end of the year he accumulated 1566 total yards with 13 touchdowns. There wasn't one game that stood out in the midst of all that production, so he was a fantasy manager's dream at a position that has become increasingly more volatile in recent years. In 2015, I expect Lacy to continue along his current development, in which he could grade out as the top RB when all is said and done.

Jeremy Hill (CIN) - So many of us allowed Hill to tumble into the hands of another team when we let him go after he underperformed through the first eight games of the season. Then he exploded with a 30 point game and eventually ended up as a top ten RB for fantasy this year. It doesn't take much to see that this guy is going to be a strong force for fantasy in the coming years. Sure, the Bengals still have Bernard on the roster but the two of those guys can co-exist. Scoop Hill up early in 2015 because he should produce another top ten season.

Lamar Miller (MIA) - It looks like Miller put to rest all those doubts about him carrying the load for Miami this year. Another late pick in drafts that ended up in the top ten, Miller became the go to guy for the Dolphins and looks to build on that great performance. 1374 total yards and 9 touchdowns will definitely get the job done and he still seems to be under the radar as 2014 came to a close. In 2015, he should come in confident and secure in his role for an offense that looks to continue growing.

Carlos Hyde (SF) - As of this writing, Frank Gore does not have a contract to run the ball for the 49ers. I would be very surprised if we don't see Hyde as the lead back in San Francisco next year. He showed us plenty of flashes with his limited action this season, so he's going to be on everyone's wish list in 2015.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Looking Ahead - 2015 Quarterbacks

Now that the season is over and the playoffs are about to kick off, we wanted to shine a light on a few names to stash in the back of the mind. These are guys that we here at This Week in Fantasy Football are excited about for next year. Of course, a lot of this game depends on situation and there are plenty of teams that will be shifting gears, so we'll take a closer look at everyone when training camps start next summer.

Here's the Quarterbacks!

Tony Romo (DAL) - The man everyone loves to hate. Well, we finally got to see what Romo could do when he has a good offensive line. He's been begging Dallas to improve the line for years and now that he has one of the best in the league, he was a steady force. He finished inside the top ten for fantasy, even while missing a game with the back injury. He only had three games with under 10 points and two of those were to start the season way back in weeks one and two. He threw 34 touchdowns with only 9 Interceptions and the Cowboys are dominating right now. They could easily run through the playoffs if Romo keeps it up. I'm expecting the Cowboys to build off this season and continue to play well going into 2015 and Romo will be at the head of that attack. I'll be looking to take Romo ahead of guys like Matt Ryan, Peyton and even Drew Brees.

Cam Newton (CAR) - I know that Newton let us down this year but as long as we were paying attention, we kinda saw it coming. He wasn't healthy to start the season and he was asked to take over the command of an entirely new receiver corps. There was no way that he could possibly live up to the expectations of being a top five QB for fantasy, which is what he's done since coming into the league back in 2011. But if we look at the second half of his season, he started playing with a lot more consistency and he looked a lot like the old Cam that we've come to know and love. At the draft table next year, most people are simply going to see his precipitous fall from the elite fantasy guys out there, so he could have a lot of value as a mid to late round selection.

Ryan Tannehill (MIA) - Tannehill's performance this year on the football field felt a little erratic. There were plenty of 12 point games for fantasy managers out there but if we mix in the three 30 point games he gave us, Tannehill was still rated as a top QB. He isn't a sexy name to grab on draft day, and who knows if he'll ever take the next step like we saw with Andrew Luck this year, but he's the perfect guy to pair with other solid QBs, like Philip Rivers, Roethlisberger or Eli Manning.

Nick Foles (PHI) - I have a feeling that Chip Kelly is going to be ecstatic to have Foles back behind center starting next year. Before he went down to injury, Foles was on his way to recording a solid, if not spectacular, season. He would have been a low end QB1, if he continued with his original pace. But the most important thing to take away from the situation in Philadelphia is how poorly Mark Sanchez performed in his absence. Sure, Sanchez wasn't terrible but there's no doubting that Foles is the man for the Eagles. There's going to be a lot of people out there who could forget about him come draft day next summer, making him a sweet value pick.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Wade and Rick reflect on the now-complete 2014 fantasy season. After Rick's loss in the league championship, it's time to look back on what made the season good and bad. What lessons have we learned? What players are trending up or down as the NFL season winds down? Who are the standouts and the below-the radar players to watch? Join us as we explore the most meaningful developments in football.

...

It's the end of the FF season, but there's a lot more football to play and TWiFF will be back very soon

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Pain or Gain in Week 16

Here are the injuries heading into this weekend's games (starting today!). Make sure that this important information doesn't have a negative affect during the crucial match-ups this weekend.

DeMarco Murray - RB (DAL): Here it is! How could we start with anyone else? Murray is listed as questionable but apparently it's all up to him whether or not he's going to play. The doctor's have given their approval and the coaches have said that it's just a pain threshold situation. All signs point to Murray playing this week in fantasy football and there's no way that we can take him out now after he got us all to the promised land.

Julius Thomas - TE (DEN): Thomas is supposedly almost back to 100% but, man, has this guy let us down when we needed him the most this year, or what? We have to play him unless we have another top ten option at the position.

Julio Jones - WR (ATL): This one is going to be a game time decision, folks, and what a tough one to figure out. Jones hasn't practiced all week, so even if he goes, he could be limited. But he also has the potential to explode in the most important game that the Falcons are going to play this year. Check the pre-game report and go with your gut if Jones is active.

Frank Gore - RB (SF): Gore is questionable for tonight's game but he hasn't fully passed the league protocol for concussions. He only needs to get beyond the final hurdle, so it's possible that he'll be on the field.

Carlos Hyde - RB (SF): Hyde is out with the back injury, right when he was about to get a lead role.

Steve Johnson - WR (SF): Johnson is out for the game tonight against the Chargers. He has a knee injury.

Michael Crabtree - WR (SF): Crabtree is listed as questionable with the knee injury that has been bothering him lately. Perhaps that's the reason he's been so terrible.

Philip Rivers - QB (SD): The infamous back injury that jumped upon us this week has us all talking about the San Diego QB's availability for tonight's game. There is no way that Rivers won't play against the 49ers.

Ryan Mathews - RB (SD): Mathews is still out this week, of course. How could we possibly count on this guy in fantasy? It seems like he's always out.

Keenan Allen - WR (SD): Allen is out with the broken collarbone, so get Eddie Royal to replace him.

C.J. Spiller - RB (BUF): Spiller is off the short-term IR and listed as probable for the game against Oakland. He'll play and could be a factor.

Cam Newton - QB (CAR): It looks like Newton is going to play this week in fantasy football but how much will he be limited by the back issue? Will he run, which is important for him to be relevant? Could he be pulled if something creeps up during the game? These are all major concerns but the Panthers are still in the hunt for a division title, so he could also have a great game.

DeAngelo Williams - RB (CAR): Williams may play but apparently he won't be used much, if at all.

Jamaal Charles - RB (KC): Apparently, the ankle was bothering Charles a bit last week, as he underperformed against Oakland when we all expected an epic performance. Well, now they're saying that he's back to full steam ahead, so keep him going, gamers.

Roy Helu - RB (WAS): Helu is listed as probable for the game against the Eagles tonight. The birds have a really tough run D but that could help Helu, as they may just take to the air, which is where he truly excels. UPDATE: Helu is inactive for today's game. Surprising!

DeAndre Hopkins - WR (HOU): Hopkins is a game time decision and though he's been great all year, it seems like the worst time to have him on our teams. Case Keenum will start at QB for Houston after being there for just one week, so even if the wideout plays, he could have a bad game when we need him the most.

Andre Johnson - WR (HOU): Johnson is returning from the concussion that kept him out of last week's game. He's good to go but, of course, Keenum will be throwing the ball to him.

Julian Edelman - WR (NE): Edelman is in the same situation as Gore, except he has one more day to get healthy. We'll see early on Sunday if he's active. UPDATE: Edelman has been ruled out for tomorrow's game.

Kyle Rudolph - TE (MIN): Rudolph isn't going to play.

Rashad Jennings - RB (NYG): Jennings is out for the game this week against the Rams, who have a dominant front seven, so we're not missing much. Andre Williams will start in his stead.

T.Y. Hilton - WR (IND): It sure doesn't look like Hilton is going to play this week in fantasy football. That's a bummer because he's been so solid. I would grab Donte Moncrief, who should get most of Hilton's targets if the starter doesn't go as expected.

Eddie Lacy - RB (GB): Lacy has an eye irritation that is supposedly severely limiting his eyesight. He's going to play (with goggles) but this is one of those strange injuries that throws us all for a loop.

Peyton Manning - QB (DEN): Let's end this with our main man Peyton. He's questionable with the thigh but he's going to play. Maybe he can give us a worthy performance this week in fantasy football.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Rick and Wade discuss the upcoming finals in their main league, with the hopes that Rick can bring home a trophy. They also get a surprise guest who reveals some insight on what it means to be a first time manager in fantasy football.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Replacing the Fallen in Week 16

Week 16 is championship week for most leagues, as many often forgo the final week in the NFL because teams have a tendency to rest some players. No one should lose their fantasy championships for those kind of reasons. I'm sure that most of the teams that have made it this far may not need to boost their squad but we did have some injuries that may affect lineups. Let's take a look.

Quarterbacks

I know that it's hard to believe but perhaps you've made it this far relying on Ryan Fitzpatrick or Colt McCoy. Or maybe you are still looking to replace Cam Newton, in case he doesn't make it back this week. Here are the replacements behind those guys.

Case Keenum (HOU) - Keenum was signed back to the team after both Fitzpatrick and the rookie Tom Savage went down this past week. Keenum flashed occasionally last year and they do have the Ravens coming to town, who aren't known for their secondary play. Case Keenum is truly a desperate play this week in fantasy football.

Robert Griffin III (WAS) - Griffin takes over (again) for the Washington team that lost McCoy for the rest of the season. It's not like McCoy was winning games in real life or fantasy. Griffin looked okay in relief on Sunday and now gets a Philadelphia team that gave up plenty of points to Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys. RGIII is a decent play this week.

Derek Anderson (CAR) - Anderson played a solid game, leading the Panthers to victory over the Bucs. If Cam doesn't play for another week, Derek gets the Browns who got shutout this past Sunday. You can swing with Anderson again if you need him to back up Newton.

Running Backs

Oh, the horror! We've been riding all season on the back of DeMarco Murray and now he goes and breaks his hand. Supposedly, he could still play this week but it's a truly terrifying thought that we could be without him after he brought us to the promise land.

Joseph Randle (DAL) - If DeMarco can't go, it'll be Randle who gets most of the carries. Lance Dunbar will get some work catching passes out of the backfield but Randle will be a nice play this week in fantasy football. He's not Murray but he'll be solid, especially against a Colts D that is ranked 27th against the run.

Donald Brown (SD) - I know that Brandon Oliver gets the most carries when Ryan Mathews isn't playing, which, let's face it, happens way too often, but I don't expect anybody to really be good against the 49ers on Sunday. Donald Brown has the legs to break one, if it comes down to it, but he's not the best play for week 16.

Wide Receivers

Staying in San Diego, the Chargers lost Keenan Allen for the season when he broke his collarbone against the Broncos. We also were stuck without the hero from week 14, Julio Jones, though it wasn't such a bad let down if you backed him up properly.

Harry Douglas (ATL) - Those of you who plugged Douglas into the lineup when Jones was inactive reaped the benefits, as he went off to the tune of 14 targets, 10 catches and 131 yards. Douglas proved to be quite capable, not Julio, but good enough. He's a solid play this weekend against the Saints D that isn't very good against the pass.

Eddie Royal (SD) - Royal will be the guy who takes most of those targets that went Allen's way. He has a tough match-up against the 49ers but we've seen plenty of games where Philip Rivers makes plenty of receivers look good, even against a tough opponent. Royal could flash this week in fantasy football.

Tight Ends

There were no significant injuries to any tight ends during week 15 but if you really need a promising play this week, here you go.

Owen Daniels (BAL) - Daniels hasn't been great this year. He's old in a young man's game, but he had plenty of targets this past week and scored a TD. Flacco could look his way again, so if you're desperate, he's probably still available.

Team Defense

Carolina Panthers - The Panthers are the second team that get to face Johnny Manziel. I know that we promoted the rookie here at TWiFF for a couple of weeks now but we can't deny how bad he played against Cincinnati. Now, maybe it was just a tough start to a promising career but I'm sure that Ron Rivera and the Panthers are watching the tape of that game, so they can get after the arrogant rookie, as well.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Pain or Gain in Week 15

Injury Updates for tomorrow's games.

Julio Jones - WR (ATL): Julio is still hurting after he injured his hip during his monster performance last Monday night. Apparently, he is having trouble running and probably won't go this weekend. For all of you gamers out there who were looking forward to the prime playmaker this week in fantasy football, it's time to look elsewhere.

Denard Robinson - RB (JAC): Robinson has been placed on injured reserve, ending his season. He was a nice surprise during the mid part of the fantasy schedule but hasn't performed so well lately. Toby Gerhart should take over his lead role from the beginning of the year.

Torrey Smith - WR (BAL): Smith is listed as probable this week, although he hasn't really practiced and supposedly doesn't look good going into and out of his breaks. I'd be surprised if he makes an impact this Sunday, even if he is active on game day.

Jamaal Charles - RB (KC): Charles is good to go against an Oakland defense that he looks to terrorize. Yay!

Colt McCoy - QB (WAS): McCoy has been cleared to play and will be under center against the Giants.

Eddie Lacy - RB (GB): Lacy is listed as probable, which is optimistic after hearing about how much the hip was bothering him. He should be a nice play this week in fantasy football but could cede some extra touches to James Starks in the process.

Cam Newton - QB (CAR): Cam won't play against the Bucs, due to the crazy accident he was involved in during the week. This is unfortunate because Tampa bay gives it up through the air, which makes Derek Anderson, Cam's replacement, a nice fill-in.

DeAngelo Williams - RB (CAR): DeAngelo is listed as doubtful, so he's not going to play, which means that J-Stew could be a playoff wonder for the second week in a row.

Isaiah Crowell - RB (CLE): Crowell is doing much better with the hip issue than last week when he split time with Terrance West. Crowell has a nice match-up this week against the Bengals and should get more carries than last week, though West will still be involved.

C.J. Anderson - RB (DEN): The lead back for the Broncos is listed as probable against the Chargers and should carry the load. It's fortunate because we really didn't know what to expect after he left the game late last week.

Ryan Mathews - RB (SD): In the same game, it looks like Mathews will not play after he suffered an ankle injury. Hopefully you have someone to back him up, as Brandon Oliver will probably carry the load against Denver, which has a solid run D, so there's very little upside there.

Andre Johnson - WR (HOU): AJ is listed as questionable because he still hasn't cleared the concussion protocol. It could happen but don't count on it.

Charles Clay - TE (MIA): Clay has been a perpetual fixture on the injury reports this year in fantasy football and he's listed as questionable for the week 15 match-up against the hated Patriots. He'll probably be active but there's no telling how productive he will be.

Roy Helu - RB (WAS): Helu won't play against the Giants. Silas Redd will take over Helu's 3rd down role in Washington's backfield.

Julius Thomas - TE (DEN): Thomas is listed as probable, after missing out for the last two weeks. He's good to go and should be a productive part of Denver's offense, once again.

DeSean Jackson - WR (WAS): DeSean was able to get in more work this week but is still a game time decision. he probably won't do much this week, even if he's active tomorrow.

Percy Harvin - WR (NYJ): Harvin is listed as questionable and will be a game time decision. He says he's ready but what does that really mean? He might play but the Jets offense plus the injury make him a risky play during a crucial week.

Rashad Jennings - RB (NYG): Jennings is doing much better than last week and should get more touches. After Andre Williams finally exploded during Jennings' absence, it may be more of a committee in New York this week.

Kendall Wright - WR (TEN): Wright is questionable with the broken wrist. Just the fact that he might still play at receiver with a broken wrist is impressive but none of us should expect a whole lot from the Titans #1 guy.

Ronnie Hillman - RB (DEN): Hillman is questionable after the long layoff. He finally got some work at practice but Anderson will still be the guy in Denver. Hillman isn't an option this week in fantasy football.

Jace Amaro - TE (NYJ): Amaro has finally been cleared with the concussion. He's a full go against the Titans and could be a sneaky play at TE.

Corderelle Patterson - WR (MIN): Corderelle has been limited at practice all week and is listed as questionable. It doesn't matter, this guy can't be used, gamers.

Reggie Bush - RB (DET): Bush is listed as questionable with the ankle. I wouldn't play him, because we all know that he's just going to aggravate the ankle again as soon as he steps onto the field this Sunday.

Stevie Johnson - WR (SF): Johnson has been ruled out for the game against the Seahawks. Brandon Lloyd takes his spot in the lineup but I wouldn't touch the 49ners this week in fantasy football.

Brandon Marshall - WR (CHI): We all saw the injury two Thursdays ago but if you didn't know, Marshall has been put on injured reserve. He won't play until 2015.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Sweet Match-ups for Playoff Victory

Let's take a look at a couple of players that could steal the show this week in fantasy football because they have the type of match-ups that only dreams are made of.

Quarterbacks

Eli Manning (NYG vs WAS) - I hate to say it but I'm going to endorse the younger Manning on This Week in Fantasy Football. In the past I've continuously drank the haterade when it comes to Eli but I can't ignore the match-up here during a crucial playoff week. He should have no problem carving up a Washington team that is in total disarray. I would start him over guys like Tony Romo, Kaepernick, Joe Flacco and maybe even Philip Rivers, who will forever be linked to Eli in San Diego lore because that damn Manning wasn't going to play for the Chargers, no matter what!

Derek Anderson (CAR vs TB) - What the hell just happened to all you Cam Newton owners out there? After personally providing many of us with victories in week 14, we were all broadsided by this crazy accident that will keep him off the football field for the unforeseeable future. Perhaps, the worst part about it for us in the fantasy community is that he was going to play the Tamp Bay Buccaneers, a match-up that had all of us licking our chops. Well, now Derek Anderson enters the equation and there's no reason he can't be productive this week. If you lost Cam and don't know what to do, act like you're Ron Rivera and plug Anderson right into your lineup.

Running Backs

Latavius Murray (OAK vs KC) - I know that the Kansas City defense appears to be one of the better units in football, so the match-up doesn't look so great on paper, but lately the Chiefs have been giving it up on the ground. If we just look back three weeks ago, Murray gouged them to the tune of 112 yards on just 4 carries and crossed the goal line twice. This is a prime match-up for the Oakland RB during a prime week in fantasy football.

Chris Johnson (NYJ vs TEN) - Remember when Chris Johnson was the premier back to own in fantasy football? It seems like ages ago and many of us have been burned over the past couple of years thinking that CJ was going to catch lightning in a bottle again. Well, if you look closely at his workload the past couple of weeks, it seems like the coaching staff has decided to feed him the rock, as if he were still a premier back. Now, he gets his former team in his former building and the Titans just happen to be the worst team against the run this season. For this week in fantasy football, look for Johnson to bring the fantasy gold, once again.

Isaiah Crowell (CLE vs CIN) - Yes, he did get a little hip injury during practice last week and that caused him to share the load with Terrance West but let's face it, Crowell is the man out in Cleveland. Now, he gets a Bengals defense that has given up the second most production to opposing RBs and who just put their best LB on inured reserve. Play Crowell with confidence over the likes of Rashad Jennings, Alfred Morris and Frank Gore.

Tre Mason (STL vs ARI) - Tomorrow night we'll see a St. Louis team that is absolutely dominating on defense and a cardinals offense that is reeling under Drew Stanton. I expect to see a very lopsided affair in this one and Mason will carry the load for a Rams offense that won't need to do a whole lot, except run out the clock.

Wide Receivers

Jordan Matthews (PHI vs DAL) - The last time we saw the Eagles face the Cowboys, it was Thanksgiving day in Dallas and Philadelphia absolutely dominated. Jordan scored a TD in that one and has been a scoring machine of late, crossing the goal line five times in the last six games.

Steve Smith (BAL vs JAC) - For those of us who drafted Smith in the late rounds back in August, we were pleasantly surprised to realize that our WR4 was playing like a WR1 to start the season. Smith quickly fell back to earth during the midweeks and we all despaired at our misfortune. Well, it seems like Smith is back in the good graces of the fantasy gods because Torrey Smith is dealing with a significant knee sprain. Now, I'm not one to revel in the pain of others but for this week in fantasy football, Smith is going to get plenty of looks as the #1 guy in Baltimore.

Roddy White (ATL vs PIT) - Same thing goes for White because it sure looks like Julio Jones won't be able to suit up on Sunday. The Atlanta offense looked great against a tough GB defense last Monday and now they get a beatable Steelers team. If Jones is inactive, look for White to have a huge game.

Martavius Bryant (PIT vs ATL) - On the other side of the ball during that same game, look for the rookie playmaker to exploit a terrible Falcons secondary. Bryant can absolutely fly down the field and Big Ben has always been one of the better long range passers in the NFL. I wouldn't be surprised to see a ton of yards and TD or two from this guy on Sunday.

Tight End

Jared Cook (STL vs ARI) - The Arizona Cardinals are notorious for giving up major production to TEs and Jared Cook loves to bring it against the division foe, averaging almost 100 yards and a TD per game against them since he moved over to the Rams. I know that he may be one of the most frustrating fantasy players ever, due to such inconsistency, but don't allow that to cloud your vision. This match-up is what dreams are made of.

Heath Miller (PIT vs ATL) - Didn't we expect more out of Heath Miller this year? That's what keeps coming to me when I think about this guy but you know what? He hasn't been that terrible lately and though he only caught one pass last week, he made it count by crossing the goal line. He should keep the good vibes going this week in fantasy football in what should be a high scoring affair.

Team Defense

Cleveland Browns (vs CIN) - The way the Browns attacked Andrew Luck and the Colts last week, I kept wondering, Where the hell have these guys been all year? The Browns should have easily won that game and I just have a feeling that they will continue producing from here on out. They get the Bengals offense this week, which has offered up some juicy stats to opposing Ds a few times this year. Plus, it's Johnny Football time in Cleveland and wouldn't it be wonderful for the defense to provide a few opportunities for the talented rookie signal caller?

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Some Names for Week 15

This week in Fantasy Football, we need players that will give us a win. If you're still playing, here are a couple of guys that could be available in your league this late in the game and could be worth the risk.

Quarterbacks

Johnny Manziel (CLE) - I'll double down on Manziel this week. They have to play him now, right? Brian Hoyer has devolved into terrible and the Browns playoff chances are slipping away. How about a spark to end the season, Cleveland?

Running Backs

Knile Davis (KC) - If you own Jamaal Charles and don't have this guy as the handcuff, then your tempting fate. Charles is terrifying us every week now with all of his nagging aches and pains. If he goes down, there goes your season, unless you have Davis, who will step in and provide value.

Juwan Thompson (DEN) - Same thing goes for Thompson, if you're a C.J. Anderson owner. Anderson hurt his ankle during the win over Buffalo and Thompson looked great in the second half.

Ben Tate (MIN) - Remember this guy? Many of us drafted him as our second or third RB this season when he was named the starter out in Cleveland. Well, that seems like ages ago but now he's in Minnesota and the only thing keeping him from carries is an unproductive Matt Asiata. He may not get a huge workload but it sounds like he's going to get more involved this week.

Wide Receivers

Cole Beasley (DAL) - For three weeks now, Beasley has looked serviceable and with Terrance Williams dealing with the broken finger, Beasley could continue his nice little run. Besides, look at that hair!

Charles Johnson (MIN) - Three weeks ago, we promoted Johnson as a nice flyer. Since then, he's been the 11th best receiver during that span and he's playing more snaps than anyone else on the Vikings. They've fallen in love with this guy out there but his schedule does look a bit daunting, as he gets the Lions and the Dolphins, two top five units. He has risk but he's going to have the opportunity.

Marquess Wilson (CHI) - Wilson will step into the Brandon Marshall starting role down the stretch. So there's opportunity here, as well, with a nice match-up this week against a bad Saints secondary.

Tight Ends

Jordan Cameron (CLE) - Cameron finally made his return, following his third concussion in three years. he performed admirably, leading the Browns in catches and yards on Sunday. He's got the Bengals and the Panthers for the next two weeks, which should do very nicely at a position that has killed us all year.

Team Defense

St. Louis Rams - I don't know what to say, except that you must pick these guys up if they are still available in your league. They are dominating right now! Nuff said.

New York Giants - The Giants defense has not been great this year but they have a couple of meatballs to end the season, with Washington coming to town, then catching the Rams in week 16. They showed on Sunday that they're capable of doing some damage against the right opponent.

[this-week-in-fantasy-football]

Pain or Gain in Week 14

Here are the significant injuries as they relate to fantasy.

DeSean Jackson - RB (WAS): Jackson is listed as questionable with the knee but it doesn't look like he's going to play. Even if he does, he would be severely limited, capping his big play ability. Perhaps, Pierre Garcon will finally get some love this weekend.

DeAngelo Williams - RB (CAR): Williams is not going to play this weekend. The broken finger is keeping him out, which is good news for Jonathan Stewart's workload.

Kendall Wright - WR (TEN): It looks like Wright isn't going to be on the field this weekend, as he's listed as doubtful. That's bad news for the Titans offense, after losing Justin Hunter last week to the lacerated spleen.

Isaiah Crowell - RB (CLE): Crowell is listed as questionable with a hip injury, which is rather unfortunate because he was just anointed the leader of the pack for the Browns. He's probably going to play but check his status early on Sunday.

Jordan Cameron - TE (CLE): Cameron is listed as questionable because he hasn't been medically cleared with the concussion. It could happen by Sunday but no one should be counting on that.

Roddy White - WR (ATL): White is trying desperately to get on the field for Monday's night game but he hasn't practice at all this week, so it doesn't look promising. We saw this last year with the ankle, whenever he didn't practice he either didn't play or didn't provide much production. I would avoid White this weekend.

Jerick McKinnon - RB (MIN): The back is really bothering the Vikings RB and all appearances point to him missing at least one more game. We'll see how he looks next week.

Rashad Jennings - RB (NYG): Jennings was limited this week with the ankle issue and even if he plays, it doesn't look like he's going to have his regular load nor would I expect him to be very effective.

Zach Mettenberger - QB (TEN): For those of you who were looking for the rookie to boost your teams in the playoffs due to his nice schedule, you'd better find another avenue to go down. Mettenberger is probably going to play but he's down to his 3rd and 4th receivers.

Dwayne Allen - TE (IND): Allen is probable for the game against the Browns. He's back just in time for the playoffs. Play him with confidence.

Andre Ellington - RB (ARI): Ellington won't play this weekend, as the Cardinals really need to get him healthy. He's been playing hurt all year and the hip injury is just the cherry on top. Tough luck for those owners that have been relying on him.

Sammy Watkins - WR (BUF): Watkins also has a hip injury that has been bothering him for a couple of weeks. He's listed as probable but don't expect too much, as he's been limited all week at practice.

Larry Fitzgerald - WR (ARI): The Fitz will be a game time decision. I think that he's going to play but he could be limited. Does that matter for a veteran of his caliber? I don't know what to make of it.

Jamaal Charles - RB (KC): Charles is going to play, despite the bruised knee. It's not really a problem beyond pain tolerance. The number one pick is ready for playoff action, gamers!

Charles Clay - TE (MIA): Clay is questionable and will be a game time decision. The Dolphins are playing early, so check his status, if you need him that badly.

Julius Thomas - TE (DEN): It looks like Thomas is going to play, though he's listed as questionable, so check his status. He does have a late game, so pick someone up who can fill in, if he's inactive on game day.

Demaryius Thomas - WR (DEN): D Thom is listed as probable...like he wasn't going to play. There's no worries here.

Reggie Bush - RB (DET): Bush is back for the playoffs! But none of us know what kind of role he's going to have with the crowded backfield out there in Detroit.

Torrey Smith - WR (BAL): It looked like the knee was going to be a problem for Smith this week but the guy healed quickly. He's listed as probable and should be good to go. Let's see if he stays hot.

Latavius Murray - RB (OAK): Murray is probable with the concussion. he's been cleared to play and makes a nice flex play, even though the match-up is pretty tough.

Justin Forsett - RB (BAL): The free agent pickup for the year in fantasy is listed as questionable. Will all the goodness that we experienced all season vanish just when we need it the most? The knee doesn't appear to be a major problem, so I would play him as you usually would, gamers.

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It's playoff time! Let's get ready, as Rick and Wade have a first round match-up. hope all the TWiFFers out there had just as successful seasons as the rest of us.

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Picking Up for the Playoffs

Most likely, it's the playoffs for a lot of leagues out there and there just happens to be plenty of options to help with all the holes on your rosters.

Quarterbacks

Johnny Manziel (CLE) - We've been waiting all year for Manziel to take over in Cleveland but Brian Hoyer kept us on the edge of our seats with mediocre play and a winning record. Well, the last few weeks have finally revealed Hoyer's true colors and it's not a pretty sight. Manziel entered in the fourth quarter of the game this past Sunday against the Bills and immediately put a TD on board, thanks to his scrambling ability. Though he didn't do much the rest of the game, it reminded us all about how exciting he can be under center. Will he lead the Browns to the playoffs? And fantasy teams to the championship? Anything's possible.

Ryan Fitzpatrick (HOU) - The Fitz led all QBs in week 13, actually helping many owners gain playoff berths. Now, I'm sure that there weren't very many teams that had the Texans QB at the helm this past week but his abundance did rub off on a few of his teammates, namely one DeAndre Hopkins who went over 200 and a touchdown. Fitzpatrick's schedule going forward is very friendly, so we may see more games like this

Running Backs

Jonathan Stewart (CAR) - It seems pretty apparent that there is only one RB to own in Carolina and with D Will going down with a broken finger this past weekend, we have a reason to get excited about Stewart, once again. Yes, he's been a disappointment since fantasy football was invented but there's really nothing to stop him from getting volume the rest of the year.

Roy Helu (WAS) - Helu has carved out a pretty nice role as the third down, pass catching RB in Washington. He may not get 20 touches a game but he will get a few carries and a few catches, which could add up to a few points at a position that is in need of a few extra points. He's definitely worth a pickup in PPR leagues and deeper formats.

Wide Receivers

Donte Moncrief (IND) - Here we go with another rookie receiver that's looking very beasty. Moncrief has obviously moved into the third WR role in Indiannapolis and I wouldn't be surprised to see him getting as much work as Reggie Wayne going forward. he has all the physical gifts to excel and Andrew Luck is throwing him the ball. What's not to like?

Kenny Stills (NO) - To think that this guy is owned in less than 50% of most leagues. It was pretty apparent on Sunday that Stills is the number one WR out in New Orleans. His schedule is looks extremely promising, so plug and play with this one, gamers.

Marqise Lee (JAC) - I just have a feeling that we are going to see some fun football with Lee and Bortles the rest of the season. All the promising potential that made Lee a high draft pick this year came out this past weekend. He should be starting the rest of the way, so we could see more games with plenty of targets, and the combo of Al Rob and Marqise next season will be pretty exciting.

Tight Ends

Jordan Reed (WAS) - Reed has been struggling with injuries all season but he's such an incredible athlete that we all kept waiting for him to blow up. Well, he laid down 9 catches for 123 yards on Sunday and with McCoy behind center going forward, he could be a nice safety valve for the third string QB. Scoop him up if you're in dire need of a TE for the playoffs and the man just might help you win a championship.

Team Defense

Minnesota Vikings - The Vikings get the Jets this weekend, which is a perfect piece of delicious cake for the first round of the playoffs. Feast on that dessert, gamers!

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Live Tweeting Turkey Day

Hey TWiFFers, hang out with us on Twitter today. We'll be live-tweeting the day of football, starting now with Bears-Lions.

https://twitter.com/twiffdotnet

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Heading into Week 13, you're either already in the playoffs or fighting to get in or standing on the outside looking in. Rick and Wade discuss some strategies to help with this week and beyond because we all know that on any given Sunday anything can happen.

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Final Free Agent Push For Week Thirteen

We've really come to the end of the line here in fantasy and nothing makes that more clear than a desperate attempt to add to our lineups at this point in the game. Here's a few that might help.

Quarterbacks

Zach Mettenberger (TEN) - We had Zach on the site a few weeks ago and the only reason I wish to bring him up again is because I keep hearing noise about how much he looks like a legitimate NFL QB. He's been putting up close to 300 yards every game, so they aren't afraid to let him sling the ball around out there in Tennessee.

Running Backs

Pierre Thomas (NO) - Thomas finally returned from those nagging injuries and stepped right into the pass catching role for the Saints. Ingram seems to be the primary ball carrier out in New Orleans but Pierre will get his, as well.

LeGarrette Blount (NE) - Who knows if Blount is going to have another big day for the Patriots the rest of the year? Or if Jonas Gray gets his role back and Blount doesn't do anything? We will never know with Bellichek but if you're willing to take a chance, you could be rewarded.

Daniel Herron (IND) - What does it say about T-Rich that Herron came in and out performed him this past weekend? Herron will take over the Bradshaw part of the committee out in Indiannapolis.

Wide Receivers

Stedman Bailey (STL) - A couple of weeks ago, I was listening to an interview with a scout who raved about how Bailey is ready to take over the lead role in St. Louis. Well, it looks like it took a couple of extra weeks for the coaching staff to get the memo.

Marquiss Wilson (CHI) - I remember all the talk back in the preseason about how this season was going to be Wilson's coming out party. Then he got hurt and we haven't heard from him since. Well, he's back and he got three targets this past weekend. Not a bunch but his role should grow from here and there's plenty of production in that offense to make him relevant.

Tight Ends

Garrett Graham (HOU) - I always thought Graham would put up some decent numbers but unfortunately, he's been really erratic, which has been the story with almost everyone at the position this year. Well, he's been dishing out that scratch for the past two weeks, so maybe he's gonna produce for us down the stretch.

Team Defense

St. Louis Rams - The Rams defense, which held such promise heading into the season, seems to finally be living up to the hype. They could be a nice addition for the stretch run but especially this week when they play the Raiders.

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Let's take a look at all the best free agent pickups for the year. We all love to think about how great we are at drafting our teams but there are always a few great waiver wire studs that come out of nowhere. Who was it this year? And who are the big adds for week twelve? Of course, Rick and Wade discuss Jonas Gray, among others, as well as, our favorite quarterback.