At a little under two weeks removed from a time in which we are traditionally asked to give thanks, we now reach another point in which we can reminisce on all that we have to be thankful for: the end of the regular season of fantasy football.
So I look to you fantasy members of CHS. Give thanks to Eddie Lacy, who has spent more time in the line at McDonalds this year than in the end zone. Give thanks to Peyton Manning, who stood in the pocket and fearlessly refrained from mashing the help button on his Life Alert, even under the most daunting pressure. But most of all, give thanks to the Injured Reserve, a special place which has discriminated against none in opening its arms to all players.
Well, for some of you, Week 13 symbolized the end of a grisly fantasy season, but for others, the real challenge is yet to come. I’m not talking about finals week: I’m talking about the fantasy football playoffs.
While it is unreasonable to expect the waiver wire to carry your team through the playoffs, there are still a few unturned stones that may bolster your lineup.
While Tom Brady is still arguably the best quarterback in the league, it is undeniable that he is scrounging for receivers to throw to. WR Brandon LaFell had great opportunities to produce in his last two matchups, yet he came up short both times. Personally, I’m tired of watching LaFell underwhelm, so look to add TE Scott Chandler with Rob Gronkowski’s return still murky, and consider adding RB James White, who is seeing an increased role.
While the Miami Dolphins may look like a sputtering mess of a team, there is still fantasy value to be had. With WR Rishard Matthews out with a rib injury, rookie WR DeVante Parker has stepped up and carved out a prominent role in the passing attack, making a worthwhile add in any league.
Perhaps you have managed to squeak your way into the playoffs being carried on the shoulders of an inconsistent quarterback. With no more room for error, look to add Buffalo Bills QB Tyrod Taylor, who looks to stay hot entering a three game stretch of favorable matchups.
If Taylor doesn’t float your boat, maybe “Famous” Jameis Winston is the man for you. The rookie quarterback from Tampa Bay goes against the New Orleans Saints’ “defense” this week. A defense Uncle Rico could throw for 300 yards against.
So maybe this just wasn’t your year. It was probably because you just auto-drafted. Your friends will believe that.
-Zac File
