Editor’s note: Each week of the NFL season, Pipe Dream Sports writer Mary Martellotta will give advice on who to start, who to sit and who to add in your fantasy football league.
The week seven bye is upon us, taking with it some of the most productive and reliable fantasy players. With teams like the Bears, Packers, Broncos and Bengals off this week, fantasy owners will be hard-pressed to find last-minute replacements. Especially with the lingering injuries of key players over the last few weeks, getting through this bye week unscathed will be difficult. There aren’t many great pickups left on the waiver wire this late in the season, but if you’re finding yourself in a difficult situation, these picks will help you capture a win.
Quarterbacks:
Alex Smith (KC): At a surprising 40.1 percent owned in ESPN standard leagues, he is the best option among the available quarterbacks on waivers. At home this week against the Steelers, Smith and the Chiefs’ offense shouldn’t have too much trouble against a defense ranked 26th in the league against the pass. Combined with the Steelers weak secondary, the loss of running back Jamaal Charles and consequently the Chiefs’ running game, Smith should be passing much more. This could lead to an increase in his total yards and touchdowns.
Ryan Fitzpatrick (NYJ): Only owned in 19 percent of leagues, Fitzpatrick should definitely be able to hold his own this week against New England. Although Fitzpatrick will most likely throw an interception or two, the Jets strong offensive line should continue to give him all the time he needs to keep his passing yards around 200 for the game. Fitzpatrick also gains fantasy preference with his ability to gain rushing yards, and on occasion, a rushing touchdown.
Plug-and-play defenses:
Philadelphia Eagles: Currently owned in 65.7 percent of leagues, the Eagles defense is a solid play this week against Carolina. Continuing their success this season, with the proven potential for a great performance, should instill confidence in owners. With their new standing as a top defense, they’re a solid play this week in a pinch.
Minnesota Vikings: At 44.3 percent owned, they are a good bet this week away against Detroit. While they haven’t been consistently putting up high points this season, they’re able to take advantage of offensive missteps, which Detroit can be full of. If the Vikings can capitalize on mistakes, they have the potential to put up major points.
Sleeper pick:
Benjamin Watson TE (NO): At only 34.7 percent owned, fantasy players may want to consider picking him up before he gets on everyone’s radar. With only one high-scoring week behind him, many are waiting to see if he continues along that path before sacrificing a bench spot for him. Even if you didn’t plan on starting him this week against the Colts, I would most definitely pick him up. Now that quarterback Drew Brees has found a consistent connection with Watson, there is the potential for the tight end to become a member of the fantasy elite.
Last Week’s Picks
Shane Veeren (NYG)– 0 points Allen Hurns (JAX)– 9 points Willie Snead (NO)– 5 points Gary Barnidge (CLE)– 15 points