Heading into the final weeks of the regular season, the time is now to make a run for the postseason. With the standard trade deadline nearly here, many owners are looking to be aggressive and perfect their roster approaching the playoffs. With that means every start and sit decision means almost double the value for some of those hopeful teams. Here are my selections for some of those possible aggressive plays this week.
Brandon’s Picks:
Two players you should start this week:
• Rob Gronkowski – Missing six games due to a back injury was tough on “Gronk” owners this season. In his true return against the Giants, the top-tier tight end caught six passes on eight targets. Not only was his target share at normal levels, but his yards-per-catch average also reached double digits like his first three performances. What we’ve learned is when “Gronk” is on the field, his long-time teammate will throw him the football. Look for Brady to find his trusted target often against an upstart Colts defense needing a home win this week.
• DJ Moore – With the return of Cam Newton, the Carolina offense has felt a boost in productivity. The former MVP has brought a sense of hope to a team and fanbase that was down in the dumps from injuries and mistakes. While many believed the Panthers’ passing attack would deplete under Newton, it has actually improved in terms of completion percentage (57.6% to 76.8%). What does this mean for Moore? A better chance of catching the football. Facing a vulnerable Dolphins secondary, there should be no problem for Moore to continue his large PPR output and make big plays in Week 12.
Two players you should sit this week:
• D’Onta Foreman – This season has been an injury nightmare for the Tennessee Titans. They not only lost early season MVP candidate Derrick Henry to IR but have now have seen backups Darrynton Evans and Jeremy McNichols fall on the injury list. With the release of Adrian Peterson, the backfield is wide open for Foreman. While this sounds great for fantasy owners, there is one problem: the matchup. Facing a Patriots defense who have only allowed 4.1 yards per carry and five rushing touchdowns isn’t an ideal opponent for your “bell-cow” debut. With Dontrelle Hilliard likely taking passing downs, there may be too much risk starting Foreman.
• Carson Wentz – There is no question the Colts are on a roll. They have won five of their last six, including a win over the powerhouse Bills last week. Even though the quarterback usually gets the credit, the main reason for the Colts’ winning streak is Jonathan Taylor. The former Badger is running over everyone and has no intention of stopping. Considering this fact, it makes sense why Wentz has seen his numbers drop lately. While the Bucs’ stout run defense may change the offensive scheme towards the pass, Tampa Bay’s pass rush gives me concern to start Wentz on Sunday considering his tendency for turnovers.
One player you could stream this week:
• Rex Burkhead – As the considered secondary option in Houston, Burkhead had 18 carries last week against the Titans. While he only racked up 40 yards on the ground, the volume certainly gives me the idea the 31-year-old has overstepped David Johnson for the number one RB spot. While the Texans’ backfield may be a dicey subject to trust, there is one team that seems to make any matchup seem favorable against them: the Jets. As the league’s worst team in allowing rushing touchdowns, there is hope for Burkhead and may be a viable, desperate option in deep leagues.