Consider me your fantasy coach. With only one game before playoffs in most leagues, I thought you could use a little pep talk. I must caution you, though. True to form, I will channel my inner "coach speak" and use a few friendly clichés to help deliver my point. I'm not trying to annoy you. Just trying to separate the men from the boys (remember, I warned you).
As we enter the home stretch, you need to turn up the intensity and take care of business. As tempting as it is to play two or three games at a time, you will have to take one game at a time, focus on what lies ahead and put yourself in a position to win. And of course, the intangibles will be the key to winning….whatever that means.
If you haven't already thrown in the towel (sorry, now I can't stop), here are some players for your consideration as you shop the waiver wire. And hang in there. It's ok if it's an ugly finish, as long as you get the W.
Latavius Murray, RB, Oakland Raiders – Poor guy. Thursday's contest had the makings of a breakout game for the Raider running back. After rushing for 112 yards and two touchdowns, Murray exited the game early with a concussion. While he must undergo concussion testing – and could possibly miss a game – he's worth an add in all leagues as it appears he's arrived. And sorry, I can't shake this cliché thing.
Jarvis Landry, WR, Miami Dolphins – In case you missed it, Landry reeled in seven receptions for 50 yards and two touchdowns on Sunday. He has quietly put together four games with 9 points. I realize that's not a ton of points, but he's consistent and a good safe add. Consider him a solid WR3.
Ryan Tannehill, QB, Miami Dolphins – Yeah, the guy slinging the ball isn't so bad either. On Sunday, he threw for 228 yards and three touchdowns, adding another by foot. It was an especially good day for the Tannehill, who has put up nice numbers all season, ranking seventh in fantasy points among all quarterbacks. Still available in about a third of all fantasy leagues.
Daniel Herron, RB, Indianapolis Colts – With Ahmad Bradshaw's injury, I expected to Herron to eventually become a relevant back, I just didn't expect it on Sunday. Herron delivered with 96 combined yards. He out-touched Trent Richardson, and just all around looked better… although Richardson did score. Herron has a great shot at becoming the lead back moving forward, although a time share is also to be expected.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, New England Patriots – Sorry about the Jonas Grey advice last week. I can see why you'd question my Patriot du jour. I've warned you before, it is running back roulette in Belichick Land. With Blount running for 78 yards and two touchdowns, surely he will be the favorite next week, right? You know the risks.
Tim Wright, TE, New England Patriots – I just warned you about Blount. Feeling lucky? Claim Wright, who has six touchdowns since week 5. Definitely a risky move with Gronk as the favorite, but worthy of a deep-league claim.
New York Giants DEF – They play Jacksonville. You know the drill.
Erin Skelley joins Texans Radio every week on SportsRadio 610. Follow her on Twitter @erinskelley. She'll babble fantasy to anyone who will listen.
