It's Week 4, and if only I could pick Brady or Addai or any receiver named Johnson. But that's for other, simpler blogs that state the obvious and then pat themselves on the back. If you're like me or the owners in my league, you've got 1 or 2 star players, 1 or 2 underperforming stars, 1 or 2 injured stars, and a smattering of mediocrity (anyone have too many #3 receivers?).
It's time to upgrade your mediocrity.
Here are your Week 4 hardcore picks:
QB -- Trent Green: Before getting injured last year, Green was accustomed to throwing a lot for a lot of yards. This week he faces an underperforming Raiders defense that's giving up a lot of passing yards. And at 0-3, the Dolphins are seeking to overcome last week's devastating defeat to the Jets. Playing at home in what could be their last home game in front of cheering fans, expect Green and his receiving corps--including rejuvenated RB Ronnie Brown--to put up big numbers.
RB -- Cedric Benson is one of several underperforming Bears, leading some fans to question the decision to release Thomas Jones, and leading some fantasy fans to question Benson's hardcore credentials. After 3 weeks, he's one of the worst starting running backs in the league. All that will change this week against the Lions, as the Bears will utilize a more efficient and more conservative offense. This means a lot of carries and a lot of yards for Benson.
WR -- Lee Evans. When he was drafted in my league this year, everyone nodded in agreement; this guy was going to be a fantasy stud. But he's been playing like a retiree (no offense to the elderly, but most can't out-run cornerbacks). One area of concern is the Bills' QB situation: J.P. Losman is questionable, so back-up Trent Edwards might start. But after facing 3 premier defenses (the Broncos, Steelers, and Patriots), look for Buffalo's offense to get back on track against the poorly defensed Jets. And Evans will be a hardcore beneficiary.
TE -- Desmond Clark. Does anyone remember this guy from last year? He had some big games and finished the season with 6 TD's--near the top among tight ends. This year he's splitting time with rookie Greg Olsen. But this is the week to pick up and activate him. Why? With Brian Griese replacing Rex Grossman at QB, look for Griese to lead a more conservative passing attack, with dump-offs and 8-yard routes. Chicago is fighting to stay relevant in their division. Playing a weak defense like Detroit will only improve their--and Clark's--chance to succeed.
Defense -- The Chargers were one of the first defenses selected in this year's fantasy drafts. They also were among the first to get dumped. No longer a top 10 defense, and facing the anemic Chiefs, this once proud team is a perfect hardcore choice for Week 4.
2 comments:
I'm hearing a lot about how Brian Leonard is a 'must start' now that SJax is out. But Bulger is hurt, the offensive line is weak, and they weren't scoring points with a stud running back. And they're playing the Cowboys this week. What do you think BJ, is Leonard going to have a big week?
Atlanta Santa,
It sounds like you've answered your own question. The Rams started the season as a Super Bowl contender. I had Bulger, Jackson, and Holt on my fantasy team last year and won the whole thing; I know what these guys can do.
But as with most great offenses, much of their success if owed to their offensive line, and this one is falling apart. If they were playing a weak defense, I might take a flier on Leonard. But Dallas is riding high, and the Rams are too beaten up to put up a fight.
A few days ago, another reader (I'm assuming you're a reader, and not a listener to my weekly radio show, "Let's Talk Fantasies") asked me when was the last time a white guy started at running back in the NFL. She/he made a good point. I'm not one to play the race card, but my bet is that Leonard will reinforce this football truism.
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