Prepare for the Playoffs with Smart Moves
As fantasy football enters Week 14, many team managers are staring the playoffs right in the face, some anxiously hoping to secure their spots. Others may be dealing with crushing injuries, unexpected bye weeks, or just seeking to clinch the best roster spots before the postseason begins. With that in mind, Judy and Lauren from the Fan Girl Football podcast are here to guide you through the most critical waiver wire additions. This blog post will expand on their insights, focusing on injury updates, key waiver wire targets, and strategic advice to keep your fantasy team alive and thriving.
Key Injuries This Week: A Rough Stretch for Running Backs
Christian McCaffrey and Other RB Woes
Fantasy football heart-breaker Christian McCaffrey is headed to IR, ending his season with a knee PCL issue after just four games of peak performance. If you drafted McCaffrey, it’s a tough pill to swallow. Judy likens this scenario to her experience with Jonathan Taylor, emphasizing the caution fantasy managers will likely exercise next season when considering McCaffrey.
Austin Eckler, another critical asset for many fantasy teams, is also on IR due to a severe concussion from Week 12. He’ll be out until at least Week 18, which dampens Washington’s backfield prospects. Jordan Mason joins the mourned injured, placed on IR with a high ankle sprain, leaving San Francisco scrapping for a running back solution.
Quarterbacks in Doubt
Trevor Lawrence is another casualty, facing a potential IR stint after a significant concussion left him clearly disoriented. The Jaguars, given their absence from the playoff picture, are in no rush to bring him back, affecting those who rely on his arm for fantasy points.
Wide Receiver Woes
The WR landscape had its share of trouble too. The Chargers’ Ladd McConkey played excellently before retreating to the blue tent with knee issues. DK Metcalf of Seattle missed a few snaps due to a recurring knee injury, while Rashad Bateman from the Ravens left in the third quarter without a single target.
Waiver Wire Pickups: Who to Target and Why
Running Backs: Securing Your Backfield
Isaac Guerendo (San Francisco 49ers) With both McCaffrey and Mason out, Guerendo is expected to take the lead. He’s demonstrated his capability earlier this season, scoring commendable fantasy points. The 49ers’ immediate schedule looks favorable, offering Guerendo a good shot at success.
Sincere McCormick (Las Vegas Raiders) Virtually unknown and 100% available, McCormick impressed against the Chiefs. His main competitor, Ameer Abdullah, hasn’t delivered, and with White and Mattison sidelined, McCormick could very well continue to lead the Raider’s backfield.
Wide Receivers: Filling the Gaps
Brandon Cooks (Dallas Cowboys) Despite not being the first option, Cooks’ availability and favorable matchups (Bengals, Panthers, Buccaneers) make him a valuable addition. Head Coach Cooper Rush threw over 30 times in recent games, highlighting Cook’s potential for heavy use, especially if Lamb remains shaky.
Adam Thielen (Carolina Panthers) Thielen’s recent performance returning from IR proved he’s a valuable asset, racking up 99 yards and 8 catches against the Buccaneers. Though Carolina’s upcoming games against the Eagles and Cowboys pose tough challenges, consistent target share makes Thielen worth the risk.
Quarterbacks: Steady Hands on the Wheel
Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys) Rush’s consistency and favorable matchups (Bengals, Panthers, Buccaneers) make him a top substitute for this bye week. His forthcoming games promise plenty of passing opportunities, vital for your fantasy points.
Will Levis (Free Agent) Available in 88% of leagues, Levis boasts decent matchups and has consistently delivered 16-19 points per game since his injury return. For those in dire need, Levitz is a worthy consideration.
Tight Ends: Strong Options to Consider
Noah Gray (Kansas City Chiefs) With Gray becoming a frequent Mahomes target, his six-target game days and Kansas City’s upcoming matchups (Chargers, Browns, Texans) appear promising.
Cole Kmet (Chicago Bears) Kmet’s usage has increased under Thomas Brown, the newly promoted head coach. The uncertain Bears’ future may just spark an offense revolution favorable for Kmet.
Defense: Streamlining Your Picks
New Orleans Saints Playing against the spiraling New York Giants, expect a feast on turnovers. The Saints’ defense is well-equipped to capitalize on a team mired in internal turmoil.
Miami Dolphins Although less convincing, the Dolphins facing off against an inconsistent Jets team led by an ailing Aaron Rodgers might just provide the respite your fantasy defense needs.
Conclusion
Week 14 is all about strategic plays and last-minute pivots. Whether you’re struggling with an injury-laden roster or simply looking to bolster your squad ahead of the playoffs, these waiver wire pickups and defenses should guide you through. Keep active on those waivers, and may your selections lead you to fantasy glory! Don’t forget to join Judy and Lauren later this week for DFS insights and the essential sit-or-start decisions!
