So when all was said and done, the Chicago Bears’ 31-24 victory against the Dallas Cowboys Dec. 5 wasn’t bad for fantasy owners overall. Sure, we would have liked a bit more from quarterback Dak Prescott, and sure, running back David Montgomery did his usual thing. (You did not expect him to score two weeks in a row, did you?)
Here are three players at each position I think you could use in a pinch this weekend who may be slightly off your radar:
Quarterback
• Sam Darnold, New York Jets: It’d truly take a leap of faith after his Week 13 performance, but I expect top-10 output against Miami Dec. 8.
• Ryan Fitzpatrick, Miami Dolphins: Could Dolphins-Jets be the fantasy game of the week? It’s Fitzmagic time!
• Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee Titans: He’s been a top-10 fantasy quarterback for a month, and now he faces a bad Oakland defense.
Running Back
• Darwin Thompson, Kansas City Chiefs: Thompson was a draft darling sleeper this year, which never led anywhere. But injuries may force Kansas City to rely on him against New England.
• Patrick Laird, Miami Dolphins: With Kalen Ballage off to injured reserve, is it Laird time in Miami? Or is it Zach Zenner time…not! It must be Laird!
• Alexander Mattison, Minnesota Vikings: Dalvin Cook says he will play, and I believe him. I also believe Mattison will be a flex-worthy play against a bad Detroit defense.
Wide Receiver
• James Washington, Pittsburgh Steelers: Who else can they throw to? Washington has been solid, with two touchdowns the past two weeks. Opponents have to throw against Arizona.
• Zach Pascal, Indianapolis Colts: It looks like T.Y. Hilton will not play, and Pascal should see double-digit targets against Tampa Bay Dec. 8. By the way, did you know Tampa gives up close to 350 yards a game via the pass? Hmm!
• Jamison Crowder, New York Jets: See Sam Darnold above, but change top 10 to top 25ish. You’ve got to have faith!
Tight End
• Tyler Higbee, Los Angeles Rams: Gerald Everett looks like he will miss another week, so why not!
• Kyle Rudolph, Minnesota Vikings: Adam Thielen could miss another game, so Rudolph gets more red-zone targets in a good matchup (Detroit).
• Ian Thomas, Carolina Panthers: Greg Olsen seems doubtful in a game that could see a bunch of points scored. So would you? Could you?
Sleeper defense: Colts
Need a kicker? Sam Ficken, New York Jets
Check out Ken Zalis’ latestfantasy football player rankings, and click here for the latest fantasy football advice.