• IDP Reaction & Waivers Week Thirteen (13) “The Monster”

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    There was a Joe Schobert sighting in the wild this week.


    Week 13 is in the books and it was another week of football, there was some good and there was some bad, weird stuff happened and stuff we expected did as well. The fantasy playoffs start in most places this upcoming week so let's take a minute and remember some of the things that helped us get to this point all season successfully. We've talked a lot about how opposing offense is important to IDP production and that was abundantly clear yet again this week with Blake Martinez (LB) as a prime example, against Cincy the week prior he does nothing but against a real offense with Seattle he's back to monster production, we've seen this all season long, keep it in mind as we enter playoffs. Have two linebackers you're considering? Which one runs into the better offense that's more likely to dominate time of possession therefore adding defensive playing time for your IDP producer and improving the chances of his overall production? Going up against good offense means that these IDP producers will see a good mix of run and pass and have a varied stat line including combined tackles and passes defended plus opportunities for splash plays as well. The best ability is availability and if your IDP producer is up against a bad offense that keeps going three and out he'll never have the chances necessary to produce IDP points.

    What else have we talked about this year? We've talked about risk management. Are these next three weeks the time to screw around and plug these boom or bust EDGE or OLB guys into your normal linebacker slot? No, they're not. We've seen all season long what happens when these splash play dependent guys don't get that splash play, they get you nothing. Playoffs are not the time to get nothing. There are always exceptions to the rule, in Sleeper you can plug those guys into your defensive line and that's absolutely a great idea, your league could be big play scoring with combined tackles being almost worthless, it would make sense there as well. Hell you could even use one of these guys in an IDP flex spot surrounded by consistent combined tackle floor guys, that's not a bad idea either. But for the great majority of situations you're going to want everyone on your IDP defense to score points all playoffs long and that means combined tackle guys instead of relying on feast or famine options. Everyone remembers Shaq Barret's (EDGE) breakout season last year, what they don't remember was which one of his two combined tackles they enjoyed most in championship week sixteen. He let us all down when it mattered most. And that's just one example of many, these guys can blow up and win you a game but just as easily they can go a game without a sack or splash play and due to the nature of their position that combined tackle floor never has been and never will be there, so when they don't blow up they crush you. Don't take a bust game in fantasy playoffs because you're chasing the dragon. This is more of a personal preference thing, there are arguments for and against this strategy but anyone who's read this article more than once knows which side of that I land on and always will, score points every week not just some.

    We've also talked streaming corner this season, in fact I do an entire other article every week devoted just to that art form every Friday morning right here at idpguys.org. We've made excellent moves all year by streaming corner and turning a naturally spotty and inconsistent position that most people hate into one of the strengths of our IDP defenses across all our leagues. There's no reason to change that now, by this point in the season we've all narrowed down our favorite corners to stream in ideal matchups and we'll lean on them throughout the playoffs. Don't set and forget at corner just because you're scared of sitting a big name like Marcus Peters (CB) who has less than ideal matchups throughout fantasy playoffs when we've been streaming all season and killing it the entire time, dance with the girl you brought. I am, and have for seventeen years plus now and have won plenty of titles doing so. Also it should go without saying but now more than ever we need to double down on the little things, set those alarms for inactives, get your waivers in, set lineups early in the week and tinker as news and injury updates come in. Do the little things you can control because for the most part all we can do is put ourselves in the best position possible and pray to the fantasy Gods after that. Stay dialed in, the home stretch is here and in another few weeks we can look back at this crazy shit fest of a season and be proud of the leagues we've won and trophies we've collected because we did everything we could all season long and it paid off. 

    So that's my little pre playoffs pep talk. I really do wish the best of luck to all you, it's been a pleasure writing this all season and talking with you guys on Twitter and in the site slack chat, you guys (and girls) who read this every week are truly the most dialed in that exist. No one's sitting through sixteen thousand plus words of this crap every week unless they really understand IDP and want their defenses to be the best they possibly can be. I intentionally leave no stone unturned in this article every week to give you all the best possible chance to have your IDP defenses perform as well as possible and to improve the chances of winning those titles. So thank you all for being here all season and let's focus and get dialed in for the home stretch of the season, those titles are so close I can taste it, let's go get them.

    On this weeks episode of ramblings of a madman we'll have a look at the Lions defense in the first week of the new administration, did Tracy Walker (S) get back to ideal playing time? Is Reggie Ragland (LB) still a thing? Is Jayron Kearse (S) still a starter and where is Jeff Okudah (CB)? All that and more as we see if things returned to normalcy in Detroit now that the rocket scientist has been shitcanned. We'll see how Myles Garret (DE) looked his first week back after returning from Covid IR and if his playing time was effected at all, that same game gave us another look at the waiver wire situation in regards to the fallout from the Jayon Brown (LB) injury, we'll see if anything changed with that as well. We'll check in on the Bengals linebackers circus like always and field a special request to look at Andrew Wingard (S) in Jacksonville from a friend of the site. The Raiders came back in a spectacular last second fashion and we'll look at the Cory Littleton (LB) and Nicholas Morrow (LB) situation as well as confirm that Harvey Langi (LB) is the best second linebacker option in New York now that Blake Cashman (LB) has been sent to IR once again, so that matchup will give us some good information this week. 

    The Colts and Texans matchup will give us more on the Zach Cunningham (LB) digression we've been seeing all season and should confirm once more that Anthony Walker (LB) is a good option when Bobby Okereke (LB) is injured and out, also we got DeForest Buckner (DT) back from Covid IR as well so we'll check in with his week and Justin Houston's (DE) as well. The Rams and Cardinals game should give us an update on the Isaiah Simmons (LB) or DeVondre Campbell (LB) situation as well as further confirmation that Troy Reeder (LB) makes a nice option while Micah Kiser (LB) is injured and out. Also did Budda Baker (S) get back on track or has he completely given up on the overall IDP safety one competition? The Giants stunned the Seahawks with a backup quarterback and some old fashioned defense, we'll definitely have a looksee at my theory that all Blake Martinez (LB) needed to break out of his slump was to go up against a real offense (spoiler alert, yep). Also with the late week news that Tre Flowers (CB) went to IR did we get the return of our savior DJ Reed (S/CB)? The Packers survived a late scare from the Eagles where both Darius Slay (CB) and Avonte Maddox (CB) were injured so we'll check in on that. The Patriots smashed the Chargers and made a rookie quarterback fill his pants with poop which is nothing new, we'll check in on the Chargers linebackers and safeties as usual in that one. 

    The Steelers lost a close on as they played down to their competition once again, they are no longer undefeated and look anything but a super bowl team to these eyes. Some AFC South team that squeaks into the playoffs is going to clap their cheeks in the divisional round. Robert Spillane (LB) was injured in that one and Kamren Curl (S) was shaken up as well so we'll see what we can learn about the status of those two going forward. The Bills blasted the helpless 49ers on national television and we got a look at the first week of Matt Milano (LB) coming off of IR so we'll see how that went and if AJ Klein (LB) retained any value. And last but not least we got another strange Tuesday night game to close out the week with the Ravens blowing away the Cowboys as expected, we'll get another look at the LVE and Jaylon Smith (LB) situations in that one and the return of Calais Campbell (DE) in Baltimore as well. We'll look at all that and more in this weeks 17k plus word edition of the Monster with a special "Who looks good heading into playoffs" section for each team looking at who we can trust and who could screw us now that it's all on the line.

    So let's get into it, it's many thousands of words and incoherent ramblings from a mad man with a questionable infatuation with Jimmy G, every week all season long and for free because I'd never deny my fellow IDP degenerates the information they need to win their leagues by putting it behind a paywall. Here we go!


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    Saints @ Falcons

    New Orleans Saints

    Produced as expected: Demario Davis (LB) Marcus Williams (S) Marshon Lattimore (CB) David Onyemata (DT) Kwon Alexander (LB) *depends on pass defense scoring* Trey Hendrickson (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Carl Granderson (DE) only played 30% of snaps and got a lucky outlier sack, he doesn't play enough and hasn't done much else of note this season, pass.

    Possible waivers: PJ Williams (CB/S) was in for 94% of snaps this week in what looks like a direct replacement for the injured and out Janoris Jenkins (CB), he recorded two solo tackles and a pass defense which isn't great but it appears he's an option for the duration of the Jenkins injury, I'm passing on this one but it technically exists therefore I'm mentioning it.

    Misc notes: Kwon Alexander (LB) was down to 48% of snaps played this week but had his best outing yet in the box score with three solo tackles and two passes defended, twelve points in most of my leagues which is solid, especially considering how little he played. Regardless it wasn't anything special and his playing time has regressed instead of improving so he remains a bad option everywhere except the deepest of leagues. Janoris Jenkins (CB) was injured and out this week, he has a knee injury and apparently wasn't able to practice last week from the blurb I read, we'll see how it goes this week I believe they have the Eagles so if he can go that's a somewhat decent matchup so he would be worth a stream in deeper leagues if healthy and playing this week. Malcolm Jenkins (S) & Cameron Jordan (DE) played 100% and 88% of snaps respectively this week but neither had a good game, part of this was the massive domination of time of possession by the Saints at 37 minutes to 23 for the day. This Saints defense barely saw the field and when it did the Falcons offense was a shell of what it usually is so we were bound to see some guys without enough to eat here considering that. Jordan has been red hot lately and gets the Eagles massacred offensive line next week so a bounce back is a good shot for him and as for Jenkins he's been pretty solid all season and these things happen, he should recover as well the next time this defense runs into an offense that actually produces enough plays and sustains enough drives for the Saints defense to eat. That may or may not be the Eagles next week but it 100% is the Chiefs in week 15 so at least we know that game is right around the corner. Next week could be difficult for this defense in terms of production but the week after will be solid gold in all likelihood. Sheldon Rankins (DT) returned from IR this week to play 67% of snaps but had a quiet day in the box score, he hasn't been productive in well over a season now so even with his return to the lineup I'd rather have Onyemata who's been exponentially more productive this season and played more at 72% of snaps this week. Nothing else to see here, this defense will be more productive overall when a better offense comes to town. Heading into playoffs there are a ton of guys I like here, Cameron Jordan (DE), David Onyemata (DT), Trey Hendrickson (DE), Demario Davis (LB), Malcolm Jenkins (S), Janoris Jenkins (CB) and Marshon Lattimore (CB) if the matchup is correct and Chauncey Gardner Johnson (S), Marcus Davenport (DE) and Marcus Williams (S) in much deeper leagues. Beyond that lies danger.

    Atlanta Falcons

    Produced as expected: Foye Oluokun (LB) Deion Jones (LB) AJ Terrell (CB) Keanu Neal (S) Isaiah Oliver (CB) Steven Means (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Tyeler Davison (DT) & Mycal Walker (LB) played 65% and 45% of snaps respectively this week, while that's plenty for Davison he's been hovering in the 40% of snaps area for playing time most of the season and in general hasn't been nearly as productive as he was last season where he saw a multi month bump in playing time due to other injuries at defensive tackle. Last season isn't this season and this looks like an outlier game from what I'm seeing, if his playing time remains elevated next week we can circle back and reevaluate but for now it's an outlier blip on the radar. As for Walker he only has value when Oluokun or Jones is injured and out, no ones playing a linebacker who sees less than 50% of snaps per game unless it's in a 32 team league and even then Walker hasn't done much else of note this season besides that game where he subbed in for an injured and out Oluokun. Pass on both for now.

    Possible waivers: I've been talking about Steven Means (DE) for over a month now and every week this recommendation gets better and better. 64% of snaps this week with two sacks plus all the trimmings (two tackles for loss, two QB hits, etc) and three combined tackles equals another solid week for this defensive end who's come out of nowhere the last month or so to become and excellent waiver wire option in medium to deeper leagues.

    Misc notes: This defense spent 37 minutes or nearly two thirds of the game on the field this week as their offense was dominated in the time of possession battle and its shows, also despite being a shadow of what Drew Brees (QB) is capable of, Taysom Hill (QB) was able to complete enough passes and the Saints run game was effective enough and sustained enough drives with a nice mix of run and pass plays that this was pretty much an ideal situation for Falcons IDP production. This is the way. Grady Jarret (DT) & Dante Fowler (EDGE) played 79% and 50% of snaps respectively this week and neither had a good game, while Jarret has the occasional monster game and usually gives us decent to acceptable production on a pretty consistent basis we've been abandon ship on Fowler for the majority of this season and this week hasn't changed that in the slightest. Also with defensive tackle it's not likely there's a better option on your waiver wire, this position drops off a cliff quickly and that's why I target it first in startups and drafts when everyone else is taking linebackers and safeties, you can always find linebackers and safeties off waivers a month into the season but defensive tackles are extremely hard to replace if you screw that one up initially. Bottom line is for the majority of Jarret share holders you're locked in with no better option, he should give you a monster or at least solid game during fantasy playoffs we all know he's capable of doing so and is talented and plays enough as well, keep the faith. Jacob Tuioti Mariner (DE) after seeing a bump in snaps the last couple weeks was back down to 41% of snaps this week and minimal production, still a desperation option in crazy deep leagues but in general this is trending in the wrong direction or the fluctuating unpredictable direction and neither are good. It was still AJ Terrell (CB) then Darqueze Dennard (CB) in terms of the best streaming corner options here with Dennard being the clear number two option with less playing time week to week, after those two the options get worse in terms of playing time and therefore worse in terms of opportunity for production as a result. Everything else was looking good here, no other fluctuations in playing time or reasons to panic. Heading into playoffs I like Deion Jones (LB), Keanu Neal (S), Foye Oluokun (LB), Grady Jarrett (DT), Steven Means (DE) and AJ Terrell (CB) in deeper leagues when the matchup is correct. Beyond that lies danger.

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    Lions @ Bears

    Detroit Lions

    Produced as expected: Jamie Collins (LB) Amani Oruwariye (CB) & Lions Corners, Romeo Okwara (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Jayron Kearse (S) was down to 70% of snaps played this week but was still able to record seven combined tackles and a pass defense on the day. He's been the best option here at safety recently and remained so this week despite losing 30% of snaps, I still don't trust it a whole lot but it's an option in deeper leagues. Tracy Walker (S) remains in the dog house.

    Possible waivers: Duron Harmon (S), Everson Griffen (DE) and Romeo Okwara (DE) all saw the biggest upward increase in snaps played the first week without Patricia around. 100%, 65% and 96% respectively. Either defensive end is a solid option but Harmon was only able to record three combined tackles despite the massive increase in playing time.

    Misc notes: We got some stability with the new administration and some things remain crappy. Here's what was different the first week into the post-Patricia era: Romeo Okwara (DE) and Everson Griffen (DE) both saw increases in playing time, Okwara to a massive 96% of snaps played. Jamie Collins (LB) remains the only playable linebacker with Reggie Ragland (LB) dropping off a cliff to just 35% of snaps this week. Without Jeff Okudah (CB) it was Amani Oruwariye (CB) as the corner with the most playing time at 100% of snaps then Darryl Roberts (CB) with 86% and Justin Coleman (CB) with 75%. Okudah should be somewhere in-between Coleman and Oruwariye for playing time when he returns from injury, that'a just a guess but an educated one, regardless we're in fantasy playoffs so I wouldn't risk it unless you don't have any other options. Tracy Walker (S) saw zero changes in playing time and remained at 43% of snaps played this week, that's a pretty big shock in my opinion. Neither Jahlani Tavai (LB) or Jarrad Davis (LB) saw any increase in playing time, 48% and 25% of snaps played respectively. There were no other significant changes. So we got some good news with Okwara and Griffen and some bad news with Walker. We'll see what next week brings but it's safe to say all our Tracy Walker (S) shares are useless heading into fantasy playoffs, yippee. Heading into playoffs I'm into Jamie Collins (LB), Romeo Okwara (DE) and Everson Griffen (DE). Anything besides that is risky. The corner situation remains in flux, safeties as well.

    Chicago Bears

    Produced as expected: Roquan Smith (LB) Kyle Fuller (CB) Buster Skrine (CB) Danny Trevethan (LB) Jaylon Johnson (CB) Bilal Nichols (DT)

    Flash in the pan: DeAndre Houston Carson (S) only played 19% of snaps this week and isn't someone I've ever heard of before, less than one fifth of defensive snaps played at a position where finding guys that play every snap every week is pretty easy makes this an easy one to pass on.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: The Kyle Fuller (CB) resurgence continues at exactly the right time just before fantasy playoffs. The slump is over and one of our best and most consistent recommended streaming corners is back in action. 100% of snaps played and six solo tackles on the day. Khalil Mack (EDGE) played plenty, 81% of snaps this week but recorded zero stats of any kind. This is exactly what I'm talking about with trusting these EDGE or OLB guys in your regular linebacker slot during playoffs, what if this had happened next week or even worse week sixteen during the title game? These EDGE guys don't have a combined tackle floor so when they don't land a sack or splash play you're left with nothing, and one of your guys getting you nothing during fantasy playoffs may be enough to doom you to a loss. Not only do the combined tackle floor inside and weak side linebackers have these kind of games exponentially less often but when they have a bad game they still get you something, a handful of tackles or a couple tackles and a pass defense or something. Plus with their consistency you know that it's far more likely they'll maintain solid production over that three week fantasy playoff period where the odds of these EDGE or OLB guys having three straight games of a sack or splash play is massively reduced in comparison. You can play these games during the season but when all the chips are down this right here, exactly what we saw from Khalil Mack (EDGE) this week, is a perfect example of what can and will happen if you trust these guys in your regular linebacker slot during playoffs. Remember this well. Eddie Skidmarks Jackson (S) also had a bad game despite playing his usual 100% of snaps this week but that's why he's got the nick name. He's as consistent as me having skidmark free underwear after Chipotle, in other words not very consistent at all. Pretty much eveyone else we rely on for weekly production here did what we expected, Akiem Hicks (DT) had a down week but played 79% of snaps and is fresh off of being out due to injury and will be fine, he's got another nice week or two in him before the season is done, and just like with Grady Jarret (DT) in the Falcons section above, do you really have a better option? Very likely no. So we dance with the girl we brought. Heading into playoffs I feel comfortable starting Roquan Smith (LB), Danny Trevethan (LB), Khalil Mack (EDGE) in my DL slot in sleeper or as a regular linebacker in big play leagues where combined tackles are devalued, besides that he's dangerous. Skidmarks Jackson is dangerous, Akiem Hicks (DT) I'm into, Kyle Fuller (CB) if the matchup is correct in any size league, Jaylon Johnson (CB) and Buster Skrine (CB) in deeper leagues if the matchup is correct and anyone not listed there is likely very risky.

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    Browns @ Titans

    Cleveland Browns

    Produced as expected: Andrew Sendejo (S) Malcolm Smith (LB) BJ Goodson (LB) Sheldon Richardson (DT) Terrence Mitchell (CB) & Kevin Johnson (CB) *somewhat* Myles Garrett (DE) Larry Ogunjobi (DT)

    Flash in the pan: Mack Wilson (LB) & MJ Stewart (CB) played only 40% and 54% of snaps respectively this week. Wilson has seen sub par playing time all season and lucked into six combined tackles and a tackle for loss this week but shouldn't be an option basically anywhere with that kind of playing time. As for Stewart he's barely playing more than half the defensive snaps as a corner where finding guys that play 100% of snaps every week is pretty easy, clearly an outlier performance, pass here as well.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: The replacing Ronnie Harrison (S) situation continues to be a gigantic pain in the butt. Karl Joseph (S) only saw 58% of snaps and Sheldrick Redwine (S) vultured another 40% as there was no overall replacement getting all 100% of the snaps. I'd just avoid that situation entirely as we head into playoffs to take a possible disaster completely out of the equation. Malcolm Smith (LB) and BJ Goodson (LB) saw 50% and 75% of snaps respectively this week so they both were in the wheel house for their usual playing time, Smith could've been a flash in the pan technically but he's had decent production with this kind of playing time all season so it was just business as usual from my point of view, as for Goodson for a guy that saw the most snaps of any linebacker here and considering how much opposing offense there was to eat from it's pretty disappointing he didn't have a better day overall. That's been the story here all season though, much like their fellow AFC North counterparts the Bengals both of these linebacker corps have been crappy since week one day one. Myles Garrett (DE) returned from Covid IR and resumed splitting opposing quarterbacks butt cheeks at a rate that's highly elevated in comparison to the majority of other mortal men, we get our defensive end one back in time for playoffs praise be the IDP Gods. Both of the IDP relevant defensive tackles had nice games and we got a surprise decent game from Andrew Sendejo (S) as well so overall we're looking pretty pretty good from a production standpoint in regards to this defense this week. Nothing to really mention besides those couple notes, all is well in Cleveland. Heading into playoffs I'm all about the cheek splitter king Myles Garrett (DE), either IDP relevant defensive tackle Richardson or Ogunjobi, Denzel Ward (CB) if he returns from injury in time and the matchup is correct and that's about it. Everyone else could have value in deeper leagues if the planets align but are dangerous for the most part. The linebackers are shit and the safeties are as well unless Ronnie Harrison (S) makes a miraculous recovery, the corners not named Denzel Ward (CB) are also not ideal.

    Tennessee Titans

    Produced as expected: Malcolm Butler (CB) Jeffrey Simmons (DT) Kenny Vaccaro (S) Kevin Byard (S) Breon Borders (CB) Rashaan Evans (LB)

    Flash in the pan: Jack Crawford (DT) and Desmond King (CB) played 53% and 54% of snaps respectively this week, Crawford I know hasn't done anything else of note this season because this is the first time I've ever typed his name during this article so we can pass on that for sure, as for King his playing time has been a shadow of what it once was in seasons past and he no longer returns punts or kicks either and that used to be a significant part of his appeal as a weekly option at corner in leagues where you get return yards. So this is clearly an outlier game with far less than ideal playing time and he remains the third option at corner here, pass on this as well.

    Possible waivers: David Long (LB) saw an increase in both playing time, 74% of snaps this week, and production, six combined tackles, this week. I still wouldn't trust this, week one of fantasy playoffs isn't the time to start screwing around, so I'm not recommending it but it happened therefore I'm talking about it. Your call what to do with that information.

    Misc notes: Harold Landry (EDGE) played a massive 97% of snaps this week but failed to record a sack or splash play and ended the day with just three combined tackles and a pass defense. You could have gotten Troy Reeder (LB) off waivers for free a couple weeks ago and gotten ten combined tackles and a pass defense for nothing more than knowing that move existed and the click of a mouse or tap of a smart phone and that would've have been an exponentially better and safer move than plugging an inconsistent and unreliable EDGE guy into your linebacker slot and getting three tackles and a pass defense out of it this week. Perfect example number two this week of why EDGE or OLB in linebacker slot is dangerous for fantasy playoffs. Not much else to see here, this defense was on the field a ton, 37 minutes this week as the Browns absolutely dominated the time of possession and therefore gave this Titans defensive unit plenty of chances to make plays all game long. The guys we count on for weekly production, with the notable exception of Harold Landry (EDGE), all took advantage of that factor and put up solid numbers for us across the board. We will take it. Heading into playoffs I'm into Jeffrey Simmons (DT), Rashaan Evans (LB), Harold Landry (EDGE) as a DL in sleeper or in a big play league where tackles are devalued, Kevin Byard (S) and Kenny Vaccaro (S), Malcolm Butler (CB) and Breon Borders (CB) if the matchup is ideal. Beyond that it gets iffy fast.

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    Bengals @ Dolphins

    Cincinnati Bengals

    Produced as expected: Jessie Bates (S) Sam Hubbard (DE) Le'Shaun Sims (CB) Josh Bynes (LB) & Vonn Bell (S) *somewhat* Mackensie Alexander (CB) William Jackson (CB)

    Flash in the pan: Logan Wilson (LB) could qualify if your league scores pass defense high, he was in for only 57% of snaps this week and recorded four combined tackles and a pass defended, ten points in most of my leagues which is definitely a flash in the pan outlier game for him considering his other production this season. Still not enough playing time and just a dynasty futures piece unless in a crazy deep league.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: The Bengals defense was on the field for 33 minutes this week so their overall production should be slightly bloated like when I eat Moes Southwest Grill, not as likely to make me turn inside out through my own butt hole as Chipotle but I'll definitely be aware that I ate a burrito. That's the Bengals defensive production this week. Sam Hubbard (DE) was in for 79% of snaps this week and recorded a monster ten combined tackles on the day, he was the overall leader in combined tackles at defensive end last season and this is his value. He doesn't land sacks as often as some but he does have a ton of combined tackles every week and that makes him a more consistent option than most at this position plus most weeks he ends up getting enough tackles that it equals what someone like Myles Garrett (DE) would get from a couple tackles plus a sack with all the trimmings, in most of my leagues a day like that would get Garrett around fourteen points, Hubbard had seventeen just from combined tackles this week. His value and consistency cannot be emphasized enough, now especially with a backup quarterback in and this offense being a shadow of what it once was his overall playing time has only increased with this offense playing so poorly. Excellent option in all formats for the fantasy playoffs. Carl Lawson (DE) was in for 67% of snaps this week but had yet another bad week, he's been an abandon ship for some time now I hope you've all found a better option at this point, Steven Means (DE) in Atlanta perhaps? Geno Atkins (DT) was only in for 19% of snaps and remains a gigantic waste of talent and possible IDP defensive tackle production. No changes there. Everything else was business as usual, this defense remains a disappointment when compared to Cincy defenses of years past in terms of weekly IDP production. As we head into playoffs I'm a fan of either safety, Bates or Bell, Sam Hubbard (DE) as well. Beyond that it's not great. The corners are just OK even in an ideal matchup, the linebackers are shit and the defensive line besides Hubbard is as well.

    Miami Dolphins

    Produced as expected: Kyle Van Noy (LB) Xavien Howard (CB) Shaq Lawson (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Brandon Jones (S) is the second best Jones on the team and only played 54% of snaps this week, not enough playing time and no other real significant production this season, plus most of his five combined tackles this week were assists anyways so it wasn't like this was a huge week in the first place, pass. Zach Sieler (DE) only played 50% of snaps this week and hasn't done much else of note this season, lucky outlier sack and nothing more, pass here as well. Nik Needham (CB) also grabbed a lucky outlier interception but only played 79% of snaps and is clearly the third cornerback here in terms of playing time and production.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: The Dolphins defense was on the field for 27 minutes which isn't a ton less than usual however the Bengals only recorded twelve total first downs and 40 rushing yards on seventeen attempts, the easy run stopping tackles that usually make up the weekly floor for the inside linebackers and box safeties didn't really exist this week, keep that in mind as we look at this box score. Jerome Baker (LB) was up to 83% of snaps this week so we're a couple weeks past the great Jerome Baker (LB) panic of 2020 where his playing time dropped off a cliff, the three combined tackles weren't a huge shock either like I said above there wasn't a whole lot to work with here, someone and more than likely more than one someone's wasn't going to eat this week with the Bengals only putting up 40 rushing yards and twelve total first downs, not enough offense for everyone on this defense to produce like we wanted them to. Emmanuel Ogbah (DE) played his customary 81% or so of snaps this week but failed to record a sack or splash play so he had a down week overall, he's had three stinkers in a row and is in a bit of a slump but on the season has six monster games and six crappy games which is on par for defensive end two's in most places, he cost us all literally nothing as no one, myself included, gave him much of a chance for being as good as he's been prior to the season and he's still playing plenty each week so we'll just accept it for what it is, the nature of the position. Unless you've got a better option we ride the train until the end of the line. Elandon Roberts (LB) only saw 15% of snaps this week as he left this one early due to injury. He hasn't been the greatest option this season in the first place so this isn't a massive loss, there was no real direct beneficiary to this injury except possibly Andrew Van Ginkel (LB) who saw a slight increase in playing time to 42% of snaps played but still remains a bad option that shouldn't be used. Overall this defense did a pretty good job with it's production this week despite the lack of playing time and opposing offense to work with so we'll kindly take it and thank the IDP Gods for being merciful to us. There were no other notes or significant fluctuations in play time or changes in role etc, moving on. Heading into playoffs I'm into Emmanuel Ogbah (DE) and Shaq Lawson (DE), Jerome Baker (LB) against a good offense with a good run game and time of possession ranking, Kyle Van Noy (LB) in deeper leagues and either of the two solid corners, Howard or Jones if the matchup is ideal. The safeties are shit and the linebackers besides Baker and Van Noy are as well, Christian Wilkins (DE) is a decent option in much deeper leagues as well, some good options here you just need to make sure they're in a good situation before you play them, I sat Jerome Baker (LB) this week for that exact reason and it was clearly the correct call.

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    Jaguars @ Vikings

    Jacksonville Jaguars

    Produced as expected: Joe Schobert (LB) Myles Jack (LB) Josh Jones (S) Tre Herndon (CB) Duwane Smoot (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Luq Barcoo (CB) & Daniel Ekuale (DT) played 76% and 51% of snaps this week, Barcoo only saw the field because Sidney Jones (CB), CJ Henderson (CB) and DJ Hayden (CB) are all injured and out, if any one of them return, Jones being the likely first candidate, he ceases to exist as a thing, not enough playing time regardless. As for Ekuale I've never heard of him and he barely plays enough to be acceptable, I'll need to see this again before even really looking at it any deeper than the sentence I've just written now, also playoffs are here let's be real we're not going to screw around with this right now with everything on the line. Pass on both.

    Possible waivers: Jarod Wilson (S) played 100% of snaps this week and Andrew Wingard (S) saw a massive drop to just 3% played, I have no idea why, I'm not seeing anything saying Wingard is injured and at the time of writing there were no Tweets or articles from local beat writers explaining the reasoning behind this. Regardless it's what happened, I would stay away from both. The last thing anyone needs is the rug pulled out from under them during playoffs, avoid this situation like the plague.

    Misc notes: The Jags defense spent 38 minutes on the field this week in an excellent back and forth affair that featured plenty of effective rushing and passing offense plus sustained drives and thirty Vikings first downs, this is the way. We should see a ton of excellent IDP production here resulting from these near perfect game conditions. Andrew Wingard (S) via request from a friend of the site we'll talk a little Wingard this week. As mentioned above he was down to just 3% of snaps played this week and recorded nothing of value in the box score. We've seen his playing time and therefore production fluctuate all over the place this season mostly due to injury but with the absence of anything concrete saying he's injured this week it could be just due to a change from the coaching staff. Bottom line is I can't find anything saying why this happened, I would find another option and move on, worst case use one of those "third safeties" that are all the rage this season, and maybe circle back later in the week and check local Jacksonville media and beat writers to see if anyone there has uncovered the reason why this happened, that could shed some light on this, as of now (Monday) I can't find anything. Josh Jones (S) returned from IR this week and racked up ten combined tackles while playing his customary 100% of snaps immediately out of the gate, he instantly returns as a solid safety option, make sure he wasn't dropped anywhere in those leagues that don't have any IR spots or have a limited number of them. Heading into the playoffs the only guys I want off this defense are either linebacker, Jack or Schobert, and Josh Jones (S). Possibly Tre Herndon (CB) as a corner stream if the matchup is correct but with so many corners injured and out and no idea what it will look like when any combination of them return to the lineup that's playing with fire. Herndon was down under 50% of snaps the last time Sidney Jones (CB) was healthy, CJ Henderson (CB) was there that week too if I remember correctly. Either way the point is he was on their shit list when they had more than just warm bodies available at corner, the second they get any of these guys back who's to say he doesn't go right back to being on that list? It's a risk screwing around with this cornerback corps this late in the game with as many questions as there are here, I'm avoiding it entirely throughout the playoffs, you should too. Josh Allen (DE) could be an option if he's on the three week IR and not done done but that's something we'll have to figure out if or when it happens. Those three guys I initially mentioned are really the only safe options here, anything beyond that is dangerous.

    Minnesota Vikings

    Produced as expected: Eric Wilson (LB) Harrison Smith (S) Jeff Gladney (CB) Anthony Harris (CB) Cameron Dantzler (CB) Ifeadi Odenigbo (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Kris Boyd (CB) and Troy Dye (LB) played 49% and 25% of snaps respectively this week, Boyd is the clear cornerback three in terms of playing time and most weeks production as well and Dye barely plays a quarter of defensive snaps, pass on both.

    Possible waivers: Todd Davis (LB) if the Eric Kendricks (LB) injury is anything more than a one week thing, if he does retain the job for any amount of time he makes an excellent option, anyone who's been playing IDP for more than a minute knows exactly who this is and what he's capable of. 100% of snaps and eleven combined tackles filling in for Kendricks this week.

    Misc notes: The Vikings were also able to spend 31 minutes on the field this week due to the overtime nature of this one despite owning time of possession handily, Jacksonville was able to record twenty first downs and had a nice mix of run and pass as well so the production here should be pretty pretty good as well. This game overall was a gift to us from the IDP Gods minus the shenanigans I'm about to talk about. Eric Kendricks (LB) tweaked his calf during warmups and screwed IDP lineups all over the globe by being declared out after kickoff too late for anyone to do anything about it. We all ate the zero. We'll see what happens this week but if it even looks like he's iffy I'm pulling the plug for another option, now is not the time to screw around. Besides that there wasn't a whole lot going on here this week, the guys we depend on weekly did their thing, even Ifeadi Odenigbo (DE) showed up in a big way. DJ Wonnum (DE) was injured and out for this one but isn't being used except in the deepest of leagues anyways and it mostly just a dynasty futures piece. Everything looks good here we'll move on, keep an eye on Kendricks for next week. Heading into playoffs I'm into Eric Kendricks (LB) as long as he's healthy, Eric Wilson (LB) and either safety, Harrison Smith (S) or Anthony Harris (S), Ifeadi Odenigbo (DE) in deeper leagues and that's about it. The corners are not great and the defensive line besides Odenigbo the same deal.

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    Raiders @ Jets

    Las Vegas Raiders

    Produced as expected: Jeff Heath (S) Nick Kwiatkowski (LB) Clelin Ferrell (DE) Nicholas Morrow (LB) Travon Mullen (CB)

    Flash in the pan: Eric Harris (S) got back to 100% of snaps this week but very likely only because Jonathan Abram (S) was injured and out. He had seen a massive drop in playing time the previous two weeks and was displaced as the other starting safety next to Abram by Jeff Heath (S) last week. I doubt this is anything more than an injury replacement, Heath won the job and Abram is obviously the other starter.

    Possible waivers: Nicholas Morrow (LB) & Jeff Heath (S) played 100% and 81% of snaps respectively this week, Morrow has displaced Cory Littleton (LB) as the other starting linebacker beside Nick Kwiatkowski (LB) and has been excellent when he's had the chance to start all season long and has parlayed that into the starting job. Look at Nicholas Morrow (LB), he is the captain now. As for Heath he had displaced Eric Harris (S) last week as the other starting safety next to Jonathan Abram (S) but with the injury to Abram that prevented him from playing this week we didn't get another look at this to confirm it, so it's iffy. I would absolutely add Morrow and only go with Heath in deeper leagues or if truly desperate, it's not set in stone so leave the pitchforks and torches at home if it doesn't work out I'm saying it might not right here right now.

    Misc notes: Cory Littleton (LB) only played 55% of snaps this week while recording just three combined tackles on the day. He's fallen out of favor and was displaced by Nicholas Morrow (LB) last week and nothing has changed since, he remains a gigantic waste of draft capital and a huge miss by everyone in the IDP Twitterverse, myself included. He can be used in those 32 team single copy leagues but is pretty much useless everywhere else at this point, what a waste. Maxx Crosby (DE) played a massive 94% of snaps this week but had a down week overall, he's had a mediocre season but should give us another nice game somewhere in the playoffs and remains a decent defensive end two or three. Damon Arnette (CB) got concussed two snaps into this one as his run of bad luck in regards to injuries continues, he just can't be trusted as a streaming corner option at this point because he's made of glass. Travon Mullen (CB) was the only corner to see ideal playing time despite the fireworks involved in this one and the 59 total points scored overall. In general I'm avoiding this squad for streaming corner purposes during the playoffs, there are better options elsewhere. Nothing else worth mentioning here, we've spent all season looking at every other aspect of this defense. I'm interested in Jonathan Abram (S), Nick Kwiatkowski (LB), Nicholas Morrow (LB) and Maxx Crosby (DE) heading into playoffs, everything else is iffy in one way or another, those are the guys who are solid. Surprisingly time of possession was essentially even in this one and the Jets created plenty of offense for the Raiders defense to eat as they just barely squeaked out a win in a game they should have dominated in all aspects, not ideal if you're a Raiders fan. Regardless besides Crosby and Abram being injured and out we got what we needed out of this one so we're looking decent overall.

    New York Jets

    Produced as expected: Neville Hewitt (LB) Harvey Langi (LB) Bryce Hall (CB) Ashtyn Davis (S) Quinnen Williams (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Arthur Maulet (CB) and Javelin Guidry (CB) played 33% and 46% of snaps respectively and both had outlier production, Maulet from a lucky interception and Guidry is someone I didn't know existed until just now, neither play enough and both should be ignored, especially since this is the exact worst time to screw around with stuff like this.

    Possible waivers: Harvey Langi (LB) is officially the man now that Blake Cashman (LB) is headed back to IR and is done for the season, Langi will be the other inside linebacker next to Neville Hewitt (LB) and will continue to play 100% of snaps per game like he did this week, he recorded eight combined tackles this week and just by being a member of this defense will see more opportunities than most since this team is dead last in the league in time of possession and is on the field more than any other defense. This is a monster waiver wire linebacker and I've mentioned it several times in previous weeks when Cashman was injured or Avery Williamson (LB) was traded, I hope you were able to hold onto him or can pick him up heading into playoffs this is a rock solid waiver wire linebacker. Bryce Hall (CB) continues to be the real deal as well, this is the way.

    Misc notes: Ashtyn Davis (S) was only able to play 56% of snaps before getting injured and declared out this week, Mathias Farley (S) is apparently his replacement and played the final 44% of snaps as the other starting safety but only recorded one QB hit during that playing time. Farley had some run back in the day on the Colts if I remember correctly but hasn't been IDP relevant in quite some time, if Davis is gone next week this is technically an option but not one I would recommend. Marcus Maye (S) played his customary 100% of snaps as usual but only recorded three combined tackles and two passes defended on the day, he's cooled way down since that massive week one where everyone was ready to crown him the waiver wire safety of the season without seeing anything more than an outlier week that was definition of flash in the pan. Since that point he's been one of the only members of this defense to play 100% of snaps every week and remain healthy and yet somehow manage NOT to produce consistently despite this team being dead last in time of possession and near the end of the pack in both passing and rushing defense. This defense has tons to eat every week and spends more time on the field than any other defense in the league and somehow Marcus Maye (S) has managed to stink since that outlier initial game of the season, I've abandoned ship already and have been advocating for everyone else to do the same for some time now, this week was just another nail in that coffin. As we head into playoffs I'm interested in Neville Hewitt (LB), Harvey Langi (LB), Quinnen Williams (DE), especially if he's still designated a defensive tackle in your league, and Bryce Hall (CB) for streaming corner purposes. Beyond that lies danger. We'll see what the deal with Ashtyn Davis (S) is heading into next week by checking local New York media and beat writers and beyond that we're looking good, the guys we expected to produce did so this week, I do not expect Marcus Maye (S) to produce and haven't expected that for some time now, so business as usual in New York.

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    JJ Watt clenches his butt cheeks and concentrates on his breathing as he desperately tries not to crap his pants before halftime, Colts @ Texans, Houston USA Circa 2020

    Colts @ Texans

    Indianapolis Colts

    Produced as expected: Anthony Walker (CB) Kenny Moore (CB) Darius Leonard (LB) Justin Houston (DE) DeForest Buckner (DT)

    Flash in the pan: NA, all the right names at the top of the box score this week.

    Possible waivers: Tavon Wilson (S) played 95% in relief of the injured and out Khari Willis (S) this week, he only recorded four combined tackles but had an interception that was called back so it was pretty close to a nice game for him this week, if Willis can't go this is the replacement. Anthony Walker (LB) continues to be an option for however long Bobby Okereke (LB) is injured and out, Walker was in for 100% of snaps this week and led all Colts IDP producers with eleven combined tackles and a smattering of other stats, pretty solid waiver wire linebacker while Okereke is injured but we've seen all season long he's the odd man out when Okereke, Leonard and Walker are all healthy, he routinely sees his playing time slashed by a ton when the other two are healthy and playing.

    Misc notes: Justin Houston (DE) still only played 55% of snaps this week but had a monster game with three sacks plus all the trimmings, he's been really difficult to figure out this season, his playing time, production and health in general have fluctuated all over the place and he's been more inconsistent than usual this year. Still in deeper leagues it could be worth the headache for weeks like this, if you have him in a good spot as a defensive end three or four in deeper leagues I'm into it. It's been a rollercoaster with this guy all year though so I personally have no shares and don't plan on trying to get any. DeForest Buckner (DT) returned from Covid IR to play 83% of snaps this week and record four solo tackles, two sacks, two tackles for loss and three QB hits on the day. This is why he's a top ten IDP defensive tackle, more like top five actually. He's solid most weeks and can blow the hell up every once in awhile, I'm confident rolling with him as we get to the playoffs. Rock Ya Sin (CB) remains the odd man out with just 45% of snaps played this week as Kenny Moore (CB) and Xavier Rhodes (CB) played 100% and 95% respectively, this hasn't changed in some time now and very likely won't unless the injury grim reaper strikes. I could've sworn Rhodes got dinged up in this one but he played nearly every snap and I just looked and am not seeing anything saying he was hurt so I guess that was just my imagination, regardless the only way Ya Sin is getting back into the fold is with an injury to either of the full time guys. Everything else looks good, no other notes of importance or fluctuations in playing time or changes in role etc, the other guys that didn't produce this week were either on the defensive line where that's just the nature of the position or were named Julian Blackmon (S) who we've seen is as spotty as my underwear all season so we're not shocked there either. Heading into playoffs I'm feeling good about DeForest Buckner (DT) everywhere, Justin Houston (DE) in deeper leagues as a third or fourth option, Denico Autry (DT) as a defensive tackle and Grover Stewart (DT) in deeper leagues, Darius Leonard (LB) everywhere, Anthony Walker (LB) if Okereke or Leonard is injured in deeper leagues, Bobby Okereke (LB) if healthy in deeper leagues, Khari Willis (S) everywhere and Kenny Moore (CB) or Xavier Rhodes as streaming corners if the matchup is correct, preferably Moore. Beyond that it gets iffy real quick.

    Houston Texans

    Produced as expected: Tyrell Adams (LB) Zach Cunningham (LB) Justin Reid (S) JJ Watt (DE) Vernon Hargreaves (CB)

    Flash in the pan: AJ Moore (S) and Jacob Martin (DE) played 16% and 29% of snaps respectively this week, neither is remotely enough for any kind of consistency and both got lucky with an outlier sack that's not likely to happen again any time soon, pass on both.

    Possible waivers: Phillip Gaines (CB) has apparently solidified the second cornerback slot here along with Vernon Hargreaves (CB), they played 100% and 90% of snaps respectively this week and both had nice days in the box score, due to the nature of this Houston offense (it's the third best passing offense in the league and they play in a dome) this team finds itself in shootouts a ton and either of these guys makes a really nice streaming corner option in deeper leagues if that matchup is correct. Lonnie Johnson (CB) is the odd man out with only 68% of snaps played this week.

    Misc notes: Zach Cunningham (LB) was up to 84% of snaps this week! He also recorded nine combined tackles and sits at a PFF score of 55.1 which isn't great still but isn't as bad as it's been at other points this season. We just need him for three more weeks, that's it. Then we can all trade him in dynasty or blast him into space in redraft, let's all pray the IDP Gods allow us just three more weeks before pulling the rug out from under us. So far so good. It's legitimately risky playing him throughout playoffs though, if you're just reading this article for the first time now you're probably thinking I've lost my damned mind, but if you're here every week you've been following this with me all season as we've watched a bad player on the field but a great IDP producer come closer and closer to losing his job. It's your call for playoffs but anywhere that I've got another option I'm taking it unless that matchup with Cunningham is exponentially better. Whitney Mercilus (EDGE) played his usual 70% of snaps this week but failed to record any stats of any kind. Prime example number three this week of EDGE or OLB completely and utterly failing and leaving you with nothing if you plugged them into your linebacker slot. Remember this and remember it well. Not a whole lot else to see here, this defense has a few really nice pieces and everything else is just noise. Heading into playoffs I'm into JJ Watt (DE), Tyrell Adams (LB) in most places and Zach Cunningham (LB) in deeper leagues or if you don't have a better option and you pray a lot, Justin Reid (S) in deeper leagues and Hargreaves or Gaines as a corner stream in deeper leagues if the matchup is correct, beyond that lies pain and suffering, especially if you plus Whitney Mercilus (EDGE) into your regular linebacker slot.

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    Rams @ Cardinals

    Los Angeles Rams

    Produced as expected: Troy Reeder (LB) John Johnson (S) Troy Hill (CB) Aaron Donald (DT)

    Flash in the pan: Justin Hollins (LB) only played 42% of snaps and got a lucky outlier sack plus is someone I've never heard of and barely plays in the first place and is only here because Cory Littleton (LB) got gobbled up in free agency then Micah Kiser (LB) got hurt and Troy Reeder (LB) had to move over to his position. That may not be accurate entirely but the point is a ton of shit had to go wrong for this guy to even see the field, he's not good and doesn't play enough, pass.

    Possible waivers: Troy Reeder (LB) remains a rock solid option for the duration of the Micah Kiser (LB) injury, he was in for 100% of snaps and recorded ten combined tackles and a pass defense this week in relief of the injured and out Kiser. Keep an eye on Kiser's health after this week he was originally on the three week IR not the long term one if I remember correctly.

    Misc notes: Jalen Ramsey (CB) was back to 100% of snaps this week but had a down week overall which isn't exactly strange, there's a reason why he's so hyped and isn't targeted nearly as often as other corners, I'd still start him if the matchup looks good, regardless he was back to 100% health this week which was what we were looking for. Leonard Floyd (EDGE) played 88% of snaps this week but failed to land a sack or splash play and since this position doesn't have a combined tackle floor he had a bad day, yet another example of someone who would've destroyed your week if started in a regular linebacker slot, example number four this week I believe. Jordan Fuller (S) played 100% of snaps but came back to earth this week after having interceptions the last couple weeks, three solo tackles on the day wasn't what we were looking for but it happens, especially with these lower tier safeties, I'd still be comfortable starting him in deeper leagues weekly without hesitation. Aaron Donald (DT) continues to split butt cheeks like firewood. Everything else was fine, the Rams had twelve more first downs on offense and dominated time of possession 39 minutes to 21 so this defense was barely on the field at all, knowing that these couple weekly producers that let us down make more sense, you can't score IDP points from the bench because your offense is out there sustaining drives. We still got the production we needed from John Johnson (S), Troy Reeder (LB) and Aaron Donald (DT) plus another monster bonus week from Troy Hill (CB) as his ridiculous season continues so we'll take it, not bad at all with everything considered. Heading into playoffs I'm interested in Aaron Donald (DT) everywhere, Micheal Brockers (DE) and Leonard Floyd (EDGE) in deeper leagues, Floyd as a DL in sleeper or as an option in an IDP flex spot in big play scoring with tackles devalued only, Troy Reeder (LB) for at least another week then Micah Kiser (LB) when he returns to the lineup everywhere, John Johnson (S) everywhere, Jordan Fuller (S) in deeper leagues, Troy Hill (CB) if the matchup is correct and same but to a lesser extent with Jalen Ramsey (CB). Beyond that it gets iffy.

    Arizona Cardinals

    Produced as expected: Budda Baker (S) DeVondre Campbell (LB) Jordan Hicks (LB) Dre Kirkpatrick (CB) Patrick Peterson (CB)

    Flash in the pan: Domata Peko (DT) & Isaiah Simmons (LB) played 47% and 39% of snaps respectively and likely only produced as much as they did, which wasn't anything special just seven and five combined tackles apiece, because this defense was legitimately on the field for two thirds of the game or 39 minutes. Peko is only playing because the Cardinals defensive line has been massacred in recent weeks and is old as dirt, I've always loved him as a player but his time has passed and he's just barely playing enough in the first place plus NFLGSIS has him as a nose tackle which isn't traditionally IDP relevant, so I'll pass but it is nice to see him back in action. As for Simmons his playing time is in a free fall and he's returning to IDP irrelevancy, play him at your own risk, the only reason it didn't completely bite you in the butt this week is because while he only played 39% of snaps that 39% was of a much larger overall number of snaps than usual due to the complete and total domination of time of possession by the Rams on offense. Pass here as well, dynasty futures piece only unless the injury grim reaper strikes again.

    Possible waivers: Chris Banjo (S) was up to 95% of snaps played this week and recorded ten combined tackles, while this looks great if this isn't your first time here you'll know we've seen his playing time and therefore production fluctuate all over the place this season so this is anything but solid, in fact it's just as likely to be a gigantic trap as it is a nice waiver wire safety move, I'm not doing it. But it technically exists so I'm saying it, this one is on you if you decide to pull the trigger. I wouldn't.

    Misc notes: Haasan Redick (EDGE) was in for a massive 88% of snaps this week but didn't land a sack or splash play therefore his overall week was bad, he still got us a couple tackles and a pass defense so if your league scores those high you might've been OK but in most places it was a disaster, example number five this week of EDGE or OLB in your linebacker slot destroying your chances at a win. Same story with Markus Golden (EDGE), 76% of snaps this week and example number six of EDGE or OLB in your regular linebacker slot destroying your week. Everything was pretty much fine here this week with the notable exception of Hassan Redick (EDGE), this defense spent two thirds of the entire game on the field so everyone and their family got to eat and it was a four course meal as the Rams both ran and passed effectively all game long, this was the ideal scenario for IDP production and it absolutely shows. Heading into fantasy playoffs I'm into DeVondre Campbell (LB), Jordan Hicks (LB) and Budda Baker (S) everywhere, Haasan Redick (EDGE) as a DL in Sleeper or in an IDP flex spot in big play leagues that devalue tackles but that's it, either Patrick Peterson (CB) or Dre Kirkpatrick (CB) if the matchup is correct in most leagues (the most shallow maybe not), Markus Golden (EDGE) under the same circumstances as Reddick but in deeper leagues and NOT Chris Banjo (S) because it feels and looks like a trap. Anyone not named there is probably a bad idea.

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    Giants @ Seahawks

    New York Giants

    Produced as expected: Blake Martinez (LB) James Bradberry (CB) Jabrill Peppers (S) Isaac Yiadom (CB) Leonard Williams (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Darnay Holmes (CB) only played 78% of snaps this week and is the fourth corner in most leagues since Logan Ryan (CB) is still designated as a corner in a lot of places, he hasn't done anything else of note this season and likely only did something this week because the Seahawks were in town and were trying to sling it all over the place.

    Possible waivers: Tae Crowder (LB) has been a popular discussion piece for waiver wire linebacker this week, although he only played 54% of snaps this week he is freshly back from injury so his complete weekly snap count likely isn't there yet, regardless it's a little late in the game to be screwing around with this unless in a deeper league with fewer options overall. He did have a monster box score despite the less than ideal playing time so the efficiency was there no doubt, your call what to do with this I'm probably all set.

    Misc notes: Blake Martinez (LB) recorded ten combined tackles, a tackle for loss and a pass defense while playing his traditional 100% of snaps, people were worried last week and I said it was because of the Bengals offense and nothing to do with Martinez's talent or opportunity, here's the proof. He's fine as long as a real offense is in town. Xavier McKinney (S) once again only played six total snaps this week, he remains IDP irrelevant and is just a dynasty futures piece unless the injury grim reaper strikes. Logan Ryan (S/CB) played his customary 100% of snaps but surprisingly had a bad game in an absolutely ideal matchup, it happens, he's been hot recently and was due for a bad game, if he's designated a corner in your league I'm plugging him in weekly without hesitation but as a safety there are better options in shallower leagues but in most places he's a nice safety two or three, he should be fine regardless. Dexter Lawrence (DE) and Dalvin Tomlinson (DT) played 51% and 42% of snaps respectively this week and both had down games overall, I'm not seeing anything about an injury to either of them and the reduction in snaps for both isn't massive but it is noticeable. They're really only options in much deeper leagues anyways and have been spotty all year so it's just more of the same, still it would've been nice to see better playing time from Tomlinson in this one that just doesn't look right. Bottom line is if you're in a place where you have to start either of these guys weekly there likely aren't any better options so it is what it is, let's hope next week is better. David Mayo (LB) still isn't playing, just six total snaps this week, despite his bloated projection from sites like Yahoo and Sleeper that I continue to see every week, it's not accurate and they're behind the times, they've got this guy putting up ten plus points a game but Kamren Curl (S) and Bryce Hall (CB) projected at zero points a week, so yeah, not accurate, you can ignore that. I am all about the following Giants defensive pieces heading into playoffs, Leonard Williams (DE), Dalvin Tomlinson (DT) and Dexter Lawrence (DE) in deeper leagues, Blake Martinez (LB) everywhere all the time, Jabrill Peppers (S) everywhere, Logan Ryan (CB/S) and James Bradberry (CB) if the matchup is correct and that's about it. There are some other pieces here but we're talking 32 team single copy league territory for those dudes, the guys I mentioned feel solid for the stretch run.

    Seattle Seahawks

    Produced as expected: Jamal Adams (S) Bobby Wagner (LB) DJ Reed (CB/S) Shaq Griffin (CB) Quandre Diggs (CB/S) Benson Mayowa (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Jordyn Brooks (LB) did play 77% of snaps this week but is clearly the third option at linebacker here and we've seen a rotation of "third linebacker guys" here all season, he's the flavor of the week, this is fine in deeper leagues but in general it's not a great option, he's had four acceptable or good games and six bad games this season so the consistency is nonexistent and when starting linebackers consistency is king, this ain't that, pass.

    Possible waivers: DJ Reed (CB/S) is once again back in business, we talked about him being just one injury away from being back in the action and with Tre Flowers (CB) headed to IR here we are, anyone who remembers a few weeks back when he was seeing 100% of snaps every game and the production that came from those games knows what we're looking at here, a potential cornerback monster for the playoffs, pull the trigger and play him in anything resembling a good matchup. Check local media and beat writers before kickoff though since we've only seen this for a week this time around so we should make sure it's for real before locking him back in. This is (possibly, likely) the way.

    Misc notes: Tre Flowers (CB) went to IR late last week clearing the way for DJ Reed (CB/S) to return as our savior, plug him into your corner slots everywhere and praise be the IDP Gods. KJ Wright (LB) played 96% of snaps this week but had a down week overall, the Giants were rolling with a backup quarterback and already had a pretty bad offense even before that point, there was never going to be enough to eat here for everyone and Wright got the short end of the stick this week, it happens. He'll be fine, especially against a real offense. Carlos Dunlap (DE) just barely got cleared to play in this one and only saw 41% of snaps very likely because of the nagging injury he had all week, this is obviously a downtick in playing time but at least there's a legit explanation, as long as he's healthy next week I expect him to be back to his full playing time and parting opposing quarterbacks butt cheeks like Moses parted the Red Sea. Damon Harrison (DT) was up to 39% of snaps this week but still isn't playable, only one solo tackle on the day, it's too bad we're just about out of time and it doesn't look like we'll get the legit return of one of IDP's greatest defensive tackles to ever play. Heading into playoffs I'm into the following pieces on the Seahawks, Jamal Adams (S) and Bobby Wagner (LB) absolutely everywhere, KJ Wright (LB) and Carlos Dunlap (DE) in most leagues (twelve teams plus, not shallow), DJ Reed (CB/S) and Shaq Griffin (CB) in matchups that look good at corner and that's about it. There are other options here for stupid deep leagues but anyone in those leagues knows who they are and doesn't need me to reiterate for them. Onwards.

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    Eagles @ Packers

    Philadelphia Eagles

    Produced as expected: Alex Singleton (LB) Jalen Mills (S) Avonte Maddox (CB) Rodney McLeod (S) *somewhat* Javon Hargrave (DT)

    Flash in the pan: TJ Edwards (LB) only played 34% of snaps this week so he qualifies as flash in the pan with that outlier sack while playing far less than ideal snaps for an IDP linebacker, it's pretty clear that if it's not Alex Singleton (LB) it's not a safe linebacker to play on this team.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: Duke Riley (LB) and TJ Edwards (LB) played 51% and 34% of snaps this week, not only did they switch places as the second option at linebacker in terms of playing time but they both saw a pretty drastic reduction in playing time overall. Neither are safe heading into playoffs, it's Alex Singleton (LB) or nothing. The entire defensive line besides Javon Hargrave (DT) had a down week against the Packers but the playing time was normal, no issues there just nature of the position. Darius Slay (CB) only played 66% of snaps before a knee injury forced him out, the MRI revealed that it wasn't a major injury but he could be out next week we'll have to keep an eye on it, only Avonte Maddox (CB) played enough to be a cornerback streamer this week due to this, it would probably be smart to just avoid this unit entirely for week one of playoffs to forgo any shenanigans. There are a few options on this defense I like heading into playoffs, most of them are on the defensive line. Fletcher Cox (DT) and Brandon Graham (DE) are solid in basically any size league, Javon Hargrave (DT) and Derek Barnett (DE) in deeper leagues, Alex Singleton (LB) is solid in any size league and Nathan Gerry (LB) had surgery this week so it looks like we should be all set with him returning to ruin that any time soon. The corners are dangerous while Slay's status is in limbo but Maddox is a decent streamer in much deeper leagues, Rodney McLeod (S) and Jalen Mills (S) are fine in deeper leagues as well and that's about it. Vinny Curry (DE) and Josh Sweat (DE) are not great options but playable in 32 team leagues or other stupid deep leagues. Those are the options. Moving on.

    Green Bay Packers

    Produced as expected: Christian Kirksey (LB) Dean Lowry (DE) Kevin King (CB) Preston Smith (EDGE) Za'Darius Smith (EDGE) Darnell Savage (S) Adrian Amos (S) *somewhat*

    Flash in the pan: Kingsley Keke (DE) & Rashan Gary (EDGE) played 39% and 58% of snaps respectively which isn't ideal for either and they both haven't done much else of note this season and while Gary is a dynasty futures piece with a definite role and future with this team Keke is a true flash in the pan, pass on both. Raven Greene (S) only played 52% of snaps this week and sees his playing time and therefore this production fluctuate wildly week to week much like the majority of all other "third safeties" in this league, no interest here either. Outlier production from all three due to a pathetic offensive line that couldn't stop a pass rush from toddlers.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: Jaire Alexander (CB) played 98% of snaps this week but didn't do a whole lot, part of that was the ineffectiveness of the Philly passing game and part of it was why the hell would anyone target Jaire Alexander (CB)? He'll be fine against a better passing offense no worries. Kenny Clark (DT) played 71% of snaps but had a down week, nature of the position he'll be fine. Not much else to see here this week those two are the only notable IDP producers to have bad games and both should bounce back no problem. Heading into playoffs I want Christian Kirksey (LB) everywhere, Za'Darius Smith (EDGE) is one of the best and most consistent of the inconsistent EDGE or OLB guys but I would preferably want him at DL in Sleeper or as an IDP flex in a big play league where tackles are devalued, give me Preston Smith (EDGE) under the same circumstances in deeper versions of those same leagues, Jaire Alexander (CB) and Kevin King (CB) are both excellent streaming corner options if the matchup is ideal and neither safety (Amos or Savage) is awesome but both are decent options in deeper leagues. And lastly I'd take Kenny Clark (DT) in most places, pretty much everywhere but the most shallow of leagues. Beyond that I'm not into it. Onwards.

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    Patriots @ Chargers

    New England Patriots

    Produced as expected: Adrian Phillips (S) Ju'Whuan Bentley (LB) Kyle Dugger (S) Adam Butler (DT) Chase Winovich (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Lawrence Guy (DT) & Deatrich Wise (DE) played 31% and 39% of snaps this week, that could be 91% and 99% of snaps next week we have no way of knowing, this entire defense is massively unpredictable and generally unsafe to use and a massive pain in my ass every week. But under the technical definition these two were a flash in the pan this week.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: No one played every snap this week because this was a complete and total blowout, I've talked about this defense all season and most of it wasn't flattering, there's risk everywhere with this defense. Going into playoffs I feel (not really) comfortable with Adrian Phillips (S), Ju'Whuan Bentley (LB), Chase Winovich (DE) and Stephon Gilmore (CB) if the matchup is ideal. No one here is safe, everyone is risky, everything changes all the time, the snaps are never the same, the production is never the same, there's never been any rhyme or reason to it and I've already spent too much time here, got read the last thirteen weeks of this article for more on why playing anyone from here is a bad idea. Moving on.

    Los Angeles Chargers

    Produced as expected: Kenneth Murray (LB) Linval Joseph (DT) Jerry Tillery (DT) Reyshawn Jenkins (S) & Nasir Adderley (S) *somewhat*

    Flash in the pan: NA, all names that make sense at the top of the box score this week.

    Possible waivers: Nick Vigil (LB) while Kyzir White (LB) and Denzel Perryman (LB) are both out, White should be back this week so this is probably just academic.

    Misc notes: Joey Bosa (DE) was in for 88% of snaps this week but had few actual pass rush attempts as the Patriots wrapped this one up early and were able to salt away the game and the clock on the ground for the better part of this one. He'll be fine, he's a man among boys. This defense pretty much gave us what we needed across the board besides the corners and Joey Bosa (DE), the Patriots only had fourteen completions for 126 passing yards on the day so pass rush opportunities were basically nonexistent and the same for pass defenses and tackles from corners so that tracks, they'll be fine against a better passing offense. Everyone else we count on to produce weekly did so and we'll take it. Heading into playoffs I'm interested in Joey Bosa (DE) everywhere, Kenneth Murray (LB) and either safety (Adderley or Jenkins) in deeper leagues, same with Kyzir White (LB) if he returns to the lineup next week, if it's Nick Vigil (LB) again I'm not the biggest fan of a one week spot start third string linebacker in the first week of fantasy playoffs. Micheal Davis (CB) and Chris Harris (CB) are fine in deeper leagues if the matchup is ideal and Linval Joseph (DT) and Jerry Tillery (DT) are fine in deeper leagues as well. Melvin Ingram (DE) has been awful this season and is hurt more than he plays recently and Uchenna Nwosu (OLB) is not a great option either, that's it everything else is not great. Moving on.

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    Broncos @ Chiefs

    Denver Broncos

    Produced as expected: Kareem Jackson (CB) Justin Simmons (S) Micheal Ojedmudia (CB) Josey Jewell (LB) AJ Bouye (CB)

    Flash in the pan: Jeremiah Attachou (LB) only played 23% of snaps and had a lucky outlier sack that likely won't happen again anytime soon, not enough playing time anyways, pass.

    Possible waivers: Shelby Harris (DE) was back from injury this week if I remember correctly, he was only in for 50% of snaps this week and had a couple tackles and a couple pass defenses so nothing spectacular but if you're got him in deeper dynasty leagues it looks like he's healthy and ready to roll. He's not worth an add in most places.

    Misc notes: It was Micheal Ojemudia (CB) since Bryce Callahan (CB) was out this week as is tradition, keep that in mind if you planned on streaming Callahan and he's out that looks like the direct replacement. Alexander Johnson (LB) was in for 95% of snaps this week but had a down week overall, not the end of the world the gamescript wasn't exactly ideal in the first place so the easy run stopping tackles were few and far between, he should be fine especially against a team that runs more often than the pass first and pass always Chiefs do. Bradley Chubb (EDGE) and Malik Reed (EDGE) played 88% and 84% of snaps respectively this week and neither was able to land a sack or splash play so they both had bad days overall, prime examples six and seven this week I believe of EDGE or OLB not being able to hit on a splash play (which are notoriously inconsistent just due to the nature of those plays, tackles happen every week, sacks and interceptions do not) and therefore having a bad week overall with almost zero IDP points since they don't have a combined tackle floor because of the position they play. I could do this every week but I'm specifically doing it this week to really hammer home the point that if you trust these guys in a regular linebacker slot during playoffs it will contribute to your unfortunate early exit from playoffs in all likelihood. Besides Alexander Johnson (LB) and the EDGE guys Chubb and Reed the only other guys we count on here to let us down were on the defensive line where that's just part of the deal, no one saw any crazy fluctuations in playing time that's worth mentioning so we're looking good here overall. Heading into playoffs I'm interested in Justin Simmons (S) everywhere, Josey Jewell (LB) and Alexander Johnson (LB) in deeper leagues, Bradley Chubb (EDGE) and Malik Reed (EDGE) are fine as DL in Sleeper or in an IDP flex spot in big play leagues where tackles are devalued but NOT in a regular linebacker slot, Demarcus Walker (DE), Dre'Mont Jones (DT) and Shelby Harris (DE) are solid in deeper leagues and the corners are all good here in the right matchups, Bouye is the best option in my opinion then Jackson then Callahan or Ojemudia if he's injured and out. Beyond that lies danger.

    Kansas City Chiefs

    Produced as expected: Tyrann Mathieu (S) Anthony Hitchens (LB) Daniel Sorensen (S) & Juan Thornhill (S) *somewhat*

    Flash in the pan: L'Jarius Sneed (CB) & Juan Thornhill (S) played 73% and 30% of snaps this week. Sneed usually plays less then even that so this was an outlier game and he's not a good option, for Thornhill we've seen his playing time and therefore production fluctuate wildly all season and he's anything but solid headed into playoffs. I have zero shares of both for these reasons and more.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: Chris Jones (DT) and Frank Clark (DE) played 73% and 79% of snaps respectively this week, they both had a few tackles and a pass defense or two, nothing special but at least it wasn't a total disaster, both have been a shadow of what they were last season so it's tough to really trust either heading into playoffs but it's also not likely there's a better option out there unless you've got them going in a shallower league and if that was the case you've had all season to find other options. It is what it is at this point, let's hope they figure it out for playoffs. Willie Gay (LB) only played 26% of snaps this week, still not an option and just a dynasty futures piece. There's always next season. We could've used a bit more from Daniel Sorensen (S) but this was the Broncos offense here not the greatest show on turf so it tracks. Overall besides the two cheek splitters on the defensive line we got what we needed so we're fine. Heading into playoffs I'm interested in Tyrann Mathieu (S) and Daniel Sorensen (S) basically everywhere but ideally in medium to deeper leagues, Frank Clark (DE) and Chris Jones (DT) also in deeper leagues, Anthony Hitchens (LB) same. The corners here are just OK, I'd stream them in the right situation and matchup in deeper leagues but there are better options. Beyond that things get weird.

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    Football Team @ Steelers

    Washington Football Team

    Produced as expected: Jon Bostic (LB) Cole Holcomb (LB) Kamren Curl (S) Daron Payne (DT) Deshazor Everett (S) Montez Sweat (DE)

    Flash in the pan: Kevin Pierre Louis (LB) only played 32% of snaps this week so we can ignore his slightly bigger than usual IDP output, he's still the odd man out for the linebackers here.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: Chase Young (DE) played 89% of snaps this week and while his box score was not impressive he played one hell of an actual football game, it was a down week for basically everyone on the defensive line here as the Washington Football Team recorded zero sacks this week, nature of the position everyone played their normal snaps so nothing to panic about. Montez Sweat (DE) managed to have a nice game with the three passes defended so he was the exception to an overall bad week for this unit, they'll be fine. Kendall Fuller (CB) was in for 99% of snaps but only had three solo tackles on the day, he remains the best streaming corner option here if the matchup is correct, this one was just OK so it tracks. Jon Bostic (LB) and Cole Holcomb (LB) both had solid days in the box score and played 80% and 73% of total snaps so we're still looking good there as well. Not a ton to see here this week pretty much everyone we expect to produce did so with the exception of our defensive line guys and that's just part of the deal with them so nothing out of the ordinary. Heading into playoffs I'm interested in Kamren Curl (S) everywhere, DeShazor Everett (S) only in very deep leagues, Cole Holcomb (LB) and Jon Bostic (LB) in medium to deeper leagues, Chase Young (DE) and Montez Sweat (DE) in medium to deeper leagues, Jonathan Allen (DT) and Daron Payne (DT) same and Kendall Fuller (CB) as the best streaming corner option in deeper leagues if the matchup looks ideal, beyond that it gets hairy and I lose interest quickly.

    Pittsburgh Steelers

    Produced as expected: Vince Williams (LB) Avery Williamson (LB) *considering the situation* TJ Watt (EDGE) Mike Hilton (CB) Terrell Edmunds (S) Joe Haden (CB) Stephon Tuitt (DE) Robert Spillane (LB)

    Flash in the pan: Justin Layne (CB) only saw the 39% of snaps he played this week because Joe Haden (CB) got hurt and left early and Steven Nelson (CB) was injured and out this week so we're going a bit down the rabbit hole for corner here and regardless his playing time stinks so I'll pass.

    Possible waivers: With the Robert Spillane (LB) injury this week and him carrying a doubtful tag at the time of writing it looks like Avery Williamson (LB) is back in business at least for the duration of the Spillane injury, he was in for 53% of snaps this week but should see more playing time than that since Spillane wasn't hurt until a decent way into this one, and recorded nine combined tackles and a tackle for loss on the day. It's a bit of a dice roll between Williamson and Vince Williams (LB) as to who will see the better combined tackles production but either one is a decent dice roll in deeper leagues.

    Misc notes: Alex Highsmith (EDGE) was the talk of the town in IDP Twitterland last week after Bud Dupree (EDGE) was injured and sent to IR, Highsmith was in for 83% of snaps this week but only recorded five combined tackles with no sacks or splash plays, that combined tackle number is very likely an outlier his production will be very much big play dependent do if you do choose to make this move keep that in mind, he's just as likely to screw you as he is to blow up for you and whereas TJ Watt (EDGE) is the most consistent of the inconsistent's at EDGE, it's exponentially more risky playing someone like Highsmith whose talent level is clearly several rungs down the ladder compared to guys like Watt and even Za'Darius Smith (EDGE). I wouldn't do it personally. Mike Hilton (CB) was in for 79% of snaps this week which is just about where he clocked in weekly towards the start of the season when he was racking up a sack a week and everyone thought he was the second coming of Antoine Winfield Sr (CB). He is not. Still this isn't the worst idea in the world he's just going to be entirely big play dependent for his points, pass defense and combined tackles aren't his thing. In a position as naturally spotty and inconsistent as corner you're taking a risk every week anyways so it's not much more of a risk going with Hilton and praying for a sack, I wouldn't do it personally but then again I'm dialed in to every teams corner options and have been streaming at 74% accuracy all season so I know where the deals are, it's your call if you want to go with him or not the point is I get it if you do. Minkah Fitzpatrick (S) & Cameron Heyward (DT) played 100% and 93% of snaps respectively this week, Fitzpatrick has always been super spotty, inconsistent and unreliable so this is normal him having a bust week, those who choose to play him weekly either know this by now or learned the hard way this week. This is who he is, consistency will never be his thing, it's your call what to do with that information. For Heyward he's been a rock solid IDP defensive tackle for years so we can forgive him the occasional bad game, he'll be fine. We got pretty much everything we needed here this week including a bounce back game from Watt. When I make examples out of EDGE guys having disasters in the box score week after week I'm talking about the overall strategy, guys like TJ Watt (EDGE), Za'Darius Smith (EDGE) and (last year anyways) Shaq Barrett (EDGE) (at least until the week sixteen title game) are more consistent than the vast majority of other EDGE guys but still are less consistent than combined tackle floor guys like Devin White (LB) and Roquan Smith (LB) and the like, they may be better options but the chances are still high that even the best of these EDGE guys will let you down in playoffs somewhere over the next three games, it's still poopy just less smelly or messy poopy. Going into playoffs I'm interested in Cameron Heyward (DT) everywhere, Stephon Tuitt (DE) as well, TJ Watt (EDGE) in an IDP flex spot in big play scoring leagues or preferably as a DL in Sleeper, Alex Highsmith (EDGE) I'm probably not doing that unless it's the same conditions as for Watt plus in a way deeper league, Minkah Fitzpatrick (S) and Terrell Edmunds (S) are fine in deeper leagues, Vince Williams (LB) and Avery Williamson (LB) as well and at corner I'd take Joe Haden (CB) then Mike Hilton (CB) in deeper leagues but in general there are better options to stream corner from. Beyond that it falls off a cliff.

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    Bills @ Niners

    Buffalo Bills

    Produced as expected: Micah Hyde (S) Levi Wallace (CB) Tremaine Edmunds (LB) Jordan Poyer (S) Taron Johnson (CB) Tre'Davious White (CB)

    Flash in the pan: NA, all the right names at the top of the box score this week.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week, technically you could pick up Matt Milano (LB) if someone dropped him but if we see another week or two of them easing him back into the lineup like we did that week it will kill the value of both Milano and Klein so I would just maybe add him and sit him for now if possible, more below.

    Misc notes: Matt Milano (LB) and AJ Klein (LB) played 31% and 69% of snaps respectively this week as we got stuck with one foot still in the water so to speak. Neither has much value while they're not giving the entire position and it's full snap count to either guy, plus the snaps Klein did play this week he saw exponentially fewer pass rush snaps which was what his value was on top of just being a full time starting inside linebacker therefore having a solid combined tackle floor as well. The Bills can screw around with this, we can't, you can keep either, neither or both but keep them on your bench until we get more clarity here. The defensive line had a bad day overall with no sacks at all but the usual suspects all played their normal snaps so it's just nature of the position and part of the deal, they'll be fine. Everyone else did what we expected so we're looking good overall. Going into playoffs I'm interested in Jordan Poyer (S) and Tremaine Edmunds (LB) everywhere, Micah Hyde (S) and Matt Milano (LB) (assuming he regains his normal playing time sometime before the week sixteen title game) in deeper leagues, Mario Addison (EDGE) and Jerry Hughes (DE) in deeper leagues and Ed Oliver (DT) the same. For corners I am all about Tre'Davious White (CB) if the matchup is ideal anywhere and Levi Wallace (CB) or Taron Johnson (CB) if the matchup is ideal in deeper leagues. Beyond that I'm all set.

    San Francisco 49ers

    Produced as expected: Jason Verrett (CB) Jimmy Ward (S) Dre Greenlaw (LB) & Fred Warner (LB) *somewhat*

    Flash in the pan: Dontae Johnson (CB) subbed in for the injured and out Emmanuel Moseley (CB) and was still the third corner in terms of playing time, he's only playable if Moseley is injured and out and even then he doesn't play enough with 86% of snaps this week and literally the perfect matchup on his plate, too many variables need to happen before he has value so unless you plan on tracking all that I'd just pass on it. Dion Jordan (DE) played 48% of snaps this week which approaches fine in deeper leagues but hasn't done much else of note this season so unless it's a crazy deep league I'll pass.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: Kerry Hyder (DE) and Arik Armstead (DT) both had down games this week but played 73% and 67% of snaps this week and have been really decent to pretty decent all season, they both remain options in deeper leagues and it's just nature of the position, sacks and splash plays don't happen every week and anyone who thinks they do is new here. Same deal with Javon Kinlaw (DT) who was in for 66% of snaps this week. We could've gotten better games from Warner and Greenlaw but Buffalo was content to air it out and clap the Niners cheeks through the passing game so those easy run stopping tackles were few and far between this week, they'll both have better games to come. Everything else looked good here, no significant fluctuations in playing time or anything we need to panic about just the normal variations in production we see everywhere in IDP land week to week based on how the game went and other factors we have no control over. We're just along for the ride, set the lineup and take the trip my friends. Going into playoffs I'd like Fred Warner (LB) everywhere, Dre Greenlaw (LB) in medium to deeper leagues, Kerry Hyder (DE) and Javon Kinlaw (DT) in deeper leagues, either safety (Moore or Ward) in very deep leagues but preferably not at all, there are better options out there, and Richard Sherman (CB) or Jason Verrett (CB) in deeper leagues when the matchup looks ideal. Everything else is dust in the wind.

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    Cowboys @ Ravens

    Dallas Cowboys

    Produced as expected: Jaylon Smith (LB) Jourdan Lewis (CB) Chidobe Awuzie (CB) Leighton Vander Esch (LB) & Xavier Woods (S) *somewhat*

    Flash in the pan: NA, all names that make sense at the top of the box score this week.

    Possible waivers: Darian Thompson (S) if Donovan Wilson (S) is injured and out again next week but I'm not into it.

    Misc notes: Donovan Wilson (S) was injured and out so we got the return of Darian Thompson (S) this week, he'll be out as soon as Wilson is healthy again so not really a great option especially with everything on the line. Leighton Vander Esch (LB) only saw 69% of snaps this week which obviously isn't ideal the week before fantasy playoffs. It looks like Sean Lee (LB) was in for those other 31% of snaps so there's that, this hasn't been great for awhile here I've been talking about this for weeks, I hope you found other options because I don't have good news for you, Jaylon Smith (LB) looks like he'll be alright to get us through fantasy playoffs, LVE not so much. No one on the Dallas defensive line landed any sacks or splash plays so that was fun but Lawrence and Smith were fine with 78% and 75% of snaps played respectively, Randy Gregory (DE) however was only in for 24% so that's not ideal at all, he's an avoid for playoffs. Everything else was alright, let's get Wilson back and hope LVE sees a return to ideal playing time and we'll be alright, I would make plans for neither happening though because it's better to expect the worst and anything else is a bonus. Heading into playoffs I want Jaylon Smith (LB) everywhere, LVE in deeper leagues, Demarcus Lawrence (DE) and Aldon Smith (DE) in deeper leagues, Donovan Wilson (S) in medium to deep leagues, Xavier Woods (S) in much deeper leagues and Chidobe Awuzie (CB) as the corner to stream here in ideal matchups, beyond that I'm all set.

    Baltimore Ravens

    Produced as expected: Derek Wolfe (DE) DeShon Elliot (S) Marcus Peters (CB) Patrick Queen (LB) Marlon Humphrey (CB) & Chuck Clark (S) *somewhat*

    Flash in the pan: Anthony Averett (CB) and LJ Fort (LB) played 70% and 42% of snaps respectively this week, Averett is the third corner and far too spotty and or doesn't play enough take your pick and Fort plays less than half the snaps and is also massively spotty and inconsistent, linebacker is one of the only positions where you can find consistency so why would you ever settle for less than that? Pass on both. Jihad Ward (DE) was in for 48% of snaps and likely only that much because they eased Calais Campbell (DE) back into things, he only saw 29% of snaps his first week back from Covid IR, regardless he hasn't done much else of note this season so I'm all set, too late in the game to screw around with stuff like this.

    Possible waivers: No new producers this week.

    Misc notes: As mentioned above Calais Campbell (DE) only saw 29% of snaps his first week back from Covid IR, hopefully that will improve next week if you need to depend on him in the next few games. Everything looked pretty good here, Yannick Ngakoue (DE) screwed us as usual but did play 71% of snaps so that was good to see, Matt Judon (EDGE) was out this week and everyone else pretty much did what we expected. Nothing out of the ordinary here to panic about besides Campbell not playing a ton but that's to be expected coming back from having coronavirus. Heading into playoffs I'd be interested in either safety, Elliot or Clark, in medium to deeper leagues, Patrick Queen (LB) the same. Ngakoue only in deeper leagues, the deeper the better, Campbell in medium to deep assuming he plays enough next week, Matt Judon (EDGE) only as a DL in Sleeper or in big play leagues if you're into pain and suffering and like to be let down, and last but most certainly not least give me Marcus Peters (CB) or Marlon Humphrey (CB) as corner streamers in any size league as long as the matchup is remotely decent. Beyond that I'm good.

    Alright my lovely readers. We're over seventeen thousand this week because I wanted to tie a bow on this thing before we hit the fantasy playoffs. You've been here all season, you've seen what I've seen. You know what to do and why you're doing it which is just as important. We're ready, we're locked in. Let's go finish this shit and take home those titles. Cya next week.


    Follow me on Twitter @Orangeman3142 and all our writers on our IDP team as well, @JoeyTheToothIDP, @seahawksdan8, @HollywoodTitan, @ZMagsIDP, @Lanny1925, @IDP_Dude, @KBellf54, @ONUtyjo and @ejh1528IDP for all your IDP needs. We will have IDP articles, matchup charts, waivers, sleepers and everything you could possibly need this season coming out daily all season long here at idpguys.org, we’re going to literally waterboard you with content. Check out my streaming corners article every Friday morning and this article will be out every Thursday morning all season. We’ve got you covered from every angle all season long.

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    Johny The Greek

    Non-delusional Cowboys Fan. Been playing Fantasy since 2003, IDP since 2004 and watching football for 35 years. Being a firm believer in "you should know if the person you're taking advice from actually knows or wins anything" I'd like to present exhibit A: I have a diamond rating in Yahoo (976) with 29 plus titles in redraft/dynasty across Yahoo, Sleeper, Fantrax and MFL and an additional 57 plus 2nd/3rd place in redraft/dynasty, same platforms. I also play in and have won several all-IDP leagues. I started playing FanDuel with a free entry and have won almost a grand since. I've also won many leagues on the draft app (RIP Draft App, we miss you) and play the maximum number of free college fantasy leagues on Yahoo every year as well with 3 titles and 9 trophies in just two years of playing before Yahoo discontinued those leagues. My profile includes multiple titles in survivor and pick em leagues as well. I was a finalist in the 2021/22 IDP Guys Invitational and the best ball tournament. Also a MFL & Sleeper best ball & eliminator degenerate with many titles there as well. I just started playing All-22 this season and I would bet the mortgage I'll be good at that too. (Update, I did fine, 9-5 first season and made playoffs). What does all that mean? Nothing except when I do something I tend to overdo it. I have been at this for a long time though so I'll help you with your IDP roster and questions however I can whenever I can. I write a weekly streaming IDP corners article (Johny The Greek's Cornerbacks Corner) and whatever I feel like in the offseason. You can find me @OrangeMan3142 on Twitter. Feel free to reach out for any questions or just to talk some football. Check out my articles on Friday mornings all season long. And new this season and going forward stick around for "Johny The Greek's Free Real Estate" where I interview the best and brightest from FF Twitter, and by that I mean the interesting people who actually help you win and not the useless engagement farmers. I am not an "analyst" I'm just a crazy person/degenerate who has been doing this a long time, has been pretty good at it and is dialed in because I have to be to not sound like an idiot writing all these articles and doing all these shows. My style is straightforward & conversational, IDP isn't complicated and you're not trying to win an argument on Twitter you're trying to win your league. Come join me weekly in season for Johny the Greek's Cornerbacks Corner, where we look at the fine art that is streaming corners or finding ways to maximize your production from your CB slots each week. Also in season check out the IDP Pros Podcast on SGPN network. I hope you enjoyed the article. Let us praise our Messiah Babu Frik and give worship to Baby Yoda. Jimmy G would make a fine husband. Thanks for reading. -Johny the Greek-
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