Week 14 Fantasy Picks: Playoff Planning

Every Sunday, I join John Lopez, Brad Davies and ND Kalu on the Houston Texans pre-game show for a quick fantasy football segment. And every week, the trio asks me about the Texans, their opponent, and other interesting finds and sneaky pickups. They inquire about specific matchups, injuries and other key factors. And every week, they ask about Rex Grossman. Every week. Even when he’s not starting. Even when he has no relevance. And we chuckle every single time. Maybe it’s good luck or just silly. Or maybe he’s the Slippery Rock of fantasy football.

Well, listen up guys. This week, it’s not a joke. Rex Grossman is actually a decent play. For real. He’s had some weeks (repeat, some) with respectable numbers, but not strong enough to actually recommend moving forward. The reward has never justified the risk. But with gimpy quarterbacks, you have to look beyond the obvious, especially if your wire is stingy. This week, Rexy faces the pitiful Patriots pass defense. Add to that, the Skins receivers Santana Moss and Jabar Gaffney are a bigger part of the offense now (when they aren’t facing the Jets).

So, why take chances now and not week 6, or 7 or 8? Where is this moxy coming from? It’s the playoffs. You are playing week to week. There is no long-term relevance. And handcuffs don’t matter. If you’ve ever wanted a one-game stand, this is your chance to do it. Guilt-free.

Congratulations to the fortunate few, and good luck the rest of the season.

Here are a few pickups to finish out that playoff roster:

Marion Barber – Caleb Hanie’s arm + Matt Forte’s knee = Marion Barber waiver pick. The Bears will try to pass as little as possible with a shaky Hanie at the helm. Barber, coming off a 44-yard performance in relief of Forte, will see an extended workload, getting the start – and getting the entire game plan on his shoulders. While the Broncos have allowed only one rushing touchdown, they’re still just average against fantasy RBs. Barber is a good No. 2 start in all formats. Available in 64 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Toby Gerhart – Adrian Peterson’s backup contributed big on Sunday with 91 yards on the ground and 42 in the air. Detroit’s stout defense presents a challenge for the young Gerhart, but he’s good for 10-12 fantasy points. Available in 59 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Dexter McCluster – Not exactly the model for consistency, but if you’re looking to fill a running back hole, look to McCluster who totaled over 100 YFS on Sunday. With this week’s matchup against the run-stopping New York Jets, you can expect a modest 50-60 yards. Desperate and deep formats only. Available in 64 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Malcom Floyd – Nice comeback for Floyd, who reeled in four receptions for 108 yards in San Diego’s win over Jacksonville. A good matchup this weekend vs. the Bills means Floyd’s good fortune should continue. Expect 80+ yards. Available in 59 percent of Yahoo leagues.

Rex Grossman – I was serious.

Erin Skelley joins Sports Radio 610 every Friday and Sunday morning. Follow her on Twitter.