Week 14 Waiver Pickups

Hear a popping noise? That’s the cork soaring off my bottle of celebratory champagne. The fantasy playoffs are upon us, and cheers to my team, Lil Bow Wow, as my team of misfits clinched a playoff berth. Technically, I secured a spot two weeks ago. And technically, I drank champagne then too. OK, sparkling wine.

Congratulations to all the fantasy footballers whose dreams came true! As you march into the playoffs, it’s time to get serious. Don’t wait until Sunday at 11:45 a.m. to set your lineup. You know who you are. And so do I. You tweet me at 11:55. Don’t deny it. There’s a timestamp.

But other than being punctual and more attentive (and nicer to your mother), just be yourself. Don’t go changing your strategy. Don’t get cute. Don’t start a third-string tight end with Owen Daniels on your bench. And don’t second-guess. Unless, of course, your first guess is wrong.

My point is simple. You obviously did something right to get this far. Just keep up the good work. And keep doing whatever you’ve been doing. But I was serious about the last-second desperation tweets. Don’t do that.

In special playoff form, here are this week’s waiver picks:

Brandon Myers, tight end, Oakland Raiders – Is it because he’s a Raider? Is that why you’re overlooking him? Raiders have feelings too, you know. And this Raider is one to admire. I know scoring can be spotty for tight ends, but Myers remains a steady target for Carson Palmer. On Sunday, tying a Raiders’ single-game record for the most receptions, Myers hauled in 14 catches for 130 yards and a touchdown. If he’s available, get him. Available in 47 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

James Starks, RB, Green Bay Packers – Don’t go Green. At least not here. Alex Green will continue to take a backseat to Starks, who toted the ball 15 times for 66 yards, and added 16 more in the air. Starks has proven to be the more superior rusher, and will continue to get the nod. Available in 78 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

Donnie Avery, WR, Indianapolis Colts – It’s like Peyton Manning never left, as it’s still nice to be a receiver in Indy. This week’s Andrew Luck-y player is Avery, who reeled in five catches for 91 yards, including two touchdowns – one, the game winner vs. Detroit. This week, the Colts take on the Titans, who are bad against the pass (and the run too). Not likely that Avery will repeat a performance like Week 13, but do you need a receiver who can get you 50-60 yards? Check him out for the WR3 spot. Available in 79 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

Golden Tate, WR, Seattle Seahawks – Four touchdowns in four games. Not bad. Consider the Seattle wideout a good start at WR3, even facing a formidable Arizona pass defense. Week 15 is Buffalo. Nice. Available in 70 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

Cleveland Browns DEF – Yes, Cleveland. Kansas City has surrendered the most points to defenses. Good plug-n-play. Available in 73 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

Justin Forsett, RB, Houston Texans – Even with 64 yards on 14 carries last week, Forsett is unlikely to see as much playing time this week against the Patriots. Not realistic to think anyone will just run out the clock against Tom Brady. So, why is he on this list? Thinking ahead, my friend. Stash and save. Available in 98 percent of Yahoo! leagues.

Bryce Brown, RB, Philadelphia Eagles – How is this guy still available anywhere? If he’s not on your team, stop whatever you are doing and claim him. I am serious.

Erin Skelley joins Texans Radio every week on SportsRadio 610. Follow her on Twitter @erinskelley. She’ll babble fantasy to anyone who will listen.