The playoffs are either upon us or one week away in the majority of fantasy football leagues. With this in mind, Fantasy FanHouse is examining what you can expect from the fantasy relevant players on each team. Denver Broncos
The opposing defenses: vs. KC (25th against pass, 31st against run), @ CAR (12th against pass, 18th against run), BUF (14th against pass, 17th against run)
The skinny: It's usually hit or miss with Jay Cutler and this offense. Just when you think they're a lock to have one of those monster afternoon's they crap out on you. However, with the division title on their taste buds and a mild schedule on the horizon...it should be all systems a go. That's right load up your Bronco's and put your faith in them. No longer a dark horse, the new flavor of the month Peyton Hillis just might be the key factor/ingredient this offense has sorely needed. Stay tuned.
The must-starts: Jay Cutler, Brandon Marshall, Eddie Royal, Peyton Hillis
The likely start: Tony Sheffler, Matt Prater
The spot-start: None
The no-starts: Selvin Young, Tatum Bell, Brandon Stokley, Darrell Jackson
The D/ST: They haven't stopped anyone all season long and so there's no reason to believe they'll start now.
San Diego Chargers
The opposing defenses: vs.OAK (8th against pass, 29th against run), at KC (25th against pass, 31st against run), at TB (3rd against pass, 9th against run)
The skinny: I know it's hard to convince anyone that L.T is gonna help you out this season. I've backed him and said eventually he'll turn it on. Well, considering his lengthy history of dominance against the Raiders - it's just impossible to drop him into borderline start status. Can't and won't happen...at least for now. The only other Charger I have to trust on this sinking ship is Antonio Gates. Deep apologies, but Philip Rivers might just be a little too inconsistent to trust with the prize on the line...your call.
The must-start: LadainianTomlinson, Antonio Gates
The likely starts: Philip Rivers, Nate Kaeding
The spot-starts: Vincent Jackson
The no-start: Darren Sproles, Chris Chambers, Malcolm Floyd and everyone else.
The D/ST: They've got some favorable match-ups, but how much pride in that locker room?
Oakland Raiders
The opposing defenses: at SD (31st against pass, 15th against run), NE (16th against pass, 14th against run), vs. HOU (15th against pass, 23rd against run)
The skinny: There is horrible and then there is the Raiders offense. Are you still holding out hope for Darren McFadden to break-out? Yup, me too.
The must-start: None
The likely start: Darren McFadden, Justin Fargas
The spot-start: Zach Miller (maybe)
The no-start: JaMarcus Russell, Ronald Curry, Sebastian Janikowski, etc, etc.
The D/ST: Absolutely not.
Kansas City Chiefs
The opposing defenses: at DEN (27th against pass, 28th against run), vs. SD (31st against pass, 15th against run), vs. MIA (26th against pass, 11th against run)
The skinny: I honestly really, really like LJ moving down the stretch. I just feel he's playing for his new team and has a chip on his shoulder and the schedule to get it done. Believe it or not, the Chiefs offense has the ability to put up shoot-out like numbers. This always bodes well for the likes of Tony Gonzalez and company.
The must-start: Tony Gonzalez, Dwayne Bowe
The likely start: Larry Johnson
The spot-starts: Tyler Thigpen, Mark Bradley
The no-starts: Jamal Charles & Everyone Esle
The D/ST: They force turnovers, but check the offenses they face and I'd say find something else.
