Week nine of the NFL season is here, which means the end of the regular season is in sight for most fantasy leagues. Here are some quick tips for fantasy owners as week nine approaches.
Player to add: Danny Amendola
The St. Louis wide receiver has shown he’s a good player and he’s most likely available in most leagues after sitting out the past three weeks with an injury. In the five games he has played this season he’s caught 32 balls for 395 yards and two touchdowns. He’s the Rams’ No. 1 receiver. He won’t be much help this week since the Rams are on bye, but it’d be a good idea to pick him up. It’s a sure bet that Rams’ quarterback Sam Bradford will target him early and often when he returns in week 10.
Player to drop: Felix Jones
The Dallas running back did not look good last week in a loss against the Giants. Jones gained just 19 yards on 13 carries and lost a fumble in the process. There’s a chance that starter DeMarco Murray will be back from injury this week, in which case he’ll see most of the carries and Jones will return to his regular limited roll. Even if Murray isn’t back this week, Jones still hasn’t looked good and is not a good starter. It’s time to let him go and find someone else to fill the roster spot with.
Player to keep an eye on: Dolphins’ defense
Miami is far from the best team in the league, but they’re getting better. A big part of that improvement is on the defensive side of the ball. Last week the Dolphins held the Jets to just nine points in a dominating win. On the season the Dolphins are giving up 18 points a game, the fifth best in the NFL. It’s not flashy, but it’s effective. If this defense continues to improve they could be a valuable pick-up, especially for any owners who need a defense. Keep an eye on these guys. Miami looks like it’s on the way up.
Player to keep: Trent Richardson
The Cleveland running back has had a tough season in his rookie year, mainly due to injuries. When he has played he’s been fairly effective, especially last week when he rushed for 122 yards and a touchdown against the Chargers. He’s had his share of struggles this year and that may have tempted many owners to drop him, but he is a rookie and has shown he can be an effective NFL back. His career at Alabama shows why he was taken so high in the draft. Just give him a little time and he’ll come around. It’s not like the Browns have any other choice but to give the ball to Richardson.
Lucky to have: Tom Brady
Like him or hate him, the New England quarterback is one of the best. He’s a consistent scoring machine and is a top pick in every fantasy league. This season he’s already thrown for more than 2,400 yards and 16 touchdowns while only throwing three interceptions. Last week he destroyed the St. Louis defense by throwing for more than 300 yards and four touchdowns in a 45-7 slaughter. Anyone who has him is lucky and should start at every opportunity.
Kevin Bingaman can be reached at [email protected]u