|
Mick's Picks :: Week 15
by Scott Mickels
Published: December 11, 2008, 8:57 pm
Make sure to check here every week! Each week I'll help you make those critical waiver wire decisions that can make or break your team. Also, check out the FPM Weekly podcast , to not only hear any changes to my Mick's Picks, but you can hear podcast co-host Matt Ridley, list of his "Ridley's Releases" as well.
Mick's Picks - Week 15 
Tatum Bell, RB, DEN (@ CAR) FPM Spin: Going into Week 15, most leagues will either be starting their playoffs this week or next. So consider my picks from here on out to be more suggestions for insurance. And with that said, it brings us to the Mile High City where a familiar face is getting carries once again. The Broncos originally signed Bell simply as insurance of their own for their numerous injured running backs. However, the injury bug got another victim in Sunday's game against the Chiefs as fullback-turned-tailback Peyton Hillis strained his hamstring making a catch, knocking him out for the season. Bell now becomes the logical choice to be the Broncos starting running back. Selvin Young is around too, but he's just not healthy enough to really cut into Bell's carries and be a factor. Bell will get the majority of the carries, but what he's able to do with them remains to be seen. However, he's very familiar with Mike Shanahan's offense, so he shouldn't have any trouble fitting right in. If you're an owner that's been playing musical chairs with the Broncos running backs, Bell should be your next pick-up. He makes a low-end flex option this week.
Stats - 24 carries, 100 yards, 0 TD 
DeShaun Foster, RB, SF (@MIA)
FPM Spin: When Frank Gore sprained his left ankle in last week's victory over the Jets, Foster replaced him in the lineup. Gore has yet to participate in practice this week and with Foster getting all of the reps with the first team, it appears Gore will be a dreaded game-time decision. If Gore doesn't play, that doesn't mean Foster should automatically be in your lineup for Week 15. He's not the same back he was in Carolina, is only sporting a 2.2 average per rush and has a tough match-up this week against the Dolphins. On the plus side, he does have NFL experience as a starter. If you own Frank Gore, you should definitely grab Foster, but temper your expectations if he does get any extended playing time. He's best used as a desperation play for those of you still looking to get into your league's playoffs. And is best left on the bench, for those of you whose playoffs start this week, as he's not someone you should rely on.
Stats - 37 carries, 78 yards, 0 TD
Donald Lee, TE, GB (@ JAX) FPM Spin: It might be too little, too late, but for whatever it's worth, Lee has managed at least 3 catches for 33 yards and a score in 3 of his last 4 games. He also happens to have fairly favorable match-ups the last three weeks of the season against the Jaguars, Bears and Lions. With him, becoming a viable red zone target, he's managed to make himself someone to think about starting in deeper leagues. However, I just haven't seen enough to consistency make me rely on him at this point in the season. If you're in a bind at tight end and have no better options on your league's waiver wire, Lee could surprise you. But, for the rest of you, Lee makes a solid back-up if you own a #1 tight end with injury issues, like Jason Witten.
Stats - 39 receptions, 476 yards, 3 TD
HONORABLE MENTIONSDeion Branch, WR, SEA: Has 9 catches for 144 yards and 2 scores his last two weeks combined.
Devin Hester, WR, CHI: Averaging 4 catches for 64 yards the last three weeks.
Reggie Williams, WR, JAC: Could become a big target with Matt Jones' suspension.
|
|
