Fantasy Football: Week 13 Value Picks

Added on Dec 01, 2011 by Scott in

NFL

‘Tis the season to either make or miss the fantasy playoffs. If you’re sitting at 10-2 or 9-3, you probably don’t have too much to worry about. Just keep rolling with the guys who got you this far. However, if you’re walking the razor’s edge at 5-7 or 6-6, then winning out is your best recourse. And to get there you might have to throw caution to the wind and take a few risks. Here are some viable options for Week 13.

Alex Smith (vs. STL) – Smith has been solid if not spectacular this season. He’s yet to throw for 300 yards, but he has tossed for multiple touchdowns four times. He’s also been effective at home, especially as of late, with seven of his 13 touchdown passes coming in his last four at Candlestick Park. The Rams defense ranks 8th versus the pass, but those numbers are deceiving; they’ve yielded 16 touchdowns through the air. Vick and Schaub owners take heed.

Shonn Greene (@ WAS) – Greene is the definition of frustration when it comes to fantasy. He’s scored six touchdowns in three seasons and seems to be running in mud most weeks. That being said, he has looked better lately against the Pats and Bills soft defenses. The Redskins might not be soft, but they have allowed Reggie Bush and Marshawn Lynch to wreak havoc in recent weeks. Consider Greene a low-end number two back and a decent flex option.

Eric Decker (@ MIN) – If and when Tim Tebow throws the ball, it’s likely going in Decker’s direction. Eight of his 37 catches have gone for scores, including four since Tebow took over starting duties. The Vikings secondary is horrible, ranking 29th in yards with 22 touchdowns allowed. With Adrian Peterson highly questionable to play, the underrated Broncos defense should control the tempo, which means more opportunities for Decker to make a couple of big plays. It’s a gamble, but one with upside.

Jake Ballard (vs. GB) – The Giants can’t stop anybody and can’t run the ball. The Packers pile up points every week but have struggled to contain opponents’ passing attacks. Ballard isn’t elite by any stretch, although he does seem to be open frequently. Helping his cause is Green Bay’s tendency to not cover the tight end. Both Antonio Gates and Kellen Winslow have torched them during the last three weeks.

Patriots D/ST (vs. IND) – Recommending a defense ranked dead last in total yards is usually a recipe for disaster. Unless the offense they are facing is led by Dan Orlovsky. The winless Colts are atrocious in every way. The Patriots are -20 point favorites. This will be a blowout of epic proportions. Roll with the Pats and feel food about it.