Week 5 Fantasy Football Picks

Added on Oct 05, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

Most fantasy owners navigated the first week of byes with relative ease, but this week is going to cause a lot more lineup headaches with the likes of Romo, Austin, Murray, Witten, Stafford, Megatron, McFadden, Martin and Vinnie Jackson relaxing at home. Combing benches and waiver wires for serviceable gems is always a roll of the dice, but here are some names to consider.

Matt Hasselbeck (Titans) – With Jake Locker out, the veteran Hasselbeck is now the man under center for the Titans. A trip to the Metrodome to face a decent Vikings defense won’t be easy, especially with Kenny Britt hurt again. However, Hasselbeck was productive last week against the mighty Texans, so if you need him, use him. Just don’t expect huge numbers.

Cedric Benson (Packers) – Ced hasn’t been setting the fantasy world ablaze through the first month, but at least he’s involved in the offense with 20-plus touches in each of the last three games. Plus, the Colts are yielding over 130 yards per game and were steamrolled by Maurice Jones-Drew for 177 yards two weeks ago. Benson should be a solid number two back on Sunday.

Kendall Hunter (49ers) – With injuries to Brandon Jacobs and rookie LaMichael James, it was thought that Hunter would be getting more touches on a weekly basis. Hasn’t happened… yet. This might be the week he spells Frank Gore against a Bills run defense that was shredded by the Patriots. If you’re desperate for a flex option, give Hunter a look.

Golden Tate (Seahawks) – On a good day, the Panthers secondary is still suspect. If Chris Gamble shadows Sidney Rice, Tate could see more targets from a struggling Russell Wilson. This is a definite reach pick, because Pete Carroll stubbornly refuses to open up the passing game.

Brandon Lloyd (Patriots) – Don’t underestimate using hurt feelings as motivation. Lloyd resurrected his career in 2010 with the Broncos only to be traded the following season in lieu of being paid. If he’s going to blow up, this will be the week. Champ Bailey is still a shutdown corner, but the Pats do an excellent job of creating mismatches. Start Lloyd with confidence.

Fred Davis (Redskins) – Davis actually leads the ‘Skins in receptions, so RG III is beginning to develop some chemistry with him. The Falcons surrendered six catches for 89 yards and a touchdowns to Greg Olsen in Week 4. Witten and Pettigrew owners take note.