Things are starting to look up. You picked up your first win last week and managed to talk a little smack talk in the process. But now it’s week four, a pivotal week on the fantasy football schedule.
With a win you’re right back into the thick of things, but a loss could prove devastating as you battle to catch those teams lucky enough to ride Peyton Manning, Drew Brees or Aaron Rodgers to a win. If you notice, all three of the names we just mentioned play at the quarterback position and much like in the National Football League, the quarterback is the most important in your fantasy league – especially if you’re in a two quarterback league, one that, despite all the moaning, also uses two defenses… but we digress.
Running backs are flashy, wide receivers can come up big one week and empty the next, but it’s your quarterback whom has to be solid week-in and week-out for your team to have a shot. And you don’t have to look far to find a decent one if you’re in a pinch – that’s why we’re deeming this week the week of the sleeper quarterback. Check out what we mean:
Ed Miller is a contributor for CraveOnline Sports. You can follow him on Twitter @PhillyEdMiller or “like” CraveOnline Sports on Facebook.
Week 4 Sleepers
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Donnie Avery WR – Kansas City
Avery looked unstoppable against Philadelphia last week – seven catches 141 yards – and things are only going to get easier against a Giants team that looks lost on the field. Not to mention their defense allows 253 yards per game through the air. We know Andy Reid loves to throw the ball, so Avery might just rack up big yards yet again, though it’s tough for him to get across the goal line.
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Santonio Holmes WR – New York Jets
After last week, it looks like Holmes is back – well for now. But this is your chance to capitalize off perhaps Geno Smith’s favorite new target. Be careful though, the Titans have a strong defense. That shouldn’t stop Holmes from at least catching a touchdown and racking up a few receiving yards. Proceed with caution – because let’s not forget, it is the Jets.
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Jake Locker QB – Tennessee
Last week was one of the best games in Locker’s young NFL career. This week has the potential to be right up there when the Titans host the New York Jets. Their passing defense might not be too bad but coming off the big drive last week, we expect Locker to come out firing; if he doesn't it could spell disaster for your team. While Locker could provide a good return, proceed with caution on this one, folks.
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E.J. Manuel QB – Buffalo
If he’s out there, take a look. He’ll throw for 240 yards and a touchdown at the very least, so it depends what kind of pickle you’re in this week. Manuel will be throwing against a Baltimore defense that has clearly lost some of its spunk from last year. He’s got the tools around him and with running back C.J. Spiller playing poorly – and injured – this transaction could be a no-brainer.
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Ryan Tannehill QB – Miami
Tannehill has been consistent this season and it shows. While he might not be available in many leagues at this point, if he is and you need a quarterback, pick him up. Tannehill has the ninth highest passer rating, throwing for over 800 yards and four touchdowns thus far. The Dolphins might be playing at New Orleans – a difficult place for any opposition – who also has one of the best pass defenses, but let’s not forget what he did to Indianapolis a few weeks ago. Pick him up if you need an arm, he’s only going to get better.
