Congratulations if you’re reading this you’ve probably succeeded in advancing to the second round of the fantasy playoffs (semifinals). Some may still need a little help from the waiver wire to fill an underperforming roster spot, while others may be out to block their opponents from acquiring talent. Either way there’s some available players who could make an impact in week 15. This week’s list is heavy with running backs, add in a couple of wide receivers and a tight end and you have my top 7 pickups. Below I’ll list my players to target by name, position, percentage of ownership (in espn leagues) and their week 15 opponent.
- Jonathan Stewart: RB, 47.4% ownership, WK15 vs Buccaneers
Jonathan Stewart is finally healthy! Is it safe to say that? Last week was the first time since 2012 that Stewart eclipsed the 100 rush yard mark. In fact behind Stewart the Panthers ran all over the Dreadful Saints defense to the tune of 271 yards. A physical running back who fits the Panthers rugged style. A healthy Stewart is what the Panthers need to keep winning this season. This week versus the Buccaneers expect Stewart to see plenty of carries in a game that should be a good battle of division foes. Start Stewart as a RB2, or flex option and you could be rewarded nicely.
- Charles Johnson: WR, 9.7% ownership, WK15 @ Lions
A relatively unknown up to week 11 Charles Johnson has been on a tear since. In his past four games Johnson has become Teddy Bridgewater’s favorite target earning 15 receptions for 283 yards and 2 touchdowns over that span. Last week versus the Jets Johnson had his best fantasy production of his career scoring 16 fantasy points in standard formats. Possibly one of the fastest players in the NFL (4.39/40 time on his pro day at Grand Valley State) Johnson can turn a short dump off into big yards which is perfect for Bridgewater and the Vikings offense. Add Johnson and ride him while he’s hot. Not necessarily a WR1 but Charles Johnson makes a great WR2 or flex in week 15 if your team is lacking receivers.
- Latavius Murray: RB, 31.2% ownership, WK15 @ Chiefs
How can this guy still be available in nearly 70% of leagues? I know the Raiders offense isn’t breaking records, (not the ones they want to break) but their offense did look good last week versus the 49ers. While Murray had a decent stat line with 23 carries for 76 yards it wasn’t anything like his week 12 break out. Murray never broke a long run versus the 49ers but this week that should change. Facing the suddenly porous Chiefs defense Latavius Murray could break multiple runs for big gains and have big production in the game. Add Latavius Murray this week if you need running back production or a solid flex play versus the Chiefs.
- Andre Williams: RB, 32.5% ownership, WK 15 vs Redskins
Rookie running back Andre Williams has been quietly having a pretty good season. With over 600 combined yards and 6 touchdowns Williams has been a good back up to the often injured Rashad Jennings. Last week Williams set career highs with 24 carries and 131 yards in the victory over the Titans. The Titans might not be a very good defense but neither is this week’s opponent the Redskins. Even if Jennings starts expect Williams to get plenty of touches and have another good game.
- Kerwynn Williams: RB, .2% ownership, WK15 @ Rams
The ex-high school quarterback Kerwynn Williams AKA Kdub was once Robert Turbin’s back up at Utah State. After being drafted with the 230th pick in 2013 Williams bounced from the Colts to the Chargers than finally landing this year with the Cardinals. Cardinals coach Bruce Arians said they would use the hot hand approach and that Williams was the only one who impressed that week in practice. Williams 100 yards on 19 carries in his first game is impressive. The fact he’s facing the Rams defense and that Stepfan Taylor remains the Cardinals starter for week 15 makes Williams a risky add but with upside as Arians will continue to play the hot hand.
- Jared Cook: TE, 41.3% ownership, WK15 vs Cardinals
The Rams tight end Jared Cook had his best game of the season last week. Cook’s 4 catches for 61 yards and 2 touchdowns helped the Rams dismantle the Redskins. It’s a little risky pinning your hopes on Jared Cook when you realize his fantasy points in his 2 big games week 10 and 14 almost equals his production in his other 11 games this season (32 to 34). If you need a tight end at this point gambling on Cook may be worth it. Add Cook and hope that the production continues in week 15.
- Malcom Floyd: WR, 27.7% ownership, WK15 vs Broncos
While only reaching 5 receptions once this season Malcom Floyd has been productive with his 3.3 reception per game average. With 743 yards and 5 touchdowns Floyd is averaging 8.3 fantasy points per game played. This week versus Denver expect Floyd to have a good week in a game that’s looking like it could be a shoot-out. Phillip Rivers is playing well and Keenan Allen has been inconsistent making this week a great time to deploy Floyd. Add Malcom Floyd as a nice flex option in week 15.
GOOD LUCK!
@UGsportsreport
