Catch your breath sports nation,
You've successfully crossed the half-way marker (unless there's no way you'll make the playoffs, which would only result from not heading my word, in which case this article wouldn't matter to you anyway).
A worthy starting lineup for this year would seem like an opponent's paradise from last year, but name's are meaningless in this kind of league. All that matters is production.
At this point in the year, what most people would be looking for is an exit strategy. With all the complications of slanted scheduling and the inability to cut the cord from draft day, exit strategies might be the most intricate and are the most important phases in fantasy football.
Trades will be coming to a close soon, and so schedules must be attended to. These are my (and your plans) for players who have raised some questions:
Trade Away:
Matt Forte: Tough playoff schedule.
Mario Manningham: Giants usually struggle in the winter, but the struggles have already started.
Santonio Holmes: His stock has been falling ever since week one.
Mike-Sims Walker: He's becoming the Nothing that he began as.
Steve Smith: See Mario Manningham.
Trade For:
Devin Hester: He's becoming what I thought he was.
Joe Flacco: Chances are, the team that has him, doesn't need him, and he's good enough for anyone.
Jeremy Shockey: Drew Brees is starting to rely on him as a primary target.
Frank Gore: He hasn't lost a step, but owners might not need him anymore.
Sidney Rice: Who knew Favre could still hurl 'em, but this kid is good.
Remember that as you set your lineup, you must look at the opponent first, before you make your prediction of value. Making the playoffs is an achievement in itself. Once there, anything can happen. So look at possible playoff opponents and the teams they hold; see which one would be the easiest (and if you are in the position and have a bit of gusto, take a dive on a game to make sure you have the easiest path to the winner's circle).
It's all about what lets you sleep soundly. Are you proud of your team? If not, then you couldn't have read any of my other articles.
Now chin up, shoulders back, chest out, and slant that eyebrow. You can either go up, or die; which would you rather do. Remember, this is YOUR league, and they're just playing in it.
You owe me one,
Robb Jacobson
The Fantasy Sage
