Some fantasy football leagues, perhaps those managed by monsters who are gluttons for suffering, continue to play into Week 18. With so many famous players typically sitting out the last week of the NFL regular season, most leagues have already declared their winners.
If you are competing for the title, congratulations. You have just one more hurdle. The talent players in your starting lineup should be set, barring injury, but you can still make adjustments to gain even a small advantage over your opponent. Are you certain that the correct kicker and defense/special teams are prepared?
Ask those who used Chase McLaughlin two weeks ago or Matt Gay last week, and they’ll tell you that kickers are a must. McLaughlin kicked five field goals, including one from beyond 50 yards, and three extra points, while Gay kicked three of goals, including two from beyond 50 yards, and six PATs.
Mason Crosby is ecstatic after kicking a field goal during the fourth quarter.
We discovered that their opponents, the Vikings and Broncos, were among the two worst teams in terms of points conceded by kickers. Consider using one of Mason Crosby or Harrison Butker if either is available. The Bengals, Saints, and Steelers allow the next-most kicking points, therefore Tyler Bass, Jake Elliott, and Justin Tucker are in play if neither is available. Take a look at Cameron Dicker and Matt Prater if you’re concerned about the weather in outdoor stadiums.
Choosing the appropriate team defense can be a bit more difficult, since you must examine your league’s scoring. Points allowed can be difficult to manage at times, therefore turnovers should be your first concern. The Colts are the league leaders in giveaways, and Nick Foles is their quarterback, thus the Giants, who are vying for a postseason spot, are a solid wager. Next should be opponents of the Rams, Broncos, Bears, Saints, and Texans, as these teams allow the most fantasy points per game to defenses. Both the Eagles and Jaguars rank highly in takeaways this season, making them likely your best options.
With the way the 2022 NFL season has progressed, nothing is certain, therefore it is essential to look for other strategies to edge out your opponent. Kickers and defenses may be your final option.
With the loss of stars such as Jalen Hurts and Derrick Henry, every champion needs a hero, and if that hero is Younghoe Koo, then so be it. As long as you bring the championship home.
FantasyAlarm.com’s vice president of operations and head of content is Howard Bender. Follow him on Twitter @rotobuzzguy and tune in to his award-winning “Fantasy Alarm Radio Show” weekdays from 6 to 8 p.m. on the SiriusXM fantasy sports channel. Visit FantasyAlarm.com for fantasy sports tips, player estimates, injury updates, and other information.
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