Most playoff leagues have one game left in the regular season. This is a time when jockeying for position is important to teams that have clinched spots, but it is also a time when teams on the bubble need a win.
A common issue for managers is to out-think themselves and take too many gambles with the hope of sneaking into the playoffs on the coattails of an overlooked player with a favorable matchup. While this can pay off, there are always more teams that end up on the outside looking in because of points left on the bench by players that got the team within a game of the playoffs.
If a longshot is absolutely necessary, try to keep it to only one player, and don’t use a high-value position like QB.
FIVE WHO ARE HOT
Joseph Addai, RB, Colts – 24 carries, 171 yards, 4 TDs; 2 catches, 37 yards
Drew Brees, QB, Saints – 21-of-30 passing, 349 yards, 2 TDs
Larry Fitzgerald, WR, Cardinals – 11 catches, 172 yards
Brad Johnson, QB, Vikings – 27-of-41 passing, 271 yards, 3 TDs
Vince Young, QB, Titans – 24-of-35 passing, 249 yards, 2 TDs; 10 carries, 69 yards, TD
FIVE WHO ARE NOT
Rex Grossman, QB, Bears – 15-of-34 passing, 176 yards, 3 ints., fumble
Torry Holt, WR, Rams – 4 catches, 30 yards
Edgerrin James, RB, Cardinals – 4 carries, 15 yards
Willie Parker, RB, Steelers – 10 carries, 22 yards
Philip Rivers, QB, Chargers – 14-of-31 passing, 133 yards, interception
