As someone who lost by two points last week – thanks a lot, Fred Davis – I’ve been constantly checking the waiver wire and looking over my bench in the hopes of getting my first win of the early season.
Let’s be serious, I pretty much check every week.
Sleepers aren’t difficult to find, you just have to stay on the hunt and if you’re in a keeper league they can certainly prove to be diamonds in the rough. During my hunt this week I found five players that I would definitely start if they’re sitting on your bench or on the lengthy list of free agents. These five are poised to have a big week – by either continuing their work from last week or by getting back to mid-season form. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.
Ed Miller is a contributor for CraveOnline Sports. You can follow him on Twitter @PhillyEdMiller or “like” CraveOnline Sports on Facebook.
Week 2 Football Sleepers
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Brian Hartline WR (Miami Dolphins)
After nine catches for 114 yards and a touchdown last week, Hartline could become more valuable as the season progresses. He proves to be a nice threat alongside newcomer Mike Wallace and since their opponent – the Indianapolis Colts – allowed 201 yards in the air last week, he’s a safe bet. Playing in a dome won’t hurt either.
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Darren McFadden RB (Oakland Raiders)
The Raiders didn’t look awful in week one and facing Jacksonville – perhaps the worst team in the league – in week two could lead to some impressive numbers for McFadden. Plus with Terrelle Pryor at the helm, the Raiders are going to want to keep the ball on the ground against a defense that allowed 121 yards rushing last week – good for seventh worst in the league. McFadden should flirt with 100 yards and maybe a touchdown or two and is definitely worth starting.
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Jordan Cameron TE (Cleveland Browns)
Cameron certainly impressed in week one, proving to be one of quarterback Brandon Weeden’s favorite targets. The Browns tight end had nine receptions for 108 and a touchdown against Miami in week one – nearly half of what he did last season in 12 games. Week two’s matchup against Baltimore proves favorable for Cameron since the Ravens defense has new faces at linebacker and safety – and at 6-foot-5 he’s got the size. We expect another successful week.
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Philip Rivers QB (San Diego Chargers)
A one-time frequent fantasy starter, Rivers has fallen to the fantasy bench position in recent years. But this might just be the week to give him a start, playing a weak, over-performing Philadelphia defense. While Rivers’ numbers last week weren’t the best – 14-for-29 good for 195 yards – he did throw four touchdowns and that was without much help from all-star tight end Antonio Gates. He’ll be good in a pinch.
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T.Y. Hilton WR (Indianapolis Colts)
Last week might have been disappointing for Hilton – three receptions, just 20 yards – but it’s not time to get rid of him just yet. The Colts will try to get Hiton more involved against Miami, a team with a defense that’s not very good on paper. The matchup could be the turnaround Hilton needs to jump start his slow start to the season, he’s got the talent.
