Fantasy Football Week 4: Start’em, Sit’em, Sleepers, Waiver, PPR Picks

Start ‘Em

Sep 22, 2013; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard (25) runs the ball during the third quarter against the Green Bay Packers at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Justin: Giovani Bernard, RB, Cincinnati Bengals
Bernard has really begun to emerge as a legitimate fantasy option. His touches have steadily increased week to week, and he’s not losing carries on the goal line. He’s a threat as both a rusher and a receiver. His quick elusiveness and explosion make him a much better runner than BenJarvus Green-Ellis. As the season progresses, Bernard will continue to prove himself. That includes this week against the Browns.

David: Terrelle Pryor, QB, Oakland Raiders
It’s becoming just too easy to pick players against the porous Redskins secondary. They’ve allowed eight passing TDs to just one interception so far this season. They remain on pace to allow the most offensive yards in NFL history. If you took a flyer on Pryor as a backup option a few weeks back, this will be his juiciest matchup of the season. He may not throw for 300 yards and three TDs, but he’s sure to break off a few runs that will help supplement his point total. Just be wary of his status for the game, as last week he suffered a concussion late in the fourth quarter against the Broncos.

(If Pryor is out): 

David: Joique Bell, RB, Detroit Lions
In case Pryor doesn’t play, I wanted to provide one more possible surprise starter for this upcoming week in fantasy. Yes, I know the Bears are currently ranked third against fantasy RBs this season. Yes, I know that Reggie Bush is expected to return this week. Regardless, Bell is a very talented receiver as well as a true downhill runner. I expect this game to be a “smash mouth” contest, and Bell certainly fits that bill more than Bush. The Lions may try to ease Reggie back into the swing of things, leaving plenty of touches for Bell. I predict 15-20 touches and one TD on the day.

Matt: Ben Roethlisberger, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Big Ben will face a  Minnesota Vikings defense who allowed Brian Hoyer to pass for 321 yards and three touchdowns.  The Vikings defense is really struggling after having a great year last year.  Le’Veon Bell comes back this week , but I see the Pittsburgh Steelers attacking that Vikings secondary.