Rivers will dry up

Curtis Calhoun Evergreen columnist

Start – Aaron Dobson, WR, Patriots

Dobson has risen as an elite target in New England for Tom Brady. He has been consistent as of late, especially in red zone situations. Facing a Broncos passing defense in Week 12 that ranks near the bottom of the league, Dobson is primed for a big night. All-Pro Broncos Corner Champ Bailey is still banged up, and the Broncos lack depth in the secondary, leaving a ton of holes open for an aerial assault. Look for Dobson to be targeted early and often, resulting in happy fantasy owners of Dobson this week.

Sit – Phillip Rivers, QB, Chargers

Rivers has been viewed as a top ten-caliber fantasy quarterback all year long, and he backed up that ranking with few weapons around him. However, Rivers is facing a brick wall in Week 12 on the road in Kansas City against a Chiefs defense that is the best scoring defense in the league. They put constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks, and force turnovers aplenty in the process. Rivers hasn’t historically played well in Kansas City, and with all the momentum and excitement building around the Chiefs this season, expect this trend to continue in Week 12.

Start – DeAngelo Williams, RB, Panthers

Williams has had an up and down season for the Panthers, alternating double-digit and single-digit fantasy performances throughout the season. Facing a Dolphins defense that ranks 25th in the league against the run, Williams faces an interesting matchup. His carries have increased from week to week as well, especially with the ailing backfield mate Jonathan Stewart. Expect Cam Newton to give the ball to Williams early in the game. If the game turns into a blowout late, Williams will get the ball nearly every snap, ultimately increasing his fantasy value.

Sit – Robert Griffin III, QB, Redskins

There is no doubt that Griffin has not been himself this season, and controversy has surrounded whether or not he came back too early from last season’s ACL injury. His offensive line hasn’t held up either, and it has been incredibly vulnerable against various blitz packages. The San Francisco 49ers are notorious for their blitz-heavy defense, putting Griffin at a huge disadvantage in Week 12. Sitting the dual-threat Griffin this week is the right move to make.

Start – Eddie Lacy, RB, Packers

Lacy has been given more carries in the Packers offense, especially with the uncertain quarterback situation following Aaron Rodgers’ injury against the Chicago Bears. Lacy faces a foe in Week 12 he had great success against in the past, the Minnesota Vikings. In Week 8 against Minnesota, Lacy had 29 carries for 94 yards and a touchdown against one of the better rushing defenses in the NFL. Returning to Lambeau to face the Vikings in Week 12, Lacy is expected to collect a ton of carries, especially if the weather is not ideal for throwing the football. Expect big things from Lacy this week in the ‘Frozen Tundra.’