As I have been in playoff prep mode in many leagues the past couple of weeks, here are a few tips as owners start them this week or prepare for next week:
Just Another Week
Folks like the frame advice questions on twitter with ‘this is a must-win’ or ‘win and I am in the playoffs’ and the like. That does not affect your decision-making about who to start, etc. Play to win, look at the matchups, do not get cute – all the same guidelines apply in Week 14 as Week 9, playing for a playoff spot or the league title.
Look Ahead with Defenses
If there is a fringe roster player you will be cutting in the offseason at first opportunity AND there is a good defensive matchup for Week 15, it is worth stashing an extra defense. Maximize the defense for the current week, but then look for optimal matchups for Week Y+1.
Cover Your Backside
If you have been riding a stud quarterback without a backup (or tight end), check out your options on the waiver wire. Like a quality defensive option for the next week or two, if there is a hands-on best option on the waiver wire, consider picking them up this week. If an injury happens to your locked-in starter, you will already be ready to go into battle with the next best option out there.
When in Doubt, Go with Upside
In the postseason, there are no push-over teams. Your weekly average for the season is not likely to win multiple playoff matchups to take home the title. Especially at non-stud starting player range, go with a player that can score that long touchdown or go for 20+ points if two options are close. Check the Vegas over/under lines for games, recent matchup trends, and other factors to break those ties.
Avoid the Hangover
It can be easy to go into an owner hibernation with a heartbreaking loss in the postseason. However, making decisions for the future good of your dynasty team does not end. If waivers are still open, a postseason loss is the time to stash that last upside talent or two with a dropped kicker and defense as well as drop any valueless roster fodder. Also, evaluate the roster for next season and make a to-do list with #PackageUp deals to propose when trading reopens (if it closed), cut list players on the hot seat, and get up to speed (if not already) on potential free agents in the offseason.
