Bye weeks are as abhorrent as commercials. They leave fantasy football owners scrambling to find replacements and are often the causes for close losses.

In real life, they serve the productive purpose of allowing players to get some rest and heal up. For fantasy purposes, the only result is that the neglectful guy in your league that never sets his lineup will put up a zero in that spot.

Don't be that guy. This guide is the first step in the right direction.

Darrius Heyward-Bey, Oakland Raiders

Regardless of what Al Davis believed, Darrius Heyward-Bey is not worthy of a first-round pick. But he is worthy of a play this week. The Raiders throw the ball a lot anyway, but will be taking to the air even more due to running back injuries and, most likely, the fact that they'll be trying to catch up. Heyward-Bey has 191 yards and a touchdown in his last three games.

Ryan Broyles, Detroit Lions

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Nate Burleson's loss could be your gain. Once Detroit lost the loquacious wideout, Ryan Broyles stepped in and has played well with 12 catches for 140 yards and two touchdowns. He has the ability, now he just needs to build a little chemistry with Matthew Stafford. 

Brandon LaFell, Carolina Panthers

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As Cam Newton goes, so go the Panthers and any fantasy players you might have from Carolina. Newton seems to be building some confidence, meaning that it's okay to actually start your Panthers. Brandon LaFell is set to go this week and had 141 yards and a touchdown in his last two outings.

Emmanuel Sanders, Pittsburgh Steelers

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Another wideout injury, another player who will benefit. This time, it's Antonio Brown's ankle setting the table for Emmanuel Sanders. And against a weak Kansas City Chiefs defense, Sanders should have plenty of opportunities to pile up some points.