NFL Week 15 Weather Report: Fantasy Football Implications

Ryan LesterDec 18, 2010

The fantasy football playoffs would not be complete without Mother Nature having a say with some nasty weather. Here’s a look at games that could be affected by this week’s weather (according to weather.com).

There is a chance that a nor’easter could be rearing it’s ugly head on a good portion of the East Coast. If that happens the Saints-Ravens, Eagles-Giants, Jets-Steelers and Patriots-Packers games could be dealing with a fair amount of snow and wind.

Certain players like Tom Brady, Michael Vick and Drew Brees should likely be counted on regardless, unless it’s just a complete mess on Sunday. Others like Joe Flacco, Eli Manning and Big Ben can also be used if you don’t have a good alternative. Meanwhile Mark Sanchez and Matt Flynn should be avoided.

Running backs are usually able to produce in the snow, and could even be more likely to have an increased roll in the passing game. Unless the player is dealing with an injury like Pierre Thomas, you should feel safe to use your RBs as usual. The only exception would be to consider an alternative to a back if he has fumbling issues.

Receivers are a bit trickier. If it’s just snow, they should be able to do something. Wind really seems to be what hampers the passing game. I’d stick with Deion Branch, Wes Welker, DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Hakeem Nicks, Marques Colston, Anquan Boldin and Derrick Mason should still be used unless you have attractive alternatives.

Players with tough matchups like Santonio Holmes, Braylon Edwards, Hines Ward and Mike Wallace should probably be avoided if possible. The same goes for Greg Jennings, Donald Driver and James Jones, who are already dealing with a backup quarterback.

As Jonathan Erdman says on the weather.com, it is not advised to use a kicker in bad weather games. You may want to seek an alternative.