Fantasy Premier League 2013: Projecting Optimal Lineup for Week 13

It is never easy to predict which stars will break out on a given week, but this is what it takes to be successful in Premier League fantasy football.

Fortunately, fantasy players can look at the matchups for Week 13 to see which athletes have a strong chance of a big day. While line-ups will not be determined until the weekend, there are some solid sleepers and studs that could make up a great team.

Here is a look at a potentially elite line-up based on ESPN's scoring and market prices.

Brad Guzan, GK, Aston Villa (6.2)

One way to save a portion of your budget is to stream goalkeepers based on matchup. There might not be a better opponent than Sunderland, who have only scored eight goals all season.

Brad Guzan has been solid all year and should be able to keep things low scoring this weekend.

Martin Skrtel, D, Liverpool (6.2)

Despite the three goals allowed to Everton, Liverpool still have an above-average defence. This should continue against Hull City, who have not scored more than one goal in any of the last nine league matches.

Martin Skrtel has been a rock in the middle of the defence, and he represents a nice cheap option for the week.

Glen Johnson, D, Liverpool (6.4)

Like Skrtel, Glen Johnson can rack up points by keeping Hull City off the scoresheet. The difference is that he often plays further up the pitch and also has a chance of helping out on the offensive end to truly help your fantasy team.

Bacary Sagna, D, Arsenal (6.5)

Even on the road, Arsenal should be able to easily win at Cardiff City this weekend. The EPL's top club has shut out three of its last four opponents, and this solid play should continue on Saturday.

Rio Ferdinand, D, Manchester United (6.7)

Although Manchester United have a tough matchup against Tottenham, there will be little challenge defensively as Spurs have struggled to score all season. This should lead to a strong performance for the veteran defender.

Steven Gerrard, M, Liverpool (8.8)

The veteran has been producing big numbers throughout his career, but Steven Gerrard is really heating up for Liverpool. He has three assists in his last two league matches and has five for the year.

Against Hull City, Gerrard has a solid chance of getting at least another one or two. 

Kevin Mirallas, M, Everton (7.2)

There are many familiar names among the assist leaders in the EPL, but seeing Kevin Mirallas up there might surprise people. However, he already has five despite only finishing with three last season.

With his ability to create for teammates, he has a good chance of getting on the scoresheet against Stoke City.

Aaron Ramsey, M, Arsenal (8.4)

Although Aaron Ramsey has slowed down from his incredible scoring rate at the beginning of the season, he has still been one of Arsenal's best players. With the way the team can pass the ball around the zone, he always has a chance of earning a goal or an assist.

There is an even better chance than normal against the 15th-ranked Cardiff City. 

Jesus Navas, M, Manchester City (6.5)

It has been tough for Jesus Navas to get onto the pitch this season, but he showed in the last match that he is capable of big things when he starts. Against Tottenham, he was excellent with two goals and an assist.

If he earns the start against Swansea City, he should be in your line-ups.

Sergio Aguero, F, Manchester City (9.3)

Every fantasy team needs a stud that can be relied upon on a weekly basis. Sergio Aguero has become that guy with 10 goals to lead the league. 

Considering Manchester City has more home goals than anyone in the EPL has total goals, this strong play should continue on Sunday. He is also worth being your captain for double the points.

Romelu Lukaku, F, Everton (7.3)

After scoring twice against Liverpool, Romelu Lukaku is clearly on his way toward becoming one of the top offensive players in the league. This might upset Chelsea fans, but it certainly is a good thing for fantasy owners.

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