Fantasy Football Playoff Tips: How To Take Home the League Title

We’re getting closer and closer to the end of the road for most fantasy football leagues. If your fantasy playoffs haven’t begun, they can’t be more than 1-2 weeks away.

Now’s the time to either panic about whether or not you’ll snag the final spot, or put the finishing touches on an undefeated or dominant fantasy team.

If you are fortunate to find yourself in the fantasy football playoffs this year, keep in mind some often not-so-obvious variables that come up in the fantasy post-season:

1. Don't start the guys standing on the sidelines.

The infamous Jim Sorgi appearance in Week 17. Those fantasy football studs whose NFL teams have already clinched a playoff spot have no business being anywhere near a starting lineup come weeks 16 and 17. They are far too unreliable and can leave owners in a serious bind when they're most needy.

2. Guys wear down

Don't get caught plugging someone like Cadillac Williams into your playoff lineup. Find those guys that have been fantasy relevant of late (Mike Goodson, Matt Cassel) and plow full steam ahead. At this juncture it doesn't make sense for owners to keep riding those that have been underachieving and unproductive. Don't hesitate to cut bait and make the bold move.

3. Matchups, Matchups, Matchups.

As always, it's important to keep in mind the matchups down the stretch. With the fantasy football playoffs occurring during the end of the regular season, it's critical to monitor who will have the most favorable outlooks. If one of your studs is looking at a tough road ahead for the stretch run, don't try and tread through murky waters. Play the matchups, but don't expect any miracles overnight.

4. What's the point of having depth?

Frankly, not much at this point. Most owners are pretty much set with their lineups, and having someone on the bench isn't going to mean anything when it comes to determining wins and losses. If you want to cut a wideout that has more fantasy prowess than the running back you’re picking up, but are thin at the position, have no fear. This is for all the marbles.

5. Weather conditions

Be mindful of snow during the holiday season! The conditions are certainly going to be a factor as owners try to take home the hardware, so make sure to check the forecasts. If your QB is stuck in snowy weather and handing the rock off all 60 minutes, odds are you'll be handing off the crown to your opponent, too.