Week 9 Fantasy Football Rankings: Projecting the Week's Riskiest Players

Risky plays in fantasy football are more "miss" than "hit" and it could cost you some much needed points to stay alive in the playoff race.

So, here are four risky plays in Week 9 of fantasy football.

Note: Click the link for Week 9's riskiest RBs.

Alex Smith: QB, San Francisco (at Washington)

Alex Smith is a risk because the 49ers aren't going to be spending a lot of time throwing the football. Pounding the rock with RB Frank Gore all day is the answer to nullify the Redskins' solid pass rush.

And when Smith is given the green light, he won't be going deep, as San Fran doesn't have a legitimate deep threat. You could make an argument for Ted Ginn, but his only threat is as a return man, not a WR.

Smith doesn't make too many mistakes other than holding onto the ball too long at times, thus making him a sitting duck inside the pocket. This is mainly for those in league's that start two QBs, so try to find a more feasible matchup in place of Alex Smith.

Reggie Wayne: WR, Indianapolis (vs Atlanta)

If you start Reggie Wayne you're risking around 12-ish fantasy points pending on whether your league gives any points per reception.

In any event, with a weak ground game, inexperienced QB and multiple injuries around him, Reggie Wayne's productivity is dropping fast. Sure he's still Indy's best offensive weapon, but that doesn't hold much weight anymore.

Add in the Falcons' improving pass defense and their ability to play more consistently on the road and Wayne is arguably the riskiest fantasy start in Week 9.

Tim Tebow: QB, Denver (at Oakland)

This is for those who still believe Tim Tebow will dominate the NFL with the little amount of preparation he's been given.

Maybe in 2012 Tebow becomes a viable start but not in 2011. It's an appealing situation, however, as the Raiders do have a vulnerable pass defense (rank No. 25) as well as an average rush defense (rank No. 16).

However, just because Tebow provides the Broncos' offense with the ability to tuck it and gain some rush yards, it isn't enough to earn him a fantasy start. Expect Oakland to blitz him mercilessly because he's prone to fumbling and throwing picks (as evidenced by the Lions' game).

Steve Johnson: WR, Buffalo (vs NY Jets)

Buffalo may have an excellent passing attack, but don't expect them to use it nearly as much this week. The New York Jets have a great pass defense but lack in the trenches.

RB Fred Jackson will be used quite often this week to help setup the pass, but lulling Rex Ryan's secondary to sleep will be the first priority.

Thereafter, however, it's a crap-shoot because the guessing game begins at that point since Ryan Fitzpatrick can send one deep to any of his receiving targets with much confidence. And since Johnson is Buffalo's best target, odds will be that he's double-covered in most, if not all, passing situations.

Be sure to check out John on Bleacher Report. 

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