Sleeper Watch

Recently, the Buccaneers’ running game has been all about Michael Pittman. A sleeper no longer, Tampa Bay’s feature back has turned into a fantasy force, racking up 405 yards and six touchdowns in his last four games while leading the Bucs to a 3-1 record over that span. Yet in spite of Pittman’s success, don’t forget about short-yardage back Mike Alstott.

Alstott has found the end zone just once all season, not exactly what you’re looking for from a back who won’t pile up big yardage. But don’t let that number deceive you. Healthy again after missing three weeks with a knee injury suffered in his team’s 19-7 win over Chicago in week 7, Alstott should once again see plenty of red zone action. He didn’t pick up a TD in his return last week, but only because his two-yard run up the middle late in the first quarter was nullified by a penalty called on guard Matt Stinchcomb.

Clearly, Pittman is still the main man in Tampa Bay. But in deep leagues, a goal-line back can be a valuable asset. Alstott’s value is further enhanced by his team’s remaining schedule. Along with dates with New Orleans and Atlanta (tied for third-worst in rushing TDs allowed at 12 apiece, although most of the damage against the Falcons came in one dismal game against Kansas City), San Diego and Arizona, the Buccaneers face Carolina, the team that has allowed the most scores on the ground this season, twice: once this Sunday, and once in week 16, when most fantasy leagues hold their title game.