Sleeper Watch

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Ryan Grant is my sleeper. Starting running back for the Green Bay Packers. Everyone saw Grant’s talent on Monday night as he racked up 100 yards against Denver’s lousy run defense. Undoubtedly some managers in dire need of running back depth have already visited the waiver wire to grab him. Still, I am justifying Grant as my sleeper not so much for what I think he will do this week or next, but I am recommending him as something like a “stock option.”

Grant, assuming he continues to be the starter, has a fairly challenging schedule through the next few weeks. Still, in leagues with twelve teams and/or an unusually high number of running back/flex positions, Grant is a decent option immediately. Coach Mike McCarthy has already gone on record naming Grant the week nine starter going into Kansas City. Wynn, Morency, and Jackson, due to injuries or attitude, simply aren’t getting it done. This leaves the door open for Grant to secure the position with a second strong showing.

The greater upside to Grant however, and why I am comparing him to a wall street gem, is his extremely favorable match-ups during the Fantasy Football playoff weeks ahead. Even if Grant is only slotted as a flex player on your roster, these match-ups have huge potential.

• Week 14 – Home vs. Oakland. Ranked 30th against the rush, Oakland is giving up 148 yards per game and has relinquished 10 rushing touchdowns. The Raiders’s inability to score points also allows their opponents to stick with the run through all four quarters.

• Week 15 – At St. Louis. Ranked 25th against the rush, St. Louis’ defense is currently in the running to rank last in every statistical category by the end of the season. Running backs are gouging them for 129 yards per game. Lingering injuries to St. Louis’ squad will only make this situation more favorable to running backs as the season continues.

• Week 16 – At Chicago. Chicago’s defense has been surprisingly horrid this season, especially against the run. Teams with particularly balanced air and ground attacks have excelled against the Bears this season. They are ranked 26th against the rush.

Grant has excellent long term potential as well. For managers considering sleepers for next season, Grant will be a free agent next year and is by far the lowest paid running back on the Packer squad. If he continues to prove his merit, it’s easy to imagine Grant suiting up and making an impact for many needy teams in 2008.

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