Whew!  This NFL season is giving us a lot to talk about.  Week 12 we witnessed many teams either ready to contend or becoming pretenders some teams, like the 49ers, have long been the leaders of their divisions, but now they find themselves at the bottom looking up.  Meanwhile, teams like the Eagles are making a late season push and are set to be a formidable opponent in the playoffs.  Can we all give praise and flowers to Kavontae Turpin as he brought the video game skill of Madden to life.  His return late in the fourth quarter against a divisional opponent had to be the most beautiful kick return we have seen in some time. 

Week 12 marked the start of the playoffs in the Scott Fish Bowl 14 (SFB14).  We talked about Austin Ekeler and the fact that he had been a fantasy football beacon over the previous three weeks.  In Week 12 Ekeler got over 26 points again, but you might be without him this week due to a concussion after that vicious hit.  Tyler Goodson and the Colts offense decided to become easy prey for the Lions as they got gorilla stomped 24 to six.  Goodson only touched the ball on a kick return once for 25 yards.  I told you the waivers were thin, and that was the case in Week 13 as well.  So, with these players when it comes to Boosting Your Return Game, trek lightly.   

Devin Duvernay

As we reach this late stage of the season, it becomes increasingly challenging to find replacement players for bye weeks or injuries. This week, Devin Duvernay is a potential option against the Texans. The Texans have struggled lately, having lost a very winnable game against the Titans last week.  Here’s the issue for Houston: they give up the fifth-most return yards in the league, totaling 700 yards. Duvernay recently returned after missing time since Week 6 due to a hamstring injury. The Jaguars were off in Week 12 due to that dreaded “B” word.  Before the bye, he had a quiet game in Week 11 against a tough Lions team, contributing little on offense. However, he did have 116 total yards on returns, scoring a moderate 11.6 points in SFB14.  Duvernay possesses the quickness and toughness that could make him a problem for the Texans on special teams this week. However, picking him up would be more of a last resort.  Also note in Week 14 that “B” word pops up again for several teams.  Having him as a stash player might not be such a bad idea.  Duvernay is currently rostered in 0% of Sleeper leagues. 

Dylan Laube

Finally, I get to talk about a Raiders player! Despite the Raiders’ disappointing 2024 campaign, they have managed to stay relevant all year.  With the trade of Davante Adams, Tom Brady becoming a part-owner, recent coaching changes, and the emergence of Brock Bowers as a potential Offensive Rookie of the Year candidate, the Raiders are focused on the future. As a fan, there is reason for optimism.  Now, let’s focus on Dylan Laube, the rookie from New Hampshire.  Laube made an impressive play early in Week 12’s game against the Broncos by breaking off a 59-yard kick return. He showcased remarkable speed and vision, along with a great deal of confidence. It’s worth noting that his first carry in the NFL resulted in a fumble against the Steelers.  The upcoming matchup against the Chiefs presents an intriguing scenario for Laube and the Raiders’ return game, particularly since Kansas City is currently down to their third-string kicker. Additionally, the Raiders are dealing with injuries in their backfield. Ameer Abdullah performed well last week, but because he isn’t typically a high-touch running back, Laube may soon have another opportunity to contribute on offense. Laube should be a priority pickup in SFB14, as this week could allow him to showcase his skills on the field. There’s no denying the kids got moves and Raiders Nation is exciting to see it!