Jonathan Stewart: Fantasy Football Steal?

By John Woodcock | Dec 11, 2014

Jonathan Stewart ran for 155 yards and a touchdown against the New Orleans Saints. His backfield companion, DeAngelo Williams, did not practice yesterday. Cam Newton, the running quarterback, is out too in favor of more traditional quarterback Derek Anderson. Could this be a recipe for fantasy success for Stewart this week?

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Tampa Bay’s defense has given up 1500 rushing yards in thirteen games. That would suggest that the Buccaneers will surrender a hundred yard rusher this week. Goal line carries may drift toward Mike Tolbert, but Jonathan Stewart will see plenty of carries.

We all know that Stewart is a bowling ball who can move. He showed real comfort against the Saints, which we had not really seen all year. Crossing our fingers that he manages to stay healthy for the rest of the year.

Sep 7, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Derek Anderson (3) is pressured by Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive end Adrian Clayborn (94) during the third quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Derek Anderson also becomes a possible fantasy play for those who are looking for options. However that is based largely on his only other start this season, also against Tampa Bay. He went 24 for 24 in that game with 230 yards and two touchdowns. That performance was great, but I do not believe that you can depend on Derek Anderson to pull your fantasy feet out of the fire.

However the Panthers defense could be a good fantasy option if Josh McCown repeats his performance of week 1. The Panthers secondary is a different unit that the one who was in action week one. Of course so is the Panthers front four.

Those are my views on the Panthers fantasy options for this week. Keep watching those waiver wires and keep making those late season trades.

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