Week 17 Fantasy Locks: Predictable, but in a good way

TORONTO — Predictability often has negative connotations, but in Fantasy it’s actually a good thing.

Consistency is the key to success, as boom-or-bust options simply leave too much room for things to go wrong. In short, Fantasy players should try to aim for the player with both a high floor and a high ceiling.

Lions receiver Bryan Burnham might be the best possible example, going into the week with 18 or more Fantasy points in each of the last four games.

“I know that’s a pricey play, but he’s in my lineup, no questions asked,” said Pat Steinberg. “I think Reilly and the Lions are in for another big game through the air, and it’s going to be a stunner if Burnham isn’t leading the way. He’s an end zone threat, he is a target monster and I just think he’s in line for a huge game.”

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Steinberg entered his Fantasy lock for Week 17 along with Jeff Krever and Hannah Nordman as part of the CFL Fantasy Podcast. Krever is also going with a receiver in Eric Rogers, while Nordman turns to the red-hot Dane Evans at quarterback for the Ticats.

“I’m all in on the Calgary Stampeders this weekend,” said Krever. “Looking for an air show from Bo Levi Mitchell. Rogers looks fresh, showing no ill effects of his past injuries. He has the trust of his quarterback and is one of those receivers that’s just going to vacuum up all the targets.”

“I’m going with Dane Evans because $7,500 is a pretty good price for a guy that I think can play well against any team,” said Nordman. “I think there’s a possibility for some big point totals on both sides of the ball in this matchup. He’s going to have to sling it.”

CFL Fantasy Podcast, Ep. 45: Riding the hot hand

Dane Evans is on a hot streak, but can the trendy sophomore continue his Fantasy dominance? That and much more as Pat Steinberg, Jeff Krever and Hannah Nordman get you ready for Week 17.

Every week the podcast trio also submits money picks — $3,500 or less — to help you break the cap. This week’s top value choices are Chris Matthews, Josh Huff and Kenny Lawler.

Despite a Winnipeg loss, Lawler is coming off a breakout performance with 10 catches for 144 yards vs. the Ticats.

“Just under the $3,500 cap, after weeks and weeks of getting two, three receptions, he had 10 last week,” said Nordman. “All of a sudden when Chris Streveler had to throw, that’s where he was looking. Should he be forced to throw the ball, I think he’s looking at Kenny Lawler.”

Matthews is coming off a tough game vs. the Lions, catching just one of two targets for three yards from backup Matthew Shiltz. With Vernon Adams Jr. back in the fold, Steinberg believes Matthews will bounce back.

“Montreal’s at home to Calgary against a Stampeders team that has a very good defence,” said Steinberg. “These games are historically tight and possession based. I think Matthews has got the opportunity to be one of Adams’ favourite targets, especially as they get into the shadow of the end zone.”

Capping off this week’s money picks, Krever is going with a low-priced Stampeders receiver who continues to get a chance in the starting lineup.

“Josh Huff, I’m still waiting for that breakout game,” he said. “We know Markeith Ambles is out for the season. I think Huff has the ability and he’s starting to earn a little more trust from Bo Levi Mitchell. I’m looking for those two to really get on the same page.”

A summary of this week’s locks and money picks is provided below.

Projections below powered by DailyRoto.

CFL Fantasy Podcast Week 17 Locks

CFL Fantasy Podcast Week 17 Money Picks