For most fantasy owners, this is it. Week 13 is the final week before the playoffs begin, and many of you are likely fighting for your fantasy lives. The waiver claims you make this week could make or break your season, and if you're already in they could be the difference in advancing to the next round or exiting in disgrace. Don't miss out on any of these sleepers--raising a championship belt is a lot more fun than shower-crying in the fetal position, trust me.

Let's get to it, RotoBallers!

 

Cream of the Crop Waiver Wire Running Backs for Week 13

These are running backs that I would add no matter what if they are available on your waiver wire. These players have a chance to be starters and weekly contributors to their NFL teams.

Theo Riddick (RB, DET) - 29% owned in Fleaflicker

Riddick sees very little work between the tackles, but his abilities as a pass-catcher are undeniable. If you're in a standard league, Riddick has less appeal due to his low touchdown total, but in any PPR format he is now a legitimate flex option. The Lions offense has gotten its mojo back lately (at least the passing part of it) and Riddick has reaped the rewards. He has 55 total catches on the season (which would actually lead 14 teams in the league) and has at least 35 receiving yards in eight of 11 games. The Lions may be out of the playoff picture, but they're not going to stop throwing any time soon given the ineffectiveness of Joique Bell and Ameer Abdullah, and Riddick should continue to put up flex-worthy PPR numbers.

James White (RB, NE) - 41% owned in Fleaflicker

White became the default pass-catching back once Dion Lewis was lost for the season, but he's done very little in the role. That could change drastically given the injury Rob Gronkowski suffered in the Patriots' Week 12 defeat. Gronk evidently escaped with a knee bruise, but he may not suit up for this week, especially given the Patriots' firm grip on the AFC East. With Danny Amendola banged-up and Julian Edelman out for another few weeks, White could make an impact in the short passing game. He's the second option behind LeGarrette Blount and is much more likely to put up touchdowns if the game-script is pass-heavy, as it should be in the coming weeks against the Eagles, Texans and Titans.

 

Wait and See Waiver Wire Running Backs for Week 13

These running backs are highly available on the waiver wire and who could turn a profit down the road.

Bilal Powell (RB, NYJ) - 22% owned in Fleaflicker

Chris Ivory is the unquestioned top dog in New York, but Bilal Powell is a more-than-capable complement. Prior to his Week 4 injury, Powell had at least 10 carries in each game, and also had 13 catches over the three weeks. Since his Week 11 return, he's averaged 5.0 yards per carry and 10.5 yards per reception. He's clearly going to be involved in the offense even when Chris Ivory is healthy and running well, and should border on flex value most weeks. He is a must-own for all Ivory owners and should be added as a bench option by everyone.

Spencer Ware (RB, KC) - 38% owned in Fleaflicker

With Jamaal Charles out for the season, the onus fell to Charcandrick West to carry the mail for the red-hot Chiefs. When he fell with a hamstring injury in Week 11, it was Ware who became the primary option. He has run with the job, terrorizing the Chargers and Bills for 210 rushing yards and three touchdowns on just 30 carries. West's status for Week 13 is still unclear, and should he miss the contest Ware would be an instant RB2. Even when West returns, Ware has clearly carved a role out for himself, particularly considering he is the best run-blocker in the running back corps. He is a must-add for West owners, and merits some fantasy consideration on his own even if both backs are active.

 

Hail Mary Waiver Wire Running Backs for Week 13

These are desperation plays who wouldn't be fantasy starters in most situations. However, if you've been hit with injuries or feel like rolling the dice, these players are for you.

Brandon Bolden (RB, NE) - 24% owned in Fleaflicker

Remember how I said James White was the de facto number two back behind LeGarrette Blount? Nobody told Brandon Bolden, who drastically outplayed White in Week 12, catching four passes for 81 yards and a touchdown. All three backs will be involved in the Patriots' game plan, and if Bolden continues to perform he may supplant James White as the primary pass-catching back. Of course, any running back on the Bill Belichick Wheel of Doom is a dice roll.

Jay Ajayi (RB, MIA) - 32% owned in Fleaflicker

At this point, it may behoove the Dolphins to just run the ball 40 times a game. Ryan Tannehill has looked awful, as has the offense as a whole. OC Bill Lazor was fired today, and his removal should yield more touched for both Ajayi and starter Lamar Miller. Both are multi-talented backs, and Ajayi has proven just how effective he can be by averaging six yards per carry since he was activated in Week 9. With the Dolphins all but mathematically eliminated from playoff contention, the Dolphins might take the reins off Ajayi a bit, as Lamar Miller may not be resigned next year. At worst Ajayi is a Lamar Miller handcuff and at best he'll merit flex consideration in the fantasy playoffs.

 

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