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Fooch's Note: Don't forget to join in our Niners Nation FanDuel league today. It covers today and Monday, so join up! If you have any questions, drop them in the comments.
Must Starts
A live feed of the Must Starts for this game:
Quality Starts
Colin Kaepernick: If you're starting him this late in the season I hope you are in a 2 QB league. Colin does have history on his side. He delivered one of his best fantasy lines in a regular season game against Washington on the road in 2013 (250 total yards, 3 touchdowns). Washington's defense didn't get any better, in fact it may be worse. It seems Kaep is often in position to flirt with top 10 QB numbers, but fails to deliver. Maybe he can get it going early and often this week.
Frank Gore: It's far easier to pass on Washington than to run. Gore is always a good bet for a 50-75 yards and a TD, but Washington boasts a solid run defense. If Gore puts up over 80 yards rushing I would be surprised. Look for Carlos Hyde to get work late if this game gets out of hand.
Anquan Boldin: Washington gives up the second most receiving touchdowns and Boldin has at least 5 catches in the last 3 games. With his chances for a score increased he is a safe WR3 with strong upside.
Michael Crabtree: Let's see it two weeks straight before we get crazy. Crabtree has frustrated owners all year long no matter the quality of opponent. He is a tempting boom or bust WR3 this week and the targets have been there all season.
Alfred Morris: He'll have to find a groove early, but he has been better with Griffin under center. Morris showed up on the receiving stat chart last week, which is odd, but gives him a new wrinkle to his game. At best, he is a RB2 this week.
DeSean Jackson: Just missed two huge scores last week coming off a bye. If the o-line can help RG3 pull it together he definitely has a shot to burn the Niner secondary. His WR2 status is safe, but somewhat suspect given the quarterback situation.
Niles Paul: I think you can stream tight ends against the Niners until further notice. Paul should show up in the short to intermediate passing attack as the Niners try to get pressure on RG3. A steady diet of targets should be waiting for him in Santa Clara.
Avoid
Vernon Davis: They tried to get him involved last week with 5 targets, but the treatment didn't take. I wouldn't be surprised to see him reemerge, but if you are in the playoff hunt it's too late for long shots. However, tight end is a horribly scarce position and there are few better options on waivers in most leagues.
Robert Griffin III: Everything you read about the guy is bad. He is a shaky start even in 2 QB leagues and you have to wonder how close he is to being benched if he continues to take sacks and make mistakes. I hope there are better days ahead for Griffin, but the chances his turnaround starts Sunday are slim.
Pierre Garcon: Quietly one of the most disappointing fantasy picks from August. If he doesn't score he is completely bench worthy and again...the quarterback situation.
Sleeper
Andre Roberts: Speedy slot receivers have tortured the 49ers this season. He isn't on the radar in normal formats, but if you are digging deep I think he could standout.