It’s already that time of year.  The regular season of  fantasy football is coming to a close.  In standard leagues you have two weeks worth of games left before the playoffs start.  I’m quite sure that some of us (including myself) are hanging on by a thread to make the playoffs so these last two weeks are very important.

And I’m also sure that some of us are have a lock regardless of how these next two games pan out.  Then there are the groups of owners that just couldn’t catch a break this year whether it be due to injuries or underperformances.  But for those who are locked in the playoffs and striving to make the playoffs, here are some simple tips to ensure that you can make a push for your league championship:

5. Be aware to of teams that locked up division titles and playoff spots.

As we have seen in the past, teams that usually clinch playoff spots and division titles usually bench their starters for the remaining games.  We have seen it in such players as Peyton Manning and Aaron Rodgers.  Many of us have those specific players that helped us reach this point in fantasy football and there is a chance they will not play in these remaining games.

Any player on teams such as the Broncos, Chiefs, and Seahawks all have a chance to be on the bench in the final week(s) of the season.  Make sure you have the depth or the backups to help you in this time of need.

*Note: Depending on how your fantasy league is set up tip may or may not be useful*

4. Let It Snow!

It is that time of year when weather can be an issue when playing football.  We already have seen an example this past week in Chicago for the Ravens vs. Bears game where it was severe rain and wind conditions.  It will not be long for snow to start taking its place especially in the northern and high altitude regions.

Bad weather usually spells bad performances by quarterbacks and receivers.  When gameday arrives, be sure to check the conditions of where your fantasy players are playing and plan accordingly.

3. Continually check the waiver-wire.

You never know when you will find a gem.  There have been several instances this year that solid fantasy football players were available on the waiver-wire because they were overachieving such as Knowshon Moreno, Alshon Jeffery, Nick Foles, and Julius Thomas.

In these last few weeks we could possibly see some shining stars emerge for huge fantasy days.  If some happen to show up on the waiver-wire, be sure to pick them up because you never know how long their performance could last.  Could be just that one game or maybe the rest of the season.  It may be the deciding factor in your playoff run.

2. Matchups, Matchups, Matchups.

This is what can make or break your playoff run.  Yes it is true that we want to start the best team possible but a strong matchup against your best quarterback or wide receiver could be detrimental.  Look into the crystal ball and find players that have favorable schedules that will shoot them into starting caliber players.

One example would be Philip Rivers.  His schedule between Weeks 14-16 are tremendously favorable.  He is up against the Giants, Broncos, and Raiders respectively and we have all seen how weak these defenses are.  These are the types of things to look for when playing in the playoffs.  It is never too early to prepare your team for your fantasy playoff domination.

1. Take the risk!

Fantasy football is all about taking chances.  You never really know who is going to have a good day on the field or who will be a complete bust.  There is no point in starting (or even keeping for that matter) players on your team that have been underachieving all season long.

Trent Richardson, Marques Colston, and C.J. Spiller have all been the definition of underachievers this season and there is no point in starting them.  They have let us down all season and there is no reason to start trusting them now.  As stated earlier, check the waiver-wire, find good matchups, and take a risk.  It is better to be aggressive than to be defensive.  Good Luck!