Looking for a sleeper to fill out your starting lineup? These 10 under-the-radar players could be on the verge of solid stat lines based on the matchups. For more lineup help, check out Start 'Em & Sit 'Em and our player rankings.
Matt Cassel, QB, Chiefs
Cassel isn't an elite No. 1 fantasy quarterback, but he can still be useful when the matchup is favorable. That's been the case over the past two weeks, and he's delivered with a combined five touchdown passes. Next on the schedule are the Buffalo Bills, who have allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season.
Jon Kitna, QB, Cowboys
With Tony Romo out of action, Kitna will take over a talented Cowboys offense with a great matchup next on the schedule. The Jaguars have allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season, so the veteran could turn in a solid performance in Big D. Consider Kitna off the waiver wire as a bye-week replacement.
Matthew Stafford, QB, Lions
If you're an unfortunate owner who lost Romo or simply need a bye-week replacement with two teams out of pocket, Stafford is well worth a look in all leagues. The talented quarterback will return from his injured shoulder in Week 8 to face the Redskins, who have allowed close to 16 fantasy points per game to signal-callers this season.
LeGarrette Blount, RB, Buccaneers
Had it not been for two offensive penalties, Blount would have rushed for 100-plus yards in last week's win over the Rams. With an increased workload and a nice matchup against the Cardinals ahead, owners in deeper leagues should consider Blount as a potential flex option. The Cardinals have allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to runners.
Jonathan Stewart, RB, Panthers
Stewart has been a massive disappointment for fantasy owners this season, but he could be useful in Week 8. DeAngelo Williams is at less than 100 percent due to a foot injury, so Stewart could see more work against the Rams. He was a beast in Williams' absence at the end of 2009, so Stewart is worth starting in most leagues.
Steve Johnson, WR, Bills
Johnson might be the most underrated fantasy wide receiver in the league right now. After seven weeks, he's scored more fantasy points than Miles Austin, Andre Johnson and Brandon Marshall. He's also scored at least one touchdown in each of his last four games. As a result, Johnson should be active against the Chiefs in most leagues.
James Jones, WR, Packers
Jones is coming off a strong game against the Vikings, posting four catches for 107 yards. He should continue to see more than his share of targets against the Jets, who have allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Also keep in mind that Donald Driver, who was held catchless last week, is still not at 100 percent.
Tony Moeaki, TE, Chiefs
The Bills defense has been extremely vulnerable to opposing tight ends the entire season, allowing more touchdown catches (7) and fantasy points per game (13.3) to the position than any team in the league. That's really good news for Moeaki, who should be considered a solid bye-week replacement across the board in fantasy leagues.
Jacob Tamme, TE, Colts
With Dallas Clark out for the remainder of the season, Tamme is expected to take over the starting role for the Colts. He won't post huge numbers like his injured teammate, but Tamme is worth a look off the waiver wire. Not only does have Peyton Manning under center, but the Texans have allowed the second-most points to opposing tight ends.
Rams defense
The Panthers offense is a bit more formidable with Matt Moore under center, but it's still a unit to target when playing the defensive matchups. Opposing defenses have scored more fantasy points against the Panthers than any offense in the league, and the Rams have allowed just 53 combined points in four home games.
Michael Fabiano is an award-winning fantasy football analyst on NFL.com. Have a burning question for Michael on anything fantasy football related? Leave it in our comments section or send it to **AskFabiano@nfl.com**!
