Brendan Martin  Journal Contributor

It is almost at the halfway point of the season for the NFL, and as such it is time to make that push for the playoffs in fantasy. I will try to help your team by pointing out players who could help in a pinch if you don’t have an absolute stud at the position. This is an article for the serious fantasy football players who utilize the blood sweat and tears spilt by the actual players, to win your league (and hopefully a couple of bucks). In the words of the late great Marvin Gaye: “let’s get it on.”

Quarterback: This is a big bye week for the owners of Peyton Manning, Matt Ryan, Philip Rivers, and Michael Vick. Finding a replacement on the waiver wire is tough but I think a good bet would be to pick up Mark Sanchez. “The Sanchize” is facing one of the worst defensive secondary’s in the league…that’s right, the New England Patriots. I think the Pats will get the win but Sanchez will get his numbers.

Alternate: Carson Palmer

Running Back: Felix Jones had a breakout game in Week 6 for the Cowboys, and look for the former Razorback to continue that trend with incumbent DeMarco Murray out.

Alternate: BenJarvus Green-Ellis

Wide Receiver: Take a look at Brandon Gibson of the St. Louis Rams this week. With No. 1 wideout Danny Amendola injured, Gibson is the new target for Sam Bradford who will be throwing early and often to keep up with the Green Bay Packers’ dynamic offense.

Alternate: Stephen Hill

Tight End: Jermaine Gresham is a stud for the Cincinnati Bengals and he is as consistent as a tight end can be. Facing a Pittsburg Steelers defense decimated by injuries I think this could be the game where Gresham breaks out.

Alternate: Kyle Rudolph

Defense/ Special Teams: Surprisingly, I would advise in picking up a defense that is most likely still available in your league: the Oakland Raiders. They are playing the dreadful Jaguars this week, and there are no clear cut match ups to take advantage of this week.

Alternate: Vikings Defense