Plugging the Gaps: IDP Waiver Wire for Week 6

Michael Wilhoite, Linebacker

There is nothing good about the San Francisco 49ers’ defense right now, except for the incredible tackle chances that this team’s linebackers are being given. Last week against the New York Giants, both starting inside linebackers – Navorro Bowman and Michael Wilhoite –- had impressive days, with 34 combined balanced scoring points. When teams are able to rack up points against the Niners, they can then grind out the clock with simple between-the-tackles runs, and that will allow plenty of points to Wilhoite going forward.

This week the Baltimore Ravens travel to the Bay Area to play the Niners, and should get an early lead on the hapless San Francisco offense. This means plenty of garbage time clock-killing value for Wilhoite and Bowman, despite the Ravens’ 15th-place ranking in pass-to-run ratio. What adds some intrigue to Wilhoite is the fact that the Ravens are tied for sixth-highest in stuff percentage allowed, with 11.8% of their runs. New acquisition Gerald Hodges could steal some snaps, but this inside linebacker spot is juicy, no matter who plays it.

Wilhoite is available in 96.2% of ESPN IDP leagues, and we project him for around 7.0 tackles, a good chance for a pass defensed, and a total score of 7.15 balanced fantasy points in Week 6.