Fantasy football advice, Week 17: Who to start/sit for Saints vs. Falcons

Neither the New Orleans Saints nor the Atlanta Falcons have any shot at the playoffs remaining. The Falcons are locked into second place in the NFC South, while the Saints have a shot at rising into third with a successful season-ending game. Either way, Sunday's game between the two could be a big offensive afternoon.

The Saints won't have wide receiver Marques Colston for the season finale, but quarterback Drew Brees is expected to once again play through his foot issues. For Atlanta, quarterback Matt Ryan and running back Devonta Freeman should both be good to play, but the team won't have running back Tevin Coleman.

Start ‘em: It's been a really hot end of the season for Drew Brees, who has 20-plus fantasy points in four straight, averaging 24 in that time. ... Tim Hightower has found a new career the last three weeks, averaging 17 fantasy points a game in that time. ... Brandin Cooks has 13-plus fantasy points in six of his last eight games. He's given very positive returns after a shaky start to the season.

Start ‘em?: Since missing a game to injury, Willie Snead has 26 fantasy points in three games. That's flex-worthy. ... Benjamin Watson had a bad and banged-up Week 16, but he appears healthy now, and that puts him back near must-start territory. ... Kai Forbath has only reached double figures once in his last seven games.

Sit ‘em: Last week the team turned to Travaris Cadet well over C.J. Spiller. Neither one is much of a fantasy option, but if you use one, it's Cadet. ... The Saints' defense has been awful.

Start ‘em: The Falcons have two fantasy options I'm considering: Devonta Freeman and Julio Jones. They're both must-starts, and they are it on the Falcons.

Start ‘em?: In his last four games, Shayne Graham has averaged 13.3 fantasy points a game. Of course, he was unemployed six weeks ago, so tread lightly.

Sit ‘em: Even against a generous New Orleans defense in a home game with his top weapons available, I'm not going anywhere near Matt Ryan. It's not worth it; he's averaged 10 fantasy points a game in his last five. ... Jacob Tamme has two or fewer fantasy points in four straight games and five of six. ... The Falcons' defense isn't as bad as the Saints', but the Saints' offense is better than the Falcons'. Either way, just stay away.