Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 11
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 11 Welcome to Week 11, where the fantasy football season hits its most critical stretch. The playoffs are just around the corner, and every lineup decision feels like it carries the weight of your championship hopes. Whether you’re sitting pretty at the top of your league or clawing your way into contention, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 11 has you covered. So let’s dive in! Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 11 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers vs Bengals Herbert has been on fire, leading the league with a stellar 95.0 PFF grade over the past month. He’s consistently finished within the top 15 fantasy QBs each week, facing average pass defenses but still excelling. He’s averaged an impressive 9.0 yards per attempt in that stretch and has even upped his rushing contributions. The Chargers square off with the Cincinnati Bengals, who have been a top matchup for quarterbacks this year, allowing the fifth-most fantasy points to QBs. Their pass rush is among the league’s least effective, ranking seventh-lowest, while Herbert thrives when free from pressure, completing over 72% of his passes and boasting an 8-to-0 TD-to-INT ratio. Russell Wilson, Pittsburgh Steelers vs Ravens Wilson gets a favorable matchup against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 11, who have allowed the second-most fantasy points to QBs. Baltimore has been highly generous recently, with five of their last six opposing QBs scoring 24.9 fantasy points or more. Wilson has scored 24+ points in two of his three starts for Pittsburgh and should be considered a top-10 QB option this week. Sit ‘Em Sam Darnold, Minnesota Vikings vs Titans After a hot start, Darnold has faded, ranking outside the top 12 fantasy QBs in four of his last five games. His performance has fluctuated, and his touchdown rate has regressed from a strong 10.4% in the early season to just 3.9% over the past six weeks. This week, the Vikings face a Titans defense that ranks second in yards allowed per pass attempt. Darnold, still managing a throwing hand injury, is a risky play. Geno Smith, Seattle Seahawks vs 49ers Smith has been reliable this season, but the 49ers have historically challenged him. He’s averaged only 232 passing yards in four regular-season matchups with 2 TD and 4 Ints. San Francisco has allowed the fifth-fewest passing yards and has limited QBs in fantasy points. Smith is a fade this week. Running Backs Start ‘Em Kareem Hunt, Kansas City Chiefs vs Bills Hunt has consistently hit double-digit fantasy points in every game he’s played this season. Over the past five weeks, he’s averaged 18 fantasy points per game, seeing solid work in rushing and scoring opportunities. Last week, he was targeted 10 times, surpassing his previous combined total for the season. This expanded role in the passing game comes at the perfect time, as the Bills have allowed more receptions, yards, and touchdowns to opposing running backs than any other team. Hunt is a must-play. Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns vs Saints Chubb is back to his old role as Cleveland’s primary runner, logging 15+ carries in each of his three games this season, despite facing tough defenses. This week, he gets a much easier matchup against the New Orleans Saints, who have given up the fourth-most fantasy points to running backs. New Orleans allows an average of 5.1 yards per carry, giving Chubb a golden opportunity for a big performance. Sit ‘Em Travis Etienne, Jacksonville Jaguars vs Lions While Tank Bigsby may be out, Etienne faces a tough matchup against a Lions defense ranked sixth in fantasy points allowed to running backs. With Mac Jones under center instead of Trevor Lawrence, the Jaguars’ offense struggled last week, and Etienne has managed only 10.3 PPR points in his past two games. He’s best suited as a flex play in most leagues. Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers vs Ravens Last week, Harris split time evenly with Jaylen Warren, a possible trend that doesn’t favor his fantasy value. The Ravens, allowing only 3.2 yards per carry, have been excellent against the run. Baltimore’s weakness is against pass-catching backs, so Warren’s presence hurts Harris even more. Factor in an ankle injury, and Harris is a sit candidate despite his recent productivity. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Calvin Ridley, Tennessee Titans vs Vikings Ridley clicked with Will Levis last week, putting up his best game of the season in a tough matchup, with five catches for 84 yards and two scores on nine targets. Ridley has now scored at least 22.6 PPR points in two of his last three outings, and he’s had five straight games with at least eight targets. With the Vikings allowing the third-most fantasy points to wide receivers, Ridley is a strong No. 2 receiver in all formats. George Pickens, Pittsburgh Steelers vs Ravens Since Wilson took over, Pickens’ fantasy production has taken off, averaging 18 points per game with noticeable increases in yards and scoring. His average receiving yards have jumped to 92 per game, and he’s scored in two of his last three. The Ravens allow the most yards and touchdowns to receivers on the season, and Pickens is positioned for another big game. Sit ‘Em D.J. Moore, Chicago Bears vs Packers The Bears’ offense has hit rock bottom, managing just 27 total points over their last three losses. During this slump, Moore has been virtually invisible, failing to eclipse four catches, 33 yards, or score a touchdown in any of the past four games. While Chicago parted ways with offensive coordinator Shane Waldron in hopes of shaking things up, it’s unlikely that significant improvements materialize in just one week. Moore faces a tough test against the Green Bay Packers in Week 11. The Packers’ secondary has been lights-out lately,
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 10
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 10 Did you run into the Ja’Marr Chase/Joe Burrow buzzsaw on Thursday? If so, reaching deep to find upside starters is crucial in this must-win Week 10. Our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 10 will identify which players to start and which to avoid this week. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 10 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Matthew Stafford, Rams vs. Dolphins This week’s play is more about Stafford’s rhythm and the Rams’ offense rather than just the opponent. The Dolphins have been tough on quarterbacks, but Stafford has six passing touchdowns across his last two games, a big uptick from his three TDs in the season’s first half. Over his recent games, he’s averaged over 280 passing yards, even maintaining that with Puka Nacua ejected early last week. With all their top offensive pieces on the field, Los Angeles’ offense looks almost elite, echoing Stafford’s 2023 season when he surged from a mid-tier QB to a top-10 fantasy option by season’s end. Expect this matchup to have shootout potential, making Stafford a solid start in Week 10. Sam Darnold, Vikings vs. Jaguars Darnold has been quietly consistent, ranking 12th in fantasy points per game this season at 17.9. Outside of a tough game against the Jets, he’s been a top-16 QB in every outing, navigating a challenging schedule with some impressive performances. This week’s matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, who have given up the most points to opposing QBs, sets up perfectly. Jacksonville has allowed every starting quarterback (besides an injured Jordan Love) to hit the top 12, and Darnold is poised to follow suit in what could be one of his best showings of the season. Sit ‘Em C.J. Stroud, Texans vs. Lions While Nico Collins may return, that likely won’t be enough to make Stroud a trustworthy start in fantasy. Collins’ absence has affected Stroud’s production, with only two games above 17.9 points when Collins played early in the season. With the Lions ranking ninth in fewest points allowed to QBs and limiting opponents like Kyler Murray, Dak Prescott, and Matthew Stafford to under 18.3 points, Stroud is better left for two-quarterback formats this week. Bo Nix, Broncos vs. Chiefs Nix had some missed opportunities in Week 9, ending with a decent but underwhelming 17.7 fantasy points. Now he faces a tough Kansas City defense that has kept QBs under 18.9 points in all but one game since Week 2. Expecting Nix to crack 20 points this week would be a long shot, so he’s best left for deeper formats. Running Backs Start ‘Em Tyrone Tracy, Giants vs. Panthers Tracy’s setup this week is ideal, nearly earning him Start of the Week honors. As the Giants’ lead back, he’s seen 16 or more carries in four of his last five games, scoring 14+ PPR points in three of those. Against a Panthers team allowing the most fantasy points to running backs, Tracy is positioned for a big day. Carolina has surrendered 12.1+ PPR points to opposing backs 13 times this season, with six of those performances surpassing 20 points. Tracy makes a strong case as a borderline RB1 in all formats. D’Andre Swift, Bears vs. Patriots Swift’s consistent workload makes him a must-start. He’s been on the field for over 60% of Chicago’s offensive snaps in all but one game, with at least 16 carries in each of the past five games. He’s not only active in the passing game but also a red-zone threat. Now he takes on a Patriots defense that has allowed the second-most rushing yards to running backs, especially struggling since Week 5. Swift should keep rolling as a top fantasy option this week. Sit ‘Em Javonte Williams, Broncos vs. Chiefs Williams has seen his snap percentage drop each week since Week 6, falling to 54% last game. With ongoing talks of more touches for Audric Estime, Williams’ role is likely to remain limited. In addition to a tough Chiefs defense that has allowed just 3.7 yards per carry, the Broncos are heavy underdogs, making this a difficult game script for Williams. He’s best avoided this week. Raheem Mostert, Dolphins vs. Rams Mostert has seen limited work since returning from injury, managing just 14 touches and under 10 fantasy points per game over his last four. He’s heavily touchdown-dependent, and without trips to the end zone, his fantasy output remains low. The Rams have been better at defending the run lately, ranking fifth in fewest fantasy points allowed to RBs over the past month, so Mostert is better left on the bench. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Ladd McConkey, Chargers vs. Titans McConkey has stepped up recently, playing 80%+ of the Chargers’ snaps in two of the last three games and recording five catches in each of those outings. The Titans’ defense, despite being generally strong against wide receivers, has been more vulnerable to slot receivers, where McConkey thrives. With the Titans dealing with injuries in their secondary, McConkey is set for a productive game. Brian Thomas Jr., Jaguars vs. Vikings Thomas is averaging 14 fantasy points per game, ranking 21st among wide receivers this season. Despite being limited in practice due to a chest issue, he played through it last week. This week, he faces a Vikings team that has given up the most fantasy points to WRs, where top receivers like Amon-Ra St. Brown and Garrett Wilson have delivered big performances. Thomas is primed to be a solid fantasy WR2 in Week 10. Sit ‘Em DeAndre Hopkins, Chiefs vs. Broncos Hopkins isn’t a must-sit, but he’s risky against a Broncos team that could see him locked down by Patrick Surtain II. Nuk had a big Week 9, but Surtain has shut down top receivers like DK Metcalf and Mike Evans this season.
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 9
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 9 Welcome to our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 9! Whether you’re looking to maximize matchups or avoid pitfalls, this week’s list has you covered. From quarterbacks in high-stakes showdowns to running backs poised for big performances, each call here is geared to keep your fantasy team competitive. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 8 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons vs. Dallas Cowboys Kirk Cousins has been a bit of a roller coaster for fantasy managers this season. His performance has been inconsistent with three games inside the top-10 but five outside the top-20. His Pro Football Focus passing grade isn’t quite where it used to be, but he remains among the league’s top 12 quarterbacks. For a passer like Cousins, who’s effective but doesn’t rely on his legs, the key to a top-12 fantasy finish is all about multiple touchdowns. If he can score twice, he’s likely to give you a strong finish. Facing a Dallas defense that has given up the sixth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks, Cousins has a great chance. The Cowboys have allowed six passing touchdowns over the past three games, and their secondary is banged up, with cornerbacks DaRon Bland and Trevon Diggs missing practices early in the week. The odds favor Cousins reaching pay dirt more than once, so he’s a smart start. Matthew Stafford, LA Rams vs. Seattle Seahawks Matthew Stafford is heating up after putting up over 32 fantasy points in Week 8 against the Vikings. With both Puka Nacua and Cooper Kupp on the field, Stafford’s ceiling is notably higher. Now he gets the Seahawks, who have allowed four of their past five opposing quarterbacks to score at least 23 fantasy points. Given the matchup, Stafford looks like a solid top-10 option this week. Sit ‘Em Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Kansas City Chiefs Mayfield’s value took a hit with key receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin sidelined due to injuries. Although he compensated last week with 50 passing attempts, his Week 9 matchup against Kansas City is tough. The Chiefs haven’t allowed a single quarterback to throw three touchdowns in a game this season, making Mayfield a risky start. Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills Tagovailoa was decent in his Week 8 return but only managed 16 fantasy points. He now faces a Buffalo defense that has kept him under 16 fantasy points in five of his last six matchups. The Bills rank sixth in limiting fantasy points to quarterbacks, making Tagovailoa a tough start this week. Running Backs Start ‘Em Tony Pollard, Tennessee Titans vs. New England Patriots Pollard has been a reliable fantasy option, securing top-20 finishes in five games this season, even when Tyjae Spears has been active. The only time Pollard fell out of that range was when the Titans were down by a wide margin, yet he still managed some production in recent outings. The Patriots have been a favorable matchup for running backs, ranking fourth in ease of production allowed. Pollard did appear on the injury report with a foot issue this week, so if he sits, Spears could step into a significant role. D’Andre Swift, Chicago Bears vs. Arizona Cardinals Swift exploded last week with a season-high 129 yards and a touchdown, running for a solid 73% of Chicago’s offensive snaps. Now he faces the Arizona Cardinals, who have allowed the fifth-most rushing yards to running backs and are missing tackles at a league-high rate. With Swift thriving on yards after contact, this matchup seems tailor-made for him to deliver. Sit ‘Em Javonte Williams, Denver Broncos vs. Baltimore Ravens has established himself as the Broncos’ lead back, but he hasn’t been productive in games where Denver trails. This week, the Broncos are heavy underdogs to the Baltimore Ravens, who allow just 3.3 yards per carry. It’s hard to envision Williams finding much success against Baltimore’s stout run defense, making him a sit candidate. Nick Chubb, Cleveland Browns vs. Los Angeles Chargers Chubb showed improvement in Week 8 but still hasn’t fully shaken off the rust from his injury. Facing the Chargers, who rank sixth in fewest rushing yards allowed to running backs, makes Chubb a risky play. Once he’s back to full form, he’ll be a stronger start, but patience is key here. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Josh Downs, Indianapolis Colts vs. Minnesota Vikings Downs has been one of the most consistent fantasy receivers, with nine receptions in four of his last five games and 60+ yards in those games, finding the end zone in three of them. His productivity has been steady when Gardner Minshew is under center. With a matchup against the Vikings, who have allowed the most fantasy points to wide receivers, Downs looks primed for a strong outing. Despite nursing a toe injury, Downs has played well through it, making him a start-worthy option in Week 9. Courtland Sutton, Denver Broncos vs. Baltimore Ravens Sutton is coming off a productive Week 8, where he caught eight passes for 100 yards on 11 targets. He’s had at least six targets in five games this season, converting them into 13.8+ PPR points in four games. Baltimore has allowed seven receivers to reach at least 12.9 PPR points over their last four games, making Sutton a solid WR2 option for Week 9. Sit ‘Em Keenan Allen, Chicago Bears vs. Arizona Cardinals Allen has struggled to produce in the Bears’ offense, with only one top-10 fantasy finish. Facing a Cardinals team that’s been solid against slot receivers, Allen might have a tough time making an impact, especially given the Bears’ inconsistency in the passing game. Zay Flowers, Baltimore Ravens vs. Denver Broncos Flowers faces a tough matchup against Denver, especially if Patrick Surtain II shadows him. Top receivers
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 8
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 8 We are officially halfway through the 2024 fantasy season. The playoff push begins this week. Knowing who to start and fade can make all the difference in wrapping up a key victory. Our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 8 will help you find the optimal starts and sits to consider. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 8 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) at Washington Caleb Williams had a shaky start to the season, but lately, he’s been heating up. He’s landed as a top-10 fantasy QB in three of his last four outings. Sure, playing against defenses like Jacksonville and Carolina, who have been generous to quarterbacks in fantasy, helped his numbers. However, Williams is finding his rhythm, and his career-best PFF grades show he’s only getting better. With the momentum he’s built, Williams should be considered a strong QB1 play this week, especially given a favorable matchup. Kirk Cousins (Atlanta Falcons) at Tampa Bay Cousins couldn’t capitalize on his Week 7 matchup against Seattle, and overall, his fantasy output has been inconsistent, aside from a massive Week 5 explosion. That performance, where he dropped 509 yards and four touchdowns, came against none other than Tampa Bay—his opponent again this week. The Buccaneers have allowed the third-most passing yards and the second-most fantasy points per game to quarterbacks. Cousins already torched them once, and with their track record against QBs, it’s worth plugging him into your lineup again. Sit ‘Em Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys) at San Francisco Prescott has only been a top-12 fantasy QB twice this season, and those instances came against extremely favorable matchups. This week, the Bears face a tough test against San Francisco, who ranks as the 12th-best team in limiting fantasy points to quarterbacks. With Prescott’s inconsistent play and the 49ers’ defense on tap, it’s better to look elsewhere for Week 8. Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts) at Houston Richardson was electric in Week 1, but since then, it’s been a steep drop-off. Across his last three full games, he’s combined for just 34 fantasy points. While Richardson is still talented, the Week 8 rematch against the Texans doesn’t inspire much confidence. He’s only worth a start in deeper leagues like Superflex or two-QB formats at this point. Running Backs Start ‘Em Javonte Williams (Denver Broncos) vs. Carolina Williams has firmly taken over as the Broncos’ lead back, logging at least 13 carries and 60 yards in three of the last four games, all of which Denver won. His workload has increased, now playing over 60% of offensive snaps in the last three weeks. Facing Carolina’s defense this week, which has allowed the most fantasy points to running backs, Williams is in prime position to deliver. The Panthers have given up rushing touchdowns in every game this season, and seven RBs have gone over 70 yards against them. Williams should thrive in this matchup. Kareem Hunt (Kansas City Chiefs) at Las Vegas Since stepping into the starting role for the Chiefs, Hunt has been solid, posting at least 18 PPR points in his last two games. He’s seen 49 carries and found the end zone three times. While his receiving work has been minimal, that might not matter against a Raiders defense that ranks eighth in allowing fantasy points to RBs. A running back has scored 15.5 or more PPR points in every game against Las Vegas this season. Hunt is locked in as a top-15 option this week. Sit ‘Em Chase Brown (Cincinnati Bengals) vs. Philadelphia Brown’s workload has been steady, but his output hasn’t followed. Over the past four weeks, he’s failed to top 12 receiving yards in a game, and touchdowns have been hard to come by. This week, the Bengals face an Eagles defense that has been stingy against the run, allowing the sixth-fewest fantasy points to RBs. Without much involvement in the passing game or red-zone opportunities, Brown doesn’t offer enough upside to be worth starting. Nick Chubb (Cleveland Browns) vs. Baltimore Chubb’s return from a serious knee injury was heartwarming, but he wasn’t overly effective in Week 7. His snaps were limited, and while he scored, he only managed 32 total yards on 11 carries. Baltimore‘s defense presents a daunting challenge, having allowed the fewest yards per carry and the lowest explosive-run rate. It might be best to wait another week before trusting Chubb in fantasy lineups. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Darnell Mooney (Atlanta Falcons) at Tampa Bay Mooney has quietly been one of the season’s surprises, averaging over 14 PPR points per game over the past six weeks—good for 16th among wide receivers. While he hasn’t been entirely consistent, he’s still hit 50+ yards in four of his six games. His best outing came against Tampa Bay, when he posted 105 yards and two TDs, and he gets to face them again this week. The Bucs are allowing the fifth-most fantasy points to wide receivers, so Mooney should be in line for another productive day. Jaylen Waddle (Miami Dolphins) vs. Arizona The Dolphins get a boost with Tua Tagovailoa set to return from a concussion in Week 8, which is fantastic news for Waddle. Waddle has struggled in recent weeks without Tua, failing to hit double-digit PPR points in five straight games. But with his quarterback back, Waddle should return to form. Arizona has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to receivers this season, making Waddle a strong WR2 play in this juicy matchup. Sit ‘Em Christian Kirk (Jacksonville Jaguars) vs. Green Bay Kirk has seen a decline in fantasy production since Evan Engram returned, managing just five catches in his last three games. This week’s matchup against the Packers doesn’t bode well either, as Green Bay’s defense has allowed the second-fewest adjusted yards per attempt
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 7
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 7 With all our adversity, this 2024 season is humming along. We’re approaching the season’s mid-point, and getting these wins is crucial. Our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 7 will help you find the optimal starts and sits to consider. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 7 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Sam Darnold (Minnesota Vikings) vs. Detroit Sam Darnold came out of the gates on fire this season, ranking fourth in fantasy points among quarterbacks through the first four weeks. However, he stumbled in Week 5 against a tough New York Jets secondary before the Vikings hit their bye. The Lions, Minnesota’s Week 7 opponent, use zone coverage at one of the highest rates in the league, which could spell trouble as Darnold has struggled with zone. With the Vikings favored by only 2.5 points, we might see Darnold needing to air it out frequently. I see a bounce back with a heavy dose of Justin Jefferson. Anthony Richardson (Indianapolis Colts) vs. Miami All signs point to Anthony Richardson making his return in Week 7, and if he’s on your roster, it would take an elite option to justify sitting him. The young quarterback has enormous potential. In his first four NFL appearances, he was averaging over 25 fantasy points per game. Even though he’s battled injuries and had some recent struggles, his dual-threat ability as both a passer and runner keeps his upside intact. Facing the Dolphins may not look like the most favorable matchup on paper, but Miami’s defense isn’t a brick wall by any means. If you have Richardson, it’s worth taking the risk. Sit ‘Em Kyler Murray (Arizona Cardinals) vs. L.A. Chargers Kyler Murray has had a tough season, managing fewer than 16.8 fantasy points in four of six games. He’s becoming hard to trust in single-QB leagues. Heading into Week 7 against the Chargers, Murray might also be without top target Marvin Harrison Jr., who’s dealing with a concussion. The Chargers have been stingy against quarterbacks, allowing only two to score more than 15 fantasy points all season. If Harrison can’t suit up, Murray is best left in Superflex or two-QB leagues this week. Justin Herbert (LA Chargers) vs. Arizona Justin Herbert’s fantasy value has been frustratingly low this season, which is why he continues to land in the “Sit” category. His season-high of 13.7 fantasy points came in Week 6, but it’s been a struggle, with Herbert only surpassing 180 passing yards for the first time last week. The offense simply doesn’t lean on him enough, and with just six passing touchdowns in five games, the upside isn’t there. He’s better left on the bench unless you’re desperate. Running Backs Start ‘Em Tank Bigsby (Jacksonville Jaguars) vs. New England (in London) With Travis Etienne dealing with a hamstring issue and unlikely to suit up for Week 7 in London, Tank Bigsby is stepping into the spotlight as a must-start RB2. The Patriots have allowed six running backs to rack up at least 14.1 PPR points this season, and five backs have managed to gain 77 or more total yards against New England over their last three outings. Bigsby will share the backfield with D’Ernest Johnson, who could be considered a flex play, but Bigsby is primed to handle 15+ touches. That workload should yield a strong fantasy performance across all formats. Chase Brown (Cincinnati Bengals) at Cleveland Chase Brown is quickly emerging as the Bengals’ lead back. Last week marked the first time he led the team in early-down snaps, and he’s put up impressive numbers recently, with 179 yards and three touchdowns on 37 carries over the last three games. The Bengals are slated to face the Browns, a team allowing 4.7 yards per carry, which ranks among the worst in the league. With Cincinnati favored by 6.5 points, expect them to lean on the run, and Brown could deliver big numbers. Sit ‘Em Zack Moss (Cincinnati Bengals) at Cleveland Zack Moss started the season with steady volume, seeing 9-15 carries per game, but over the last two weeks, he’s seen his workload shrink to just 15 carries for 37 yards. Chase Brown is cutting into his touches, and Moss’s lack of efficiency isn’t helping his case. While the matchup against the Browns isn’t bad, the limited workload makes it hard to trust him in Week 7. James Conner (Arizona Cardinals) vs. LA Chargers James Conner’s status for Week 7 is in question after suffering an ankle injury in Week 6. Even if he’s active, this matchup against the Chargers could be problematic. L.A. has given up just one rushing touchdown to running backs this season, and if Marvin Harrison Jr. (concussion) is sidelined, the Chargers’ defense will likely focus on shutting down Conner. He’s a risky RB2 at best this week. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Diontae Johnson (Carolina Panthers) at Washington Diontae Johnson has been thriving with Andy Dalton under center, averaging 11 targets, 77 receiving yards, and a hefty 18 FPPG over the last four games. He’s found the end zone three times in that span and leads the league with eight end-zone targets since the QB switch. Now, he faces a Commanders defense that has given up five 20+ fantasy point performances to wide receivers in six games. Washington has also allowed the sixth-most yards and the most touchdowns to receivers, making Johnson a must-start in Week 7. JuJu Smith-Schuster (Kansas City Cheifs) at San Francisco JuJu Smith-Schuster had a standout performance in Week 5 against the Saints, catching seven of eight targets for 130 yards, and now he’ll take on the 49ers fresh off the bye. San Francisco has been vulnerable to receivers this season, allowing six wideouts to notch at least 12.8 PPR points. With Patrick Mahomes likely
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 6
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 6 The year of the injuries strikes again. And making matters worse, Week 6 is a rough bye-week slate with the Chiefs, Rams, Dolphins, and Vikings unavailable. Our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 6 will help you dig deep to find the optimal starts and sits to consider. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 6 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Justin Fields (Pittsburgh Steelers) at Las Vegas Raiders Fields has kicked off this season in impressive form, sitting 11th among quarterbacks with 18.1 fantasy points per game. The Raiders play man coverage at the eighth-highest rate in the league and have struggled against deep throws, allowing a 53.7% completion rate on such passes, the seventh-highest in the NFL. They’ve also forced incompletions on just 11.1% of those plays, ranking among the worst in the league. Fields has been great against man coverage this season. Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars Williams is coming off his best game yet, posting 304 yards and two touchdowns through the air while adding 34 yards on the ground, finishing with 23.6 fantasy points against Carolina. He faces a fantastic matchup against a Jaguars defense that has given up more fantasy points per game to quarterbacks than any other team. Though the game being in London might cause a little hesitation, Williams’ form and this juicy matchup make him a strong play. Sit ‘Em Aaron Rodgers (New York Jets) at Buffalo Bills Rodgers is only a starting consideration in Superflex or two-quarterback leagues this week against the Bills. The Jets are in a bit of chaos after firing head coach Robert Saleh, and while that could pay off down the line, it’s not likely to help Rodgers much in this tough matchup. Buffalo has been stingy, allowing only one quarterback to top 17 fantasy points this season. Rodgers himself has only passed 19 points once this year, and his recent performances against Denver and Minnesota have combined for just 27 points. Trevor Lawrence (Jacksonville Jaguars) at Chicago Bears Lawrence just had his best game of the season with 371 passing yards and two touchdowns against the Colts, but that performance says more about Indy’s defense than it does about Lawrence. In his other four games, he’s averaged just 182 yards and 12.2 fantasy points per game. The Bears defense has given up the fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks, with only two passing touchdowns allowed and six interceptions. Running Backs Start ‘Em Chase Brown (Cincinnati Bengals) at New York Giants Chase Brown’s potential is climbing, especially if Zack Moss (ankle) sits out against the Giants this week. Moss missed Wednesday’s practice. That is a positive sign for Brown’s opportunity. Brown has shown what he’s capable of over the past two games, racking up at least 15 touches in each contest and scoring at least 16 PPR points both times. Three running backs have already managed to score at least 13 PPR points against the Giants this season. Even if Moss plays, Brown is emerging as a key figure in the Bengals’ backfield and could be taking control for good. Chuba Hubbard (Carolina Panthers) vs. Atlanta Falcons Since Andy Dalton took over as the Panthers’ quarterback, Hubbard has become a top-seven fantasy running back for three consecutive weeks. His value will dip significantly once Jonathon Brooks returns to the lineup, but Brooks hasn’t started practicing yet, so it’s unlikely he’ll be active this week. The Panthers have the third-best matchup for running backs this week, as they go up against a vulnerable Atlanta Falcons defense. Sit ‘Em Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns) at Philadelphia Eagles Ford has delivered at least 15 PPR points in two games this season, but he’s also failed to crack 10 points in three other contests, including last week’s game against Washington. Nick Chubb’s status for Week 6 is still up in the air, but if Chubb doesn’t play, Ford will get the start. That said, his matchup against the Eagles is a tough one, as Philadelphia has only given up one touchdown to a running back this season. I suggested Ford as a start last week, not this time. Rico Dowdle (Dallas Cowboys) vs. Detroit Lions It’s tempting to chase Dowdle after his 20-point fantasy explosion last week but don’t be fooled. The Cowboys running back benefited from a favorable, rain-soaked game against the Steelers where he had 22 touches. However, this week, he faces the Lions, who have been the stingiest team in the league against running backs, allowing the fewest rushing and receiving yards to the position. Zeke has also been a squeaky wheel about getting red zone touches so Rico could see less work in that area moving forward. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Darnell Mooney (Atlanta Falcons) at Carolina Panthers Mooney has been outstanding this season, and Week 6 presents another prime opportunity as he faces the Panthers. He has posted at least 14 PPR points in three of his last four games, including a massive Week 5 performance against Tampa Bay, where he notched nine catches for 105 yards and two touchdowns on 16 targets. Carolina has already allowed six receivers to score at least 17.5 PPR points this season. On the road against the Panthers’ defense, Mooney will continue his hot streak. Diontae Johnson (Carolina Panthers) vs. Atlanta Falcons Johnson has been a reliable fantasy asset, ranking ninth in points among wide receivers since Andy Dalton took over at quarterback. After struggling last week against Jaylon Johnson, one of the league’s top cornerbacks, he now faces A.J. Terrell, who is far less daunting with the 48th-ranked coverage grade among cornerbacks. Johnson is in a good position to bounce back. Sit ‘Em Christian Kirk (Jacksonville Jaguars) at Chicago Bears Kirk has been heavily involved in recent weeks, but with
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 5
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 5 Bye weeks have arrived to complicate matter for fantasy managers. Additionally, Week 4 brought the latest crop of injuries in what is shaping up to be a disastrous season. Our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 5 will help you determine which players make good fill-ins, and which ones to avoid. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 5 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Justin Fields (Chicago Bears) vs. Carolina Panthers Justin Fields delivered a massive 32 fantasy points in his last game, the highest for any quarterback this season. He ranks seventh among his peers with a strong 78.1 PFF passing grade. This week, Fields is up against the Dallas Cowboys, which may not be the most favorable matchup, but his recent performances have solidified him as a must-start QB in fantasy lineups moving forward. Deshaun Watson (Cleveland Browns) at Washington Commanders The Commanders have been a goldmine for opposing quarterbacks, allowing the most fantasy points to the position. Watson has underwhelmed in three of his four outings this year, failing to surpass 15.4 fantasy points in those contests, including a low 14.2 points against Las Vegas in Week 4. However, Week 5 presents a juicy opportunity against Washington, where quarterbacks are averaging 25.8 fantasy points per game. If the Browns can keep Watson upright—he’s been sacked 19 times already—he could be a sneaky starter in one-QB leagues. Sit ‘Em Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs) vs. New Orleans Saints Mahomes has been struggling from a fantasy perspective, surpassing 20 points just once in his last nine regular-season games. You’d have to go back to Week 7 of last season to find the last time he hit 25 fantasy points. Now, with Rashee Rice out, his top receiver, it’s hard to trust Mahomes in one-QB leagues. Despite his incredible talent, he seems more focused on winning than padding stats, and the Saints have been tough on opposing QBs, allowing no more than 15.2 fantasy points in a game this season. Aaron Rodgers (New York Jets) at Minnesota Vikings What year is this that I am recommending to sit Mahomes AND Rodgers? Rodgers has only posted one top-10 fantasy finish in the past three seasons. This week, he faces a Vikings’ defense that ranks sixth in the NFL, allowing just 4.4 adjusted net yards per pass attempt. On top of that, Rodgers is dealing with a knee injury and was limited in practice. It’s hard to recommend starting him in this tough matchup. Running Backs Start ‘Em Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers) vs. Dallas Cowboys Harris disappointed last week, managing 73 scoreless yards in a loss to the Colts. But don’t overlook his high usage rates. He logged a season-high 69% snap rate, ran routes on 62% of passing plays, claimed 65% of the team’s RB carries, and secured a 17.6% target share—also a season high. With Jaylen Warren and Cordarrelle Patterson potentially sidelined for Week 5, Harris is primed for another heavy workload against a Cowboys defense that had been vulnerable to the run before facing the Giants last week. Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns) at Washington Commanders Jerome Ford has quietly tied Alvin Kamara for third-most targets among running backs, making him a reliable fantasy option. He’s posted double-digit fantasy points in all but one game, twice surpassing the 15-point mark. This week, Ford faces a Commanders’ defense that has allowed explosive runs (10+ yards) on 22% of opposing rushes, the highest in the league. With such a favorable matchup, Ford has the potential to put up a huge game. Sit ‘Em Zack Moss (Cincinnati Bengals) vs. Baltimore Ravens Moss came through for fantasy managers last week, but there are red flags. He split carries with Chase Brown and even saw Brown take over goal-line duties. To make matters worse, the Bengals face the Ravens in Week 5, a defense that’s been stellar against the run. Baltimore has allowed the fewest rushing yards to RBs this season and hasn’t given up an explosive run in four games. Avoid Moss if you can. Rico Dowdle (Dallas Cowboys) at Pittsburgh Steelers Dowdle had his best performance of the year in Week 4, putting up 13.1 PPR points. While he should be rostered, especially if he takes over more of the Cowboys’ backfield, Week 5 isn’t the time to start him. The Steelers have been stingy against running backs, allowing the second-fewest fantasy points to the position and only one touchdown to RBs all season. Subsequently, Dowdle is a risky flex option at best. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Dontayvion Wicks (Green Bay Packers) at Los Angeles Rams I’ve been high on Wicks since the offseason, and he’s delivered on a per-route basis in his first 2 NFL seasons. With Christian Watson out, Wicks is set to see a significant increase in snaps. The Packers face the Rams this week, whose defense ranks 27th in adjusted fantasy points allowed to wide receivers. Wicks will be running most of their routes on the outside, where the Rams have struggled the most. Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders) vs. Cleveland Browns McLaurin has amassed 50.1 fantasy points this season, placing him 25th among wide receivers. The Browns, McLaurin’s Week 5 opponents, have the eighth-lowest team coverage grade this season, even though they’ve been solid in coverage for much of 2023. Therefore, McLaurin could exploit this weakness if the game script favors Washington’s passing attack. Sit ‘Em Jaylen Waddle (Miami Dolphins) at New England Patriots Waddle has been nearly invisible in the Dolphins’ offense since Tua Tagovailoa went down with an injury. Over the past two weeks, he’s managed just 8 catches for 62 yards. With Miami likely to lean on their running game against the Patriots’ shaky run defense, Waddle could see another low-target day. Therefore, he’s not a must-start this
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 4
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 4 Another slate, another round of underwhelming scoring, and major injuries. At this point, every fantasy football manager has had to reach out for reinforcements to field a competitive lineup. Our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 4 will help you determine which players make good fill-ins, and which ones to avoid. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 4 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks) at Detroit Geno Smith came out firing in Week 3, but after that, he didn’t have to do much as the Seahawks cruised past a Dolphins team missing Tua. The game was in hand, so Smith’s workload eased off. Detroit’s defense has already allowed over 300 yards to Matthew Stafford and a top-five fantasy finish to Baker Mayfield. While Kyler Murray didn’t light up the scoreboard last week, he missed plenty of chances. With the game indoors, Smith will likely have to keep pace with the Lions’ offense, making him a solid start. Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) vs. LA Rams Kyler Murray and Brock Purdy have shredded the Rams’ defense over the past two games, putting up huge numbers. Williams is coming off a 21.3-point fantasy performance against the Colts and should have another opportunity to shine at home against the Rams. He’s a low-end starter you can confidently plug into lineups across all formats. Sit ‘Em Baker Mayfield (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) vs. Philadelphia After tossing six touchdowns in the first two weeks against Washington and Detroit, Mayfield came back to earth against Denver in Week 3. Now, he faces the Eagles, who boast the stingiest pass defense in the league, allowing a completion rate of just 57.3% to quarterbacks in 2024. Mayfield is a clear sit this week. Trevor Lawrence (Jacksonville Jaguars) at Houston Lawrence’s rough start to the season continued in Monday night’s blowout loss to Buffalo, where he put up just 9.4 fantasy points. With only two touchdowns and a season-high 220 passing yards so far, he’s been a disappointment. Even though the Texans were shredded by the Vikings last week, Lawrence struggled against them in two games last season, throwing just two touchdowns with two picks. Until we see more, he’s not a trustworthy option. Running Backs Start ‘Em Chuba Hubbard (Carolina Panthers) vs. Cincinnati Hubbard has been a steady contributor this season, ranking 19th among running backs with 40.9 fantasy points. His best showing came last week with Andy Dalton under center. Hubbard’s role has been consistent, playing over 54% of the snaps and seeing a solid share of touches. Once rookie Jonathon Brooks is fully healthy, Hubbard’s value could take a hit, but for now, expect him to be the lead back for at least one more week. Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers) at Indianapolis It says a lot about Harris’ season that his 13.6-point showing against the Chargers was his best so far. But this week, he’s worth your trust. Harris has been getting plenty of volume, with at least 17 carries in every game this season and nine total targets. Plus, he faces a Colts defense being torched by running backs. Joe Mixon and Josh Jacobs both rushed for over 150 yards against Indianapolis. If you can’t start Harris in this matchup, then why even have him on your roster? Sit ‘Em D’Andre Swift (Chicago Bears) vs. LA Rams Swift has been a non-factor so far, tallying just 37 carries for 68 yards and 10 targets for 46 yards through three games. The Bears might start increasing Roschon Johnson’s workload, further cutting into Swift’s opportunities. Swift has done nothing to warrant trust, and even in good matchups, he’s a low-end flex option at best until he proves otherwise. Javonte Williams (Denver Broncos) at NY Jets Denver’s backfield is a headache for fantasy managers, with three different running backs involved last week. Williams led in snaps and targets, but Jaleel McLaughlin punched in a touchdown, while Tyler Badie outpaced them both in rushing yards. And with QB Bo Nix using his legs more—he scored the other rushing TD—there’s simply too much uncertainty to start Williams in Week 4. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Diontae Johnson (Carolina Panthers) vs. Cincinnati The switch at quarterback meant everything for Diontae Johnson in Week 3, as he exploded against the Raiders with eight catches for 122 yards and a touchdown on 14 targets. Andy Dalton’s replacing Bryce Young seems to have unlocked something for Johnson, who’s in line for more heavy usage with Adam Thielen sidelined. Cincinnati’s defense has allowed at least 18.5 PPR points to the top opposing receiver in back-to-back games. Johnson looks like a strong start for Week 4 in all formats. D.J. Moore (Chicago Bears) vs. LA Rams D.J. Moore has been a consistent target magnet, tied with Amari Cooper at 27 targets this season. His fantasy stock has climbed every week, and his quarterback Caleb Williams earned his best PFF grade of the year in Week 3. Facing a Rams’ defense that’s been generous to wide receivers, Moore is in a great spot to continue producing. The Rams have given up the third-most fantasy points to WRs this season. Sit ‘Em Michael Pittman (Indianapolis Colts) vs. Pittsburgh Pittman has struggled through a lackluster season with few yards and no touchdowns. His deep-ball production has been nonexistent, and with the return of Josh Downs, Pittman’s target share could shrink further. The Colts face a Steelers’ defense that has been tough on wide receivers, making Pittman a risky play. Until he shows a bounce-back, it’s best to keep him benched. Jaylen Waddle (Miami Dolphins) vs. Tennessee Without Tua Tagovailoa under center, Waddle managed just four catches for 26 yards on five targets in Week 3 against Seattle. Until we know who will be starting for the Dolphins in Week 4,
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 3
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 3 Passing and scoring are down significantly after two weeks. Also, injuries have piled up. That common has fantasy managers scrambling. Our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 3 will help you make the best decisions to get yourself a crucial victory this week. Subsequently, our Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 3 will help you navigate that turbulence to pick a winning lineup this week. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints) vs. Philadelphia Derek Carr ranks fourth in fantasy points among quarterbacks, despite being 31st in pass attempts. Carr is on fire, leading the league in both Pro Football Focus’s passing grade and NFL Next Gen Stats’ completion percentage above expectation. Offensive Coordinator Klint Kubiak is pulling out all the stops with heavy use of pre-snap motion and play action, leading the league in both categories. Expect Carr to stay hot this week at home against the Eagles, whose pass defense ranks 25th in DVOA and 24th in fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks. Baker Mayfield (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) vs. Denver Baker Mayfield is off to a red-hot start in 2024, posting QB2 and QB5 finishes in fantasy. He currently leads all quarterbacks in total fantasy points. He’s set up for another big game this Sunday against a Broncos defense that ranks second-to-last in pass defense DVOA. The Buccaneers are projected for 23.25 points, making their offense one of the top-scoring units of the week. Sit ‘Em Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys) vs. Baltimore Cowboys fans, brace yourselves! Dak Prescott has struggled in his first two games, failing to top 13 fantasy points or throw for multiple touchdowns. He’s added minimal value with his legs, rushing for just 15 yards so far. He hasn’t been a threat on the ground in years. Now, he faces a Ravens defense that ranks sixth in sack rate and has allowed just two passing touchdowns. Baltimore’s defense even held Patrick Mahomes to 15 fantasy points in Week 1. With Prescott’s early struggles and the tough matchup, it might be time to look elsewhere. Trevor Lawrence (Jacksonville Jaguars) at Buffalo Trevor Lawrence has only thrown one touchdown through two games and hasn’t cracked 14 fantasy points yet. Lawrence is allergic to throwing TDs after only having 21 in 2023. His best passing yardage total is just 220, and in Week 2 he only managed 16 passing yards in the first half. The Bills’ secondary is good, allowing the third-lowest yards per attempt and ninth-lowest pass EPA in the NFL. Given Lawrence’s early-season struggles and the tough matchup, you’re better off finding another quarterback this week. Running Backs Start ‘Em Zack Moss (Cincinnati Bengals) vs. Washington Zack Moss’s fantasy production hasn’t exploded yet, but it’s going to happen. He’s out-touched Chase Brown 21 to seven in carries and five to three in targets. Moss is primed for a breakout in Week 3, as the Bengals are 7.5-point favorites at home against the Commanders, who are getting gashed by RBs. Tony Pollard (Tennessee Titans) vs. Green Bay Tony Pollard is sitting at RB12 so far this season. He’s been a workhorse, ranking in the top 10 for both rushing attempts and targets. Meanwhile, Tyjae Spears is dealing with an injury and missed practice time this week. Pollard will face a Green Bay Packers defense that has given up the seventh-most fantasy points to running backs this season. Sit ‘Em D’Andre Swift (Chicago Bears) at Indianapolis D’Andre Swift’s season is off to a sluggish start, averaging just 2.0 yards per carry, tied for the lowest among backs with at least 20 attempts. He’s been hit behind the line of scrimmage on 37.5% of his runs, the highest rate among backs with that volume. While the Colts have allowed the most rushing yards this season, they’ve also faced the highest number of attempts. With the Colts favored Swift might struggle to turn his opportunities into meaningful fantasy points this week. Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers) vs. Los Angeles Chargers Najee Harris has been the Steelers’ leadback through two games, but his stats are underwhelming. He has yet to score more than 8.9 PPR points, and Jaylen Warren played more snaps than Harris in Week 2. The Chargers haven’t allowed a rushing touchdown yet, and Harris doesn’t figure to see much work in the passing game. Finally, if he doesn’t find the end zone, his fantasy output will be limited. He’s a flex play at best this week. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seattle Seahawks) vs. Miami After a quiet Week 1, Jaxon Smith-Njigba broke out in Week 2 against the Patriots, hauling in 12 catches for 117 yards on 16 targets. Hopefully, this continues especially with DK Metcalf continuing to dominate. Smith-Njigba enters Week 3 as a potential WR2 against the Dolphins. Look for the Seahawks’ passing attack, led by Geno Smith, to continue leaning on Metcalf and Smith-Njigba. Dionte Johnson (Carolina Panthers) vs. Las Vegas Dionte Johnson’s first two weeks have been rough, with just five catches for 34 yards on 12 targets. However, things could turn around in Week 3 as the Panthers switch to Andy Dalton at quarterback in place of Bryce Young. Facing the Raiders, who have allowed at least one wide receiver to score 14.9 PPR points in every game this season, Johnson could rebound as a WR3 in fantasy lineups this week. If Andy Dalton can even run a functional offense, Johnson can turn his season around. Sit ‘Em Xavier Worthy (Kansas City Chiefs) at Atlanta Xavier Worthy may be the Chiefs’ No. 2 receiver, but he’s only played in under 70% of their snaps and has just two catches along with a single carry in each of the first two games. The Chiefs are 3.5-point favorites this week, and they may opt to run the ball more even without Pacheco. Worthy is also dealing with a
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 2
Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 2 Week 1 had its share of unpredictable performances. Both good and bad. Now that we have a week’s worth of action to go by, here are the top Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em Week 2 players to target and fade in the second week of the 2024 NFL season. Additionally, FullTime Fantasy has some of the top tools of the trade and accurate rankings. Quarterbacks Start ‘Em Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers) at Minnesota Purdy’s fantasy performance in Week 1 was less than stellar, but there’s no need to panic. He faced a tough New York Jets defense, completing 19 of 29 passes for 231 yards and no touchdowns, resulting in 10.3 fantasy points. However, he earned the second-highest quarterback grade of the week and led the 49ers to victory. His outlook improves in Week 2, as he transitions from facing one of the best defenses in the Jets to the more manageable Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings impressed last week, but this matchup will present a new challenge for their defense. Purdy has historically thrived against zone defenses, earning an 85.7 grade versus zone compared to 68.5 against man coverage. Under Brian Flores, Minnesota has tended to lean heavily on zone coverage. You can confidently start Purdy Week 2 Baker Mayfield (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) at Detroit Mayfield’s transformation since his Week 6 debacle against Detroit last year has been remarkable. In Week 1, he exploded for 37.7 fantasy points against Washington, continuing a streak where he’s posted at least 20.3 points in seven of his last eight games, including playoff action. The Lions limited Matthew Stafford to 16.7 fantasy points last week, but Mayfield has momentum as he enters Week 2. The game’s expected total is 51.5 points, the highest of the week, making it likely that Mayfield will contribute to a high-scoring affair. Sit ‘Em Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) at Houston Williams’s NFL debut was rough, completing less than half his passes for 93 yards and adding only 15 rushing yards, totaling just seven fantasy points. While Anthony Richardson had a strong fantasy day against Houston, it’s important to remember that the Texans generated pressure at a high rate. This makes it hard to trust Williams, especially with injuries to key receivers. Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals) at Kansas City Burrow’s 8.1 fantasy points in Week 1 ranked 29th among quarterbacks, with no touchdowns and only 5.7 yards per attempt. He faces a tough matchup against Kansas City’s defense, which ranks as the sixth hardest for quarterbacks according to PFF. Burrow’s dealing with a wrist injury, and Tee Higgins’s status remains uncertain, making it difficult to rely on Burrow in Week 2. Running Backs Start ‘Em J.K. Dobbins (Los Angeles Chargers) at Carolina I was drafting a ton of Dobbins during the pre-season and I am so happy it paid off. Dobbins played on 59% of the snaps, turning 10 carries into 135 yards and a touchdown. His explosive runs, while chased down, are even more impressive given that this was his first game back since tearing his Achilles. Dobbins led Chargers’ backs in routes run and targets, showing his versatility. With a favorable matchup against the Panthers, who gave up 180 rushing yards last week, Dobbins is a must-start in all formats. Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns) at Jacksonville Ford played a career-high 57 snaps in Week 1, accounting for 75% of the Browns’ offensive plays. Heading into Week 2, he faces a Jacksonville defense that surrendered the sixth-most fantasy points to running backs in Week 1 and was one of the 12 worst teams in points allowed to the position last season. Ford’s usage and favorable matchup make him a strong fantasy option this week. Sit ‘Em D’Andre Swift (Chicago Bears) at Houston Swift’s Week 1 was a disaster, managing just 30 yards on 10 carries, with half of those attempts going for minimal gains. His lack of involvement in the passing game is concerning, and a matchup against the Texans, who just held Jonathan Taylor in check, doesn’t inspire confidence. Swift is a low-end flex option at best. Javonte Williams (Denver Broncos) vs. Pittsburgh Williams was on the field for 52% of the snaps in Week 1. But he only saw eight carries and two targets. Meanwhile, Jaleel McLaughlin had more opportunities. With the Broncos’ offense struggling under rookie QB Bo Nix, it’s hard to trust Williams, especially against a tough Pittsburgh defense. Wide Receivers Start ‘Em Jameson Williams (Detroit Lions) vs. Tampa Bay Williams exceeded expectations in Week 1, hauling in five catches for 121 yards and a touchdown on nine targets. His offseason improvements have paid off, and he looks poised for a breakout in his third year. With Tampa Bay’s secondary banged up, Williams should stay hot and is a solid WR2 in fantasy this week. Terry McLaurin (Washington Commanders) vs. New York Giants McLaurin has been reliable against the Giants, scoring at least 13.0 PPR points in eight of his last nine meetings against Big Blue. While he had a quiet Week 1, recording just two catches for 17 yards in Jayden Daniels‘s debut, Week 2 should see better chemistry between the two. The Giants allowed big performances from Justin Jefferson and others last week. This bodes well for McLaurin to bounce back. Sit ‘Em George Pickens (Pittsburgh Steelers) at Denver Pickens delivered with six catches for 85 yards last week. But he faces a tough test against Denver and star cornerback Pat Surtain II in Week 2. Surtain shadowed DK Metcalf last week, holding him to just 29 yards. With Pittsburgh likely shifting focus to the run, Pickens is best left on the bench this week. Calvin Ridley (Tennessee Titans) vs. New York Jets Ridley had a mediocre Week 1, managing just three catches for 50 yards on seven targets. The matchup against the Jets and their elite corner Sauce Gardner doesn’t bode well for Ridley’s fantasy prospects in Week 2. He’s a