In the week leading up to Thanksgiving, the author vents about a series of frustrating fantasy football experiences, offering a comedic take on the ups and downs of managing fantasy teams. Despite setbacks like key players underperforming and injuries affecting their squads, the author humorously complains about players like Kyler Murray and Quentin Johnston, who have caused significant fantasy heartache. The tone shifts as the author reflects on the importance of gratitude, expressing thankfulness for the column that allows venting and for the opportunity to promote FantasyLife.com. A Black Friday sale is highlighted, with a generous 50% off offering access to premium fantasy football tools. The author also takes a light-hearted jab at family dynamics, particularly with their daughters, and shares appreciation for their NBC colleagues, including their producer, Damian Dabrowski. The column underscores the fleeting nature of life, encouraging readers to take time to appreciate their loved ones, and emphasizing that even small gestures of gratitude can have lasting meaning.
The article transitions into a breakdown of fantasy football players to target and avoid for Week 13. It starts with quarterbacks, recommending Baker Mayfield for his favorable matchup against the Carolina Panthers, who have struggled against quarterbacks all season. Patrick Mahomes is also highlighted for his strong recent performances, despite a slow start to the season, with a good matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. The article cautions against starting Jordan Love, citing his recent struggles and a tough matchup with the Miami Dolphins, and advises avoiding Kirk Cousins due to a challenging game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
In the running back section, Kyren Williams is recommended for his potential to score against the New Orleans Saints, who have been weak against the run. Chase Brown is a strong pick as well, given his heavy workload since Zack Moss’s injury. Bucky Irving is another player to consider, especially with his recent performances against weak defenses like the Carolina Panthers. On the other hand, James Conner, facing the tough Minnesota defense, is a player to avoid, as is D’Andre Swift, who faces a difficult matchup with the Detroit Lions.
The author also highlights wide receivers and tight ends, advising fantasy managers to target Nico Collins and George Pickens, who have favorable matchups, while cautioning against Zay Flowers due to the strong Philadelphia defense. Furthermore, the column provides a mix of humor and insight, offering fantasy football advice while reflecting on the joys and frustrations of the season.
