The Thanksgiving football slate provided fantasy football enthusiasts with plenty of insights as they prepare for the playoffs. With the season nearing its climax, these games served as a valuable resource for players seeking an edge in their leagues. Below are the key takeaways from the day’s three-game lineup and their implications for fantasy football moving forward.
1. Caleb Williams Has Arrived
Caleb Williams’ rookie season has been a journey of growth and adaptation, and Thanksgiving showcased his immense potential. Early flashes of brilliance in Weeks 5 and 6, where he scored 23.6 and 28.6 fantasy points, hinted at what he could bring to the table. However, his performance dipped as the Chicago Bears struggled, failing to score more than 17 points from Week 7 to Week 10.
The turning point came with a coaching change, as the Bears fired Shane Waldron and brought in Thomas Brown. Under Brown’s guidance, Williams has now delivered consecutive 26-point performances. On Thanksgiving, the Bears made it clear they’re prioritizing Williams’ development over wins, granting him extensive opportunities. He attempted 39 passes and added four rushing attempts, resulting in 26.1 fantasy points. This increased workload suggests that Williams will remain a viable fantasy starter for the coming weeks, offering a beacon of hope for managers in need of quarterback help.
2. Keenan Allen is Back
Keenan Allen’s resurgence is another headline from Thanksgiving. The veteran receiver struggled earlier in the season, with only one game surpassing 10 points under the previous offensive coordinator, Shane Waldron. However, since Thomas Brown took over in Week 12, Allen has become a focal point of the offense, recording back-to-back games with over 23 fantasy points.
Allen’s Thanksgiving performance solidified his return to fantasy relevance. According to Fantasy Data, he drew eight targets and ran 43 routes, just two fewer than team leader D.J. Moore. His increased involvement in the passing game and the emphasis on quick, short passes have significantly boosted his productivity. This isn’t a fluke either; Allen has averaged 9.4 targets per game since Week 9. Fantasy managers can confidently start him in the FLEX position moving forward, knowing his role in the offense is secure.
Thanksgiving football didn’t just entertain—it provided clarity for fantasy managers as they gear up for the playoffs.
