Fantasy football is a sport fueled by passion, and for many, that passion can lead to emotional decisions. Liz Loza tackles the balance between heart-driven instincts and data-driven decisions each week in her 2024 series “Facts vs. Feelings.” In life, routines are essential—they provide structure, productivity, and ease. However, they can also feel monotonous, prompting the occasional need to break free. The balance between staying on track and stepping off the routine path is something we all grapple with. It’s often said that the key to success is sticking to routines, with motivational speakers and wellness experts promoting habits that optimize personal efficiency. However, Loza challenges this idea, pointing out the value of occasional indulgences—such as having leftover key lime pie for breakfast or enjoying a late sleep—especially during holidays. These moments of diversion from the usual routine were enriching in their own way, even if there were small “costs” like missed fantasy lineup changes or a few puffy cheeks. These diversions highlight that it’s not about achieving perfection, but about knowing when to step away from routines and then return to them for continued balance and success.
This is especially relevant in fantasy football, where players like Josh Allen and Jerry Jeudy succeeded because they deviated from the script. Sometimes, making a bold move or stepping outside the norm can lead to unexpected rewards. The fantasy season is nearing its final stretch, and Loza encourages managers to trust themselves, make bold decisions, and give their fantasy teams a fighting chance in the critical final weeks.
In Week 14, players like Jalen Hurts, James Cook, Isiah Pacheco, and Garrett Wilson are important figures to watch. Hurts, for instance, has seen a reduction in passing attempts, but he remains a reliable top-five fantasy quarterback due to his consistency in rushing touchdowns. Meanwhile, Cook’s efficiency and ability to find the end zone make him a key player for fantasy managers heading into crucial matchups. Additionally, players like Pacheco and Wilson face tough challenges but still possess potential value due to their team’s needs and their personal skills. Lastly, Rico Dowdle’s emergence in the Cowboys’ backfield and Chig Okonkwo’s recent uptick in targets provide some potential value plays in fantasy football for Week 14, as managers seek opportunities to strengthen their lineups. Ultimately, Loza emphasizes the importance of trusting your instincts, even if it means deviating from the routine, to achieve fantasy football success.
