Week 14 marks a crucial juncture for fantasy football managers, with playoff berths, first-round byes, and league titles hanging in the balance. As decisions on who to start or sit this week could define your season, here’s a detailed breakdown of pivotal matchups and strategies.
Players to Start in Week 14
Quarterbacks
Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers): Facing a vulnerable Raiders secondary, Mayfield has a prime opportunity to bounce back from a shaky Week 13 performance against the Panthers.
Sam Darnold (Vikings): Darnold benefits from an ideal matchup against Atlanta’s defense, which has struggled against quarterbacks, making him a high-ceiling pick this week.
Running Backs
Tyrone Tracy Jr. (Giants): Tracy’s red-zone reliability and receiving work make him a strong start against the Saints’ weak run defense.
D’Andre Swift (Bears): The 49ers’ uncharacteristic defensive struggles position Swift for a productive outing, especially given their struggles with injuries.
Wide Receivers
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (Titans): A touchdown magnet with scores in seven of the last eight games, Westbrook-Ikhine is a must-start against Jacksonville.
Brandin Cooks (Cowboys): With the Bengals’ porous defense, Cooks is set for a significant role in Dallas’ offensive plan, especially given his touchdown and target share last week.
Tight Ends
Cade Otton (Buccaneers): The Raiders’ susceptibility to tight ends positions Otton for a breakout game in Tampa Bay’s passing attack.
Luke Schoonmaker (Cowboys): Coming off a stretch where the Bengals have conceded touchdowns to tight ends in four consecutive games, Schoonmaker looks promising.
Players to Sit in Week 14
Quarterbacks
Jared Goff (Lions): Against a strong Packers defense, expect Detroit to focus on the run, limiting Goff’s ceiling.
Matthew Stafford (Rams): Facing the Bills’ elite pass defense, Stafford is unlikely to deliver a strong performance.
Running Backs
Isiah Pacheco (Chiefs): With limited workload and a tough Chargers defense, Pacheco’s upside is capped.
Gus Edwards (Chargers): Lacking consistency and facing the Chiefs, Edwards is a risky start.
Wide Receivers
Deebo Samuel (49ers): With San Francisco’s offensive struggles and Chicago’s strong secondary, Samuel’s production is a concern.
Tyreek Hill (Dolphins): The Jets’ elite secondary and Hill’s reduced role make him a potential disappointment this week.
Tight Ends
Tucker Kraft (Packers): Detroit’s dominance against tight ends eliminates Kraft’s fantasy value.
Evan Engram (Jaguars): With Trevor Lawrence questionable and a limited passing attack, Engram faces a tough Tennessee defense that excels against his position.
Conclusion
Success in Week 14 requires strategic lineup decisions. Target players with favorable matchups while avoiding those facing defensive obstacles. With the playoffs approaching, every point matters, making this week a turning point in your fantasy season.
