Week 14 of the NFL season began with an NFC North clash between the Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions on Thursday night, an important game filled with playoff implications for both teams. As the fantasy football playoffs approach, this week is a critical one for many managers, potentially determining whether they make it into the postseason.
For fantasy managers, Week 14 comes with a challenge, as six teams are on bye, leaving some top-tier players unavailable. However, there is still a variety of enticing matchups across the final 12 games of the week. This article highlights some of the best plays, along with projected box scores for key players. All rankings and analyses are based on point-per-reception (PPR) scoring.
In terms of quarterbacks, the top picks for Week 14 are Josh Allen from the Buffalo Bills, Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles, and Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. Burrow, in particular, is expected to shine against the Dallas Cowboys. Despite Dallas’ recent wins, their defense has been vulnerable, allowing the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Burrow, though not a rushing threat like Allen or Hurts, is still a top fantasy scorer, making him a strong start in Week 14.
For running backs, Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles stands out, especially with his matchup against the Carolina Panthers, who have allowed the most fantasy points to running backs this season. Barkley has been one of the most productive players across all positions, making him a must-start in all formats, and a potential game-changer in Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS).
Wide receiver options include Ja’Marr Chase from the Bengals and A.J. Brown of the Eagles, but a sleeper pick is Malik Nabers from the New York Giants. Despite uncertainty at quarterback for the Giants, Nabers has the advantage of facing a depleted New Orleans Saints defense, which has struggled without star cornerback Marshon Lattimore.
At tight end, Cade Otton of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers is highlighted for his matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. While not a star, Otton has been a reliable option for quarterback Baker Mayfield and could see significant targets, especially since the Raiders have allowed the third-most fantasy points to tight ends this season.
With these matchups and players in mind, fantasy managers should be prepared for a thrilling and pivotal Week 14.
