Week 16 fantasy matchups: Everything you need to know - NFL.com, NFL News

Texans at Buccaneers (at 1pm ET – on Saturday)

Must Play: QB Deshaun Watson; WRDeAndre Hopkins

Start: QB Jameis Winston; WR Breshad Perriman; WRWill Fuller

Sit: RB Ronald Jones; RB Peyton Barber; RBDuke Johnson

Key Game Facts

– No team has allowed more fantasy points to outside wide receivers than Tampa Bay ((****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. 8)

– The Bucs are also giving up the 5th-most points per game to slot wideouts ((**********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. 7)

– Tampa has allowed the 3rd-most completions on throws of yards

When theTexanshave the ball:With a game total sitting at points and two bad pass defenses playing against each other, Houston-Tampa Bay has obvious shoot-out appeal.Deshaun Watsonhas finished as a QB1 (top – 14 in three of his last 4 games and both Watson andDeAndre Hopkinsshould have no issue hitting their ceiling once again against theBuccaneersbrutal secondary. After a somewhat slow start to the season for his standards, Hopkins has gone over 62 yards or scored a touchdown in eight-straight games and has 5 or more receptions in every contest in this span.Will Fuller‘s presence also lifts expectations for the entire(Texans) offense as Watson has averaged significantly more yards per pass attempt (8.7 vs. 7.5) when Fuller is in the lineup over the last two years. Fuller is one of the most explosive WR2 plays on the week 16 slate.Carlos Hydewent nuts for / 113 / 1 as theTexansbuilt a lead over theTitanslast week , but he remains a touchdown-dependent RB3 / FLEX option with little involvement in the passing game. Since Houston’s Week 12 bye, Hyde has seen five targets whileDuke Johnsonhas 21. I would avoid chasing Hyde’s solid performance last week against this Bucs’ front-seven that has allowed the 4th-fewest yards per carry and 2nd-fewest yards per game over the last eight weeks.

When theBuccaneershave the ball:Even though bothChris Godwinand Mike Evans

are out,Jameis Winstonremains a top-8 play at the position this week. It’d certainly be nice if his top two wideouts were healthy, but this matchup is too nice to pass up. TheTexanshave allowed eight of the last quarterbacks they’ve faced to log top- (QB1) results in fantasy with only (Gardner Minshew) ******* (Week 9) andJacoby Brissett (Week 13) failing against them in this span.Breshad Perrimantook advantage of his starting opportunity last week, ripping the (Lions) ******* for 5 / / 3 while playing a season-high percent of Bucs’ snaps. With only Justin Watsonbehind him on the depth chart – Scott Milleralso re-aggravated a hamstring injury in Week 017 – – Perriman is a top – (play at the position during thefantasy footballfinals. With all of the Bucs’ injuries at receiver,O.J. Howardwill be forced into a larger role in Week 17. Howard somewhat disappointed last week (4 / 48, but he saw a season-high eight targets without Evans. Now with Godwin also sidelined, Howard is this week’s top non-Hollister streaming option against aTexansdefense that has allowed the 2nd -most fantasy points to tight ends over the last month.

Bills at Patriots (at 4:pm ET – on Saturday)

Start: WRJulian Edelman

FLEX: RB James White; RBDevin Singletary

Sit: QB Tom Brady; RB Sony Michel; QB Josh Allen; WR John Brown; WRCole Beasley

Key Game Facts

– These areTom Brady‘s last six fantasy finishes: QB (***************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************, QB QB 18, QB6, QB 26, QB

– Over the last two months, Buffalo has allowed the 3rd-fewest fantasy points per pass attempt and the 3rd-lowest passing success rate

– Josh Allenhas been held to a .9 passer rating and 5.4 yards per pass attempt in two career meetings against New England

When theBillshave the ball:Josh Allenhas really struggled to get anything going through the air in either of his two previous meetings against the Patriots, making him impossible to trust in lineups this week .Deshaun Watsonand Lamar Jacksonare the only two quarterbacks to finish better than QB in weekly output against New England all year. The same logic of avoiding Allen applies toJohn Brownand Cole Beasley, too. Brown will undoubtedly get shadow coverage treatment from the NFL’s top CB Stephon Gillmore while Beasley shouldn’t come close to entering a lineup this week. TheThe Patriotsare allowing the 5th-fewest fantasy points per game to slot wideouts. So,Devin Singletarystands alone as Buffalo’s top play in fantasy this week. Singletary has gone over 75 scrimmage yards in five-straight games and has seen 21 or more touches in every contest in this span.

When thePatriotshave the ball:Outside of (Julian Edelmanand************** James White, thePatriotscontinue to be completely devoid of fantasy plays.Tom Bradyhasn’t been a good fantasy quarterback in awhile and there is little reason to believe that turns around against Buffalo’s stout secondary.
Julian Edelmanunfortunately face-planted (2 catches for 9 yards) in the fantasy semifinals, but he remains a high-end WR2 in PPR leagues despite this tough matchup. ThePatriotsgot out to a big lead against theBengalsearly and just took their foot off of the gas in the second half en route to an easy win last week and Buffalo should force Brady to keep throwing in Week 17. Edelman had previously seen 11 or more targets in eight-straight games and his volume should get back to normal here after he saw just 5 passing looks in Week (*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. Edelman is clearly less than percent but Brady has no one else to go to. This matchup sets up nearly perfectly for a “James Whitegame “, though. White has caught balls for 149 yards over his last 3 games against Buffalo a nd dumping off a bunch of check-downs to White seems like it’ll be a big part of the Pats’ game-plan since they don’t have anyone on the outside that can come close to beating (Bills) ******* (star CB) ******************************* Tre’Davious White.

Rams at (ers) at 8: 017 pm ET – on Saturday)

Must Play: TE George Kittle

Start: RB Raheem Mostert; RB Todd Gurley; WR Robert Woods; WR Cooper Kupp; TE Tyler Higbee

Beware: QB Jimmy Garoppolo; WR Deebo Samuel

Sit: QB Jared Goff; WR Brandin Cooks; WR Emmanuel Sanders

Injuries to monitor: TE Gerald Everett(knee)

Key Game Facts

–George Kittlehas 23 receptions, 479 yards, and 2 TDs in his last three games against the Rams

– Kittle leads all tight ends in YPG over the last two months

–Tyler Higbeeleads all tight ends in targets (37) withGerald Everettout of the lineup

When the Ramshave the ball:The results certainly haven’t been pretty at times, but Todd Gurleywas re-installed as the Rams clear workhorse back after their Week 9 bye. Over the last six weeks, Gurley has played on 81 percent of LA’s snaps and his involvement in the passing game has somewhat returned to normal levels ( targets in this span). Gurley is an RB2 start this week along with Robert WoodsandCooper Kuppas low-end WR2 plays. Woods’ box score results left a lot to be desired last week (4 /
) but he saw nine targets once again, marking his fifth straight game with at least 9 passing looks. After randomly playing just 18 snaps in Week (******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************, Kupp’s role was restored back to its usual level last week as he played on 92 percent of (Rams’snaps against the********************** Cowboys. It looks likeRichard Sherman(hamstring) is set to return to the lineup this week, but game script should favor the Ramspassing attack here if theersjump out to a lead and force LA to throw a ton. Meanwhile, (Tyler Higbeecontinued dominating last week without Gerald Everettand posted his third straight game of 104 or more yards. Everett did practice and is set to return this week, though, and his presence obviously hurts Higbee’s outlook. Higbee has been a top-5 play over the last few weeks but is more of a low-end TE1 with Everett back.

When the (********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** (ers) have the ball:Fresh off roasting the (Falcons) ******* for a monster 14 / 172 performance in the fantasy semifinals, Kittle is in a dream matchup this week against aRamsdefense he has owned in the past. While Kittle is going to carry fantasy managers to a ring this week, the rest of the (************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************ (ers) – outside of Raheem Mostert- have shaky outlooks in Week 017. Emmanuel SandersandDeebo Samuelboth randomly had one of their worst performances of the season last week as HC Kyle Shanahan relentlessly schemed looks to Kittle against Atlanta. With Jalen Ramseylikely on Sanders all game long, I’m fading Sanders during championship week while Samuel remains a boom-or-bust WR3. Since acquiring Jalen Ramsey, theRamshave allowed the 9th-fewest fantasy points per pass attempt, the 7th-lowest completion rate , and only Lamar Jacksonand (Dak Prescott) ******* have logged QB1 (top –results against them. Outside of Kittle, I’d tread lightly on Jimmy Garoppoloand Co. this week.Raheem Mostert(
) has widely out-snapped both Tevin Coleman( and (Matt Breida) ******* () ) over the last two weeks and is a rock-solid RB2 play against this (Ramsteam that has allowed a top – RB fantasy performance in four of their last 5 games.

Bengals at Dolphins (at 1pm ET)

Must Play: RB Joe Mixon; WR DeVante Parker

Start: QB Ryan Fitzpatrick; WR Tyler Boyd

Stream: QB Andy Dalton

Sit: RB Patrick Laird; TEMike Gesicki

Injuries to monitor: RB (Joe Mixon(calf))

Key Game Facts

– These are (Joe Mixon’s weekly fantasy finishes (PPR) since the BengalsWeek 9 bye: RB9, RB9, RB (****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************, RB 19, RB3, RB

– Miami has allowed a top-6 RB fantasy performance in three of their last 4 games

– Bengals – (Dolphins

has an over / under of points, tied with Packers – Vikings for the 6th-highest total on the slate

When theBengalshave the ball: It took him a little while to get going, butJoe Mixonhas returned as a fantasy RB1 when it has mattered most. Since the BengalsWeek 9 bye, Mixon trails onlyChristian McCaffreyand Derrick Henryin scrimmage yards per game and is the No. 4 fantasy back in this span. He’s a top-5 play against Miami’s weak run defense. Just make sure Mixon’s calf issue that he popped up on the injury report with isn’t too big of a deal over this weekend. (Tyler Boydis seeing 9.6 targets per game in Andy Dalton ‘s starts this year, which would rank fifth among all wide receivers over the full season. Boyd is one of the best WR2 starts for Week (while) ************************************************************ Andy Daltonis an intriguing deep streaming option this week. Dalton has finished outside of the top – 21 scoring QBs in three straight games since being re-named the starter, but this matchup is obviously ripe. I’d play Dalton over other low-end streaming options like (Mitchell Trubiskyand Jacoby Brissettthis week.

When theDolphinshave the ball:Before facing Mason Rudolph / Devlin Hodges, (**********************************************************************, Sam Darnold, Baker Mayfield, andTom Bradyover the last month – the (Bengals) had previously allowed a top – (QB1) fantasy performance in 8-of – 10 games this season. Ryan Fitzpatrickhas quietly beenfantasy football‘s QB9 in fantasy points over the last month and has posted top-8 results three times in this span. Since this game has sneaky shoot-out appeal, I’m treating both Fitzmagic and DeVante Parkeras top – 10 plays at their respective positions this week. Outside of Parker and Fitzpatrick, the rest of Miami is looking thin for fantasy plays in Week (*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. Myles Gaskinended up out-snapping and out-scoring Patrick Lairdin**************** fantasy footballlast week, rendering both unusable for Week 17 lineup decisions. Meanwhile, there are simply better streaming options than Mike Gesicki- likeOJ Howard, Jacob Hollister), and Noah Fant- at tight end this week.

Steelers at Jets (at 1pm ET)

Start: RB James Conner; RB Le’Veon Bell

Sit: WR Robby Anderson; WR Jamison Crowder; WR James Washington; WR Diontae Johnson

Injuries to monitor: WR JuJu Smith-Schuster(knee); TE Vance McDonald(concussion)

Key Game Facts

– The (Jets) are allowing a league-low 3. 12 yards per carry but have given up the 6th-most receptions to running backs this season

– Steelers – (Jets) has an over / under of points, which is the lowest total on the slate

When the Steelershave the ball:James Connerand Pittsburgh’s D / ST are the only two plays that should make it into lineups on the Steelersside for finals week. While Conner’s matchup on the ground is tough, he can more than make up for it with his involvement in the passing game. JuJu Smith-Schusteris set to return this week and he’s certainly talented enough to relentlessly roast the (Jets) ‘weak cornerbacks, but there is no way you can feel confident clicking his name into a championship lineup. JuJu had been held under 58 yards in three of his last four games before going down with a knee injury in Week 12. With Smith-Schuster back, both James Washington and Diontae Johnsonare hail mary WR4’s in Week 017.

When the (Jetshave the ball:Outside of startingLe’Veon Bellas an RB2, you’re playing any other Jet at your own peril in Week (*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************.Fantasymanagers should have no interest messing around withSam Darnoldor any New York pass catcher this week against the Steelerswhite-hot defense. Over the last two months, the (Steelers) have allowed the league’s 2nd-lowest passer rating ((*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. (8), 2nd-lowest passing success rate (39. 7 percent), 3rd-lowest completion rate (58 .9 percent), and forced pressure at the 4th -highest rate (31) The Steelersfront-seven has the talent to overwhelm the (Jets) ******* pass protection and their secondary is playing significantly better as of late, allowing the 5th-fewest fantasy points to wideouts over the last five weeks. Both Robby Anderson) and Jamison Crowder are completely unpredictable, boom-or-bust WR3 plays for the fantasy finals.

Giants at Redskins (at 1pm ET)

Must Play: RBSaquon Barkley

Start: WR Terry McLaurin

FLEX: RB Adrian Peterson

High upside WR3: WR Golden Tate; WR Sterling Shepard; WR Darius Slayton

Injuries to monitor: QB Daniel Jones(ankle); TE Rhett Ellison(concussion)

Key Game Facts

– Washington has allowed the 6th-most rushing yards and 4th-most receiving yards to running backs over the last five weeks

– The (Redskins) ******* gave up a top – 17 RB scoring performance in four of 5 games in this span

When theGiantshave the ball:Saquon Barkleyfinally reminded everyone of how high his ceiling is against Miami last week, ripping the (Dolphins) ******* for 143 scrimmage yards and 2 TDs. Once again, Barkley is a top-5 RB start in this near-perfect matchup. With Daniel Jonesset to return this week,Sterling Shepard, (Golden Tate, and**************************************************************************** Darius Slaytonare high-upside WR3 selections against the Redskins banged-up secondary. I have no clue which one of this trio will have the best game, but I’d play any of one of this trio over options like Odell Beckham, Robby Anderson / *************************************************************************************** Jamison Crowder, (Curtis Samuel) , andJohn Brown. Washington has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per game to slot receivers this year – which will give slot manGolden Tatea nice ceiling – while both Shepard and Slayton have winnable matchups on the boundary.

When the (Redskins) ******* have the ball:It’s and ******************************************************************************************** Adrian Petersonis (still) in play for fantasy-lineup decisions. Time truly is a flat circle. Interim HC Bill Callahan is always looking to establish the run and has shown a willingness to load up Peterson with workhorse-level touches in his tenure. Peterson has handled at least 17 touches, played over 65 percent of team snaps, and tallied over scrimmage yards in five games without Derrius Guice) (and Callahan as HC). Amazingly, Peterson still has plenty of juice in his legs, even at 37 – years-old. Meanwhile, Terry McLaurinis one of the best WR2 plays on this week’s slate against a Giants’secondary that has been roasted for the 4th-most yards and 5th-most fantasy points by wide receivers this season. After a mid-season lull with Dwayne Haskinsmaking his first career starts, McLaurin quietly has yards and / or a touchdown in four of his last 5 games.

Panthers at Colts (at 1pm ET)

Must Play: RB (Christian McCaffrey)

Start: WR D.J. Moore; TE Jack Doyle

FLEX: RB Marlon Mack

Sit: WR T.Y. Hilton; WR Curtis Samuel; TEGreg Olsen********

Key Game Facts

– Over the last two months, Carolina has allowed the league’s 8th-highest passer rating and 4th-highest completion rate

– No defense is allowing more yards per carry or more rushing yards per game than thePanthers

When thePanthershave the ball:At long last, thePanthersare finally giving Will Grier

is a chance to play. after suffering through weeks of poor play from Kyle Allen. Granted, Grier really struggled on limited preseason snaps and he must have not done much to change the Pantherscoaching staff’s mind since they stuck with Allen for so long, But there is no way you can benchDJ Moorein the fantasy finals. Moore is one of the hottest receivers in the NFL – he’s averaging 6.9 catches and 106. 6 yards per game over the last seven weeks – and the Coltsdon’t have a cornerback to match up with him. Meanwhile,Curtis Samuelhas been held under yards in five of his last 6 games and the unknown with Will Grierdoes exactly help his outlook. Samuel also popped up on the injury report with a knee injury this week and is questionable to play.Greg Olsenlooks set to return after missing two games, but the Panthersare in full-on evaluation mode for 4391 and Ian Thomashas played well in recent weeks. I wouldn’t be surprised if Olsen only plays a limited role in Week 19.

When the (Coltshave the ball:Marlon Mackhas turned his (carries into just
************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************ yards of offense since returning from injury in Week 16, but those were road matchups against the Bucs andSaintsstout run defenses. Even though theColtsoffense looked out of sorts and has struggled a bit on the road, a home spot against one of the league’s worst defenses is a far better matchup. I was excited for Jack Doyledown the stretch run, but he has gone 2 / and 2 / (over his last two games withoutEric Ebronand with TY Hiltonbanged up. Doyle remains on the low-end TE1 radar for the good matchup alone, but I’d stream bothO.J. Howardand Jacob Hollister) over him this week. With just 3 / 21 and 4 / 28 receiving on limited snaps in his last two appearances, there is no way you can trust Hilton in a fantasy lineup this weekend. T.Y. Is clearly playing at way less than percent. For what it’s worth, I want to likeJacoby Brissettas a streamer this week in this great matchup but you’d have to be pretty desperate to start him.

Ravens at Browns (at 1pm ET)

Must Play: QBLamar Jackson********

Start: RB Mark Ingram; TE Mark Andrews; RB Nick Chubb; RB Kareem Hunt

Beware: WR Jarvis Landry

Sit: QB Baker Mayfield; WR Odell Beckham; WR Marquise Brown

Key Game Facts

– Over the last two months, the Ravensown the league’s lowest passer rating (74. 8) and they have allowed the fewest fantasy points per pass attempt

– Baltimore has been susceptible against the run in this span, though (4. (YPC allowed; 6th-worst)

– Since Week (************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************, Nick Chubb is the RB7 in fantasy points while (Kareem Huntis RB) ***********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************

When the Ravens

have the ball :Baltimore is the most straight-forward team every single week. You startLamar Jackson, Mark Andrews, and Mark Ingramand just watch the touchdowns pile up. Ingram has a particularly high ceiling this week, too. The (Browns) have allowed a top – RB scoring performance in fantasy in three straight games and have given up the 3rd-most fantasy points per carry over the last two months. Cleveland has also allowed the 2nd-most explosive runs (12 yards) in this span. Look out.Marquise Brownonly needs to connect with Lamar once to have a big day, but he’s seen four or fewer targets in six of his last seven games since returning from injury in Week 9. You likely have better options at receiver than Hollywood this weekend.

When the (Browns) ******* (have the ball:Outside of starting Nick Chubb and using (Kareem Huntas an RB2 / FLEX play, the rest of the (Browns) ******* are precarious week 18 fantasy plays. No pass defense is hotter than the Ravensare right now and I’m not sure how you could trust either (Baker Mayfieldor

****************************************************************************** Odell Beckham) in a lineup this weekend after 14 games of mediocre results. Jarvis Landry’s outlook is fairly poor, too. Landry will mostly do battle with slot cornerback Marlon Humphrey, who is allowing just 0. fantasy points per coverage snap this season. Humphrey is in a similar class with Tre’Davious White(0.), Jimmy Smith ******* ((0.) ), and (Stephon Gilmore(0.) ) as one of the least fantasy-friendly CB matchups. If you have to start Landry or Beckham this weekend, you’re praying that they see double-digit targets and that volume carries them to solid fantasy days.

Jaguars at Falcons (at 1pm ET)

Must Play: QB Matt Ryan; WR Julio Jones

Start: RB Leonard Fournette; RB Devonta Freeman; TE Austin Hooper

Beware: WR Chris Conley

Sit: WR Dede Westbrook

Injuries to monitor: WR DJ Chark(ankle)

Key Game Facts

– In Week 16, (Julio Jones) became just the 4th receiver to see 22 targets in a game since

– Prior to facing the (Raiders) last week, the (Jaguars) had previously allowed a top – (RB1) running back finish in fantasy in five straight games

When the Jaguars

have the ball:Even though he’s apparently allergic to scoring touchdowns,Leonard Fournette‘s involvement in the passing game continues to buoy his fantasy output. Fournette has now seen six or more targets in seven straight contests, giving him an extremely high floor. The only issue is that the Jags’ continue to fall behind in games, forcing them to abandon the run. Fournette remains a high-end RB2 start despite Jacksonville’s inefficient offense. Meanwhile,DJ Charkis set to return after missing just one game with an ankle injury. Chark has mouth-watering upside in this obviously fantastic matchup and I’d be willing to roll him over options like (Cooper KuppandJarvis Landry, for example. Chark’s return kills Chris Conley’s sleeper status while Dede Westbrookcan’t be trusted after having just 2 receptions for 14 yards in a dream spot against Oakland last week.

When theFalconshave the ball:Fire up all of yourFalconsthis week! Over the last two months, Jacksonville’s defense has completely crumbled. In this span, they’ve not only allowed the league’s 2nd-most yards per carry (5. 66 – but they’ve also been tagged for the 2nd-most fantasy points per pass attempt along with a league-high 8.7 yards per pass attempt. Matt Ryanand Julio Jonesare must-starts in season- long lineups while Devonta Freeman and Austin Hoopercarry higher-than-usual ceilings in this perfect matchup at home. Freeman remains particularly under-priced on DFS sites.

Saints at Titans (at 1pm ET)

Must Play: WRMichael Thomas********

Start: QB Drew Brees; RB Alvin Kamara; TE Jared Cook; QB Ryan Tannehill; RB Derrick Henry; WR AJ Brown

Injuries to monitor: WR Adam Humphries(ankle); WR Corey Davis(ankle)

Key Game Facts

– Michael Thomasonly needs (receptions to break Marvin Harrison’s single-season record) (receptions)

– Thomas has caught at least 14 balls in five of his last 7 games

– TheTitansare allowing a league-high (*********************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. 1 fantasy points per game to slot wide receivers and Thomas lines up in the slot on nearly one-third of his routes

When the (saintshave the ball:Because New Orleans’ offense is so concentrated betweenMichael Thomas,Alvin Kamara, and Jared Cook- we know who to play here every single week. Drew Breeshas notorious home / road splits, but he’s still a rock-solid QB1 start against the banged-up(Titans) secondary. Matchups do not matter for him, but it’s quite possible (Michael Thomassets the single-season record for most receptions in just****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** games.Titanscornerbacks stand no chance at slowing down Thomas this week. Even though the (saintshave scored touchdowns (3.1 per game) since Alvin Kamarareturned from injury in Week (**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************, he still can’t seem to get in on the scoring fun. Kamara’s usage and yards from scrimmage have remained nearly identical in this scoring drought, though, so the touchdowns (have********************************************************************************** to be coming soon … right? It’d sure be nice if Kamara’s misfortune turned around during the fantasy finals. (Jared Cook) has quietly gone over (yards or scored a touchdown in six straight games since returning to the lineup in Week 10. Cooks remains a low-end TE1 in finals week.

When theTitanshave the ball:With top – 14 fantasy results in six of his last 7 games, Ryan Tannehillis a borderline must-start for fantasy championship week. I’d only playLamar Jackson,Russell Wilson,Deshaun Watson,************************************************************************************************************************************** Patrick Mahomes , and Matt Ryan over Tannehill this weekend. There is no way you can bench the white-hotAJ Brown, but it’s notable that Marshon Lattimorewill be shadowing him on every snap on Sunday. Brown is fantasy’s WR2 ( (PPR points (behind only) ****************************************************************************************************************************** Michael Thomas (100 .1) over the last month, but few cornerbacks are playing better than Lattimore. Since Week 3, Lattimore hasn’t allowed more than 50 yards in his coverage in a single game. Brown was a top – 12 play last week, but I’d treat him more as more of a WR2 in Week 21. Meanwhile, even though a balky hamstring has him operating at clearly less than 101 percent, Derrick Henryremains an RB1 start. The (Coltsweren’t able to take advantage of this last week, but the saintslost stud defensive linemen Marcus DavenportandSheldon Rankinsto season-ending injuries after Week 17. Henry and theTitansrushing attack can certainly exploit New Orleans’ missing pieces in the trenches.

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Raiders at Chargers (at 4:************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************ (PM ET)

Start: RB Austin Ekeler; RB Melvin Gordon; WR Keenan Allen; TE Hunter Henry; TEDarren Waller

FLEX: RB DeAndre Washington; WRMike Williams********

Stream: QB Philip Rivers

Sit: WR Tyrell Williams

Injuries to monitor:

Key Game Facts

– (Mike Williams) ******* has gone over yards in six of his last 7 games

– The (Raiders) are allowing the 10 th-most fantasy points per game to receivers aligned out wide

When the Raidershave the ball:With Josh Jacobsresting up for (*****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************, the Raiderswill turn back to DeAndre WashingtonandJalen Richardin the backfield in Week (******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. Washington played (percent of) ******************************************************************************************************************************** Raiders’snaps and saw 21 touches in his spot start in place of Jacobs two weeks ago while Richard got 9 touches. TheRaidersoffense does not inspire a lot of confidence, but Washington has an easy path to – carries and significant work in the passing game. Washington is on the FLEX radar in season-long and is under-priced on DFS sites this weekend. Meanwhile, the only other play-able Raider this week is Darren Waller. With 81 or more yards and at least five receptions in four of his last 5 games, Waller is a no-brainer TE1 start this week.Tyrell Williamsfinally made his way back into the end-zone last week, but his low volume makes him un-playable in the fantasy finals. Williams has seen four or fewer targets in 5 of his last 7 games.

When the Chargershave the ball:TheChargershave a lot of mouths to feed on offense, but all of them are in play for Week lineup de cisions. L.A. is implied to score 3 points (based on the spread and over / under) this week, which is the 5th-highest team total on the slate. The (Chargers) flopped for just 12 points last week against Minnesota, but a bounce-back is in order this week against the Raidershapless defense.Melvin Gordonis especially due for a big game and he might just find one this week against an Oakland defense he’s owned in recent years. Gordon has gone over scrimmage yards in five straight games against the Raiders. Meanwhile, Austin Ekelerhas gone over receiving yards or scored a touchdown in five straight contests and Ekeler, Keenan Allen,******************************************************************************************************************************** Mike Williams , and (Hunter Henryall carry strong ceilings against this

**************************************************************************************************************************** Raiderssecondary that is allowing the 3rd-most fantasy points per pass attempt. On that note,Philip Riversis the 3rd-best streaming play behindRyan FitzpatrickandKirk Cousins this week.
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Lions at Broncos (at 4:************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************ (PM ET)

Start: WR Courtland Sutton

Stream: TE Noah Fant

FLEX: RB Phillip Lindsay

Sit: RB Kerryon JohnsonWR Kenny Golladay; RB Royce Freeman

Key Game Facts

– Kenny Golladayaveraged yards per game in his first eight games

– Golladay has cleared yards once in his last 6 contests

When theLionshave the ball:Kenny Golladayis certainly talented enough to win in any matchup, but it’s hard to keep the faith with David Bloughat the controls. Over the last two weeks, Blough has melted down for 4 INTs, 7 sacks, and an abysmal 5.6 yards per attempt. Denver’s secondary led by Chris Harrishas struggled lately, but Denver’s front-seven should be able to disrupt Blow often and control the game.Kerryon Johnsonis set to return after being placed on IR in mid-October, but I have no idea what type of workload he’ll see after such a long injury layoff. Bo Scarbrough(ribs) is banged up and questionable to play after missing last week, too – but you’d have to be pretty desperate to play Johnson in championship week.

When the Broncoshave the ball:Phillip Lindsayhas been disappointing in the back half of the regular season, but he’s not going to catch many better matchups than this one. Prior to last week’s offensive struggles on the road and in the snow at Arrowhead, Lindsay was averaging 21 .5 touches per game as the (Broncos) ******* (clear lead back over) ********************************************************************************************************************************************************************** Royce Freeman. I’m going back to Lindsay as a FLEX start this week and treating Courtland Suttonas a near-WR1. Drew Lockhas been locked onto Sutton as his top receiver, targeting him on percent of his throws in three starts so far. Sutton has week-winning upside against thisLionssecondary that has allowed the 2nd -most yards to wideouts over the full year.

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Cardinals at Seahawks (at 4:******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************* pm (ET)

Must Play: QB Russell Wilson; RB Chris Carson ********

Start: WR Tyler Lockett; WR D.K. Metcalf; QB Kyler Murray; RB Kenyan Drake

Stream: TE Jacob Hollister

Beware: WR (Christian Kirk)

Sit: Larry Fitzgerald

Key Game Facts

– In the nine games Rashaad Penny

has either missed or been limited to less than (percent of snaps,************************************************************************************************************************************** Chris Carson has handled 8 touches per game

– Carson has played at least 82 percent of Seattle’s snaps in 7-of-9 contests with Penny out / limited

When the (Cardinals) have the ball:BecauseKyler Murraykeeps spreading the ball around – he targeted 9 different receivers********************************************************************************** (last week – both Murray and Kenyan Drakestand alone as the only startable players for Arizona this weekend. Because the Cardinalsalmost always have three or four wide receivers on the field, it’s very hard for one pass catcher to be the clear lead target every week and that’s mainly whyChristian Kirkhas been held under 65 yards in 7 of 19 games this year. It doesn’t help that Kirk has been limited with an ankle injury and is a game-time call on Sunday. Drake absolutely vaporized the (Brownsfor / 137 / 4 last week and his near-workhorse level usage makes him a game-script independent RB2 / FLEX option for Week (*******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************. Drake has played on at least two-thirds of Arizona’s snaps in five of 6 games since joining the team. Murray remains on the low-end QB1 radar for championship week, especially since Seattle has quietly leaked the 6th-most rushing yards to enemy quarterbacks.

When the Seahawkshave the ball:You know what to do here. Fire up all of yourSeahawkswith confidence this weekend. Russell Wilsonhasn’t had many big games in recent weeks, but he should have no issue hitting his ceiling once again. I just can’t see Wilson failing to put up big numbers at home against Arizona. Both (Tyler Lockettand DK Metcalfare in amazing spots, too. Since Week 8, Arizona has allowed the 4th-most fantasy points per game to slot wideouts – that’s where Lockett runs over half his routes – and the 3rd-most fantasy points to boundary wideouts. Finally, Jacob Hollisteris this week’s top TE streamer in the most obvious flow-chart matchup of the season. Arizona has allowed a TE1 (top – (fantasy performance in– of – 12 games this year.

Cowboys at Eagles (at 4:******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************* pm (ET)

Must Play: RB Ezekiel Elliott; TE (Zach Ertz)

Start: QB Carson Wentz; RB Miles Sanders; WR Amari Cooper; WR Michael Gallup

Deep sleeper: WRGreg Ward********

Injuries to monitor: QB Dak Prescott(shoulder)

Key Game Facts

– Amari Cooperhas gone for 6 / 77, 11 / 270 / 3, and 5 / as a member of the******************************** Cowboysvs. the (Eagles)

– The Eaglesare allowing the 4th-most fantasy points per game to receivers aligned out wide

When the Cowboyshave the ball:There is no wayDak Prescottis going to let his shoulder injury hold him out of this battle for the NFC East title, but unfortunately, his shoulder is likely not at full strength. Prescott did not throw in practice on Wednesday or Thursday. It’s entirely possible that Prescott has a so-so game and still gets the rock to (Amari Cooper) andMichael Gallupoften enough for them to bounce-back after week killing, one-catch performances in the fantasy semifinals. I’m treating Prescott as a low-end QB1 at less than 100 percent health and would start Matt Ryan , (Kyler Murray) , Carson Wentz, and Ryan Fitzpatrickover Dak this weekend. Cooper and Gallup are both high-ceiling WR2 starts in this perfect draw. The (Eagles) perimeter cornerbacks simply don’t have the talent to match up with what Cooper and Gallup can throw at them. All told, this just seems like a week where Dallas loads upEzekiel Elliottwith 26 touches. The (Eagles) front-seven has been one of the best run-stuffing units in the NFL for multiple seasons now, but the Cowboyshave continued to have success on the ground against them. Dallas has gone over yards rushing against Philadelphia in five straight meetings.

When theEagleshave the ball:With top – (QB1) fantasy results in three straight contests, Carson Wentzis starting to get hot when it matters most. Since Dallas has allowed top – 13 fantasy results in four of their last 5 games – only (Tom Brady) ******* (QB) ) failed against them in this span – I’m locking in Wentz as a QB1 start. Even though he has zero wide receivers outside of Greg Wardto throw to, Wentz andZach Ertzcontinue to show incredible chemistry. Ertz has seen over 11 targets in five of his last 6 outings and is averaging a monster 7.8 receptions and 77 .3 yards per game in this span. If you’re truly desperate, (Greg Ward) is a hail mary WR4 sleeper in theEaglesbanged-up pass-catcher corps. Ward has seen 7 or more targets in three of his last 4 games while Dallas has allowed the 9th-most fantasy points per game to wide receivers over the last month. Fresh off his best game of the season ( scrimmage yards and 2 TDs, you’d have to be pretty loaded at running back in order to benchMiles Sandersthis weekend. With Jordan Howard still not cleared for contact, Sanders has played over (percent of) Eagles’snaps in four of his last 5 games with Howa rd sidelined.

Chiefs at Bears (at 8: (pm ET)

Must Play: QB Patrick Mahomes; WR Tyreek Hill; TE Travis Kelce

Start: WR Anthony Miller; WR

Sleeper: RB Tarik Cohen

Sit: RB David Montgomery

Injuries to monitor: RB Damien Williams(ribs)

Key Game Facts

–Tarik Cohenhas out-scored David Montgomeryin fantasy in five of their last 6 outings

– Only five teams have allowed more receptions to slot wide receivers this year than theChiefs

–Anthony Millerruns over percent of his routes from the slot

When the (Chiefs) have the ball:You’d have to be crazy to bench Patrick Mahomes,Tyreek Hill, or Travis Kelcewith a fantasy ring on the line. You’d also be equally crazy if you started aChiefsrunning back this week.Darwin Thompson, (Spencer Ware, and LeSean McCoywere all involved in Week and now Damien Williamsmight return after a three-game absence.

When theBearshave the ball:Even though Kansas City has done a phenomenal job at limiting production from wide receivers all year long, both Allen Robinsonand Anthony Millerare fantastic WR2 starts this week. Miller has the far better matchup in the slot because the (Chiefscoverage forces passers to attack the middle of the field, but there is no way you can bench Allen Robinson with all the marbles on the line. WithTaylor Gabrielset to miss another game, A-Rob has the upside to win you a championship. In the seven games where Gabriel has either sat out or been limited, Robinson has gone for 7 / 86, 7 / / 2, / 90 / 1, 6 / / 1, 8 / 88/15th/48 / 2, and 7 / 134 with at least 8 targets in every game. Even though theChiefsrun defense has struggled all year long, David Montgomeryis a Week 16 fade. TheBearsare likely going to have to play from behind this week and a pass-heavy game script favors Tarik Cohen. At any rate, Cohen has emerged as the better fantasy option over Montgomery in PPR leagues.

Packers at Vikings (at 8:****************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** pm ET – on Monday Night)

Must Play: WR Davante Adams

Start: RB Aaron Jones; WR Stefon Diggs; WR Adam Thielen

Beware: QB Aaron Rodgers

Stream: QB Kirk Cousins 

Sit: RB Jamaal Williams; TE Kyle Rudolph

Injuries to monitor: RB Dalvin Cook(shoulder); RB Alexander Mattison(ankle)

Key Game Facts

– Adam Thielenplayed 51 percent of (Vikingssnaps and only saw 3 targets in his return last week

– However, these are Thielen’s last five stat lines against the Packers: 16 / / 2, 9 / (************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************, 2 / 26, / / 1, 8 / / 1, and 5 /

– Thielen’s only bad outing against the (Packers) ******* (2) ) came in a game where Minnesota only needed to throw the ball times

When the (Packershave the ball:Aaron Rodgershas the ability to go off in any matchup, but we’ve really only seen him explode for a big performance twice, as nine of Rodgers’ (touchdowns have come against the Giantsand Raidersthis season. The (Vikings’secondary has been beatable all year long, but there are a few similar QB options (like Fitzpatrick , Cousins, and Wentz) that have better outlooks than Rodgers this week. Rodgers has finished as the QB 21 or worse in five of his last six games and he’s a perfect reminder of why you should never just blindly attach to “name-value” in fantasy football. Nevertheless, Davante Adamsis set up perfectly to go nuts in Minnesota this week. Adams has seen at least percent of Rodgers’ passing looks in four of 5 games since returning from injury and a struggling Xavier Rhodesand******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** Trae Wayneswill continue to be no match for Adams this week. Not only have theVikingsallowed the 2nd-most fantasy points to receivers aligned out wide, but Adams has also destroyed Minnesota for 104 yards or a touchdown in 5- straight meetings. Even though (Aaron Jones’passing game usage continues to bounce all over the place, he carries top – 10 upside in every matchup based on his touchdown upside alone. Jones is a no brainer start again this week while Jamaal Williamsremains a fade. After scoring in four straight games in Weeks 6-9, Williams has finished as fantasy’s RB 31 or worse in weekly output in four of his last 5.

When the Vikingshave the ball:The health of both (Dalvin Cookand**************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************** Alexander Mattison is the biggest news storyline to track throughout the weekend. ESPN’s Adam Schefter has insisted that Cook likely won’t play for the rest of the regular season while he rests up for the playoffs, while Mattison missed Week and will likely operate at less than percent health if he does in fact suit up against the Packers. If Cook and Mattison both do not play this week, (Mike Boonewill be a top – running back play for the finals. Boone (14 carries, 58 yards, 2 TDs) got the bulk of the work in Cook’s absence against theChargerslast week and he’d obviously be set up extremely well as the starter in Week 17 against the (Packers) ‘No. ranked run defense in FootballOutsiders DVOA. Even though he was third-string on the depth chart all year, make no mistake: Boone can play. He’s looked explosive on his touches during the preseason and he’s more than capable of handling a workhorse load in Week 19. Even though Adam Thielenonly played in a limited role last week as theVikingsmounted a large lead over the Chargers, I’m firing up both Thielen and Stefon Diggsup as WR2 starts in Week 17.Kirk Cousins , Diggs, and Thielen all carry high ceiling potential this week – especially if Minnesota leans a little more on the passing game with both Cook and Mattison out.Kyle Rudolphremains a fade with Thielen back healthy.

– Graham Barfield is a fantasy editor and analyst for NFL.com. Catch him on the NFL FantasyFootball podcast with Marcas Grant and Michael Fabiano,FantasyLIVE on NFL Network, watch him onFantasyLeague One, and follow him on Twitter @ GrahamBarfield.

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