As we approach Week 10 of the fantasy football season, setting effective lineups can be crucial for success. Understanding matchups and player performance trends provides vital insights. The first matchup features the New York Giants facing off against the Carolina Panthers in Germany, where Tyrone Tracy Jr. stands out as a key start. Tracy Jr. has shown an increasing role since Devin Singletary’s return, averaging 82.6 rushing yards and an impressive 5.2 yards per carry over his five games as a starter. The Giants have adopted a run-heavy strategy, complemented by a favorable matchup against a Carolina defense which has surrendered the most points to running backs this season. With the Giants favored to win, Tracy Jr. is positioned as a top-15 RB this week.
Transitioning to the New England Patriots and Chicago Bears matchup, D’Andre Swift emerges as a notable start. Since Week 3, Swift has been a fantasy powerhouse, ranking as the RB8 despite overarching issues with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams. Playing predominantly at home, where the Bears have performed better, Swift’s carries and receptions are expected to spike against a Patriots defense that’s allowed the fifth-most points to running backs. His scoring consistency during wins and the favorable game script make him a strong option as a top-10 RB for the week. Conversely, the Buffalo Bills at Indianapolis Colts game sees both Dalton Kincaid and Josh Downs as appealing starts. Kincaid’s target volume has been increasing, aligning him well against a Colts defense that struggles against tight ends. Downs, despite a dip in route participation, is one of the top receivers in potential targets when quarterback Joe Flacco is at the helm, given Michael Pittman Jr.’s absence.
The Minnesota Vikings facing the Jacksonville Jaguars brings Brian Thomas Jr. into the spotlight. Despite a lack of targets due to the tight competition in the wide receiver corps, Thomas ranks eighth in receiving yards showcasing strong potential to break out, especially now that Christian Kirk is sidelined for the season. The matchup against the Vikings, known for their defensive vulnerabilities, could present abundant opportunities for him. However, in the Denver Broncos-Kansas City Chiefs game, Javonte Williams and Courtland Sutton are recommended sits. With Kansas City’s defense holding opponents to the fewest rushing yards per game, the Broncos’ game script likely won’t favor the run. Sutton has struggled to capitalize on his target share effectively, and the Chiefs’ defense has consistently stymied outside receivers, warranting a cautious approach for fantasy managers.
In a division rivalry, the Atlanta Falcons will meet the New Orleans Saints, and Taysom Hill comes into focus as a startable tight end given his vibrant role in the Saints’ offense, particularly with key players absent. Hill is not only a versatile option due to his rushing ability but also has demonstrated an uptick in opportunities. Meanwhile, Brock Purdy of the San Francisco 49ers takes a favorable matchup against a struggling Tampa Bay Buccaneers defense, known for giving up significant fantasy points to quarterbacks. With Purdy’s top passer rating against zone coverage, he could leverage the Bucs’ woes effectively, likely making him a top-five fantasy QB of the week.
In the battle between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Washington Commanders, George Pickens presents as a strong start due to his impressive production since Russell Wilson took over at quarterback. His capacity to draw targets in high-leverage situations, especially near the end zone, signals his potential in a matchup that may necessitate a passing-heavy approach. Conversely, in the Tennessee Titans against Los Angeles Chargers clash, both Tony Pollard and Calvin Ridley figure as sits. Pollard’s ongoing injury concerns, combined with a tough matchup against a Chargers’ defense adept at limiting running back production, lower his appeal. Ridley, while benefitting from increased usage, faces a significant challenge against a secondary that minimizes big plays.
Finally, with the New York Jets squaring off against the Arizona Cardinals, Davante Adams is highlighted as a must-start. His integration into the Jets’ offense has been promising, with a 37% target share that bolsters his fantasy value, especially as he capitalizes against the Cardinals’ weak secondary. In the concluding matchup between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys, Rico Dowdle’s value is challenged by a difficult opponent in the Eagles, who have excelled at shutting down running backs. The overall low implied total for his offense, compounded by injury worries for key personnel around him, suggests there are better options available for fantasy managers. As we enter this week’s slate of games, aligning player form with optimal matchups will be critical to maximizing fantasy potential.
