In Week 14 of the fantasy football season, it’s crucial for players to make informed decisions on their lineups as key matchups unfold. This week, targeting specific players who are well-positioned to capitalize on their opponents’ weaknesses can make a significant difference. Among the matchups, in the New York Jets vs. Miami Dolphins game, tight end Jonnu Smith emerges as a strong start due to leading the Dolphins in multiple offensive metrics since their Week 6 bye, demonstrating his value in fantasy points, especially over the last three weeks. His high target share and performance in generating first downs make him a reliable choice for fantasy managers.
Looking at the Atlanta Falcons vs. Minnesota Vikings game, quarterback Sam Darnold stands out. With five multi-touchdown games in his last six outings and facing a struggling Falcons defense against quarterbacks, Darnold is positioned for success. His connection with the Vikings’ strong offensive rhythm and favorable game script enhances his appeal, marking him as a top-10 quarterback option for Week 14. Meanwhile, in the New Orleans Saints vs. New York Giants matchup, rookie Tyrone Tracy Jr. presents an intriguing start. His consistent snaps and productive running average place him in a strong position to score again, especially with the Saints struggling against the run and Tracy potentially receiving an expanded role due to teammate Malik Nabers’ injury.
On the other side, fantasy managers should consider sitting Chuba Hubbard in the Carolina Panthers vs. Philadelphia Eagles game. Despite a significant snap share, Hubbard has been losing opportunities to rookie Jonathon Brooks, and going against the Eagles’ formidable defense, which has stifled running backs all season, signals a tough outing ahead. Similarly, Nick Chubb from the Cleveland Browns should also be on the bench when facing the Pittsburgh Steelers. Despite a few touchdown performances, Chubb’s limited rushing attempts, compounded by a high pass rate from Cleveland in recent games, position him unfavorably against the Steelers, who have been tough against running backs in fantasy.
In the matchup between the Las Vegas Raiders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, tight end Cade Otton is recommended as a start. With Mike Evans possibly limited due to injury, Otton’s opportunities should increase. Given the Raiders’ struggles against tight ends lately, Otton could emerge as a reliable target and elevate his fantasy production in this favorable matchup. Conversely, fantasy managers should overlook Geno Smith of the Seattle Seahawks, who has struggled to find the end zone and faces an improved Arizona defense. The combination of Metcalf’s potential absence and the matchup’s history of low scoring dampens Smith’s prospects in this game, urging players to find alternatives.
In the Buffalo Bills vs. Los Angeles Rams clash, Khalil Shakir is highlighted as a strong start. His recent rise in targets and impressive metrics against zone coverage suggest he could be pivotal in a high-scoring matchup. Meanwhile, Chicago Bears’ Isaac Guerendo surprises as a must-start running back option due to injuries in the 49ers’ backfield. With a favorable matchup against a struggling Bears defense against the run, Guerendo offers substantial upside despite some concerns regarding his experience.
Lastly, in a critical contest between the Los Angeles Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs, Justin Herbert is less appealing due to potential receiver injuries and a difficult matchup against a man-heavy Chiefs defense. While he has shown promise, the projected low scoring and uncertainty in his supporting cast make him a risky start. Meanwhile, Rico Dowdle of the Cincinnati Bengals is positioned as a smart start, especially considering his heavy workload in recent games and advantageous performance metrics against a defense that has struggled to contain running backs. With an opportunity marked by a high utilization rate and favorable matchups, Dowdle could be pivotal for fantasy lineups in Week 14.