Fantasy Football: Sit Or Start 'Em Guide For Week

Hey guys! Are you ready to dominate your fantasy football league this week? Making the right start 'em sit 'em decisions can be the difference between a glorious victory and a crushing defeat. This guide is here to help you navigate those tricky lineup choices and set your team up for success. We'll break down players by position, analyze matchups, and consider the latest news and injuries to give you the best possible advice. So, grab your roster, put on your thinking cap, and let's dive into the sit 'em start 'em decisions that will win you your week!

Quarterbacks: Who to Trust Under Center

Quarterback is the engine of any fantasy team, and choosing the right one each week is crucial. You need to analyze matchups, consider their recent performance, and even the weather forecast. Start 'em sit 'em decisions at quarterback can be particularly agonizing because of the high scoring potential at the position. We will help you determine who to start this week and who to keep on your bench. Let's break down some key start 'em sit 'em calls at the QB position.

Start 'Em: Quarterback

When considering who to start 'em at quarterback, look for players in favorable matchups against defenses that struggle against the pass. Volume is also key, so quarterbacks who are expected to throw the ball a lot have a higher ceiling. Recent performance and health are critical factors as well. A quarterback who's been on a hot streak or is facing a defense known to give up big passing days is a prime candidate for your starting lineup. For instance, a quarterback facing a team with a weak secondary and a strong run defense might be forced to throw the ball more, increasing their fantasy point potential. Injuries to key offensive players, such as wide receivers or running backs who contribute in the passing game, can negatively impact a quarterback's performance. Similarly, favorable weather conditions, like a dome game or a clear day, can boost a quarterback's chances of a big game. It's not just about raw talent; it's about the situation and the matchup.

Sit 'Em: Quarterback

On the flip side, identifying quarterbacks to sit 'em is just as important. Tough matchups against strong pass defenses, quarterbacks struggling with injuries, or those in run-heavy offenses should be avoided. If your quarterback is facing a defense that consistently pressures the quarterback, it could lead to turnovers and sacks, significantly hurting their fantasy score. Quarterbacks in conservative offenses that prioritize running the ball may not have the passing volume needed for a high fantasy score. Also, consider the quarterback's recent performance; a string of poor games could indicate a slump or underlying issues. Weather can also play a significant role; a game in heavy rain or strong winds can severely limit a quarterback's passing ability. Make sure you carefully analyze these factors before making your final start 'em sit 'em decisions at quarterback.

Running Backs: Finding the Workhorses

Running backs are the backbone of many fantasy teams, but figuring out who will get the carries can be a weekly challenge. Touchdowns are king in fantasy football, so running backs who are the primary goal-line option for their teams are incredibly valuable. Start 'em sit 'em decisions at running back require careful evaluation of the team's offensive scheme, the backfield competition, and the matchup against the opposing defense. A consistent workload is crucial for a running back to produce in fantasy, so knowing who the lead backs are is essential. Let's examine some key start 'em sit 'em scenarios at the RB position.

Start 'Em: Running Back

When deciding who to start 'em at running back, volume is key. Look for backs who are expected to receive a high number of carries and targets in the passing game. Matchups against defenses that struggle to stop the run are also favorable. Running backs who are involved in the passing game have a higher floor, as they can still contribute even if the running game isn't effective. Additionally, look for running backs who are the primary goal-line option for their team. A running back who gets the bulk of the carries near the end zone has a high probability of scoring touchdowns, which are crucial for fantasy success. Consider the offensive line's performance as well; a strong offensive line can create running lanes and give the running back more opportunities to gain yards and score. Injuries to other running backs on the team can also create opportunities for the primary back to see an increased workload. So, when making your start 'em sit 'em decisions, prioritize running backs with a clear path to a high volume of touches and favorable matchups.

Sit 'Em: Running Back

On the other hand, choosing running backs to sit 'em is just as crucial for fantasy success. Avoid running backs in tough matchups against strong run defenses, those in crowded backfields with uncertain roles, or those dealing with injuries. A running back facing a defense that excels at stopping the run may struggle to find running lanes and gain significant yardage. In crowded backfields where multiple running backs share carries, it's difficult to predict who will have a productive game. If a running back is dealing with an injury, their performance may be limited, and they could be at risk of re-injury. Additionally, running backs in offenses that primarily rely on passing may not see enough carries to be fantasy-relevant. Understanding the team's offensive scheme and the running back's role within it is essential when making start 'em sit 'em decisions. Prioritize running backs with clear roles and favorable matchups. Biden's Oval Office Address: Key Takeaways & Analysis

Wide Receivers: Catching Those Touchdowns

Wide receivers are the playmakers who can deliver big fantasy performances with explosive plays and touchdowns. The start 'em sit 'em decisions at wide receiver often depend on the quarterback's performance, the cornerback matchups, and the receiver's role in the offense. Target share, which is the percentage of passes thrown a receiver's way, is a critical metric to consider. A receiver who consistently gets a high number of targets is more likely to produce in fantasy. We'll help you sort through the noise and identify the receivers poised for big games. Let's get into some crucial start 'em sit 'em calls at the WR position.

Start 'Em: Wide Receiver

When considering which wide receivers to start 'em, look for players who are the primary targets in their offense, have favorable cornerback matchups, and are playing in games with high projected point totals. A wide receiver who consistently sees a high number of targets from their quarterback is more likely to produce significant fantasy points. Matchups against weaker cornerbacks or defenses that struggle against the pass can lead to big games. Receivers playing in games with high over/under totals, meaning the game is expected to be high-scoring, have a greater chance of scoring touchdowns. Consider the quarterback's tendencies as well; if the quarterback favors a particular receiver, that receiver's value increases. Additionally, look for receivers who are used in different ways, such as in the slot or on deep routes, as this versatility can lead to more opportunities. So, in making your start 'em sit 'em decisions, prioritize wide receivers with high target shares, favorable matchups, and a proven ability to score.

Sit 'Em: Wide Receiver

Conversely, identifying wide receivers to sit 'em is crucial to avoid those disappointing performances that can sink your week. Avoid wide receivers facing tough cornerback matchups, those in run-heavy offenses, or those dealing with injuries. A receiver going up against a top cornerback may struggle to get open and make catches. Wide receivers in offenses that prioritize running the ball may not see enough targets to be fantasy-relevant. If a receiver is dealing with an injury, their performance may be limited, and they could be at risk of aggravating the injury. Pay attention to changes in quarterback situations as well; a new quarterback may not have the same chemistry with a receiver as the previous one. When making start 'em sit 'em decisions, always consider the matchups, the offensive scheme, and the receiver's health.

Tight Ends: The Touchdown Hunters

Tight end can be a tricky position in fantasy football. Finding a reliable tight end who scores touchdowns consistently can be a game-changer. The start 'em sit 'em decisions at tight end often come down to identifying players with a high target share, favorable matchups, and a good rapport with their quarterback. Tight ends who are red-zone threats are particularly valuable, as they have a higher chance of scoring touchdowns. We will analyze the tight end landscape and give you the insights you need to make the right choices. Let's break down some key start 'em sit 'em calls at the TE position. Vancouver Whitecaps FC: History, Players & Matchday Guide

Start 'Em: Tight End

When considering who to start 'em at tight end, focus on players who are primary targets in their offense, have favorable matchups against linebackers or safeties, and are frequently targeted in the red zone. A tight end who consistently sees a high number of targets is more likely to have a productive game. Matchups against linebackers or safeties who struggle in coverage can provide an advantage. Tight ends who are targeted frequently in the red zone have a higher chance of scoring touchdowns, which significantly boosts their fantasy score. Also, consider the tight end's chemistry with their quarterback; a strong connection between the two can lead to more opportunities. Look for tight ends who are involved in various aspects of the offense, including blocking and receiving, as this versatility can increase their playing time. So, when making your start 'em sit 'em decisions, prioritize tight ends with high target shares, favorable matchups, and a proven ability to score touchdowns.

Sit 'Em: Tight End

Conversely, knowing which tight ends to sit 'em is essential for avoiding those frustrating low-scoring weeks. Avoid tight ends in tough matchups against strong defenses, those in run-heavy offenses, or those who are splitting time with other tight ends. A tight end facing a defense that excels at covering tight ends may struggle to get open and make catches. Tight ends in offenses that prioritize running the ball may not see enough targets to be fantasy-relevant. If a tight end is splitting time with another tight end, their playing time and opportunities will be limited. Also, consider changes in quarterback situations; a new quarterback may not target the tight end as frequently as the previous one. When making start 'em sit 'em decisions, always analyze matchups, offensive schemes, and the tight end's role within the team.

Defense/Special Teams (DST): Finding the Points

The Defense/Special Teams (DST) position can be a sneaky source of fantasy points. The start 'em sit 'em decisions for DSTs hinge on matchups, turnover potential, and the ability to generate sacks and score touchdowns. A DST facing a turnover-prone quarterback or a struggling offense can be a goldmine for fantasy points. We'll help you identify the defenses poised for a big week. Let's get into some important start 'em sit 'em calls at the DST position.

Start 'Em: Defense/Special Teams (DST)

When considering which DST to start 'em, look for teams with favorable matchups against offenses prone to turnovers, those with strong pass rushes, and those playing at home. A DST facing a quarterback who throws a lot of interceptions is more likely to generate turnovers, which translate to fantasy points. A strong pass rush can lead to sacks, which also boost a DST's score. Playing at home can provide a defensive advantage due to crowd noise and familiarity with the field. Consider the opposing team's offensive line; a weak offensive line can make it easier for the DST to generate sacks. Also, look for DSTs with a history of scoring defensive touchdowns, as these are a significant source of points. So, when making your start 'em sit 'em decisions, prioritize DSTs with favorable matchups, strong pass rushes, and turnover-prone opponents.

Sit 'Em: Defense/Special Teams (DST)

On the other hand, knowing which DSTs to sit 'em can help you avoid negative point totals. Avoid DSTs facing high-scoring offenses, those with strong offensive lines, or those playing on the road. A DST facing a high-scoring offense may struggle to generate turnovers and sacks, limiting their fantasy potential. If the opposing team has a strong offensive line, it can be difficult for the DST to pressure the quarterback and generate sacks. Playing on the road can be challenging due to crowd noise and travel fatigue. Also, consider the opposing quarterback's tendencies; a quarterback who rarely makes mistakes can limit a DST's opportunities for turnovers. When making start 'em sit 'em decisions, always analyze matchups, offensive strengths, and the DST's potential for generating turnovers and sacks. Knicks' Smart Move? Analyzing Marcus Smart's Potential Impact

Kickers: The Final Piece of the Puzzle

Kicker might not be the most glamorous position, but they can be crucial for close fantasy matchups. The start 'em sit 'em decisions at kicker often depend on the kicker's accuracy, the team's offensive efficiency in getting into field goal range, and the weather conditions. A kicker on a high-scoring offense that frequently stalls in the red zone can have plenty of field goal opportunities. We'll help you make the right call at this often-overlooked position. Let's dive into some key start 'em sit 'em decisions at the K position.

Start 'Em: Kicker

When considering which kicker to start 'em, look for players on high-scoring offenses that frequently get into field goal range, those with a strong leg and good accuracy, and those playing in favorable weather conditions. A kicker on a team that consistently moves the ball downfield but struggles to score touchdowns may have numerous field goal opportunities. Kickers with a strong leg are more likely to make longer field goals, which result in more fantasy points. Favorable weather conditions, such as a dome game or a clear day, can improve a kicker's chances of success. Also, consider the kicker's recent performance; a kicker who has been consistently making field goals is a reliable option. So, when making your start 'em sit 'em decisions, prioritize kickers on good offenses, with strong legs, and in favorable weather conditions.

Sit 'Em: Kicker

Conversely, knowing which kickers to sit 'em can help you avoid those dreaded missed field goals that cost you points. Avoid kickers on struggling offenses, those with a history of inaccuracy, or those playing in adverse weather conditions. A kicker on a team that struggles to move the ball downfield will have limited field goal opportunities. Kickers with a history of missing field goals are unreliable and can cost you valuable points. Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, wind, or cold temperatures, can make it more difficult for kickers to make field goals. Also, consider changes in coaching staff or play-calling tendencies, as these can impact a kicker's opportunities. When making start 'em sit 'em decisions, always analyze the offense's performance, the kicker's accuracy, and the weather conditions.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Gut (But Use the Data!)

Making start 'em sit 'em decisions in fantasy football is a blend of art and science. While this guide provides a framework for analysis, always trust your gut and consider your specific league context. Injuries, surprise performances, and unexpected game scripts can all impact outcomes. Remember, the goal is to make informed decisions based on the available data, but don't be afraid to take calculated risks. Good luck this week, guys, and may your start 'em sit 'em choices lead you to victory!

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Steve Wollaston

Editor of iGB Affiliate at Clarion Gaming ·

I completed a week's worth of work experience at Closer Magazine in August 2016. My tasks included archiving, researching, transcribing and writing stories.