Week 12 QB Rankings: Who To Start Or Sit?

Hey fantasy football fanatics! Week 12 is upon us, and that means the playoff push is in full swing. This is the time of year where every start/sit decision can make or break your season. So, let's dive deep into the Week 12 QB rankings to help you make the best possible choices for your fantasy team. We'll be looking at the top tier QBs, those potential sleepers, and guys you might want to bench. Remember, these rankings are a guide, and your specific league settings (PPR, standard, etc.) and your team's needs should always factor into your final decision. But hey, let's get started and get you prepped to dominate this week! — Tekken 8: Hwoarang Ranked Fights On PS5 - Gameplay Analysis

Tier 1: The Elite Quarterbacks

First things first, the top tier of quarterbacks. These are the guys you're likely starting every week unless they're on bye or facing an absolutely brutal matchup. They bring a high floor and a sky-high ceiling. They are, in essence, the fantasy football MVPs of your team. Let's highlight a few of the prime-time players here:

• Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): The Chief's dynamic quarterback Mahomes remains a top-tier option, his ability to create plays out of thin air is unmatched. Even against a tough defense, his volume of targets to his receivers and his rushing ability make him a must-start. Always consider the potential for a high-scoring game whenever the Chiefs are involved. You know he's gonna sling it all over the field.

• Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills): Josh Allen's dual-threat ability with his arm and legs makes him a consistent fantasy force. He's always a threat to run for a touchdown, which greatly increases his value. The Bills' offense is designed to put up points, and Allen is at the heart of it. Keep an eye on his health, but if he's playing, he's in your starting lineup.

• Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles): Similar to Allen, Jalen Hurts' rushing ability adds a safe floor to his fantasy output. The Eagles' offense is potent and efficient, and Hurts is the engine. He is a set-and-forget starter, week in and week out. His ability to convert short-yardage situations into touchdowns gives him a significant advantage over other QBs.

• Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): When healthy, Lamar Jackson is a league winner. His explosiveness and rushing ability are unparalleled at the quarterback position. He is a weekly threat for both passing and rushing touchdowns. Monitor his injury status, but if he's playing, he's a must-start, especially against favorable matchups. He has all the tools to put up huge numbers.

These quarterbacks offer a combination of high passing yardage, touchdown upside, and rushing ability, making them the cream of the crop. It's always a good thing to have one of these players on your roster.

Tier 2: Solid QB1 Options

Moving into the second tier, we have quarterbacks who aren't quite in the elite category, but are still very reliable starters. They have a solid floor and the potential for big games, making them excellent QB1 options in most leagues. These guys are consistent contributors and can often be the difference between a win and a loss. Let’s check some of them:

• Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals): Joe Burrow is a volume passer in a pass-heavy offense. While he might not have the rushing upside of some of the top-tier QBs, his high passing volume gives him a safe floor, and he is also a threat to put up multiple touchdowns. He is generally a safe play with a solid ceiling.

• Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers): Justin Herbert has a rocket arm and plays in an offense that loves to throw the ball. He might have some games with turnovers, but his upside is immense. He's a boom-or-bust play, but the boom can win you your week. He's capable of huge performances when his pass-catchers are clicking.

• Dak Prescott (Dallas Cowboys): Dak Prescott is the leader of a strong Cowboys offense. The team's commitment to the passing game makes him a viable QB1, even if he has less rushing upside. He is a solid, reliable option with a good floor and the potential for multiple touchdown games. — Press Play Gaming Lounge: Your Ultimate Gaming Experience

• Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins): Tua Tagovailoa, under coach Mike McDaniel, has thrived in a pass-heavy attack. He is surrounded by explosive playmakers. His accuracy and quick decision-making make him a solid QB1, especially in PPR formats. The Dolphins' high-octane offense means big games are a frequent possibility.

These quarterbacks should be starters in most of your leagues. They offer a good combination of consistency and upside.

Tier 3: Streaming and Matchup-Dependent Quarterbacks

Here, we find quarterbacks who aren't necessarily starters every week but can be valuable based on matchups. These are your streaming options, the guys you might pick up off the waiver wire, or those you start based on favorable defensive matchups. These guys can be your saving grace in bye weeks or when your starting QB has a tough opponent. It's all about being smart with your choices. Some of these guys could be:

• Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks): After a breakout season, Geno Smith is a viable streaming option, especially against weaker pass defenses. He has solid weapons and can put up points if the matchup is right. Keep an eye on his consistency, as his performance can fluctuate.

• Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings): Kirk Cousins can produce in a pass-friendly offense. He's reliable and can be a good matchup play. He has a tendency to rack up passing yards and touchdowns, making him a viable streaming option. However, he might be prone to turnovers, which can be a drawback.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Brock Purdy benefits from the talent around him and the 49ers' offensive scheme. He is a safe play with low turnovers and a good floor. The team's emphasis on running the ball may cap his upside in some games.

• Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Jordan Love has shown flashes of brilliance, and his performance is dependent on his development. He is a high-risk, high-reward streamer. Depending on the week's matchups, Love could be a great play. Monitor his progress closely.

These quarterbacks are matchup-dependent. Analyze the opposing defense and see if it's a good week to start them.

Tier 4: Bench Candidates and Avoids

This final tier includes quarterbacks you should consider benching or avoiding altogether, unless you're in a deep league and have limited options. These players either have unfavorable matchups, inconsistent production, or are dealing with injuries. It is essential to be cautious with these guys:

• Quarterbacks with Tough Matchups: Some quarterbacks might be talented but face tough defenses, which could limit their scoring potential. Always check the opposing defense's statistics on passing yards allowed and touchdowns allowed before starting a QB.

• Inconsistent Performers: Some quarterbacks can have good games one week and struggle the next. Their inconsistency can be a headache for fantasy owners. Unless you are in a superflex league, bench these players for a better option.

• Injured Quarterbacks: Always keep up-to-date on quarterback injuries. Starting an injured quarterback can lead to poor performance and zero points. If a quarterback is listed as questionable or doubtful, consider benching him for a safer option.

• Rookie Quarterbacks: Rookie quarterbacks are usually unpredictable. They may have flashes of brilliance, but their production can vary. Unless you're in a dynasty league, it's usually best to avoid starting rookie QBs unless the matchup is too good to pass up. — Dennis Rodman: News, Controversies & More

These quarterbacks should only be started in desperate situations or deep leagues. Prioritize quarterbacks with more favorable matchups or better track records.

Key Factors in Week 12 QB Rankings

Let’s go over some of the critical things to consider when making your QB decisions for Week 12:

• Matchups: Evaluate the opposing defense. Look for teams that give up a lot of passing yards or touchdowns. Matchups are everything in fantasy football!

• Injuries: Monitor any injuries to starting quarterbacks, their key receivers, and offensive linemen. Injuries can significantly impact a quarterback's performance.

• Weather: Bad weather can make passing difficult. Keep an eye on the forecast.

• Bye Weeks: Make sure your QB is not on a bye week. If so, consider streaming a QB in Tier 3.

• Recent Performance: Consider how a quarterback has been playing recently. Has their performance been trending up or down?

Final Thoughts

Week 12 is a pivotal week in the fantasy football season. Making the right decisions at quarterback can propel you towards the playoffs. By understanding the tiers of quarterbacks, evaluating the matchups, and considering key factors like injuries and bye weeks, you can make informed decisions and set yourself up for success. Remember, stay informed, and don't be afraid to adjust your rankings based on the latest news and your league's specific settings. Good luck in Week 12, and may the fantasy football gods be ever in your favor!