Hey guys! Welcome to your ultimate guide for Week 13 start/sit decisions! Navigating the fantasy football landscape can be tricky, especially as we head into the playoffs. Don't worry, though! I'm here to help you make those crucial lineup choices that could make or break your week. This week we're diving deep into some matchups, analyzing player performances, and highlighting those hidden gems that could give you the edge. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy football veteran or a newcomer to the game, this guide is designed to provide you with the insights you need to dominate your league. — Blood Moon Tonight: Everything You Need To Know
Quarterbacks: Who to Start and Who to Sit
Let's kick things off with the quarterbacks. This position is crucial in fantasy football, and making the right call can be the difference between a win and a loss. We'll break down some top QBs and discuss their matchups, recent performances, and fantasy football outlook for Week 13.
Start 'Em:
- Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): Okay, this one might seem obvious, but let's break it down. Mahomes is a fantasy football stud, period. He's got the arm, the weapons, and the offensive scheme to put up monster numbers every week. This week, he's facing a defense that, while improved, still struggles against top-tier quarterbacks. Expect Mahomes to air it out and deliver a big fantasy football performance. Seriously guys, if you have Mahomes, you're starting him. No questions asked. His ability to extend plays and find open receivers downfield makes him a threat to score every time he drops back to pass. Moreover, the Chiefs' offensive line has been playing exceptionally well, giving Mahomes the time he needs to dissect defenses. This combination of talent and protection makes him a weekly must-start in all fantasy football formats. Don't overthink this one – lock Mahomes into your lineup and enjoy the fireworks.
- Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles): Hurts has been a fantasy football revelation this season. His dual-threat ability makes him a weekly top-5 quarterback, and he's shown no signs of slowing down. This week, he's up against a defense that has struggled to contain mobile quarterbacks. Expect Hurts to use his legs and his arm to put up big numbers. He's a fantasy football cheat code! His rushing ability provides a significant floor, while his improving passing game gives him a high ceiling. The Eagles' offense is firing on all cylinders, and Hurts is the engine that drives it. His connection with his receivers, especially AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith, has been electric, and he's consistently finding ways to get the ball into their hands. Furthermore, the Eagles' coaching staff has done an excellent job of designing plays that maximize Hurts' strengths, both as a passer and a runner. As a result, Hurts has become one of the most reliable fantasy football quarterbacks in the league, and he should be considered a weekly locked-in starter in all formats. Don't hesitate to start him with confidence this week, as he's poised for another huge performance.
- Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks): Smith has been one of the biggest surprises in fantasy football this season. He's playing with a confidence and accuracy that we haven't seen from him before. This week, he's facing a defense that has been generous to opposing quarterbacks. Smith could be a sneaky start this week. His resurgence has been nothing short of remarkable, and he's proving that he belongs among the top quarterbacks in the league. The Seahawks' offense is clicking, and Smith has developed a strong rapport with his receivers, particularly DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. His ability to make accurate throws downfield has been a key factor in the Seahawks' success, and he's consistently delivering fantasy football points for his owners. Moreover, the Seahawks' coaching staff has done a fantastic job of tailoring the offense to Smith's strengths, allowing him to play to his full potential. This week's matchup presents a favorable opportunity for Smith to continue his strong play, making him a viable starting option in many fantasy football leagues. If you're looking for a quarterback with upside who's also consistently performing, Geno Smith is your guy.
Sit 'Em:
- Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos): Oh, Russ. What happened? Wilson has struggled mightily this season, and his fantasy football output has been disappointing. This week, he's facing a tough defense, and it's hard to trust him in your lineup. It's tough to see a player of Wilson's caliber struggling so much, but the reality is that he's been a fantasy football liability this season. His passing numbers are down, his rushing attempts are limited, and he's making too many mistakes. The Broncos' offense as a whole is a mess, and Wilson is bearing the brunt of the criticism. This week's matchup against a tough defense only exacerbates the concerns surrounding Wilson's fantasy football value. Unless you're in a deep league or desperate for a quarterback, it's best to keep Wilson on your bench until he shows signs of turning things around. The risk of a poor performance is simply too high to justify starting him in most fantasy football leagues.
- Matt Ryan (Indianapolis Colts): Ryan's been inconsistent this season, and the Colts' offense has been a mess. This week, he's facing a defense that can generate pressure, which could lead to a long day for Ryan. It's been a frustrating season for Ryan and the Colts, and his fantasy football production has been reflective of the team's struggles. The offensive line has been inconsistent, the running game hasn't been reliable, and Ryan hasn't been able to consistently connect with his receivers. This week's matchup against a defense that can bring the heat puts Ryan in a tough spot. The risk of turnovers and sacks is high, which could lead to a disappointing fantasy football performance. Unless you're in a very deep league or have no other options, it's best to avoid starting Ryan this week. There are simply too many question marks surrounding his performance to justify putting him in your starting lineup.
- Mac Jones (New England Patriots): Jones has shown flashes of potential, but he's still a risky fantasy football play. This week, he's facing a defense that has been tough on quarterbacks. It's tough to trust Jones in your lineup this week. Jones has the potential to be a solid quarterback in the NFL, but he's still developing and hasn't consistently shown the ability to produce big fantasy football numbers. The Patriots' offense is run-heavy, which limits Jones' passing opportunities, and he hasn't always been able to capitalize on the chances he gets. This week's matchup against a tough defense is a challenging one for Jones, and the risk of a low-scoring performance is high. Unless you're in a very deep league or are desperate for a quarterback, it's best to keep Jones on your bench this week. His inconsistency and the tough matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
Running Backs: The Workhorses and the Sleepers
Moving on to running backs, let's identify the workhorses you can count on and the sleepers who could surprise you. This position can be a fantasy football goldmine, but it's essential to make the right choices. — Taylor Swift's Nashville: A Swiftie's Guide To Music City
Start 'Em:
- Josh Jacobs (Las Vegas Raiders): Jacobs has been a beast this season, and he's showing no signs of slowing down. He's getting a ton of carries, and he's also involved in the passing game. This week, he's facing a defense that has struggled to stop the run. Start him with confidence! Jacobs has emerged as one of the top running backs in fantasy football this season, and he's consistently delivering big performances for his owners. His combination of volume and explosiveness makes him a weekly must-start, and he's showing no signs of slowing down. The Raiders are relying heavily on Jacobs in their offense, and he's consistently getting a high number of carries and targets in the passing game. This week's matchup against a defense that struggles against the run is a favorable one for Jacobs, and he's poised for another big outing. If you have Jacobs on your roster, you're starting him. His upside is simply too high to leave him on the bench.
- Dameon Pierce (Houston Texans): Pierce has emerged as the clear lead back in Houston, and he's been impressive. He runs with power and determination, and he's also capable of making plays in the passing game. This week, he's facing a defense that has been vulnerable to running backs. Pierce is a rising star in the fantasy football world, and he's quickly establishing himself as a reliable option for fantasy owners. His combination of size, speed, and agility makes him a tough matchup for defenses, and he's consistently gaining yards and finding the end zone. The Texans are committed to running the ball, and Pierce is getting the lion's share of the carries. This week's matchup against a defense that struggles to stop the run is an ideal opportunity for Pierce to continue his strong play. If you have Pierce on your team, he should be a locked-in starter in your lineup. His upside is immense, and he has the potential to be a fantasy football league winner.
- Zonovan Knight (New York Jets): Knight had a breakout game last week and looks like the lead back for the Jets. He was explosive and decisive, and the Jets coaching staff seems to trust him. If he maintains this role, Knight is a fantastic start. Knight's emergence as a viable fantasy football option is exciting news for owners who are looking for a running back with upside. He displayed a blend of speed and power in his breakout game, showcasing his ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact. The Jets' commitment to running the ball gives Knight a solid floor, and his explosiveness provides a high ceiling. This week's matchup presents an opportunity for Knight to solidify his role as the Jets' lead back and continue his strong play. If you're looking for a running back with the potential to be a difference-maker, Zonovan Knight is definitely worth considering as a starter in your fantasy football lineup. His combination of talent and opportunity makes him a player to watch closely in the coming weeks.
Sit 'Em:
- Antonio Gibson (Washington Commanders): Gibson's role in the Commanders' offense has been inconsistent, and he's splitting carries with other backs. This week, he's facing a tough defense, making him a risky fantasy football play. It's been a frustrating season for Gibson owners, as his role in the Commanders' offense has been unpredictable. He's sharing carries with Brian Robinson Jr., and his usage in the passing game has been inconsistent. This week's matchup against a tough defense further dampens Gibson's fantasy football outlook. The Commanders may struggle to run the ball effectively against a stout defensive front, which could limit Gibson's opportunities. Unless you're in a deep league or are desperate for a running back, it's best to keep Gibson on your bench this week. The uncertainty surrounding his role and the difficult matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
- Darrell Henderson Jr. (Los Angeles Rams): The Rams' backfield is a mess, and Henderson's production has been inconsistent. With the recent signing of veteran running back Cam Akers, Henderson's role is even more uncertain. This week, he's facing a defense that has been tough on running backs. It's been a rollercoaster season for Henderson owners, as his fantasy football value has fluctuated wildly. The Rams' offensive struggles have limited the overall production of the running game, and the emergence of other backs in the backfield has further clouded Henderson's role. The recent signing of Cam Akers adds another layer of uncertainty to the situation, as it's unclear how the Rams will divide carries moving forward. This week's matchup against a tough defense is another obstacle for Henderson. The Rams may have difficulty establishing the run, which could limit Henderson's opportunities. Unless you're in a very deep league or are desperate for a running back, it's best to avoid starting Henderson this week. The Rams' backfield situation is too murky to trust him in your starting lineup.
- D'Onta Foreman (Carolina Panthers): Foreman had a couple of big games, but his production has been inconsistent. With the Panthers' offense struggling, it's hard to trust Foreman in your lineup this week. Foreman's fantasy football value has been a roller coaster ride this season, with flashes of brilliance interspersed with periods of inactivity. While he's shown the potential to be a lead back, the Panthers' offense as a whole has struggled to find consistency. This week's matchup against a defense that can be stingy against the run further complicates Foreman's outlook. The Panthers may have difficulty moving the ball effectively, which could limit Foreman's opportunities. Unless you're in a very deep league or are facing a serious roster crunch, it's best to keep Foreman on your bench this week. His inconsistency and the challenging matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
Wide Receivers: The Touchdown Makers and the Busts
Now, let's turn our attention to wide receivers. These guys are crucial for racking up fantasy football points, but it's important to distinguish between the touchdown makers and the potential busts. We'll identify the receivers who are poised for big games and the ones you should leave on your bench.
Start 'Em:
- Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings): Jefferson is a fantasy football superstar, and he's a must-start every week. He's got the talent, the quarterback, and the volume to put up huge numbers. This week, he's facing a defense that has struggled to contain top receivers. Jefferson is one of the most electrifying players in the NFL, and he's quickly established himself as a fantasy football force. His combination of speed, agility, and route-running ability makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he's consistently making highlight-reel catches. The Vikings are making Jefferson the focal point of their passing attack, and he's getting a high volume of targets every week. This week's matchup against a defense that has struggled to contain top receivers is a golden opportunity for Jefferson to continue his dominance. If you have Jefferson on your roster, he's an automatic start in your lineup. His upside is immense, and he has the potential to win you your week.
- CeeDee Lamb (Dallas Cowboys): Lamb has emerged as the Cowboys' clear No. 1 receiver, and he's been on a tear lately. He's getting plenty of targets, and he's making plays downfield. This week, he's facing a defense that can be vulnerable to the pass. Lamb's emergence as a fantasy football stud has been a welcome sight for owners who drafted him. He's showing the ability to make plays at all levels of the field, and he's consistently finding ways to get open. The Cowboys are relying heavily on Lamb in their passing game, and he's becoming Dak Prescott's favorite target. This week's matchup against a defense that can be exploited through the air is an ideal situation for Lamb to continue his strong play. If you have Lamb on your roster, he should be a locked-in starter in your lineup. His combination of talent and opportunity makes him a player you can count on to deliver fantasy football points.
- Christian Watson (Green Bay Packers): Watson has exploded onto the scene the last few weeks, showing amazing chemistry with Aaron Rodgers. He's fast, has great hands, and Rodgers seems to trust him in the red zone. If this trend continues, Watson is a start with considerable upside. Watson's emergence as a viable fantasy football option has been a pleasant surprise for owners who took a flier on him. He's showcasing the potential that made him a highly touted prospect, and he's quickly becoming a favorite target for Aaron Rodgers. Watson's speed and athleticism make him a threat to score from anywhere on the field, and his improving chemistry with Rodgers is a positive sign for his future fantasy football outlook. This week's matchup presents an opportunity for Watson to solidify his role in the Packers' offense and continue his strong play. If you're looking for a wide receiver with upside who's also showing consistent performance, Christian Watson is definitely worth considering as a starter in your fantasy football lineup. His talent and the trust Rodgers is placing in him make him a player to watch closely.
Sit 'Em:
- Allen Lazard (Green Bay Packers): Lazard's production has been inconsistent, and he's now competing for targets with Christian Watson. This week, he's facing a tough defense, making him a risky fantasy football play. It's been a frustrating season for Lazard owners, as his fantasy football value has been up and down. He's shown flashes of potential, but he hasn't been able to consistently produce big numbers. The emergence of Christian Watson as a reliable target for Aaron Rodgers has further complicated Lazard's outlook. This week's matchup against a tough defense is another hurdle for Lazard to overcome. The Packers may struggle to move the ball effectively against a stout defensive front, which could limit Lazard's opportunities. Unless you're in a deep league or are desperate for a wide receiver, it's best to keep Lazard on your bench this week. His inconsistency and the tough matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
- DJ Chark (Detroit Lions): Chark has been a disappointment this season, and he's not getting enough targets to be a reliable fantasy football play. This week, he's facing a defense that can shut down opposing receivers. It's been a tough season for Chark owners, as he hasn't lived up to the expectations that were placed on him. He's struggled to establish a consistent connection with Jared Goff, and he hasn't been getting enough opportunities to make a significant impact. This week's matchup against a defense that excels at limiting opposing receivers is a difficult one for Chark. The Lions may have trouble moving the ball through the air, which could further limit Chark's fantasy football upside. Unless you're in a deep league or are facing a severe roster crunch, it's best to keep Chark on your bench this week. His lack of production and the challenging matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
- Elijah Moore (Cleveland Browns): Moore's role in the Browns' offense is uncertain, and he hasn't been producing consistent fantasy football numbers. This week, he's facing a defense that can be tough on receivers. There's been a lot of hype surrounding Moore's potential, but he hasn't yet translated that potential into consistent fantasy football production. His role in the Browns' offense is still developing, and he hasn't been getting the consistent targets needed to be a reliable option. This week's matchup against a defense that can limit opposing receivers is another obstacle for Moore to overcome. The Browns may have difficulty moving the ball through the air, which could limit Moore's opportunities. Unless you're in a deep league or are taking a flier on his upside, it's best to keep Moore on your bench this week. The uncertainty surrounding his role and the challenging matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
Tight Ends: The Boom-or-Bust Position
Finally, let's tackle the tight end position. This can be a frustrating position in fantasy football, with many players being boom-or-bust. We'll identify the tight ends who have the potential for a big game and the ones who are likely to disappoint.
Start 'Em:
- Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Kelce is the gold standard at the tight end position, and he's a must-start every week. He's Patrick Mahomes' favorite target, and he's capable of putting up wide receiver-like numbers. This week, he's facing a defense that has struggled to cover tight ends. Kelce's dominance at the tight end position is undeniable, and he's consistently one of the top fantasy football performers at any position. His combination of size, speed, and route-running ability makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, and he's Patrick Mahomes' go-to target in the passing game. This week's matchup against a defense that has struggled to contain tight ends is a favorable one for Kelce. The Chiefs are likely to exploit this weakness, and Kelce is poised for another big game. If you have Kelce on your roster, he's an automatic start in your lineup. His upside is immense, and he gives you a significant advantage at a position where consistency is hard to come by.
- Dallas Goedert (Philadelphia Eagles): Goedert has emerged as a reliable target in the Eagles' offense, and he's been putting up solid fantasy football numbers. This week, he's facing a defense that has been vulnerable to tight ends. Goedert has established himself as one of the top tight ends in fantasy football, and he's a consistent performer for his owners. His combination of size, athleticism, and sure hands makes him a valuable asset in the passing game, and he's developing a strong rapport with Jalen Hurts. This week's matchup against a defense that has struggled to cover tight ends is a favorable one for Goedert. The Eagles are likely to feature Goedert in their passing attack, and he's poised for a productive outing. If you have Goedert on your roster, he should be a locked-in starter in your lineup. His reliability and the favorable matchup make him a player you can count on to deliver fantasy football points.
- Gerald Everett (Los Angeles Chargers): Everett has been a consistent target for Justin Herbert and has a favorable matchup this week. He is a solid start if you need a reliable TE option. Everett's emergence as a reliable fantasy football option has been a welcome development for owners looking for consistency at the tight end position. He's proving to be a valuable target for Justin Herbert in the Chargers' offense, and he's consistently racking up receptions and yardage. This week's matchup presents a favorable opportunity for Everett to continue his strong play. The Chargers' passing attack is potent, and Everett is a key component of their offensive strategy. If you're looking for a tight end who can provide a solid floor with the potential for upside, Gerald Everett is definitely worth considering as a starter in your fantasy football lineup. His consistent production and the favorable matchup make him a reliable option at a position where consistency can be hard to find.
Sit 'Em:
- Tyler Higbee (Los Angeles Rams): Higbee's production has been inconsistent, and the Rams' offense is struggling. This week, he's facing a tough defense, making him a risky fantasy football play. It's been a disappointing season for Higbee owners, as his fantasy football value has plummeted along with the Rams' offensive struggles. He's not getting the consistent targets needed to be a reliable option, and the Rams' quarterback situation is in flux. This week's matchup against a tough defense further dampens Higbee's outlook. The Rams may have difficulty moving the ball effectively, which could limit Higbee's opportunities. Unless you're in a deep league or are desperate for a tight end, it's best to keep Higbee on your bench this week. His inconsistency and the challenging matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
- Evan Engram (Jacksonville Jaguars): Engram has shown flashes of potential, but he's still too inconsistent to be a reliable fantasy football play. This week, he's facing a defense that has been tough on tight ends. It's been a frustrating career for Engram owners, as he's struggled to consistently live up to his potential. He has the talent to be a fantasy football star, but he hasn't been able to put it all together on a consistent basis. This week's matchup against a defense that can limit tight end production is another obstacle for Engram to overcome. The Jaguars may have difficulty moving the ball through the air, which could limit Engram's opportunities. Unless you're in a deep league or are taking a flier on his upside, it's best to keep Engram on your bench this week. His inconsistency and the challenging matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
- Robert Tonyan (Green Bay Packers): Tonyan's role in the Packers' offense has diminished, and he's not getting enough targets to be a reliable fantasy football play. This week, he's facing a defense that has been tough on tight ends. It's been a disappointing season for Tonyan owners, as he hasn't been able to recapture the magic he had in previous years. He's not getting the consistent targets needed to be a viable option, and the emergence of other pass-catchers in the Packers' offense has further limited his opportunities. This week's matchup against a defense that excels at limiting tight end production is a tough one for Tonyan. The Packers may have difficulty moving the ball through the air, which could limit Tonyan's fantasy football upside. Unless you're in a very deep league or are facing a severe roster crunch, it's best to keep Tonyan on your bench this week. His lack of production and the challenging matchup make him a risky fantasy football play.
Final Thoughts
Okay, guys, that's it for this week's start/sit guide! I hope this has helped you make some tough decisions and set your lineup for success. Remember, fantasy football is all about making the best decisions you can with the information you have. Good luck this week, and may the fantasy football gods be in your favor! Always keep an eye on the latest news and injury reports before making your final decisions, and don't be afraid to trust your gut. With a little bit of luck and some savvy lineup choices, you can dominate your league and bring home the championship! Now go out there and get those Ws! — Bryce Anderson: Texas A&M Star's Journey
