Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Week 3 Fantasy Football Guide

Navigating the complexities of fantasy football requires making tough decisions each week. As you prepare for Week 3, knowing which players to confidently start and which to bench can be the difference between a win and a loss. This guide offers insights to help you optimize your lineup and dominate your league.

Quarterbacks: Who to Start and Who to Sit in Week 3

Quarterback selection in fantasy football often sets the tone for your entire team. Identifying favorable matchups and avoiding potential pitfalls are crucial for maximizing your scoring potential. Week 3 presents several intriguing quarterback scenarios that demand careful consideration.

Start 'Em: Quarterbacks Poised for Success

• High-Upside Matchups: Look for quarterbacks facing defenses that have struggled against the pass. These matchups often lead to higher passing yardage and touchdown opportunities.
• Mobile Quarterbacks: Quarterbacks who can contribute with their legs add a valuable dimension to their fantasy output. Their rushing yards and potential rushing touchdowns provide a significant boost.
• Proven Performers: Trust quarterbacks who have consistently delivered solid performances. Their track record indicates a higher likelihood of continued success.

Specifically, consider these quarterbacks for a Week 3 start:

• Jared Goff (DET): Goff faces a vulnerable Atlanta Falcons defense at home. After a shaky start, Goff is poised to exploit this favorable matchup. His connection with Amon-Ra St. Brown should be a key factor in his success.
• C.J. Stroud (HOU): Stroud showed great improvement in week 2, and has another great matchup in week 3 versus Jacksonville.
• Trevor Lawrence (JAX): Lawrence has a great matchup versus Houston in week 3 after a disappointing game against Kansas City.

Sit 'Em: Quarterbacks Facing Challenges

• Tough Defenses: Quarterbacks going up against elite pass defenses should be approached with caution. These defenses often limit passing yards and create turnover opportunities.
• Inconsistent Performers: Avoid starting quarterbacks who have shown inconsistency in their performances. Their volatility can lead to unpredictable results.
• Unfavorable Weather Conditions: Weather conditions such as heavy rain or strong winds can significantly impact a quarterback's ability to throw the ball effectively.

Consider benching these quarterbacks in Week 3:

• Russell Wilson (DEN): Wilson faces a tough Miami Dolphins defense. The Dolphins' pass rush could put Wilson under constant pressure, limiting his opportunities to make plays. His performance has been inconsistent, making him a risky start.
• Kenny Pickett (PIT): Pickett faces a tough Las Vegas Raiders defense on the road. He has struggled to find a rhythm and faces a defense that is known for generating pressure. His inconsistency makes him a risky start.
• Desmond Ridder (ATL): Ridder struggled against the Rams in week 2, and has a tough matchup in Detroit for week 3.

Running Backs: Start or Sit Decisions for Week 3

Running back decisions can make or break your fantasy week, so start or sit with care. Matchups, workloads, and game scripts all play crucial roles in determining a running back's fantasy value. Analyzing these factors can help you identify which running backs are poised for success and which ones might struggle.

Start 'Em: Running Backs Set to Shine

• Volume is King: Running backs who receive a high volume of carries and targets are prime candidates for starting. Their consistent usage provides a solid floor for fantasy production.
• Favorable Matchups: Target running backs facing defenses that have struggled to contain the run. These matchups often lead to higher rushing yardage and touchdown opportunities.
• Pass-Catching Backs: Running backs who are heavily involved in the passing game add another dimension to their fantasy value. Their receptions provide a steady stream of points, especially in PPR formats.

Consider these running backs for a Week 3 start:

• Kyren Williams (LAR): Williams exploded onto the scene in Week 2, showcasing his ability to contribute both as a runner and receiver. He faces a Cincinnati Bengals defense that has been vulnerable to the run, making him a high-upside start. His workload and versatility make him a valuable asset.
• Jerome Ford (CLE): With Nick Chubb out for the season, Ford steps into the lead role in the Cleveland Browns' backfield. While there are concerns, the Browns will likely rely heavily on their running game. Ford's volume alone makes him a worthwhile start.
• James Conner (ARI): Conner is the clear lead back in Arizona and gets the majority of the touches.

Sit 'Em: Running Backs to Approach with Caution

• Uncertain Workloads: Running backs in ambiguous backfields or those facing competition for touches should be approached with caution. Their inconsistent usage can lead to unpredictable results.
• Tough Run Defenses: Avoid starting running backs against defenses that excel at stopping the run. These defenses often limit rushing yardage and create negative game scripts.
• Limited Pass-Catching Role: Running backs who are rarely involved in the passing game have a lower ceiling for fantasy production. Their reliance on rushing yards and touchdowns makes them more volatile.

Consider benching these running backs in Week 3:

• AJ Dillon (GB): Dillon has struggled to gain traction in the Green Bay Packers' offense. With Aaron Jones potentially returning, Dillon's workload could diminish further. His lack of explosiveness and limited receiving role make him a risky start.
• Khalil Herbert (CHI): Herbert has failed to capitalize on his opportunities in the Chicago Bears' backfield. The Bears' struggles on offense and Herbert's lack of consistent production make him a difficult player to trust.
• Damien Harris (BUF): Harris has ceded touches to Latavius Murray, and has a tough matchup versus Washington.

Wide Receivers: Making the Right Choices in Week 3

Wide receiver decisions can be tricky. Identifying breakout candidates, favorable matchups, and potential boom-or-bust players are essential for maximizing your team's potential. Week 3 presents a mix of opportunities and challenges for fantasy managers.

Start 'Em: Wide Receivers with Breakout Potential

• Target Hogs: Wide receivers who consistently receive a high number of targets are prime candidates for starting. Their volume provides a solid floor for fantasy production.
• Favorable Matchups: Target wide receivers facing cornerbacks who have struggled in coverage. These matchups often lead to higher receiving yardage and touchdown opportunities.
• Deep Threats: Wide receivers with the speed and ability to stretch the field can provide explosive plays. Their potential for long touchdowns makes them valuable assets.

Consider these wide receivers for a Week 3 start:

• Nico Collins (HOU): Collins has emerged as the top target in the Houston Texans' passing game. His chemistry with C.J. Stroud is evident, and he has the potential for a big game against Jacksonville. His size and athleticism make him a difficult matchup for opposing cornerbacks.
• Christian Kirk (JAX): Kirk is the clear top receiver in Jacksonville, and has a great matchup with the Texans in week 3.
• Romeo Doubs (GB): Doubs has emerged as the most consistent wide receiver for the Packers, and gets a great matchup against the Saints in week 3.

Sit 'Em: Wide Receivers to Keep on the Bench

• Tough Coverage: Avoid starting wide receivers against elite cornerbacks who excel at shutting down opposing receivers. These matchups often limit receiving yardage and create turnover opportunities.
• Inconsistent Quarterback Play: Wide receivers who are dependent on inconsistent quarterback play are risky starts. Their production is often tied to the quarterback's performance, making them volatile assets.
• Limited Opportunities: Wide receivers who are buried on the depth chart or facing competition for targets should be approached with caution. Their limited opportunities can lead to disappointing results.

Consider benching these wide receivers in Week 3:

• Skyy Moore (KC): Moore has yet to establish himself as a reliable target in the Kansas City Chiefs' offense. With Travis Kelce back in the lineup, Moore's opportunities could diminish further. His lack of consistent production makes him a risky start.
• Allen Lazard (NYJ): Lazard's fantasy value takes a significant hit with Aaron Rodgers sidelined. His connection with Zach Wilson is unproven, and he faces a tough matchup against the New England Patriots. His lack of upside makes him a difficult player to trust.
• Michael Thomas (NO): Thomas is playing on limited snaps, and has a tough matchup versus Green Bay.

Tight Ends: Navigating the Tight End Landscape in Week 3

Tight end selection can be a frustrating endeavor for fantasy managers. Identifying reliable options who can consistently contribute to your team's score is crucial. Week 3 presents a mix of established stars and emerging sleepers. — NFL Colors: A Guide To Team Colors

Start 'Em: Tight Ends with Upside Potential

• Red Zone Targets: Tight ends who are frequently targeted in the red zone are prime candidates for starting. Their touchdown potential provides a significant boost to their fantasy value.
• Favorable Matchups: Target tight ends facing linebackers or safeties who struggle in coverage. These matchups often lead to higher receiving yardage and touchdown opportunities.
• Consistent Targets: Tight ends who consistently receive a high number of targets are valuable assets. Their volume provides a solid floor for fantasy production.

Consider these tight ends for a Week 3 start:

• Sam LaPorta (DET): LaPorta has quickly become a favorite target of Jared Goff in the Detroit Lions' offense. His size and athleticism make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. He should have a great game versus Atlanta.
• Hunter Henry (NE): Henry has emerged as a reliable target for Mac Jones in the New England Patriots' offense. His consistent involvement in the passing game makes him a worthwhile start, especially in deeper leagues.
• Evan Engram (JAX): Engram is the 2nd option in the Jaguars passing game, and has a great matchup with Houston.

Sit 'Em: Tight Ends to Leave on the Bench

• Limited Roles: Avoid starting tight ends who are buried on the depth chart or facing competition for targets. Their limited opportunities can lead to disappointing results.
• Tough Coverage: Tight ends going up against defenses that excel at covering tight ends should be approached with caution. These defenses often limit receiving yardage and create turnover opportunities.
• Inconsistent Quarterback Play: Tight ends who are dependent on inconsistent quarterback play are risky starts. Their production is often tied to the quarterback's performance, making them volatile assets.

Consider benching these tight ends in Week 3:

• Logan Thomas (WAS): Thomas faces competition for targets in the Washington Commanders' offense. His inconsistent usage and limited upside make him a difficult player to trust.
• Irv Smith Jr. (CIN): Smith has struggled to establish himself as a reliable target in the Cincinnati Bengals' offense. His lack of consistent production makes him a risky start.
• Juwan Johnson (NO): Johnson is the 3rd or 4th option in the Saints passing game, and has a tough matchup versus Green Bay.

Defense/Special Teams (DST): Stream or Start Your Studs in Week 3

Defense/Special Teams (DST) decisions can be a weekly headache for fantasy managers. Identifying favorable matchups and potential turnover opportunities are crucial for maximizing your DST's scoring potential. Week 3 presents a mix of streaming options and reliable studs.

Start 'Em: DSTs Poised for a Big Week

• Favorable Matchups: Target DSTs facing offenses that are prone to turnovers or have struggled to score points. These matchups often lead to higher sack totals and interception opportunities.
• Home Field Advantage: DSTs playing at home often have an advantage due to crowd noise and familiarity with the environment. This can lead to more sacks and turnovers.
• High Sack Potential: DSTs with a strong pass rush can generate sacks, which are a valuable source of fantasy points. Their ability to pressure the quarterback can also lead to turnovers.

Consider these DSTs for a Week 3 start:

• Cleveland Browns (CLE): The Browns have a strong defense and face the Tennessee Titans, who have struggled on offense. Their ability to generate pressure and create turnovers makes them a high-upside start. The Browns are a great choice for week 3.
• Washington Commanders (WAS): The Commanders have a great defensive line, and face the Bills in week 3. The Bills have turned the ball over a lot, and the Commanders are in line for a big week.
• New Orleans Saints (NO): The Saints are a great defense and have a great matchup versus Green Bay.

Sit 'Em: DSTs to Avoid in Week 3

• Tough Offenses: Avoid starting DSTs against high-powered offenses that are capable of scoring points. These matchups often lead to lower sack totals and fewer turnover opportunities.
• Road Games: DSTs playing on the road often face challenges due to crowd noise and unfamiliarity with the environment. This can lead to fewer sacks and turnovers.
• Inconsistent Performance: DSTs who have shown inconsistency in their performances should be approached with caution. Their volatility can lead to unpredictable results.

Consider benching these DSTs in Week 3:

• Las Vegas Raiders (LV): The Raiders face the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have shown signs of improvement on offense. The Raiders' defense has struggled to generate consistent pressure, making them a risky start.
• Denver Broncos (DEN): The Broncos are playing the Miami Dolphins, who are one of the best offenses in the league. The Broncos defense has struggled to stop the run and the pass, and should be benched in week 3.
• Kansas City Chiefs (KC): The Chiefs face a tough Bears offense, and should be avoided in week 3.

Week 3 Fantasy Football: Frequently Asked Questions

Which Quarterback Should I Start in Week 3 if I Have Two Good Options?

When faced with two solid quarterback options, consider their matchups, recent performance, and rushing upside. A quarterback facing a weak pass defense or one known for scrambling ability might have the edge. Ultimately, trust your gut and consider the potential ceiling each player offers.

What Should I Do if My Starting Running Back is on Bye in Week 3?

If your starting running back is on bye, explore the waiver wire for potential replacements. Look for running backs who are expected to receive a significant workload due to injuries or favorable matchups. Consider players who also contribute in the passing game for added value. — Fast Click Back Times: 2 Clicks To Success Online

How Much Weight Should I Put on Matchups When Setting My Fantasy Lineup?

Matchups are an important factor but shouldn't be the sole determinant. Consider a player's talent, recent performance, and overall role in their offense. A great player in a tough matchup can still outperform an average player in a favorable one. — Hawaii To CST: Time Zone Conversion Made Easy

Are There Any Sleepers at the Wide Receiver Position to Watch in Week 3?

Keep an eye on wide receivers who have shown flashes of potential but haven't fully broken out. These players might be in line for increased opportunities due to injuries or changes in the depth chart. Monitor their usage in practice and early game scripts to gauge their potential.

Should I Start a Tight End Against a Team That Defends the Position Well?

Starting a tight end against a team known for shutting down the position is generally risky. However, if the tight end is a primary target in their offense or has a favorable size advantage, they might still be worth considering. Evaluate their recent performance and the quarterback's tendencies.

What's the Best Strategy for Choosing a Defense/Special Teams (DST) Each Week?

The best strategy for choosing a DST involves targeting teams facing turnover-prone offenses or those with weak offensive lines. Look for DSTs that generate consistent pressure and create scoring opportunities through sacks and turnovers. Streaming DSTs based on matchups can be an effective approach.

How Can I Best Manage Injuries to Key Players on My Fantasy Roster?

Managing injuries requires staying proactive and monitoring injury reports closely. Have backup plans in place and be ready to pounce on waiver wire opportunities. Don't be afraid to trade injured players for healthy assets if the offer is reasonable.

What Statistics Should I Prioritize When Evaluating Fantasy Football Players?

When evaluating fantasy football players, prioritize statistics that directly translate to fantasy points. For quarterbacks, focus on passing yards and touchdowns. For running backs, consider rushing yards, receptions, and touchdowns. For wide receivers and tight ends, targets, receptions, yards, and touchdowns are key metrics.

https://www.fantasypros.com/

https://www.rotoworld.com/

https://www.espn.com/fantasy/football/