It’s Week 12. The air is crisp, the leaves are turning (or have already turned, depending on where you live), and the fantasy football playoffs are looming. That’s right, friends. It’s crunch time. Every start, every sit, every waiver wire move could be the difference between hoisting that coveted trophy and being stuck in the loser’s bracket. The pressure is on! You need to make the right calls, and that starts with nailing your Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em decisions. Are you second-guessing that running back you drafted in the second round? Is that wide receiver finally living up to the hype? Let’s cut through the noise and get down to brass tacks.
I remember one year I had a stacked team going into Week 12. I was feeling invincible. I even started mentally spending my winnings (big mistake!). Then, disaster struck. My star quarterback got injured on the first play of the game, and my running back fumbled three times. It was a bloodbath. I lost that week and ended up missing the playoffs by a hair. The lesson? Never get complacent! This is where the Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em decisions become more important than ever.
We’re looking ahead to some crucial matchups this week and analyzing the potential pitfalls and breakout stars. We’ll delve into player performances, coaching tendencies, and even the weather forecast (because, yes, rain can absolutely ruin your running back’s day). Let’s explore the essential adjustments you need to make for Week 12 in order to secure that crucial victory. After all, a win now can pave the way to a championship later.
Quarterbacks: Start ‘Em
Let’s dive right into the quarterback position, shall we? Here are a few signal callers I’m particularly bullish on this week.
Patrick Mahomes vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Do I even need to explain this one? It’s Patrick Mahomes. He’s matchup-proof, and he’s playing the Raiders. While Las Vegas’ defense has shown flashes of competence, Mahomes is still capable of single-handedly winning you your week. Consider him a must-start in all formats.
“I saw Mahomes make a throw last week that was just unreal,” said one anonymous scout. “He’s playing on a different level right now. You can’t sit him unless you’re absolutely crazy.”
Josh Allen vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Facing the Eagles defense might seem daunting, but Josh Allen’s rushing upside is what elevates him to a must-start this week. Even if the passing game struggles against Philly’s talented secondary, Allen’s ability to pick up yards and touchdowns on the ground makes him a valuable asset.
Geno Smith vs. Los Angeles Rams
Okay, hear me out. Geno Smith is quietly having a solid season, and he gets a favorable matchup against a Rams defense that has struggled against opposing quarterbacks. Seattle is playing at home, and Smith has developed a strong rapport with his receivers. He’s a sneaky start this week, especially in deeper leagues or if you’re streaming quarterbacks.
Quarterbacks: Sit ‘Em
Now, let’s talk about the quarterbacks you should consider benching this week.
Russell Wilson vs. Cleveland Browns
The Browns’ defense is absolutely suffocating opposing quarterbacks, and Russell Wilson has been struggling to find consistency. The Broncos offense as a whole has looked anemic at times. This is a week to keep Wilson on your bench.
Jordan Love vs. Detroit Lions
The Lions defense, while not elite, has been surprisingly effective against the pass, and Jordan Love is still a work in progress. The Packers offense has had too many ups and downs, making Love a risky start.
Running Backs: Start ‘Em
Moving on to the ground game. Here are some running backs to confidently slot into your lineups.
Bijan Robinson vs. New Orleans Saints
Despite some inconsistent usage earlier in the season, Bijan Robinson is finally starting to look like the bell-cow back we all expected. The Saints defense is tough, but Robinson’s talent is undeniable. Plus, the Falcons are likely to lean on the run game in this matchup.
Javonte Williams vs. Cleveland Browns
This might seem counterintuitive given Cleveland’s stout defense, but Javonte Williams is seeing a consistent workload. He’s getting the volume necessary to be a reliable fantasy option, even in a tough matchup. I expect the Broncos to try and establish the run to keep the Browns offense off the field.
“Williams is a tough runner, and he’s getting better every week,” a Broncos team source told me. “We’re committed to running the ball, and he’s our guy.”
Zack Moss vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
With Jonathan Taylor out, Zack Moss becomes the clear lead back for the Colts. The Buccaneers run defense isn’t what it used to be, and Moss should see plenty of touches. He’s a solid RB2 with RB1 upside this week.
Running Backs: Sit ‘Em
And now, the running backs you should consider leaving on your bench.
AJ Dillon vs. Detroit Lions
As much as I like AJ Dillon, he hasn’t been producing consistently enough to warrant a start. The Lions’ defense is solid, and Dillon’s role in the Packers offense is too unpredictable.
Antonio Gibson vs. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys’ defense is ferocious, and Antonio Gibson’s role in the Commanders’ offense is too inconsistent. He’s splitting carries with Brian Robinson, and the Cowboys are likely to shut down the run game.
Wide Receivers: Start ‘Em
Let’s move on to wide receivers! Who should you be starting this week?
CeeDee Lamb vs. Washington Commanders
CeeDee Lamb is a target monster, and he’s facing a Commanders defense that has struggled to contain opposing wide receivers. He’s a must-start WR1 in all formats.
DK Metcalf vs. Los Angeles Rams
DK Metcalf has been a consistent performer this season, and he gets a favorable matchup against a Rams defense that has struggled against opposing wide receivers. He’s a solid WR2 with WR1 upside.
Courtland Sutton vs. Cleveland Browns
Despite the Browns’ tough defense, Courtland Sutton has been Russell Wilson’s favorite target, and he should see plenty of opportunities.
Wide Receivers: Sit ‘Em
Time to talk about which wide receivers you might want to keep on the bench for Week 12.
Michael Thomas vs. Atlanta Falcons
Michael Thomas hasn’t been the same since his injury, and the Falcons defense has been surprisingly stingy against opposing wide receivers. He’s just not worth the risk right now.
Skyy Moore vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Despite the favorable matchup, Skyy Moore’s role in the Chiefs’ offense is too inconsistent to trust. There are better options on your bench or on the waiver wire.
Tight Ends: Start ‘Em
Let’s move on to the often-frustrating tight end position.
Travis Kelce vs. Las Vegas Raiders
Duh. You’re starting Travis Kelce every week.
Dalton Kincaid vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Dalton Kincaid has emerged as a reliable target for Josh Allen, and he should see plenty of opportunities against the Eagles.
Tight Ends: Sit ‘Em
Who to avoid at tight end?
Cole Kmet vs. Minnesota Vikings
Cole Kmet’s production has been too inconsistent to trust.
Noah Fant vs. Los Angeles Rams
Noah Fant is too touchdown-dependent to be a reliable fantasy option.
Defense/Special Teams: Start ‘Em
Time to evaluate defenses!
Cleveland Browns vs. Denver Broncos
The Browns’ defense is a force to be reckoned with, and they’re facing a Broncos offense that has struggled at times.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders
The Chiefs’ defense is playing well, and they’re facing a Raiders offense that is prone to turnovers.
Defense/Special Teams: Sit ‘Em
Which defenses should you avoid?
Green Bay Packers vs. Detroit Lions
The Lions’ offense is too explosive to trust the Packers’ defense.
Washington Commanders vs. Dallas Cowboys
The Cowboys’ offense is too powerful to trust the Commanders’ defense.
Final Thoughts
Making the right Fantasy Football Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em decisions in Week 12 is crucial for securing a playoff spot. Remember to analyze matchups, consider player trends, and don’t be afraid to trust your gut. Good luck, and may the odds be ever in your favor!
It’s a tough time of year, but with careful planning and a little bit of luck, you can make it to the playoffs and beyond. Now go get that trophy!
Frequently Asked Questions
| What is the importance of Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em decisions in Week 12? | Week 12 is crucial as fantasy football leagues often approach playoff time, making each decision significantly impact your chances of advancing. Correctly identifying who to start and sit can be the difference between winning and losing, potentially determining your playoff eligibility. |
| What benefits do I gain from carefully considering my lineup choices in fantasy football? | Careful consideration of your lineup choices maximizes your team’s potential to score points by placing players in optimal positions based on their matchups, current form, and injury status. This strategy increases your likelihood of winning each week, improving your overall league standings and chances of making the playoffs. |
| How can I implement better Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em strategies? | To implement better Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em strategies, regularly analyze player statistics, injury reports, and matchup data. Utilize resources that provide expert analysis and projections, and consider factors such as weather conditions and opponent defensive strengths and weaknesses. Adjust your lineup based on this comprehensive information each week. |
| What are the challenges in making Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em decisions? | The challenges include dealing with uncertainty such as unexpected injuries, changes in team dynamics, and unpredictable player performances. Overcoming these challenges requires staying informed and adapting your strategy based on the latest developments. |
| What future considerations should I keep in mind for fantasy football lineup decisions? | Looking ahead, consider long-term player trends, team strategies, and the potential impact of rookie players. Staying ahead of the curve and adapting your strategies based on evolving information will enhance your ability to make informed decisions and manage your team effectively throughout the season. |
Important Notice
This FAQ section addresses the most common inquiries regarding the topic.
