RADIO
Welcome back, RotoBallers, to another start'em and sit'em piece as we look ahead to Week 6! With new injuries popping up and bye weeks in full swing, fantasy managers might have to make some tough decisions on who to start. This week, the Chiefs, Dolphins, Rams, and Vikings will all be on bye, so some key players can't be started. This Week 6 matchups analysis and Start 'Em, Sit 'Em piece will help you make those tough decisions.
Last week, players like Breece Hall and Diontae Johnson made the hate list while Brian Thomas Jr. made the love list. Hall and Johnson winded up scoring less than 6.8 PPR fantasy points, and Thomas had the best game of his young career. The rookie totaled 23.2 PPR fantasy points behind a five-catch, 122-yard, one-touchdown performance.
So let's dive into every Week 6 game (Sunday through Monday) and analyze the best starts and sits. This article will go through every player in every game to determine which players you should be starting in fantasy this week.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 9:30 a.m. EDT Game (London)
Jacksonville Jaguars at Chicago Bears
Spread: Bears -1.5
Implied Total: Jaguars (21.5) vs. Bears (23)
Matchups We Love:
Fantasy managers are starting to see Caleb Williams' potential after he finished as the QB6 last week. If you are in need of a quarterback this week, Williams is a strong play against the Jaguars. Jacksonville has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season while giving up the second most pass yards (1,494). So, the Bears signal-caller will come in as a high-end QB2 for Week 6.
What a difference these past two weeks have been for D'Andre Swift. He has scored at least 20 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games and remains a strong RB2 option in Week 6 against the Jaguars. Jacksonville has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points and the second-most receiving yards (285) to running backs this season. Given that Swift has seen 23 touches in consecutive games, he needs to be started in all leagues this week.
WR DJ Moore
With a rookie quarterback under center, DJ Moore likely won't have big fantasy games all the time. But he should be started in most leagues in Week 6. The Jaguars have allowed the most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season, and Moore has a great matchup on the outside against Montaric Brown. Brown has given up 23 catches through five weeks and just allowed 90 receiving yards in coverage last week against the Colts.
Matchups We Hate:
Trevor Lawrence is coming off his best game of the season, throwing for 371 yards and two touchdowns. However, he should be avoided in most Superflex leagues this week against a tough Bears secondary. Chicago has allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season and only C.J. Stroud has finished as a top-20 fantasy quarterback against this defense in 2024. So, avoid Lawrence in Week 6.
WR Brian Thomas Jr.
Thomas is definitely a top-20 fantasy wide receiver option for the rest of the year. But fantasy managers should be hesitant to start him in Week 6. He will likely be matched up against Jaylon Johnson for most of this contest. Johnson hasn't allowed more than two catches in a game this season and ranks seventh among all corners in catch rate allowed (41.7%). So, the rookie will come in as a low-end WR2 this weekend.
Other Matchups:
Jaguars RBs
Tank Bigsby has surely earned more opportunities moving forward after he rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns last week. However, Travis Etienne is not just going away. As a result, both players could be viable plays this week.
Chicago has allowed six rushing touchdowns through five weeks and opposing backs are averaging over 4.9 yards per carry against that run defense this year. Given Etienne's receiving upside, he'll be a solid RB2 option, while Bigsby is more of a flex play following his 40% snap share in Week 5.
Christian Kirk continues to see opportunities in the passing game. He has scored in double figures in PPR formats in three straight games and now gets a Chicago's secondary that is allowing 10.5 PPR fantasy points to slot wideouts this season. The matchup isn't the best against Kyler Gordon, who has yet to allow more than three catches in a game this season, but he also ranks 44th in yards per reception allowed (10.6).
It's tough to trust either Keenan Allen or Rome Odunze in fantasy right now. Both wideouts have scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in consecutive games and both have seen nine targets over the last two weeks. Even in a great matchup against the Jaguars secondary, Allen and Odunze are both low-end flex plays in Week 6.
TE Evan Engram
It sounds like Evan Engram (hamstring) will make his return in Week 6 following a four-game absence. While he will likely be on somewhat of a snap count, it's hard to sit him given the tight end landscape. Engram caught 114 passes last season and his weekly high fantasy floor makes him a solid start in most leagues in Week 6.
TE Cole Kmet
After finishing as the TE2 in Week 3 behind a 25.7 PPR fantasy day, Cole Kmet has finished as the TE21 in PPR formats in back-to-back weeks. As a result, he isn't necessarily a strong start in Week 6. Kmet has seen only seven targets over the last two games and now plays a Jaguars defense that has yet to allow more than three catches to a tight end this season. Therefore, the Bears playmaker should only be started in 16-plus team leagues.
Injuries:
- Evan Engram (hamstring)
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 1:00 EDT Games
Houston Texans at New England Patriots
Spread: Texans -7
Implied Total: Texans (22.75) vs. Patriots (15.75)
Matchups We Love:
WR Stefon Diggs
Stefon Diggs has been one of the more consistent fantasy wide receivers through the first five weeks, scoring in double figures in PPR formats in four of five games this season. Now, he gets a great matchup in Week 6 against slot corner Marcus Jones. Jones has allowed over 50 receiving yards in two of the past four games, and New England is allowing over 15 PPR fantasy points to slot wideouts this season. Keep Diggs in your lineup.
Matchups We Hate:
Despite playing only 47% of the offensive snaps last week, Rhamondre Stevenson still led the Patriots' backfield last week behind an 89-yard rushing day. However, he has a tough matchup against the Texans in Week 6. Houston has allowed the seventh-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs this season while giving up only 4.1 yards per carry. So, Stevenson is a riskier RB2 option this weekend.
Update: Stevenson has yet to practice this week due to a foot injury, so check to see if he practices on Friday.
WR Tank Dell
This might finally seem like the time to start Tank Dell. Nico Collins (hamstring) will miss at least the next four games, which means Dell could see more targets in the passing game. However, the young wideout will likely be matched up against Christian Gonzalez in this game. Gonzalez has been one of the best corners this season, allowing less than 35 receiving yards in four of five games. So, the Texans playmaker is a risky start.
Tank Dell
- 2023: 9.5 yds per target, 2.4 yds per route ran, 113.7 passer rating when targeted, 25% target rate, 0.36 EPA per target, 2.9 avg seperation
- 2024: 6.5 yds per tgt, 1.0 yds per route ran, 61.0 passer rating when tgt, 16% tgt rate, -0.04 EPA/tgt, 3.4 seperation
— Michael F. Florio (@MichaelFFlorio) October 10, 2024
TE Hunter Henry
If you are looking for a tight end this week, it's best to go with someone other than Hunter Henry. Henry has caught only two passes in four of five games this season and now goes up against a Texans secondary that has done a great job at shutting down opposing tight ends. Just last week, Houston limited Dalton Kincaid to only two catches for 34 yards. So, fantasy managers should avoid Henry in most formats in Week 6.
Other Matchups:
QB C.J. Stroud
Stroud has thrown for over 300 yards in consecutive games and remains a solid QB1 option entering Week 6. It'll be interesting to see how much Collins' absence affects his fantasy numbers, but he should still be started in most cases this weekend. The Patriots have given up the eighth-most passing yards (1,254) this season, and two quarterbacks (Aaron Rodgers and Geno Smith) have finished as a top-10 quarterback against them.
QB Drake Maye
Drake Maye will be making the first start of his career in Week 6, and this isn't necessarily a great matchup for him. The Texans have allowed the fifth-fewest pass yards (867) through five weeks and rank sixth in pressure rate this season. As a result, the Patriots might have a hard time protecting their rookie quarterback in this one, considering they rank tied for first in pressure rate allowed. So, Maye is a low-end QB2 this week.
Texans RBs
At this point, it remains to be seen if Joe Mixon (ankle) will be able to suit up on Sunday. He was limited on Thursday, and even if he plays this week, he is a risky RB2 option in his first game back. If he doesn't play, though, Dare Ogunbowale becomes a sneaky flex play. Ogunbowale has scored over 14.5 PPR fantasy in back-to-back games and just played 68% of the snaps last week against the Bills.
With Collins sidelined, Schultz should see more chances in the passing game. As a result, he is a solid TE1 option in 16-plus team leagues against a Patriots secondary that has had their struggles defending tight ends in 2024. They have allowed 11 PPR fantasy points to tight ends in each of the last three games, including 11.2 PPR fantasy points to Jonnu Smith last week.
Injuries:
- Nico Collins (hamstring)
- Joe Mixon (ankle)
Washington Commanders at Baltimore Ravens
Spread: Ravens -6.5
Implied Total: Commanders (23) vs. Ravens (29.5)
Matchups We Love:
Jayden Daniels has been one of the biggest fantasy surprises this season and should be started in almost all leagues in Week 6. The Ravens are not the same defense they were last year and have given up the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season. Given Daniels rushing upside and the fact that Baltimore has allowed two quarterbacks to finish as the QB2 in two of the past three weeks, the rookie is a strong play.
Derrick Henry has scored a touchdown in every game this season, which has helped him finish as a top-10 fantasy running back in three straight games. Now, Henry gets a juicy matchup against a Commanders' run defense that is allowing over 5.2 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season. So, the veteran is a strong RB1 option in Week 6.
WR Zay Flowers
It was nice to see Zay Flowers bounce back last week after two subpar fantasy days in Week 3 and Week 4. In Week 6, Flowers remains a strong fantasy option versus a Commanders secondary that has struggled to stop wideouts this season. Washington has allowed the most touchdowns to wide receivers this year (10) and slot wideouts are averaging over 17.5 PPR fantasy points against this defense in 2024.
Terry McLaurin's fantasy value continues to rise. He has finished as a top-30 fantasy wide receiver in three straight games and now has a great matchup against Baltimore's secondary in Week 6. The Ravens have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to wide receivers this year. McLaurin's matchup in this contest, Brandon Stephens, also just allowed seven catches last week to the Bengals. Therefore, he's a WR1 option this week.
TE Zach Ertz
Zach Ertz saw a season-high eight targets last week. While he only caught two of those targets, his 18.2% target share should give fantasy managers some optimism heading into Week 6. With Baltimore allowing the fourth-most fantasy points to tight ends this season, Ertz will be a low-end TE1 option this weekend. Kincaid, Jake Ferguson, and Brock Bowers have all finished as top-10 fantasy tight ends against them this year.
Matchups We Hate:
Despite being limited in last week's win, Brian Robinson Jr. still finished as the RB20 in PPR formats. However, fantasy managers should temper expectations against the Ravens in Week 6. Baltimore is allowing only 2.9 yards per carry on the ground and no running back has rushed for over 50 yards against this run defense to start the year. While you are likely still starting Robinson in most cases, he is a risker RB2 play this week.
Other Matchups:
If you have Lamar Jackson, you aren't sitting him in Week 6. He is the only quarterback to finish top-10 in every game this season and just finished as the QB3 last week behind a four-touchdown performance. He is the QB1 on the week.
Even though the Ravens have a strong run defense, Austin Ekeler has some flex appeal in Week 6. The veteran has scored in double figures in PPR formats in all four games this season while totaling at least 30 receiving yards in three of four contests. With Washington being almost touchdown underdogs in this game, Ekeler could be leaned upon more in the passing game.
Ravens TEs
Even after both Isaiah Likely and Mark Andrews had solid games last week, it's still hard to trust both tight ends entering Week 6. Likely only saw three targets in the win, and Andrews only played 55% of the offensive snaps. Now, they go up against a Commanders defense that has allowed only 15 catches through five weeks. As a result, both Ravens tight ends are low-end TE2s this weekend.
Injuries:
- Brian Robinson Jr. (knee)
Cleveland Browns at Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: Eagles -8.5
Implied Total: Browns (17.5) vs. Eagles (26)
Matchups We Love:
Saquon Barkley has one of the best fantasy running backs this season, averaging 24.5 PPR fantasy points across his four games. As a result, you are starting him regardless. But he also has a great matchup against the Browns in Week 6. Cleveland is allowing over 4.7 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season while giving up six rush touchdowns on the year (tied for third).
WR Amari Cooper
It has been a rough few weeks for Amari Cooper in fantasy. The good news is that he ranks tied for third in targets (47) through five weeks. The bad news, though, is that 45% of those targets have been uncatchable. However, he is a solid flex play in Week 6 against an Eagles secondary that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to wideouts this season. Cooper should be matched up against Quinyon Mitchell for some of this game, and Mitchell has allowed over 65 receiving yards in coverage in two of four games this season.
Matchups We Hate:
TE David Njoku
David Njoku returned from a high-ankle sprain last week but injured his knee in that contest. Even if he suits up, though, he will be a low-end TE1 option against the Eagles. Philadelphia has only allowed one tight end (Cade Otton) to total more than 40 receiving yards in a game this season.
With A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith both back for Week 6, Dallas Goedert will likely see fewer targets. So, fantasy managers shouldn't expect him to finish with seven to 10 catches every week moving forward -- like he did back in Week 3 and Week 4. This matchup against the Browns is also a tough one, as Cleveland held Ferguson, Ertz, and Bowers all under 5.5 PPR fantasy points. That makes Goedert a low-end TE1 this week.
Other Matchups:
According to metrics, Deshaun Watson has been the worst quarterback in the NFL through five weeks. He has yet to throw for over 200 yards in a game this season and has failed to finish as a top-15 fantasy quarterback in four of five games. Even though the Eagles are a relatively solid matchup for Watson, considering quarterbacks are averaging over 17.7 fantasy points, he should only be started in Superflex formats this week.
QB Jalen Hurts
Those who drafted Jalen Hurts are likely disappointed with his fantasy numbers to start the season. But don't forget, he's been without his top two wide receivers in each of the last two games. With Brown and/or Smith in the lineup, Hurts has finished as a top-10 fantasy quarterback in both contests. So, you're starting him against the Browns this week. Cleveland has allowed a top-12 fantasy quarterback in two of the past three games.
RB Jerome Ford
On paper, this is a great matchup for Jerome Ford. The Eagles are allowing over 5.1 yards per carry to opposing running backs, and three running backs (Josh Jacobs, Bijan Robinson, and Alvin Kamara) have rushed for over 80 yards against them. But Ford's recent usage makes him only a flex play this week. He has totaled less than 10 carries in four straight games and has finished outside the top 25 in three of the past four games.
WR Jerry Jeudy
Jerry Jeudy is coming off his worst game, catching one pass for 16 yards. However, he could be a potential flex play in deeper formats against the Eagles. The matchup isn't the best for him in this game, considering he'll likely be matched up against Darius Slay for some of the game. Slay has yet to give up more than 50 receiving yards in a game.
WR A.J. Brown
Brown will return in Week 6 after missing the past three weeks with a hamstring injury. If you have the All-Pro wideout in fantasy, you are starting him against the Browns. Cleveland is allowing over 34 fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season, and Pro Bowl corner Denzel Ward is dealing with an injury that caused him to miss practice on Wednesday and Thursday. So, it could be a big game for the Eagles wideout.
WR DeVonta Smith
Smith will return to the field this week after missing Week 4 due to a concussion. In his first three games, the Eagles wideout was a consistent fantasy option and scored in double figures in PPR formats in all three contests. The 25-year-old will likely be matched up against Greg Newsome II in this game, but Newsome is allowing 14.9 yards per reception this year. Start the young wideout in all formats in Week 6.
Injuries:
- Nick Chubb (knee)
- David Njoku (knee)
Arizona Cardinals at Green Bay Packers
Spread: Packers -5.5
Implied Total: Cardinals (22) vs. Packers (27.5)
Matchups We Love:
RB Josh Jacobs
Jacobs had his best game of the year last week. He played a season-high 75% of the team's offensive snaps and finished as the RB10 in PPR formats. Another strong game could be on tap for the 26-year-old running back. The Cardinals have allowed the ninth-most fantasy points and second-most rush yards (612) to running backs this season. So, make sure to keep Jacobs in your lineups this week.
RB James Conner
As we all expected, James Conner is the clear RB1 in this Arizona backfield through five weeks. He has totaled at least 18 carries in three of the past four games and currently ranks as the RB10 in PPR formats. Look for him to have another solid game in Week 6 against the Packers. Green Bay is allowing over 4.6 yards per carry on the ground while allowing four running backs to rush for over 90 yards in a game through five weeks.
WR Jayden Reed
Jayden Reed is a must-start every week moving forward. In three games with Jordan Love this season, Reed has finished as the WR1, WR2, and WR25 in PPR formats. Now, he has a great matchup in the slot against Kei'Trel Clark. Clark hasn't seen many opportunities this year, but with Garrett Williams dealing with a groin injury, he should step into that slot corner spot. Therefore, the Packers wideout is a must-start.
TE Trey McBride
Trey McBride has been one of the few tight ends that fantasy managers have been able to rely on through the first couple of weeks. McBride currently leads all tight ends with a 25.9% target share and remains a strong TE1 in Week 6. The Packers have allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to the position this year, and just last week, Colby Parkinson caught seven passes for 52 yards against Green Bay.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Kyler Murray
The Packers have had one of the better defenses this year, so this isn't an easy matchup for Kyler Murray. Green Bay has allowed the 12th-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in 2024. However, Murray will still come in as a low-end QB1 this week. Two quarterbacks (Hurts and Sam Darnold) have finished as top-10 quarterbacks against them, and given Murray's rushing upside, he should have a high fantasy floor this weekend.
QB Jordan Love
While the matchup with Arizona seems like a great one for Love, considering the team has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season, no quarterback has thrown for more than 250 yards against them in 2024. Pocket passers like Matthew Stafford, Jared Goff, and Brock Purdy all finished with less than 16 fantasy points. Still, Love will come in as a low-end QB1 option this weekend.
Marvin Harrison Jr. should draw the Jaire Alexander shadow in this game, assuming the corner plays after missing the last two weeks. So, it'll be interesting to see how the rookie fares against Alexander on Sunday. However, I'm not necessarily sitting Harrison because of the matchup. The Packers corner has allowed at least five catches in two of his three games this season. Therefore, he'll come in as a WR2 this weekend.
Michael Wilson continues to see opportunities in the passing game. He has seen at least six targets in three straight games and now gets a great matchup against Eric Stokes out wide. Stokes has allowed 18 receptions to wideouts over the last three games, including seven last week to the Rams. So, Wilson is a sneaky flex play this week after scoring in double figures in PPR formats in two of the last three contests.
WRs Dontayvion Wicks/Romeo Doubs
Both Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks will have great matchups on the outside against the Cardinals in Week 6. Arizona has given up the 12th-most receiving yards (776) to wideouts this season, and Starling Thomas V and Sean Murphy-Bunting both have PPF grades under 56 in coverage this season. However, Wicks and Doubs should only be started as flex plays in 12-plus team leagues this week.
TE Tucker Kraft
The Cardinals have done a good job at stopping tight ends this year. Arizona held Kincaid, Parkinson, and Sam LaPorta to only four combined catches in the first three games. But then last week, George Kittle finished as the TE3. So, Tucker Kraft will come in as a strong TE1 option in Week 6. He has finished as the overall TE1 in back-to-back weeks and you likely can't sit him after those two games.
Injuries:
- Christian Watson (ankle)
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints
Spread: Buccaneers -3
Implied Total: Buccaneers (22.25) vs. Saints (19.25)
Matchups We Love:
RB Alvin Kamara
The Buccaneers had a strong run defense last year, but that hasn't been the case so far in 2024. They rank 29th in run-stop win rate (29%) and opposing running backs are averaging over 4.8 yards per carry against that defense this year. So, Kamara should continue to be a solid start in fantasy, even with Derek Carr out. Tampa Bay has also given up the third-most receiving yards (272) to backs this season.
TE Cade Otton
Otton deserves some love entering Week 6. He has totaled at least 44 yards in three straight games while seeing 21 targets during that span. If you need a tight end this week, Otton could be a nice high-floor option. The Saints have allowed at least six catches to tight ends in three of the past four games. So, the Buccaneers tight end could be a nice play in 12-plus team leagues.
Matchups We Hate:
Baker Mayfield currently ranks as the QB3 in fantasy this year. However, fantasy managers might want to stay away from him in one-quarterback leagues this week. The Saints have allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season and held Patrick Mahomes, Kirk Cousins, Dak Prescott, and Hurts all under 15 fantasy points. So, Mayfield is more of a QB2 in Week 6.
WR Mike Evans
Mike Evans will go up against Marshon Lattimore this week, and we all know the history between those two. Lattimore has actually had Evans' number over their career, as the Bucs wideout hasn't caught more than four passes against the Saints in a game since 2018. The matchup is tough for him, considering the Saints corner has allowed only five catches all year. You likely aren't sitting him, but exceptions need to be tempered.
Other Matchups:
With Carr out for multiple games, Spencer Rattler will make his first career start on Sunday. Rattler was selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft and has a great matchup against the Buccaneers in Week 6. Tampa has allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season. However, it's too hard to trust the rookie in fantasy in his first career start, making him a desperate Superflex option.
Saints to start rookie QB Spencer Rattler in Week 6. pic.twitter.com/3XHT0zvQdO
— NFL (@NFL) October 9, 2024
Buccaneers RBs
Rachaad White continues to see most of the running back snaps. He has played at least 60% of the team's snaps in four of five games this season. So, Bucky Irving should only be started in extremely deep leagues. As for White, he's becoming harder and harder to trust. But the Saints have allowed the 11th-most receiving yards (177) to running backs the season. So, given his receiving upside, he'll be a low-end RB2 this week.
Update: White did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday due to a foot injury.
WR Chris Olave
We don't really know what to expect from Rattler in his first career start. Therefore, Chris Olave is a risky play. He does have a great matchup against a Buccaneers defense that has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to wideouts this season. Olave should also be matched up against Zyon McCollum for some of the game, and McCollum just allowed over 125 receiving yards last week. So, the Saints wideout is a low-end WR2 in Week 6.
Like Olave, Rashid Shaheed has a great matchup in Week 6. He will be matched up against McCollum and Jamel Dean for most of the game, which definitely favors the wideout. Dean has allowed over 55 receiving yards in three of the past four games, and he ranks 53rd in man success rate. Shaheed ranks 23rd in win rate versus man this season. But with Rattler making the start, he's more of a WR3 this week.
WR Chris Godwin
Chris Godwin has scored in double figures in PPR formats in all five games this season. The 28-year-old wideout has also reeled in at least six catches in four of five contests to begin the year. As a result, he remains a high-floor option heading into Week 6. He'll be matched up against Alontae Taylor this week, who has allowed at least five catches in four straight games. So, Godwin is a strong WR2 option this weekend.
Injuries:
- Derek Carr (oblique)
Indianapolis Colts at Tennessee Titans
Spread: Colts -1.5
Implied Total: Colts (22.5) vs. Titans (21)
Matchups We Love:
QB Will Levis
Will Levis has a great matchup against the Colts in Week 6. Indianapolis has allowed the third-most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season while allowing four quarterbacks (Williams, Stroud, Justin Fields, and Lawrence) to finish top-15 at the position. Now, you shouldn't start Levis in most cases this week. However, if you are in a 20-team one-quarterback league or in a Superflex league, he is a sneaky play.
RB Tony Pollard
Tony Pollard is the clear RB1 in Tennessee's offense. He has seen at least 19 touches in three of four games this season while playing at least 60% of the team's offensive snaps in every contest. Now, he gets a great matchup against a Colts defense that has allowed three 100-yard rushers this season (Bigsby, Mixon, and Jacobs). Given that Indianapolis has given up the fourth-most rush yards (595), Pollard is a solid RB2 option this week.
It has been a disappointing start to the season for Calvin Ridley. But the good news is that the matchup against the Colts in Week 6 is a juicy one. Indianapolis has allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to wideouts this season. Ridley should also be matched up against Jaylon Jones for most of the game. Jones has given up 70-plus receiving yards in two straight contests. So, the Titans wideout is a worthy flex play this week.
Matchups We Hate:
WR Alec Pierce
With Michael Pittman Jr. (back) expected to miss the next few weeks, Alec Pierce should see more opportunities. However, this is not the week that fantasy managers should be starting him. Not only is Anthony Richardson (oblique) likely to return this week, but Pierce will likely go up against L'Jarius Sneed. Sneed has only allowed five catches all year and ranks third in catch rate allowed. So, the Colts wideout is a risky play this week.
Other Matchups:
QB Anthony Richardson
All signs point to Anthony Richardson returning in Week 6, and this is not a bad matchup for him. The Titans have allowed at least 40 rush yards and one touchdown to quarterbacks in two straight games. While Tennessee ranks toward the bottom of the league in fantasy points against, they have faced Williams, Aaron Rodgers, Malik Willis, and Tyler Huntley. So, Richardson comes in as a low-end QB1 option in Week 6.
Colts RBs
It remains to be seen if Jonathan Taylor (ankle) will play in Week 6. If he does, you are likely starting him as your RB1 this week. However, if he can't go, Trey Sermon should be a solid RB2 option again. The Titans rank 21st in run-stop win rate (30%), while the Colts rank first in run-block win rate (75%). So, there should be plenty of opportunities for Sermon in this game.
It'll be interesting to see how much DeAndre Hopkins plays in Week 6 after the team's bye. Hopkins has yet to play over 50% of the team's offensive snaps following a knee injury he suffered in training camp. As a result, he's probably too hard to trust in fantasy this week until we see consistent playing time. In deeper leagues, though, he has some flex appeal because Indianapolis' secondary has struggled to stop the pass this year.
WR Josh Downs
With Pittman out, Josh Downs should continue to be a solid play moving forward. His value does take a little bit of a hit with Richardson returning, but he likely will see enough short passes to be a WR3 this weekend. His matchup in the slot in this game is on the tougher side against Roger McCreary. McCreary is allowing only 6.8 yards per reception this year. Still, fantasy managers can expect a high-floor game from Downs in Week 6.
Update: Downs has yet to practice on Wednesday and Thursday due to a toe injury.
Injuries:
- Anthony Richardson (oblique)
- Jonathan Taylor (ankle)
- Michael Pittman Jr. (back)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Afternoon Games
Los Angeles Chargers at Denver Broncos
Spread: Chargers -3
Implied Total: Chargers (19.25) vs. Broncos (16.25)
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
It's hard to rely on Justin Herbert in Superflex formats this week. He has yet to finish inside the top 20 at the quarterback position on any week and has only thrown for 578 yards across four games. Now, he goes up against a tough Broncos defense that has allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks this season. Therefore, Herbert should only be started in deeper Superflex leagues in Week 6.
QB Bo Nix
Bo Nix is another quarterback fantasy managers might want to stay away from in Superflex formats. He has only scored above 14 fantasy points in two games, and the Chargers have been one of the better teams against fantasy quarterbacks this season. While Nix does provide some rushing upside, Los Angeles has actually allowed the third-fewest rush yards (29) to quarterbacks. So, he's a riskier QB2 option in Superflex formats.
Fantasy managers looking for a flex play this week might want to go with someone other than Quentin Johnston. Despite Johnston scoring in double figures in PPR formats in two of the last three games, he'll likely be matched up against Patrick Surtain II in this game. Surtain is one of the best corners in the league and has allowed two catches or less in four straight contests. So, it's best to avoid the Chargers wideout in Week 6.
Courtland Sutton has been tough to rely on in fantasy this year. He has caught three passes or less in three of the past four games and is coming off a two-catch performance. Things don't get better for him either in Week 6 against the Chargers. Los Angeles has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to wideouts this season, and his matchup (Kristian Fulton) has only allowed seven catches all year. So, Sutton is more of a low-end flex play.
Other Matchups:
RB JK Dobbins
Through the first five weeks, the Broncos have been a strong run defense. That certainly doesn't bode well for JK Dobbins in Week 6. Denver has allowed the 10th-fewest fantasy points to opposing backs this season while giving up only 3.98 yards per carry. The Broncos also rank ninth in run-stop win rate (33%) to start the season. As a result, Dobbins is a riskier RB2 option this weekend.
Javonte Williams has looked better as the season goes on. He has totaled 191 yards from scrimmage over the last two weeks, but the Chargers present a tough matchup for him in Week 6. They have only allowed one running back to rush for over 70 yards in a game this season. However, Williams could be a solid flex play this weekend, considering that Los Angeles has allowed the sixth-most receptions (25) to running backs in 2024.
Injuries:
None
Pittsburgh Steelers at Las Vegas Raiders
Spread: Steelers -3
Implied Total: Steelers (19.75) vs. Raiders (16.75)
Matchups We Love:
RB Najee Harris
Najee Harris has had a couple of nice matchups in a row but hasn't done much in those games. Well, Harris has another great opportunity in Week 6. Las Vegas has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to running backs this season while giving up over 5.2 yards per carry. The Raiders have also let a running back finish top-12 at the position in four of five weeks in 2024. So, lock in the Steelers running back as your RB2.
Matchups We Hate:
Aidan O'Connell will make his first start of the season in Week 6, and it's a tough matchup for him. The Steelers have allowed only 12.2 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this year. Dak Prescott did a nice job against Pittsburgh's secondary last week, but he still only finished as the QB13 on the week. Therefore, O'Connell should only be started in deeper Superflex leagues.
Raiders RBs
Alexander Mattison could draw his second straight start in Week 6 with Zamir White (groin) dealing with an injury. However, Mattison isn't really a strong play against the Steelers. For starters, Pittsburgh has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to running backs. On top of that, Ameer Abdullah played 44% of the offensive snaps last week. So, this isn't a week where managers should be looking to start any Raiders running backs.
Other Matchups:
Steelers QBs
With Russell Wilson (calf) logging his first full practice of the season on Wednesday, he could be in the running to start in Week 6. If he does, he is a QB2 option and should only be started in Superflex formats. If the Steelers decide to roll with Justin Fields again, Fields should remain a strong QB1 this week. The Raiders are allowing over 17 fantasy points to quarterbacks this season to go with eight passing touchdowns.
Jakobi Meyers had a solid game last week, catching six passes for 72 yards. While the matchup against Pittsburgh might seem tough, this is actually a solid one for Meyers. The 27-year-old will likely avoid Joey Porter Jr. in this game, considering he has played 50% of his snaps in the slot this year. Instead, he'll match up against Beanie Bishop Jr. Bishop allowed 90 receiving yards last week, making Meyers a solid flex option in Week 6.
Update: Jakobi Meyers didn't practice on Wednesday and Thursday due to an ankle injury.
George Pickens played a season-low 59% of the offensive snaps last week, which is a bit concerning. The young wideout has now finished outside the top 40 at the position in three of the last four weeks. So, he'll enter a Week 6 matchup against the Raiders as a risky WR3. Las Vegas has allowed the 13th-fewest fantasy points to wideouts this season.
Pat Freiermuth continues to be a consistent fantasy option this year. He has scored at least 7.2 PPR fantasy points in four straight games, which included 16.7 PPR fantasy points back in Week 4. So, if you're looking for a tight end who might have a higher floor than most, Freiermuth could be a nice target in Week 6. The Raiders have allowed a top-10 fantasy tight end in two of the past three weeks.
TE Brock Bowers
Bowers has been a dominant tight end through the first five weeks. He ranks third in fantasy points per game (13.3), fourth in target share (21.6%), and first in yards per route run (2.9). As a result, the rookie is a strong start in Week 6 against the Steelers. Pittsburgh just allowed Ferguson to total six catches for 70 yards a week ago. That makes Bowers a top option at the position on Sunday.
Injuries:
- Zamir White (groin)
- Jakobi Meyers (ankle)
- Davante Adams (hamstring)
Detroit Lions at Dallas Cowboys
Spread: Lions -3
Implied Total: Lions (27.75) vs. Cowboys (24.75)
Matchups We Love:
QB Dak Prescott
Prescott has dominated the Lions in his career, throwing for 1,463 yards, 11 touchdowns, and one interception across five games. Detroit still has plenty of problems in the secondary this year and has allowed a top-eight fantasy quarterback in two of four games this season. So, Prescott is a strong QB1 option in Week 6. Opposing quarterbacks are averaging 276 pass yards against that secondary in 2024.
RBs Jahmyr Gibbs/David Montgomery
The Cowboys have been a much better run defense over the past two games. They held Devin Singletary to only 1.7 yards per carry back in Week 4, and Harris to three yards per carry last week. So, they aren't as bad of an option as fantasy managers might think.
Still, you're starting both Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery this week. Dallas has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to running backs this year and the sixth-most receiving yards (222) to the position. That makes Gibbs a solid RB1 play this week, and Montgomery comes in as a high-end RB2.
WR CeeDee Lamb
CeeDee Lamb's production in the second half is a bit concerning. Through five weeks, he has only four catches for 25 yards in the final two quarters. But this could finally be the week that we see Lamb explode. The Lions are giving up the second-most fantasy points to wideouts this season, and the All-Pro playmaker just torched that Detroit secondary for 227 receiving yards last year.
With Brandin Cooks (knee) on injured reserve, Jalen Tolbert stepped up as Dallas' WR2 last week. He totaled seven catches for 87 yards and one touchdown. Given Detroit's woes in the secondary to start the season, Tolbert does have sneaky flex value in Week 6. He should be going up against Terrion Arnold in this contest, who is one of the poorest-graded corners on PFF through five weeks.
Matchups We Hate:
RB Rico Dowdle
Rico Dowdle enjoyed his best game of the season in Week 5. He rushed for 87 yards and finished as the RB3 in PPR formats. However, fantasy managers should temper expectations for Dowdle in Week 6. The Lions have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to the position this season and only Kenneth Walker III has finished as a top-20 fantasy running back against them. The Cowboys back is a riskier flex option this weekend.
After seeing 20 targets in the first two weeks, Jameson Williams has only seen a whopping five targets over the past two games. Now, he'll likely be matched up against Trevon Diggs for most of the game on Sunday. Diggs has given up 14 catches on the year while allowing only 8.3 yards per reception. Given Williams' recent two games, he's a riskier flex play this weekend.
Other Matchups:
QB Jared Goff
The Lions haven't leaned on Goff a ton this year, as the quarterback has thrown only 41 pass attempts over the last two games. However, this could be the week we finally see him let it loose. The over/under is set at 52.5, and Dallas has allowed a top-four fantasy quarterback in two of the past four games. So, the veteran is a high-end QB2 option in a game that could be high-scoring.
Amon-Ra St.Brown has finished as the WR10, WR11, and WR11 over the last three games and will remain a strong WR1 option in Week 6 against the Cowboys. Dallas has done a great job against slot wideouts this year, holding them to only 8.9 PPR fantasy points per game. That is in large part due to Jourdan Lewis' play. He has allowed two catches or less in three of the past four contests, but you're still starting St. Brown this weekend.
TE Sam LaPorta
It has been a rough start to the season for LaPorta. He hasn't caught more than four passes or totaled more than 10 PPR fantasy points in a game this year. However, unless you drafted Bowers in the later rounds or picked up Kraft on waivers, you likely don't have a better option. The Cowboys did allow two touchdowns to tight ends last week, so there is a real chance LaPorta gets going in Week 6. He's a solid TE1 play.
TE Jake Ferguson
At this point, you can't sit Ferguson in fantasy. He has caught at least six passes in three straight games while finishing as the TE3, TE7, and TE8 in PPR formats during that span. The Lions have done a pretty solid job at limiting tight ends this year, as they've yet to allow more than four catches to the position in a game. However, Ferguson ranks fourth in PPR fantasy points per game (11.2) and is a must-start in Week 6.
Injuries:
- Brandin Cooks (knee)
Atlanta Falcons at Carolina Panthers
Spread: Falcons -6.5
Implied Total: Falcons (27) vs. Panthers (20.5)
Matchups We Love:
QB Kirk Cousins
Cousins is coming off the best game of his career, throwing for 509 yards and four touchdowns. Now, he gets a great matchup in Week 6. The Panthers have given up the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season while allowing 11 pass touchdowns through five weeks. Carolina has also allowed a top-12 fantasy quarterback in three of five games. As a result, Cousins is a great streaming option this week.
RB Bijan Robinson
This could be the week we finally see Robinson take off. The Panthers have allowed the second-most fantasy points and third-most rush yards (603) to running backs this season. Carolina has also allowed a top-six fantasy finish at the position in four of the first five weeks. So, keep Robinson in your lineup this week because the matchup can't get any better for him.
WR Drake London
Following his 154-yard day. Drake London has now scored in double figures in PPR formats in four straight games. He's certainly trending up heading into Week 6 and remains a must-start option at the wide receiver position. He also has a great matchup against the Panthers secondary on Sunday. Carolina has allowed the second-most touchdowns to wideouts this season.
TE Kyle Pitts
You are likely starting every Falcon player you have on your roster this week, including Kyle Pitts. Pitts caught seven passes for 88 last week and now gets a Panthers secondary that has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to tight ends this year. It'll be interesting to see how involved Pitts will be in this game after seeing eight targets in Week 5. But he's worth rolling the dice on this week in a plus matchup.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Andy Dalton
Since taking over as the starter in Week 3, Andy Dalton has seen his stats decrease in every game. He has finished outside the top 12 at the position in consecutive games while throwing for less than 225 yards in back-to-back weeks. Unfortunately, he doesn't have the best matchup in Week 6 against the Falcons. Atlanta has yet to allow more than 240 pass yards in a game this season. So, Dalton is more of a QB2 this weekend.
Chuba Hubbard is looking like a running back who doesn't want to lose his job. Hubbard has totaled 100-plus yards from scrimmage in three straight games while finishing as a top-10 running back in all three contests. While the Falcons have allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points and only one rushing touchdown all year, it's hard to sit the Panthers back. So, he'll remain a low-end RB1 for Week 6.
Darnell Mooney should continue to see targets in the passing game, making him a strong WR2/WR3 for the rest of the season. Last week, he caught nine passes for 105 yards and two touchdowns en route to a WR3 finish. The matchup against Carolina's secondary is great, and Mooney ranks top-15 in air yards (490), deep targets (nine), and receiving yards (330) this season. So, get the Falcons wideout in your lineups this week.
WR Diontae Johnson
Johnson was on the hate list last week because of his tough matchup last week. While he has another tough matchup against A.J. Terrell in this game, he is still a solid WR2 option this week. Terrell has established himself as a top corner in the league, but he ranks 74th in man success rate (59%), 81st in catch rate allowed (76.2%), and 70th in passer rating allowed (113.8) this season.
Injuries:
- Jonathon Brooks (knee)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Cincinnati Bengals at New York Giants
Spread: Bengals -3.5
Implied Total: Bengals (26) vs. Giants (22.5)
Matchups We Love:
QB Daniel Jones
Daniel Jones has been a sneaky QB1 this season, finishing as a top-12 fantasy quarterback in three of the past four weeks. Even without his top wideout (Malik Nabers) last week, Jones still finished with 22.1 fantasy points. Now, he gets a great matchup against a Bengals defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points and second-most rush yards (164) to quarterbacks. That makes Jones a sneaky low-end QB1 in Week 6.
WR Malik Nabers
Assuming Nabers clears the concussion protocol before Sunday's game, he should be started in every league this week. The rookie has scored 20-plus PPR fantasy points in three straight games, and Cincinnati has allowed the 13th-most receiving yards (746) to wideouts this season. His matchup in this game should also be Cam Taylor-Britt, who has allowed at least 80 receiving yards in consecutive games.
Fantasy managers should be starting Ja'Marr Chase every week. He has totaled at least 17.5 PPR fantasy points in three straight games and is coming off a WR1 fantasy finish. Chase also has a nice matchup against Deonte Banks in Week 6. Banks has allowed 70-plus receiving yards in two of the past three games and has given up 18 catches to start the season. That makes the Bengals wideout an easy WR1 this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Joe Burrow
Joe Burrow has been one of the most consistent fantasy quarterbacks this season. He has finished as a top-10 fantasy quarterback in four straight games while averaging 23.7 fantasy points during that stretch. The Giants rank middle of the pack against fantasy quarterbacks this season, but you likely aren't sitting him this week. Burrow is a strong QB1 play in Week 6.
Bengals RBs
It remains to be seen if Zack Moss (ankle) will be able to suit up in Week 6. If he does, Moss is an RB2 option against a Giants defense that is allowing over 4.9 yards per carry to running backs this season. Chase Brown would also be a sneaky flex play, given the matchup and the fact that he has scored over 16 PPR fantasy points in both games. If Moss were to miss, though, Brown becomes a strong start in all formats.
Giants RBs
Singletary missed last week's game due to a groin issue, but he could return in Week 6. If he does, he is a low-end RB2 against the Bengals. Cincinnati has allowed the seventh-most rush yards (566) to running backs this season and three top-10 fantasy finishes at the position through five weeks. If Singletary can't go, Tyrone Tracy Jr. becomes a solid RB2 option after rushing for 129 yards in last week's win.
If you are looking for a high-floor fantasy option this week, Wan'Dale Robinson is a great play against the Bengals. Robinson has scored in doubles figures in PPR formats in four of five games, and Cincinnati has allowed 11 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing slot wideouts this season. So, Robinson will come in as a high-end WR3 for Week 6.
WR Tee Higgins
Fantasy managers finally got the big game from Tee Higgins last week, as he caught nine passes for 83 yards and two touchdowns. Higgins has also seen at least 10 targets in back-to-back games. As a result, he'll be a solid WR2 option against the Giants in Week 6. New York has allowed six receiving touchdowns to wideouts this year.
Bengals TEs
It's becoming hard to trust Mike Gesicki in fantasy after his strong start. Gesicki has played less than 45% of the Bengals' offensive snaps in back-to-back weeks while seeing a combined three targets in those two games. So, it's best to stay away from him in Week 6.
As for Erick All Jr., he would be my preferred Bengals tight end to start this week. He has played over 50% of the team's offensive snaps in three of the past four games, and the Giants have allowed a top-10 fantasy tight end in two of the past four weeks.
Injuries:
- Zack Moss (ankle)
Matchups Analysis - Monday Night Football
Buffalo Bills at New York Jets
Spread: Bills -2.5
Implied Total: Bills (21.5) vs. Jets (19)
Matchups We Love:
RB Breece Hall
Hall has struggled on the ground this year, averaging only 3.03 yards per carry. But we could see a big game from him in Week 6. The Bills have allowed the most fantasy points and receiving yards (312) to running backs this season. Buffalo has also allowed four running backs to finish top-10 at the position on the week. So, expect a big game from the Jets running back on Monday night.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Josh Allen
You are likely still starting Josh Allen, but the matchup against New York is not the best. The Jets have allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks this season, and Allen has had some disappointing games against this secondary over the years. He has thrown for 2,552 yards, 12 pass touchdowns, and 11 interceptions in 11 meetings against them. Still, he comes in as a QB1 option this week.
Bills RBs
It's becoming more apparent that James Cook (toe) might not suit up for Monday's game. That is not great news for any Cook owner. In his place, expect both Ray Davis and Ty Johnson to see more opportunities. However, it's too hard to trust either in fantasy this week. The Jets have allowed the eighth-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season, and we don't exactly know how this Bills backfield will play out in Week 6.
TE Dalton Kincaid
Kincaid has been one of the more disappointing tight ends this year. He has scored in double figures in PPR formats just once while failing to finish as a top-12 fantasy tight end in three of five weeks. So, he isn't necessarily a must-start moving forward, especially against a Jets secondary in Week 6. New York has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to tight ends this season. That makes Kincaid a risky TE1 option.
Other Matchups:
QB Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers has been a fine QB2 option for those in Superflex formats. He has finished between the QB10 and QB20 in four straight weeks while throwing for multiple touchdowns in three of the past four games. In Week 6, he'll remain a solid QB2 option against a Bills defense that has allowed three quarterbacks (Murray, Jackson, and Stroud) to finish as a top-15 quarterback this year.
Garrett Wilson saw a whopping 23 targets in Week 6, and it's hard to sit him after a performance like that. But the matchup against the Bills is definitely on the tougher side. Buffalo has allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to wideouts this season and only Collins (WR19) has finished as a top-20 fantasy wide receiver on the week against them. While you are still starting Wilson, he likely won't repeat last week's performance.
Bills WRs
Khalil Shakir (ankle) has yet to practice this week after missing last week's game. So, there's a strong chance that Shakir will miss his second straight contest. If he plays, fantasy managers should slot him in as their WR3. However, even if he misses, Keon Coleman and Curtis Samuel won't have much fantasy value. The Jets have allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points to wideouts this season.
Tyler Conklin continues to be involved on offense. He has seen at least six targets in three straight games while totaling at least 11 PPR fantasy points in two of those contests. Conklin will now go up against a Bills secondary that has allowed three tight ends (McBride, Smith, and Brenton Strange) to finish top-12 on the week. So, the Jets playmaker is a low-end TE1 in Week 6.
Injuries:
- James Cook (toe)
- Khalil Shakir (ankle)
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