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Welcome back, RotoBallers, to another start'em and sit'em piece as we look ahead to Week 16! This Week 16 matchups analysis and Start 'Em, Sit 'Em will help you make the right lineup decisions in the second round of the fantasy football playoffs.
With only two weeks left in most fantasy leagues, a championship title is within reach. That means making the right lineup decisions this week will never be more important. If you can pull out a win in Week 16, you will be one step closer to winning your league's title.
So, let's dive into every Week 16 game (Saturday 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 in the second round of the fantasy football playoffs.
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 - Saturday Games
Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: KC -3
Matchups We Love:
Xavier Worthy has surely been more involved in recent weeks and is coming off a career-high nine-touch performance last week. So, Worthy has some flex potential in 12-plus team leagues in Week 16. If Patrick Mahomes (ankle) doesn't play, then the rookie will be downgraded a bit. However, if Mahomes plays, he can be a solid start against a Texans defense that has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to wideouts this year.
Update: Mahomes will play on Saturday
After a strong performance in Week 13, Dalton Schultz went back to being a non-factor in the passing game last week. He caught just two passes for 13 yards. However, Schultz can be a sneaky start in deeper leagues against the Chiefs. Kansas City has given up the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season, and this secondary has allowed at least 50 receiving yards to five different tight ends over the last nine weeks.
Matchups We Hate:
RB Joe Mixon
No, you shouldn't sit Joe Mixon because he's listed in this section. However, expectations should be tempered for the veteran running back. The Chiefs have given up the fewest fantasy points to running backs while allowing opposing backs to average only 3.66 yards per carry on the ground this season. Therefore, Mixon will be more of an RB2 on Saturday.
Third practice in a row for #Texans running back Joe Mixon as he gets ready to play against #Chiefs on road @KPRC2 pic.twitter.com/BtGqYQybDF
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) December 19, 2024
Since returning from injury, Isiah Pacheco has not been a strong fantasy option. He has scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in three straight weeks and has played under 40% of the team's offensive snaps in two of those games. As a result, Pacheco will be a risky flex play against the Texans in Week 16. Houston has allowed only one running back to score above 15 PPR fantasy points since Week 9.
Other Matchups:
QB C.J. Stroud
C.J. Stroud has been one of the bigger busts in fantasy this year, and he'll continue to be more of a QB2 option in Week 16 against the Chiefs. Stroud has finished as a top-12 fantasy quarterback just once since Week 5, which makes him too hard to trust as a QB1 play this weekend. On top of that, Kansas City has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks over the last four weeks.
Chiefs QBs
It remains to be seen if Patrick Mahomes (ankle) will be able to suit up against the Texans in Week 16. If he does, he'll be more of a QB2 option against a Texans secondary that has allowed 20 fantasy points to the position just three times since Week 4. If Mahomes can't go, then Carson Wentz would be a low-end QB2 play in Superflex formats this weekend.
Update: Mahomes will start on Saturday.
WR Nico Collins
Nico Collins will remain a strong WR1 play in Week 16 against the Chiefs. He has scored over 17 PPR fantasy points in three straight games and is currently averaging 19.3 PPR fantasy points per game this season. So, Collins should be in all lineups this week.
Given that this is the second round of the fantasy football playoffs, it might be hard to trust DeAndre Hopkins in most leagues. He has scored under 14.5 PPR fantasy points in seven of his eight games with the Chiefs and only played 45% of the team's snaps last week in the win. So, Hopkins will be more of a low-end flex play in 12-plus team leagues in Week 16.
TE Travis Kelce
Although the Texans have given up the fourth-fewest fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season, Travis Kelce is still a strong TE1 option in Week 16. Both Evan Engram and Jonnu Smith caught at least seven passes against this Houston secondary over the past two weeks, and this defense has allowed six top-12 fantasy tight-end finishes over the last nine games.
Injuries:
None
Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens
Spread: Ravens -6.5
Matchups We Love:
George Pickens has missed the past two games due to a hamstring injury, and his status for Saturday is currently up in the air. If he suits up, though, he will be a strong WR2 play against the Ravens. Baltimore has given up the second-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season, and Pickens caught eight passes for 89 yards against this secondary back in Week 11.
Update: Pickens has been ruled out for Saturday's game.
Matchups We Hate:
RB Najee Haris
It's going to be hard for fantasy managers to trust Najee Harris in Week 16. Opposing running backs are averaging only 3.4 yards per carry against the Ravens, and only six running backs have scored more than 15 PPR fantasy points against this Baltimore defense this year. So, Harris will be a risky flex play this weekend.
WR Zay Flowers
Zay Flowers has been a low-end WR3 option in recent weeks, scoring between 7.4 PPR fantasy points and 11.9 PPR fantasy points in five straight games. Unfortunately, things don't get easier for him in Week 16 against the Steelers. Pittsburgh has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to slot wideouts over the last six weeks. As a result, Flowers is more of a WR3 play in Week 16.
Other Matchups:
While this might seem like a great matchup for Russell Wilson, the Ravens have played much better defensively. After allowing seven top-12 fantasy quarterback finishes in the first 10 weeks, Baltimore has given up the seventh-fewest fantasy points per game to the position over the last four games. So, Wilson is more of a QB2 option this week, especially since he scored only 7.3 fantasy points the last time against it.
Even though the Steelers have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to quarterbacks this season, Lamar Jackson will still be a must-start at the position in Week 16. Jackson has finished as a top-9 fantasy quarterback in 12 of 14 games and is currently the QB1 of the year. He should continue to be in all lineups this week.
Derrick Henry hasn't been as strong of a fantasy option in recent weeks, scoring under 14.5 PPR fantasy points in five straight games. However, he should remain in fantasy lineups this week against the Steelers. Pittsburgh has allowed seven rushing touchdowns over the last six games, and eight different running backs have scored over 17.5 PPR fantasy points against this defense since Week 4.
TE Mark Andrews
Mark Andrews has been a solid TE1 option recently, thanks to his eight touchdowns since Week 6. As a result, Andrews will have some TE1 potential in Week 16 against the Steelers. Pittsburgh is allowing over 12 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season, and David Njoku just managed to score 17.2 PPR fantasy points against this secondary two weeks ago.
Pat Freiermuth will be a low-end TE1 play in 12-plus team leagues this week against the Ravens. He has scored in double figures in PPR formats in three straight games while seeing at least six targets in two of those contests. With Pickens ruled out, Freiermuth should have a high fantasy floor in Week 16. He has also caught a touchdown pass in three straight weeks.
Injuries:
- George Pickens (hamstring)
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 1:00 EST Games
Los Angeles Rams at New York Jets
Spread: Rams -3
Matchups We Love:
WR Puka Nacua
Puka Nacua continues to operate as Stafford's favorite target in the passing game. As a result, he'll be a strong WR1 play in Week 16 against the Jets. He has scored at least 17.5 PPR fantasy points in six straight games, and the Jets have allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to wideouts over the past four weeks. Given what Brian Thomas Jr. (32.5 PPR fantasy points) did against this secondary last week, Nacua is a must-start.
WR Cooper Kupp
Cooper Kupp had his worst game of the season last week, scoring zero fantasy points. However, fantasy managers should start Kupp with confidence in Week 16 against the Jets. New York has allowed the most fantasy points per game to opposing slot wideouts over the last six weeks, and the veteran wideout has scored at least 15 PPR fantasy points in six of the past eight games. As a result, he's a solid WR2 play this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Aaron Rodgers scored a season-high 30 fantasy points last week against the Jaguars, and the veteran will be a middle-of-the-pack QB2 option in Week 16 against the Rams. Los Angeles has given up the 10th-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks while allowing seven quarterbacks to throw multiple passing touchdowns in a game against it this season.
Matthew Stafford will come in as a high-end QB2 option in Week 16 against the Jets. He has thrown multiple passing touchdowns in six of the past eight games and now goes up against a New York secondary that has struggled in recent weeks. This defense has allowed a top-10 fantasy quarterback finish in four of the past five games. So, Stafford also has some QB1 potential in 12-plus team leagues this weekend.
Kyren Williams has seen 62 touches over the past two games. Given his high volume of touches, Williams will continue to be a strong RB1 option in Week 16 against the Jets. Even though New York has allowed only one top-12 fantasy running back since Week 9, it's hard to sit a running back who has 58 carries across the last two weeks. So, keep him in lineups this weekend.
RB Breece Hall
Breece Hall was able to play through his knee injury last week and played 48% of the team's offensive snaps. With Braelon Allen (back) dealing with an injury, Hall should see more snaps on Sunday if the rookie can't go. However, he's more of an RB2 option this weekend against the Rams. Los Angeles has allowed only two top-16 running backs finishes since Week 6.
Jets WRs
Both Davante Adams and Garrett Wilson will be solid plays in Week 16 against the Rams. Adams is coming off a WR1 finish in Week 15 and has now totaled over 100 receiving yards in back-to-back games. As for Wilson, he has scored in double figures in PPR formats in consecutive weeks and has seen at least eight targets in three of the past four games.
That makes Adams a WR1 play in Week 16, and Wilson is more of a WR2 option against the Rams on Sunday.
Injuries:
- Braelon Allen (back)
Philadelphia Eagles at Washington Commanders
Spread: Eagles -3.5
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
This Eagles defense is legit, and that's not great news for Jayden Daniels' fantasy value in Week 16. Daniels only scored 14.4 fantasy points against this Philadelphia secondary the last time these two teams faced off back in Week 11. On top of that, this defense has allowed only three top-10 fantasy quarterback finishes since Week 5. So, Daniels will be a lower-end QB1 play this weekend.
Brian Robinson Jr. has had a strong fantasy season, but things will get tough for him in Week 16 against the Eagles. Philadelphia has given up the second-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs while allowing only two running backs to score over 16.5 PPR fantasy points against it this season. So, Robinson will come in as more of a flex play this week.
The last time Terry McLaurin faced this Eagles secondary was back in Week 11, and he was held to only one catch for 10 yards. Since then, though, McLaurin has finished as the WR8, WR2, and WR7 in PPR formats. Still, McLaurin will be a riskier WR2 play in Week 16. Philadelphia has given up the fewest fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season.
Other Matchups:
QB Jalen Hurts
Jalen Hurts will continue to be a strong QB1 option in Week 16 against the Commanders. Hurts has finished as a top-8 fantasy quarterback in seven of the past 10 games while rushing for 12 touchdowns since Week 7. So, make sure to keep the Eagles quarterback in your lineups this weekend.
Saquon Barkley had a rough game last week against the Steelers, only scoring 9.4 PPR fantasy points. However, expect Barkley to bounce back in a big way in Week 16. He ran for 146 yards and two touchdowns the last time against the Commanders, and opposing running backs are averaging 4.96 yards per carry against this Washington defense this year. Therefore, Barkley is a strong RB1 play.
WR A.J. Brown
A.J. Brown had his best fantasy day of the season last week, catching a season-high eight passes for 110 yards and one touchdown. As a result, fantasy managers should continue to start Brown as a WR1 in Week 16 against the Commanders. Although Marshon Lattimore will likely be on the Eagles wideout in this game, you're still starting him this weekend in all formats.
Fantasy managers finally got to see DeVonta Smith have a big fantasy day, as he caught 11 passes for 109 yards and one touchdown. After that encouraging performance, Smith can be a solid WR3 play against the Commanders in Week 16. He has now caught a touchdown pass in back-to-back games and will likely be matched up against Noah Igbinoghene in the slot. Igbinoghene ranks 137th in PFF coverage grade this season.
TE Zach Ertz
Zach Ertz suffered a concussion in last week's win, and it remains to be seen if he will play this weekend against the Eagles. If he does, he'll be a low-end TE1 play in Week 16. Philadelphia has allowed four top-10 fantasy tight-end finishes over the past five games. Ertz also scored 18.7 PPR fantasy points against this secondary the last time these two teams played back in Week 11.
Injuries:
None
New York Giants at Atlanta Falcons
Spread: Falcons -8.5
Matchups We Love:
Michael Penix Jr. will make his first career start in Week 16 after the team decided to bench Kirk Cousins earlier in the week. The good news for the rookie is that he has a favorable matchup against the Giants on Sunday. New York has given up the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season while allowing a top-14 fantasy quarterback finish in seven of the past 10 weeks. So, Penix has some QB2 potential.
QB Drew Lock
Drew Lock will start for the Giants in Week 16, and he has a great matchup on deck against the Falcons. Atlanta has given up the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks while allowing 27 passing touchdowns this season (tied for the most in the NFL). However, Lock should only be an option in deeper Superflex leagues. He averaged 15.9 fantasy points in his two starts in 2024.
Since Week 5, no running back has averaged more PPR fantasy points per game than Bijan Robinson (21.5). During that span, he has seven 20-plus PPR fantasy point games and five games of at least 20 carries. Therefore, Robinson will continue to be a strong RB1 option in Week 16 against a Giants defense that has allowed the second-most rush yards this season.
WR Malik Nabers
Malik Nabers finally got into the end zone last week, snapping an eight-game streak without a touchdown. With Drew Lock starting in Week 16, Nabers will be a solid WR2 play against a Falcons secondary that has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season. A.J. Terrell will likely shadow the rookie in this game, but Terrell hasn't had a great season. He ranks 93rd in catch rate and 99th in man success rate.
Matchups We Hate:
TE Kyle Pitts
There's no way that fantasy managers can be starting Kyle Pitts in fantasy this week. He has scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in six straight games, and he only played 40% of the team's offensive snaps last week. On top of that, the Giants have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season. So, Pitts should be avoided in most cases in Week 16.
Other Matchups:
It was a rough fantasy day for Tyrone Tracy Jr. last week. However, the rookie has some RB2 potential in Week 16 against the Falcons. Atlanta has allowed a top-18 fantasy running back finish in eight of the past nine games. With Drew Lock also starting, Tracy should have more of a role in the passing game. The Giants running back saw 10 targets the last time Lock started.
Falcons WRs
No one knows how Drake London and Darnell Mooney will perform in fantasy with Penix now starting. However, fantasy managers can still likely trust London in Week 16 against the Giants. He'll likely be a high-floor WR2 play this week against a New York secondary that just allowed 80 yards and two touchdowns to Rashod Bateman a week ago.
As for Mooney, he'll be more of a flex play in 12-plus team leagues. It's hard to predict if his 21.5% target share will stay the same with Penix under center.
Injuries:
None
Arizona Cardinals at Carolina Panthers
Spread: Cardinals -4.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Kyler Murray
Kyler Murray has been an inconsistent fantasy option this season and that has continued as of late. Murray has scored under 12 fantasy points in three of the past six games. However, he will be a solid QB1 option in Week 16 against the Panthers. Carolina has given up the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season while allowing a top-10 fantasy quarterback in three of the past four games.
RB James Conner
James Conner will come in as a strong RB1 option in Week 16 against the Panthers. Carolina has given up the most fantasy points and most rush yards to opposing running backs this season. Carolina has also allowed a 100-yard rusher in five of the past six games. So, make sure to get Conner in your lineups this weekend.
Chuba Hubbard had a disappointing game last week against the Cowboys, but look for him to bounce back in Week 16 against the Cardinals. Arizona has given up the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing running backs while allowing 4.58 yards per carry on the ground this season. So, Hubbard is a strong fantasy play this weekend.
TE Trey McBride
Trey McBride has still not caught a touchdown pass this season, but he's been one of the most consistent options at the tight-end position this season. He is currently the TE2 in PPR formats and has finished as a top-10 fantasy tight end in seven straight games. Now, he goes up against a Panthers defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points to the position this year. That makes him a strong TE1 play this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Bryce Young
Bryce Young should only be an option in deep Superflex formats this weekend against the Cardinals. He has finished with under 16 fantasy points in seven of his nine starts this season, and Arizona has allowed over 15 fantasy points to only two quarterbacks since Week 7. So, Young will be a low-end QB2 option in Week 16.
Things have been rough for Marvin Harrison Jr. recently. He has scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in three of the past four games and is currently the WR31 of the year. However, the rookie has some potential this week against the Panthers. WR1s like CeeDee Lamb (26.6 PPR fantasy points) and Mike Evans (25.8 PPR fantasy points) have had their way against corner Jaycee Horn in recent weeks. So, he's a flex option in Week 16.
WR Adam Thielen
Since coming back from injury, Adam Thielen has been Bryce Young's favorite target. He has 28 targets over the past three games and has scored in double figures in PPR formats in three straight weeks. So, Thielen will have some flex appeal this weekend in most leagues. The veteran will be going up against a Cardinals secondary that has allowed 13.9 PPR fantasy points per game to slot wideouts over the last six weeks.
WR Jalen Coker
With Xavier Legette (hip) unlikely to play this week, Jalen Coker will have some potential in deeper leagues this weekend. Coker played 87% of the team's offensive snaps a week ago and totaled 110 yards in the loss. Just keep in mind that the Cardinals have allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to outside wideouts since Week 10.
Injuries:
- Xavier Legette (hip)
Cleveland Browns at Cincinnati Bengals
Spread: Bengals -7.5
Matchups We Love:
TE David Njoku
It remains to be seen if David Njoku will be able to suit up in Week 16 after missing last week's game due to a hamstring injury. Even with Dorian Thompson-Robinson starting this weekend, Njoku will be a solid TE1 option against the Bengals. Cincinnati has given up the most fantasy points to the position this season and just allowed two top-7 fantasy tight ends a week ago.
Matchups We Hate:
WR Jerry Jeudy
Jerry Jeudy was looking like a league winner with Jameis Winston under center. However, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson starting, Jeudy will be a risky play in Week 16 against the Bengals. Thompson-Robinson has thrown for under 170 yards in each of his three career starts, and that will hurt the wideout's fantasy value this weekend.
Other Matchups:
QB Dorian Thompson-Robinson
Dorian Thompson-Robinson will draw the start in Week 16 against the Bengals, and this is a great matchup for him. Cincinnati has given up the third-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks and the most rushing yards (430) to the position this season. Still, he shouldn't be an option in most Superflex leagues this weekend. Thompson-Robinson has averaged only 7.7 fantasy points in his three career starts.
QB Joe Burrow
Joe Burrow will continue to be a strong QB1 option in Week 16 against the Browns. Burrow has thrown at least three passing touchdowns in six straight games and is currently the QB4 of the year. So, make sure to get the Bengals quarterback in your lineups this weekend. Cleveland has allowed multiple passing touchdowns in seven of the last nine games.
RB Jerome Ford
With Nick Chubb (foot) out for the season, Jerome Ford will draw the start in Week 16 against the Bengals. In five starts to begin the year, Ford scored in double figures in PPR formats in three of those games. As a result, that makes him a low-end RB2 play in Week 16. He should see the majority of snaps in this backfield, and Cincinnati has allowed a top-16 fantasy running back in five straight games.
RB Chase Brown
Chase Brown will remain a must-start in Week 16 against the Browns. Brown has finished as a top-10 fantasy running back in six straight games and has seen at least 20 touches in five of those contests. So, he'll come in as a solid RB1 play this weekend.
Bengals WRs
Both Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins need to be in lineups this week. Chase is currently the WR1 in PPR formats, and Higgins is averaging 16.99 PPR fantasy points per game. That makes both wideouts must-starts in Week 16 against the Browns. Cleveland has also allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to the position this year, and both Chase and Higgins scored over 17.5 PPR fantasy points against this secondary back in Week 7.
Injuries:
None
Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts
Spread: Colts -3.5
Matchups We Love:
RB Tony Pollard
Tony Pollard has been dealing with an ankle injury for a few weeks, but assuming he can suit up this weekend, he'll be a strong RB2 option against the Colts. Indianapolis has given up the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs and the third-most rush yards to the position this season. So, Pollard should be a solid start in most formats, considering he has rushed for over 100 yards in two of the past four games.
Tony Pollard is 18 yards from 1,000 rushing yards on the season and 26 yards from a career-high. He is currently 2nd in the AFC in rush yards
RT to send Tony to the Pro Bowl! #ProBowlVote + @Tp__5 pic.twitter.com/OMKEFWZ76j
— Tennessee Titans (@Titans) December 18, 2024
Matchups We Hate:
WR Josh Downs
At this point in the season, Josh Downs should be avoided in most cases. Anthony Richardson has completed 12 passes or fewer in four of the past six games, and Downs has totaled under seven PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games. Although the Colts wideout has seen 15 targets over the last two weeks, the Titans have allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to slot wideouts over the past six weeks. So, he's too risky to trust.
Other Matchups:
QB Anthony Richardson
Anthony Richardson will always have the rushing upside, which makes him an appealing fantasy option each week. Richardson has rushed for over 45 yards in consecutive games while finishing as a top-16 fantasy quarterback in three of the past four contests. As a result, he'll be a high-end QB2 play in Superflex formats this weekend against a Titans defense that has allowed a top-14 fantasy quarterback finish in four of the past five weeks.
Mason Rudolph will start for the Titans in Week 16, but he should only be an option in deeper Superflex leagues. Even though Rudolph has averaged 16.98 fantasy points in his three starts this season, it's hard to trust him in most leagues this weekend. The Colts have allowed only two top-12 fantasy quarterback finishes since Week 6.
The Colts are surely feeding the ball to Jonathan Taylor, as the running back has seen 20-plus carries in four of the past five games. While he doesn't have a top-12 fantasy finish during that span, his volume is an encouraging sign of his fantasy value moving forward. As a result, Taylor should continue to be a solid RB2 option against a Titans defense that has allowed 90-plus rush yards to three running backs since Week 13.
Calvin Ridley has not been a consistent fantasy option in recent weeks. He has scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in three of the past five games and hasn't totaled more than 60 receiving yards since Week 12. So, Ridley will be more of a WR3 play in Week 16. In three starts with Mason Rudolph this season, the Titans wideout has two top-36 wide receiver finishes.
Michael Pittman Jr. has been one of the bigger busts in fantasy this season and has scored above 10 PPR fantasy points just once since Week 7. Therefore, Pittman will be a riskier flex option this weekend against the Titans. Even though Tennessee has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to outside wide receivers since Week 10, the Colts wideout has such a low ceiling in fantasy on Sunday.
Injuries:
- Alec Pierce (concussion)
- Tony Pollard (ankle)
Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears
Spread: Lions -6.5
Matchups We Love:
RB Jahmyr Gibbs
Jahmyr Gibbs could be in for an RB1 finish in Week 16. Not only is David Montgomery (knee) out for this game, but this matchup against the Bears is golden for the young running back. Chicago has given up the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs while allowing 4.85 yards per carry on the ground this season. So, Gibbs needs to be started in all formats this week.
WR DJ Moore
DJ Moore continues to be involved in the passing game. He has seen 32 targets over the past three games and has scored in double figures in PPR formats in four straight weeks. So, the 27-year-old wideout will be a solid play this weekend against a banged-up Lions secondary. Moore also scored 23.7 PPR fantasy points the last time he faced this Detroit defense back in Week 13.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Jared Goff
Jared Goff does not play well in the cold, and that makes him a risky QB1 option in Week 16 against the Bears. In a December game in Chicago last year, Goff only managed to throw for 161 yards and one touchdown while throwing two interceptions in a loss. His 6.44 fantasy points in that game were his lowest of the season. Therefore, he'll be more of a QB2 option in Superflex formats this weekend.
D'Andre Swift has had some tough matchups in recent weeks, which has resulted in the Bears running back scoring under under 10 PPR fantasy points in four straight games. Unfortunately, things don't get easier for him in Week 16 against the Lions. Although Detroit is banged up on the defensive end, this front seven has allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to opposing backs this season. So, Swift is a low-end RB2 option.
Other Matchups:
Caleb Williams had a strong game against the Lions the last time he faced them back in Week 13. He threw 256 yards, three touchdowns, and finished as the QB5 on the week. However, Williams will be more of a QB2 option in Superflex formats this weekend. The rookie has thrown for under 200 yards in back-to-back games.
Lions WRs
Amon-Ra St. Brown will continue to be a strong WR1 option in Week 16 against the Bears. Although Goff has struggled through the air in cold conditions, fantasy managers can't be sitting St. Brown after his WR2 finish a week ago. As for Jameson Williams, he'll be a risky flex play against a Bears secondary that has allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season.
WR Keenan Allen
Keenan Allen will have some flex value in most leagues this weekend against a Lions defense that has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season. On top of that, Allen has become a reliable fantasy option in recent weeks. He has scored above 20 PPR fantasy points in three of the past four games while seeing 41 targets over the last four weeks.
TE Sam LaPorta
Things are certainly trending up for Sam LaPorta in fantasy. He has scored in double figures in PPR formats in three straight games and is coming off a seven-catch, 111-yard performance last week against the Bills. So, LaPorta will be a low-end TE1 option in Week 16 against the Bears. Chicago has allowed a top-10 fantasy tight-end finish in four straight weeks.
Injuries:
- David Montgomery (knee)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Afternoon Games
Minnesota Vikings at Seattle Seahawks
Spread: Vikings -3
Matchups We Love:
RB Aaron Jones
Aaron Jones has been great for fantasy managers in recent weeks, finishing as a top-14 fantasy running back in three of the past four games. Now, he gets a great matchup against a Seahawks defense that is allowing over 4.7 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season. So, Jones will be a solid RB2 play in Week 16.
WR DK Metcalf
DK Metcalf has not produced solid fantasy numbers since the team's Week 10 bye, scoring above 11 PPR fantasy points just once over the last five games. But this is a great matchup for Metcalf in Week 16 against the Vikings. Minnesota has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season. That makes the Seahawks wideout a solid WR3 play this weekend.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba will continue to be a solid WR2 option in Week 16 against the Vikings. Smith-Njigba has finished as a top-20 fantasy wide receiver in five of the past six games and just caught 10 passes for 83 yards last week against the Packers. So, fantasy managers should keep the second-year playmaker in all fantasy lineups in a great matchup.
Matchups We Hate:
Seahawks RBs
With Kenneth Walker III (calf) practicing in full on Thursday, there's a strong chance that he will be able to suit up in Week 16. However, this isn't a great matchup for Walker. The Vikings have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs this season, and only four running backs have scored above 12.5 PPR fantasy points against this defense this year. So, he'll be a riskier RB2 option.
Other Matchups:
QB Geno Smith
Geno Smith has not been a strong QB1 option in recent weeks, finishing with less than 14 fantasy points in four straight games. Now, he has a tougher matchup against a Vikings defense that has allowed only one top-20 fantasy quarterback finish since Week 9. That makes Smith more of a middle-of-the-pack QB2 play in Week 16.
QB Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold will come in as a low-end QB1 option in Week 16 against the Seahawks. Darnold has thrown multiple passing touchdowns in four of the past five games while finishing as a top-12 fantasy quarterback in five of the past seven weeks. That makes him a potential option in one-quarterback leagues, considering Seattle has allowed a top-10 fantasy quarterback finish in back-to-back contests.
Vikings WRs
Both Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison will be strong plays in Week 16 against the Seahawks. Jefferson is self-explanatory and should remain in all lineups this weekend. He is currently the WR3 in PPR formats. As for Addison, things are certainly trending up for him in the final few weeks of the season. He has caught at least seven passes in three of the past four games. So, the second-year playmaker will be a low-end WR2.
T.J. Hockenson will continue to be a low-end TE1 option in Week 16 against the Seahawks. He has seen at least six targets in three of the past four games and will be a solid play in most formats this weekend. Seattle has allowed over 13 PPR fantasy points to a tight end in five of the last nine weeks.
Injuries:
- Zach Charbonnet (oblique)
New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills
Spread: Bills -14
Matchups We Love:
Rhamondre Stevenson hasn't been a strong fantasy option in recent weeks, but he will be a solid RB2 play in a great matchup in Week 16 against the Bills. Buffalo has given up the second-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season while allowing over 22 PPR fantasy points to running backs in back-to-back games. That makes Stevenson a sneaky start this week.
RB James Cook
Fantasy managers should continue to start James Cook in their lineups in Week 16 against the Patriots. Although Cook has played under 50% of the team's offensive snaps in four straight games, the third-year running back has finished as a top-12 fantasy running back in three of those contests. Now, he gets a great matchup against a defense allowing over 4.6 yards per carry to opposing backs this season.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Drake Maye
Drake Maye has put up consistent fantasy numbers in recent weeks, scoring above 18 fantasy points in three of the past four games. As a result, he'll be a high-end QB2 play against the Bills in Week 16. Buffalo allowed both Matthew Stafford and Jared Goff to throw for a combined seven passing touchdowns over the past two weeks.
QB Josh Allen
Josh Allen will remain a must-start in Week 16 against the Patriots. He has scored over 40 fantasy points in consecutive weeks, and this New England defense has allowed over 23 fantasy points to three different quarterbacks across the past four games.
Khalil Shakir will remain a high-floor flex option in Week 16 against a Patriots defense that has allowed 13.5 PPR fantasy points per game to slot wideouts since Week 10. That's certainly great news for a wide receiver who has scored in double figures in PPR formats in 11 of 13 games in 2024. So, fantasy managers can feel confident about starting him in the second round of the fantasy football playoffs.
TE Hunter Henry
Hunter Henry has emerged as a middle-of-the-field target for rookie Drake Maye throughout the season. He has seen at least eight targets in four of the past six games while finishing as a top-10 fantasy option in two of the past four contests. As a result, Henry will come in as a low-end TE1 play this weekend against a Bills defense that just allowed 111 receiving yards to Sam LaPorta a week ago.
Dalton Kincaid returned from a knee injury last week and caught four passes for 53 yards while playing 49% of the team's offensive snaps. So, Kincaid will come in as a low-end TE1 play in Week 16 against the Patriots. New England has allowed at least nine catches to two different tight ends over the last three games.
Injuries:
None
Jacksonville Jaguars at Las Vegas Raiders
Spread: LV -1.5
Matchups We Love:
Aidan O'Connell will be back from his knee injury in Week 16 after missing last week's game. Now, he has a great matchup on deck against a Jaguars defense that has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season. So, O'Connell has some sneaky QB2 potential in deeper Superflex leagues this weekend. This Jacksonville defense just allowed Aaron Rodgers to score 30.1 fantasy points a week ago.
With Sincere McCormick (ankle) and Zamir White (quad) out for the season, Alexander Mattison will lead this backfield in Week 16. That makes him a potential flex play in 12-plus team leagues this weekend against the Jaguars. Jacksonville has given up the third-most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season.
Jakobi Meyers continues to operate as the Raiders' top wideout, as he has seen 45 targets over the last four games. As a result, he'll be a low-end WR2 play against the Jaguars in Week 16. Jacksonville has allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season and just let Davante Adams finish as the overall WR1 a week ago.
Brenton Strange did his best Evan Engram impression last week, catching 11 passes for 73 yards. Now, he gets a great matchup in Week 16 against a Raiders defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season. Las Vegas has also given up six receiving touchdowns to the position since Week 8.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Mac Jones
Although Mac Jones just scored 20 fantasy points last week against the Jets, he should only be a QB2 option in deeper Superflex leagues this weekend. Jones has scored in single digits in three of his four starts this season, and he just doesn't have much fantasy upside at your QB2 spot in Week 16.
Jaguars RBs
Even though the Raiders are allowing over 4.5 yards per carry on the ground this year, both Tank Bigsby and Travis Etienne Jr. should only be flex options in deeper leagues this weekend. Bigsby played only 26% of the team's offensive snaps last week, and Etienne hasn't totaled more than 13 PPR fantasy points since Week 2.
WR Brian Thomas Jr.
Brian Thomas Jr. has been on a roll in fantasy lately, scoring above 16 PPR fantasy points in three straight games. During that span, Thomas has also seen at least 10 targets in every game. So, Thomas will be a strong WR2 option in Week 16 against the Raiders. Las Vegas has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts over the last four weeks.
TE Brock Bowers
With Aidan O'Connell back under center, Brock Bowers should see more opportunities in the passing game than he did a week ago. So, Bowers will remain a strong TE1 option in Week 16 against the Jaguars. Jacksonville has allowed over 15 PPR fantasy points to tight ends like Dalton Schultz and T.J. Hockenson in recent weeks.
Injuries:
None
San Francisco 49ers at Miami Dolphins
Spread: Dolphins -1.5
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
QB Brock Purdy
Brock Purdy has been an inconsistent quarterback option in recent weeks, throwing for under 160 yards in three of the past four games. Unfortunately, he has a tough matchup on deck against the Dolphins. Miami has given up the second-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season, and only three quarterbacks have finished top-12 at the position this season. So, Purdy is a risky QB1 option.
At this point, fantasy managers can't be starting Deebo Samuel in Week 16. He has totaled under 6.5 PPR fantasy points in five straight games and hasn't finished as a top-20 fantasy wideout since Week 6. Now, he gets a Miami secondary that has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season. So, he's an extremely risky flex play this weekend.
TE Jonnu Smith
Jonnu Smith has been a strong TE1 option this season, finishing top-10 at the position in five straight games. However, he does have a tough matchup in Week 16 against the 49ers. San Francisco hasn't allowed a top-12 fantasy tight-end finish since Week 6. Still, Smith is a TE1 play this weekend, especially if Jaylen Waddle (knee) misses the contest.
Other Matchups:
Tua Tagovailoa had a rough fantasy day last week, only scoring 6.8 fantasy points. That performance ended a four-game streak in which Tagovailoa finished as a top-10 fantasy quarterback from Week 11 to Week 14. For this week, though, the Dolphins quarterback will be more of a QB2 play in Week 16 against the 49ers. San Francisco has allowed only three top-12 fantasy quarterback finishes this season.
De'Von Achane will remain a strong RB1 option in Week 16 against the 49ers. Achane has finished as a top-14 fantasy running back in five straight weeks while catching at least six passes in three consecutive games. As a result, he needs to be in all lineups this week. San Francisco has also allowed a 100-yard rusher in three of the past four weeks.
Christian McCaffrey (knee), Jordan Mason (ankle), and Isaac Guerendo (hamstring) will all be out for Sunday's game against the Dolphins. That means Patrick Taylor Jr. will draw the start in Week 16. While we don't know what to expect from Taylor since he has only 14 carries all year, he should be a solid flex play in most leagues this weekend. All San Fransisco running backs have thrived in this Kyle Shanahan scheme.
WR Tyreek Hill
Tyreek Hill caught only two passes in last week's loss but will remain a strong option in Week 16 against the 49ers. Hill has finished as a top-12 fantasy wide receiver in three of the past four games, and there's a good chance that Jaylen Waddle (knee) will miss this game after not practicing on Wednesday or Thursday. So, you're likely still starting him this week in a tougher matchup.
Jauan Jennings will likely see the Jalen Ramsey shadow in this game, but Jennings will still come in as a solid WR2 play. He has seen at least eight targets in consecutive games and has totaled more than 90 receiving yards three times since Week 10. Even though Miami has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to wideouts, this defense let both Davante Adams and Garrett Wilson score over 18 PPR fantasy points two weeks ago.
George Kittle will continue to be a strong TE1 play in Week 16 against the Dolphins. Miami has allowed some big games to tight ends in recent weeks, which included 78 receiving yards to Tucker Kraft in Week 13 and 126 receiving yards to Brock Bowers in Week 11. So, Kittle should remain in lineups.
Injuries:
- Jaylen Waddle (knee)
- Isaac Guerendo (hamstring)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Dallas Cowboys
Spread: Buccaneers -4
Matchups We Love:
Baker Mayfield will be a solid QB1 option in Week 16 against the Cowboys. Mayfield has finished as a top-10 fantasy quarterback in three of the past four games and will now face a Dallas secondary that has allowed seven different quarterbacks to score over 22 fantasy points this season. So, Mayfield can be started in most cases this weekend.
QB Cooper Rush
Cooper Rush has some sneaky QB2 potential this week against the Buccaneers. Rush has thrown multiple passing touchdowns in three of the past four games, and Tampa Bay has allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season. As a result, Rush can be a QB2 option in Superflex leagues in Week 16.
WR CeeDee Lamb
Fantasy managers should continue to start CeeDee Lamb in their WR1 spot. Lamb has scored over 20 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games and now has a great matchup against the Buccaneers in Week 16. Tampa Bay has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season.
Buccaneers WRs
With two top-3 fantasy wide receiver finishes over the last three games, Mike Evans will continue to be a must-start option in Week 16 against the Cowboys. He will be a high-end WR2 play. As for Jalen McMillan, he can be a solid flex play in 12-plus team leagues. He has totaled over 18 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games, and this Cowboys secondary has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to wideouts since Week 12.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Buccaneers RBs
The Cowboys have been better at stopping the run in recent weeks, but both Bucky Irving and Rachaad White will be solid starts in Week 16. Irving has finished as a top-18 fantasy running back in four of the past five games, and White continues to run the ball well. He has rushed for over 60 yards in three straight games. So, both Irving and White will be RB2 plays in Week 16.
RB Rico Dowdle
Rico Dowdle has been one of the hottest rushers in the NFL, rushing for over 100 yards in three straight games. That has helped him finish as a top-20 fantasy running back in consecutive weeks. The good news for him is that he now faces a Buccaneers defense that is allowing 4.5 yards per carry to opposing backs this season. So, Dowdle will be a solid RB2 option on Sunday night.
Jake Ferguson hasn't quite developed a strong connection with Cooper Rush, finishing with under 33 receiving yards in three straight full games. Therefore, Ferguson will be more of a TE2 option in Week 16 against the Buccaneers. He'll have a low floor in fantasy this weekend.
TE Cade Otton
Cade Otton has not been a strong fantasy option since Mike Evans has returned. He has scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in three of the past four games and has only seen seven targets over the last two weeks. So, Otton will be more of a TE2 play in Week 16 against a Cowboys defense that hasn't allowed a top-12 fantasy tight end in three straight contests.
Injuries:
- Cade Otton (knee)
Matchups Analysis - Monday Night Football
New Orleans Saints at Green Bay Packers
Spread: Packers -14
Matchups We Love:
RB Josh Jacobs
The Packers continue to feed Josh Jacobs on the ground, as the veteran has scored over 20 PPR fantasy points in five straight games. Now, he gets a great matchup against the Saints in Week 16. New Orleans has given up the sixth-most rush yards to running backs this season while allowing the 10th-most fantasy points to the position. So, Jacobs is a strong RB1 option on Monday night.
WR Romeo Doubs/Christian Watson
Both Romeo Doubs and Christian Watson have sneaky flex potential in Week 16 against the Saints. New Orleans has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season, and Doubs is coming off a two-touchdown game last week. So, he's the Packer wideout fantasy managers should prefer heading into Monday. As for Watson, he'll be a boom-or-bust flex play after seeing 13 targets over the past two games.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Jordan Love
Jordan Love hasn't quite been a solid QB1 option in recent weeks, finishing outside the top 12 at the position in two of the past seven games. As a result, Love will be more of a high-end QB2 play this week against the Saints. With the Packers being 14-point favorites in this game, they might not need to rely on the pass much on Monday.
With Alvin Kamara (groin) likely out for the season, Kendre Miller will be the next man up in this backfield. Last week, Miller played a season-high 47% of the team's offensive snaps while rushing for 46 yards on just nine carries. As a result, Miller will be a low-end RB2 play this week against the Packers. Green Bay has also allowed at least five catches to three different running backs over the past three weeks.
WR Jayden Reed
At this point, fantasy managers can't be starting Jayden Reed in fantasy. Although the Saints have allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to slot wideouts since Week 10, Reed has been almost nonexistent in the passing game. He has totaled under 35 receiving yards in five straight games. So, he'll be more of a flex play in 12-plus team leagues this week.
TE Tucker Kraft
Tucker Kraft has been a solid TE1 option this season, finishing top-14 at the position in three of the past four games. However, he'll be more of a TE2 play this week against the Saints. He has caught three passes or fewer in seven of the past nine games, and the Saints have allowed only two tight ends to score more than 10 PPR fantasy points against them since Week 6.
Injuries:
- Alvin Kamara (groin)
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