RADIO
Welcome back, RotoBallers, to another start'em and sit'em piece as we look ahead to Week 5! With injuries piling up and bye weeks now in full swing, fantasy managers might have to look deeper on their benches. So, if that's the case, you have come to the right place. This Week 5 matchups analysis and Start 'Em, Sit 'Em piece will look at the best and worst matchups of the week.
Last week, players like James Cook, Garrett Wilson, and Travis Etienne Jr. all made the hate list. While Etienne did leave the contest briefly with an injury, his 11 carries for 50 yards across 30 snaps wasn't exactly the best fantasy game. The same can be said about Cook and Wilson, who both scored under 7.2 PPR fantasy points.
So, let's dive into every Week 5 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 the 2025 playoffs:- 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)
New York Jets at Minnesota Vikings
Spread: Vikings -2.5
Implied Total: Jets (19) vs. Vikings (21.5)
Matchups We Love:
RB Aaron Jones
Aaron Jones has been one of the best fantasy running backs this season, totaling at least 105 yards from scrimmage in three of four games. He has also caught at least four passes and totaled over 35 receiving yards in three straight games. Now, he goes up against a Jets defense that is allowing the fourth-most receiving yards (197) and over 4.6 yards per carry to opposing running backs in 2024. So, make sure to get Jones in your lineups.
Given the tight-end landscape this year and the fact that Sam LaPorta and Dallas Goedert are both on byes this week, Tyler Conklin is a sneaky play. He has seen at least six targets in back-to-back games and now faces a Vikings defense that has allowed a TE1 finish in two of the past three weeks (Tucker Kraft and George Kittle). So, if you need a tight end for Week 5, Conklin could be a solid play in 12-plus team leagues.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold has emerged as a strong QB1 option, but fantasy managers should be hesitant to start him in Week 5. Quarterbacks are averaging only 8.6 fantasy points per game against this defense. Granted, New York has faced Will Levis, Jacoby Brissett, and Bo Nix over the past three weeks. However, Brock Purdy also only managed to score 10.3 fantasy points back in Week 1. As a result, Darnold will come in as more of a QB2 this week.
The Vikings defense is legit, and quarterback Aaron Rodgers could struggle through the air in Week 5. Despite Minnesota giving up the most pass yards (1,188) through the first four weeks, it ranks first in sacks (17), fourth in points allowed, third in EPA per play, and fourth in success rate. Both C.J. Stroud and Purdy were held to under 15 fantasy points against this unit this year, so Rodgers is a risky QB2 option in Week 5.
RB Breece Hall
Breece Hall scored a season-low 3.8 PPR fantasy points in Week 4. Hall hasn't been a great runner through the first four weeks, as he is averaging only 3.1 yards per carry. Unfortunately, things might not be better for him in Week 5 against the Vikings. Minnesota is allowing only 3.8 yards per carry in the early going. You are still starting the 23-year-old in fantasy this week, but expectations should be tempered.
Other Matchups:
On paper, this isn't the best matchup for Justin Jefferson, considering Sauce Gardner will be opposite him. The good news, though, is that Gardner hasn't shadowed any WR1s this season. The Jets corner has played 84% of his snaps on the left side, the same side that Jefferson has only played 36% of his snaps. So, the All-Pro wideout should be just fine in this game -- even against a tough Jets secondary.
WR Garrett Wilson
If there's a week that Wilson finally explodes, it's in Week 5. Minnesota has allowed the most receiving yards (886) and third-most fantasy points to wideouts this season. While Wilson is averaging only 2.9 yards of separation to begin the season, the matchup against Stephon Gilmore is a great one. Gilmore ranks outside the top 50 in catch rate allowed (75%) and receiving yards allowed (106) this year.
Garrett Wilson spoke on frustrations with his slow start this season. pic.twitter.com/kBQ6EE7Aaj
— ESPN Fantasy Sports (@ESPNFantasy) October 1, 2024
In his first game back, Jordan Addison caught three passes for 72 yards and one touchdown. His 22.9 PPR fantasy points also helped him finish as the WR7 in PPR formats. However, it'll be hard to trust the young wideout in lineups this week. He only saw four targets in Week 4, and New York's secondary is a tough matchup. Addison is likely going to be matched up against Gardner/D.J. Reed for most of the contest, so he's a low-end WR3.
Injuries:
None
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 1:00 EDT Games
Baltimore Ravens at Cincinnati Bengals
Spread: Ravens -2.5
Implied Total: Ravens (26.5) vs. Bengals (24)
Matchups We Love:
Bengals TEs
Erick All Jr. played a season-high 60% of the Bengals' offensive snaps in Week 4. Given that the rookie has caught four passes in three consecutive games, he is an interesting play this week against a Ravens defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points to tight ends. As for Mike Gesicki, he is a riskier play, considering he played just 33% of snaps last week. So, All is my preferred choice over Gesicki this week.
Matchups We Hate:
Bengals RBs
Every running back who has faced the Ravens defense this year has struggled. Isiah Pacheco only averaged three yards per carry in Week 1 and James Cook finished with only 39 rush yards last week. So, this isn't great news for either Zack Moss or Chase Brown this weekend. Baltimore is allowing only 2.7 yards per carry to opposing backs this season, making Moss and Brown risky plays in Week 5 in all formats.
Ravens TEs
At this point, fantasy managers can't keep starting Mark Andrews and Isaiah Likely. Andrews hasn't caught a pass since Week 2, and Likely has only caught four passes over the past three weeks. So, it's best to sit both of them against the Bengals in Week 5. Cincinnati is also allowing only 6.2 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season.
Other Matchups:
Lamar Jackson has been one of the most consistent quarterback options this season. He has finished as a top-10 quarterback in all four games this season while scoring at least 23 fantasy points in three of four contests. As a result, you are starting him no matter the matchup. Jackson has totaled at least 45 rush yards in all four games and now faces a Bengals defense that has allowed the 10th-most rush yards to quarterbacks.
QB Joe Burrow
This could be a tough matchup for Joe Burrow, considering what Baltimore's defense did to Josh Allen a week ago. However, the Ravens have given up the third-most pass yards (1,128) this season while allowing a completion percentage of 64.2. Burrow has been a solid fantasy option over the last three weeks, finishing as a top-10 quarterback in all three games. So, he's still a solid QB1 option this weekend.
After seeing what Derrick Henry has done over the past two weeks, you aren't sitting him by any means. He has scored 30-plus PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games while rushing for a combined 350 yards and three touchdowns in those contests. Therefore, keep Henry in your lineups this week against a Bengals defense that is allowing 4.5 yards per carry to opposing backs this season.
WR Zay Flowers
It has been a disappointing couple of weeks for wide receiver Zay Flowers. He has caught just four passes for 30 yards over the past two games. However, part of that has been due to the Ravens' lack of passing. Jackson has only thrown a combined 33 passes since Week 2. But assuming this game is close, look for Flowers to be a solid WR3. Cincinnati is allowing over 11 PPR fantasy points to opposing slot wideouts this season.
Bengals WRs
Both Ja'Marr Chase (17.5 PPR points) and Tee Higgins (12 PPR points) had solid fantasy days in Week 3. Fantasy managers, though, likely expect more from both Bengals wideouts moving forward. If you have Chase, you are starting him regardless this week against the Ravens. If you have Higgins, he is a potential flex play. Despite his 2.5 yards of separation ranking toward the bottom of the league, his 10 targets last week led the team. So, there is some appeal in starting him this weekend in a game that should be high-scoring. The Ravens have also allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season.
Injuries:
None
Indianapolis Colts at Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: Jaguars -2.5
Implied Total: Colts (22) vs. Jaguars (24.5)
Matchups We Love:
Colts QBs
With Anthony Richardson (oblique/abdomen) leaving last week's contest early, it remains to be seen if he will be ready to go for Week 5. If he can't, the Colts will roll with veteran Joe Flacco. Either way, though, both quarterbacks are must-starts in fantasy this week. The Jaguars have allowed the most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season, and the fourth-most yards per play (5.9).
Update: Flacco is expected to start with Richardson listed as doubtful. He's a sneaky QB2 option.
It has been a rough start to the season for Trevor Lawrence. He has thrown for more than 180 yards in a game just once this season while failing to score at least 15 fantasy points in all four games this year. But with four teams on bye, Lawrence is a sneaky high-end QB2 in Week 5. The Colts have allowed the third-most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season and the sixth-most pass yards (1,031).
Colts RBs
The Colts running back room is something fantasy managers will have to pay close attention to this week, as Jonathan Taylor (ankle) is dealing with a mild high ankle sprain. If he can go, you are starting him against the Jaguars. If he can't, Trey Sermon becomes a low-end RB2 option. Jacksonville ranks 24th in run-stop win rate (29%) through four weeks while allowing the third-most receiving yards to opposing backs.
Update: Taylor has been ruled out.
It's hard to sit Brian Thomas Jr. after what he did last week, catching six passes for 86 yards and one touchdown. Now, he gets a matchup against a Colts secondary that has had its struggles through the first few weeks. His potential matchup on the outside could be corner Jaylon Jones -- who ranked 64th in target separation (1.8) last year. Thomas ranks 17th in that same category (2.08) to begin his career, so a big game could be in store.
TE Evan Engram
It appears Evan Engram (hamstring) is close to a return after practicing in a limited fashion to start the week. Engram has missed three games due to a hamstring injury, but if he plays in Week 5, he is a strong start against the Colts. Indianapolis has allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this season. Even though Engram will likely be on somewhat of a snap count, he should be plugged into your lineups this week.
Update: Engram is not expected to play, making Brenton Strange a potential play in deeper formats
Matchups We Hate:
WR Christian Kirk (if Kenny Moore II plays)
Colts cornerback Kenny Moore II (hip) didn't play last week and his status is in jeopardy for Week 5 after missing practice on Wednesday. If he can't go, Christian Kirk is a low-end WR2 after totaling 15 catches for 140 yards and one touchdown over the past two weeks. However, if Moore does suit up, Kirk will be a riskier play.
Moore has established himself as one of the best slot corners in the league, and while he hasn't had a strong year yet, he has had Kirk's numbers over the past few years. In their last three meetings together, the Jaguars wideout has only eight catches for 82 yards and two touchdowns.
Update: Moore has been ruled out, so Kirk is a strong play this weekend.
Other Matchups:
The start of Etienne's season hasn't gone to plan. He currently ranks as the RB26 in PPR formats while failing to score more than 15 PPR fantasy points in any game. However, the Colts have allowed two 100-yard rushers through the first four weeks, and Etienne has played at least 69% of the offensive snaps in three of four games this season. So, this is a solid matchup to get him on track. He's an RB2 option this weekend.
WR Michael Pittman Jr./Josh Downs
It was a surprising performance from Michael Pittman Jr. last week against the Steelers. The 26-year-old reeled in six passes for a career-high 113 yards with Flacco under center. However, if Richardson is back, Pittman is a risky play this week -- even against a Jaguars secondary that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to wideouts. If Flacco gets the start, though, the Colts wideout will be a strong WR2 option.
Josh Downs is also an interesting play this week. He finished as the WR8 in PPR formats last week and has a great matchup against a Jaguars defense that has allowed over 14.5 PPR fantasy points to slot wideouts this season. However, it'll be hard to trust him if Richardson starts under center this week.
Update: Both Pittman and Downs are strong plays this week with Flacco starting.
Injuries:
- Evan Engram (hamstring)
- Jonathan Taylor (ankle)
- Anthony Richardson (oblique/abdomen)
Miami Dolphins at New England Patriots
Spread: Patriots -1.5
Implied Total: Dolphins (17) vs. Patriots (18.5)
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
Quarterback Tyler Huntley will make another start in Week 5, but he doesn't have much fantasy value against the Patriots. He scored just 11.8 fantasy points last week while throwing for 96 yards. With four teams on bye, though, Huntley could be a fine play in Superflex formats because of his rushing upside. He rushed for 40 yards in last week's loss.
Brissett has scored in double figures just once this season, so he shouldn't even be an option in Superflex formats this week. The Dolphins have allowed the fourth-fewest pass yards (700) and third-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season. With four teams on bye, you might be looking for a quarterback in your Superflex spot. However, you're better off starting a running back or wide receiver in that spot this week.
Dolphins WRs
At this point, you can't be starting Tyreek Hill or Jaylen Waddle in fantasy. Hill has scored a combined 15.2 PPR fantasy points in two games without Tua Tagovailoa (concussion), while Waddle has scored only 13.8 PPR fantasy points in those two contests. With Huntley drawing another start in Week 5, both Dolphins wideouts will be risky plays. Hill is more of a WR3 this week and Waddle comes in as a low-end WR4.
Other Matchups:
Patriots RBs
Given that the Dolphins have struggled to stop the run this season, Rhamondre Stevenson was going to be a strong start for fantasy managers in Week 5. But after reports came out that Antonio Gibson could take over the starting role following Stevenson's fumble issues, it's best to stay away from this backfield altogether this weekend.
Update: Gibson is expected to start, but Stevenson will be involved.
Without Tagovailoa, De'Von Achane has struggled to get things going. He has just 21 carries for 45 yards over the past two weeks while finishing with under 10 PPR fantasy points in both games. As a result, Achane is not necessarily a must-start against a Patriots front seven that ranks 13th in run-stop win rate (32%). The Dolphins running back also ranks dead last in rush yards over expected per attempt (-1.77) this season.
TE Hunter Henry
Fantasy managers might need a tight end this week with LaPorta and Goedert both on byes. However, Hunter Henry is not the best option. He has caught only two passes for less than 20 yards in three of four games this season, and Miami has only allowed 130 receiving yards to tight ends through four games. There are better options at tight end than Henry this week.
Injuries:
- Tua Tagovailoa (concussion)
- Raheem Mostert (chest)
Cleveland Browns at Washington Commanders
Spread: Commanders -3
Implied Total: Commanders (23.25) vs. Browns (20.25)
Matchups We Love:
If you need a quarterback this week, Deshaun Watson is worth a look. The Commanders have given up the second-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season and have allowed three quarterbacks (Daniel Jones, Baker Mayfield, and Joe Burrow) to score above 18 fantasy points. It hasn't been great for Watson in the early going, but given this matchup and his rushing upside, he could be a sneaky play in Week 5.
RB Jerome Ford
With Nick Chubb (knee) still recovering from his ACL injury, Jerome Ford will continue to be the Browns RB1. He has scored in double figures in PPR formats in three of four games and should be a solid RB2 option in a great matchup against the Commanders. Washington has allowed the fourth-most rush yards (488) to running backs and ranks 25th in run-block win rate this season. So, as long as Chubb is out, Ford is a solid RB2.
Update: Chubb has been ruled out.
Browns WRs
WR1s have dominated against Washington's secondary through the first four weeks. Mike Evans, Chase, Malik Nabers, and Marvin Harrison Jr. all scored touchdowns when facing the Commanders defense this year. That is certainly good news for Amari Cooper in Week 5. While Cooper hasn't been a great fantasy option to start the season, he has seen at least eight targets in all four games. So, he is a strong WR2 option this week.
As for Jerry Jeudy, he could be a sneaky flex play. He has caught at least five passes in two of the last three games while scoring double-digit fantasy points in PPR formats in three of four contests to start the year. Given Washington has allowed the third-most fantasy points to the slot this year -- where Jeudy lines up about 35% of the time -- he has some potential in Week 5.
Matchups We Hate:
Commanders RBs
If you have Brian Robinson Jr., you aren't sitting him. Robinson has seen at least 16 carries in three straight games, and he just tallied his first 100-yard rushing game of the season. However, Cleveland has done a great job stopping running backs this season. It ranks second in run-block win rate (34%) while allowing the seventh-fewest fantasy points to the position. Still, Robinson is a solid RB2 play this week (if he plays this week).
As for Austin Ekeler (concussion), he is expected to be back this weekend. But fantasy managers should only start him in 14-plus team leagues. The Browns have allowed only 14 catches for 99 yards to opposing running backs through four weeks.
Update: Robinson should be 'good to go', and Ekeler is cleared to play.
Other Matchups:
Jayden Daniels has emerged as a strong QB1 option heading into a Week 5 matchup against the Browns. Despite Cleveland only allowing 12.3 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, Daniels should be started everywhere this weekend. He has scored 25-plus fantasy points in three of four games this season and with his rushing upside, he'll have a high fantasy ceiling on Sunday.
Terry McLaurin has had back-to-back strong fantasy days. While the matchup against the Browns seems like a tough one in Week 5, it isn't. Given that McLaurin plays 55% of his snaps on the left side, he will be matched up primarily with Martin Emerson Jr. Emerson ranks 77th in target separation (2.1) and 50th in catch rate allowed (63.6%) this season. So, the Commanders wideout is a solid WR2 in Week 5.
TE Zach Ertz
If you need a tight end for Week 5, Zach Ertz could be a high-floor option. The veteran has scored at least 7.2 PPR fantasy points in three straight contests while seeing at least four targets in two of the last three games. He likely won't get fantasy managers more than 10 points, but he can be a fine replacement for this week.
TE David Njoku
David Njoku (ankle) has missed the past three games due to an ankle injury he suffered back in Week 1. But he could return in Week 5 after practicing in a limited fashion to start the week. If he does suit up, he could be a low-end TE1 in his first game back. Even though the Commanders have allowed only 86 receiving yards to tight ends this year, Njoku should have a relatively high floor against that secondary.
Update: Njoku is questionable.
Injuries:
- David Njoku (ankle)
- Austin Ekeler (concussion)
- Brian Robinson Jr. (knee)
Buffalo Bills at Houston Texans
Spread: Bills -1.5
Implied Total: Bills (24.5) vs. Texans (23)
Matchups We Love:
QB Josh Allen
It has been a couple of up-and-down weeks from Allen. He has finished as the overall QB1 in two weeks while finishing outside the top 27 at the quarterback position the two other weeks. However, expect Allen to bounce back in Week 5 after a disappointing performance last week. The Texans have allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season.
RB Joe Mixon
It remains to be seen if Joe Mixon (ankle) will play this week. He has missed the past two games with an ankle injury and has yet to practice this week. If he plays, though, he should be in everyone's fantasy lineups. Buffalo has given up the most fantasy points to the position this year, and opposing running backs are averaging 5.2 yards per carry against this defense through four weeks. So, start the veteran this weekend.
Update: Mixon has been ruled out, making Cam Akers a low-end RB2 option this week.
Khalil Shakir briefly left last week's game with an ankle injury before returning shortly after. However, Shakir is on the injury report this week and has yet to practice this week. Assuming he suits up, though, he is a sneaky flex play in Week 5. For starters, he has scored in double-digits in PPR formats in all four games this season. On top of that, Houston is allowing over 16 PPR fantasy points per game to slot wideouts in 2024.
Update: Shakir has been ruled out for Sunday.
Matchups We Hate:
WR Tank Dell
Tank Dell didn't play last week due to a chest injury, but the good news is that he returned to practice in a limited fashion on Wednesday. That surely puts him on track to play in Week 5 against the Bills. However, Dell is a risky play this weekend. He has only scored in double figures in PPR formats once this season and now goes up against a Bills secondary that is allowing the second-fewest fantasy points to wideouts.
Update: Dell will play on Sunday.
Dalton Kincaid continues to disappoint fantasy managers, scoring in single digits in PPR formats in three of four games this season. The good news is that he saw a season-high seven targets last week. The bad news, though, is that the Texans have been pretty good against tight ends this season. Linebacker Azeez Al-Shaair -- who will likely be in coverage against Kincaid this week -- has a 70.8 PFF grade this season.
Other Matchups:
QB C.J. Stroud
Stroud had his first 20-point fantasy performance last week, scoring 23.5 fantasy points and finishing as the QB7. While the Bills defense has been an above-average unit this year, there might be concern from fantasy managers to start the second-year quarterback this week. Buffalo has allowed only 744 pass yards and four pass touchdowns through four weeks. Therefore, the Texans quarterback will come in as a low-end QB1 in Week 5.
RB James Cook
It has been a couple of weird weeks for Cook in fantasy, as he hasn't seen many fourth-quarter opportunities over the past three games. That's because the Bills have been a part of three straight lopsided games. He also has a tough matchup against the Texans this weekend. Houston ranks 12th in run-stop win rate (32%) while allowing the sixth-fewest fantasy points to running backs. Still, you're starting Cook this weekend.
WR Nico Collins
The Bills have been tough on opposing wideouts this season, but Nico Collins has been on a different level through four weeks. Collins leads the league with 489 receiving yards and currently ranks as the WR2 in PPR formats. As a result, you're starting him no matter the matchup moving forward.
WR Stefon Diggs
It's a revenge game for Stefon Diggs as he will play his former team for the first time. Despite the fact Buffalo has given up the second-fewest fantasy points to wideouts this year, his matchup in this game is not particularly tough. With Diggs playing in the slot, he will be matched up against Cam Lewis on Sunday. Lewis has allowed the most receptions (23) among all corners this season. So, get the veteran in your lineups.
After a solid 2023 campaign, it has been hard to trust Dalton Schultz in fantasy this year. Part of the reason is that there are just too many mouths to feed in Houston's offense. As a result, Schultz has caught three passes or less in all four games this season. With Dell likely returning on Sunday, the 28-year-old tight end should remain on benches in Week 5.
Injuries:
- Joe Mixon (ankle)
- Tank Dell (chest)
Carolina Panthers at Chicago Bears
Spread: Bears -3.5
Implied Total: Panthers (19.5) vs. Bears (23)
Matchups We Love:
D'Andre Swift is coming off his best game of the season, rushing for 93 yards and one touchdown. Now, he gets a Panthers defense that has struggled to stop the run through the first four weeks. Carolina ranks 29th in both rush yards allowed per game (148.8) and run-stop win rate (28%). So, this could be another strong Swift game. Make sure to get him into your lineups this week because he's a strong RB2 option.
TE Cole Kmet
After a 10-catch, 97-yard performance in Week 3, Cole Kmet only managed to reel in three catches for 34 yards. But he could be a potential TE1 play this week against the Panthers. Carolina has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends this year, and Kmet has established himself as a reliable middle-of-the-field target for Caleb Williams.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Andy Dalton
The Panthers offense has looked much different since Andy Dalton has taken over. In two games with the veteran under center, Carolina has scored 60 total points. Dalton has also become a sneaky quarterback option in fantasy, as he has finished as a top-12 quarterback in back-to-back games. However, fantasy managers should stay away from him in Week 5. The Bears have allowed the fewest fantasy points to the position this year.
Since Dalton has taken over, Diontae Johnson has finished as the WR6 (Week 3) and WR10 (Week 4) in PPR formats. While you are likely still starting Johnson this week, the matchup against Jaylon Johnson isn't ideal. Johnson has allowed only five catches all year with a 41.7% catch rate (seventh best amongst corners). So, expectations should be tempered for the Panthers wideout.
Other Matchups:
QB Caleb Williams
Fantasy managers who own Williams probably shouldn't roll him out in fantasy this week -- even against a bottom Panthers defense. Williams has finished outside the top 20 at the quarterback position in three of four games this season. So, he's a risky QB2 option in Superflex formats in Week 5.
Chuba Hubbard is another Panthers player who has seen his fantasy value rise since Dalton took over. He has rushed for over 100 yards in each of the past two games while finishing as a top-8 fantasy running back in both weeks. Now, he gets a Bears defense that is allowing over 4.6 yards per carry to running backs. Chicago also ranks 28th in run-stop win rate this season, so lock Hubbard in as a strong RB2 play this week.
Xavier Legette could be a solid flex play in Week 5, especially after the rookie saw 10 targets last week. That led to him catching six passes for 66 yards and one touchdown. With Johnson likely on Johnson for most of this game, Legette should be highly involved in the passing game this weekend. His matchup (Tyrique Stevenson) has also given up 17 receptions this season, which is tied for the 10th most through four weeks.
WR DJ Moore
Through four weeks, DJ Moore has been a high-floor fantasy option. He has scored in double figures in PPR formats in all four games this season but has failed to score more than 15.5 PPR fantasy points in any game. As a result, Moore isn't necessarily a must-start option this week. Jaycee Horn has allowed only nine receptions to start the season, and the Bears wideout ranks 51st in target accuracy (6.2) in 2024.
At this point of the season, Keenan Allen and Rome Odunze are better left on benches. In two games this season, Allen has caught just seven passes for 48 yards. As for Odunze, he has busted in three of the four weeks this season. Aside from his 23.4 PPR fantasy points in Week 3, the rookie has scored less than 5.2 PPR fantasy points in the other three contests. So, it's best to sit both Bears wideouts in Week 5.
Injuries:
None
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Afternoon Games
Las Vegas Raiders at Denver Broncos
Spread: Broncos -2.5
Implied Total: Raiders (17) vs. Broncos (19.5)
Matchups We Love:
It was nice to see Javonte Williams finally have a strong running day last week against the Jets. He ran 16 times for 77 yards while playing 57% of Denver's offensive snaps. Now, he gets a Raiders defense in Week 5 that has struggled to stop the run through the first four weeks. Las Vegas has given up the eighth-most fantasy points and fifth-most catches (22) to backs this season. As a result, Williams is a low-end RB2 this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
Gardner Minshew II has not been a solid quarterback option in Superflex formats this year. He has scored less than 15 fantasy points in every game while finishing as a top-18 quarterback just once through four weeks. With a matchup against a tough Broncos defense this week, Minshew should only be started in deeper Superflex formats. Denver has allowed the eighth-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in the early going.
With Davante Adams (hamstring) not playing in Week 5, Jakobi Meyers should see more opportunities in the passing game. Last week, Meyers saw a season-high 10 targets. However, you shouldn't be starting him this weekend. Patrick Surtain II will likely shadow him in the contest, and Surtain has already shut down DK Metcalf, Evans, and Wilson this season. So, the Raiders wideout is not a strong play on Sunday.
According to the @FantasyPtsData team:
45% first-read target rate for Jakobi Meyers without Davante Adams in Week 4👀👀👀
— Jacob Gibbs (@jagibbs_23) October 1, 2024
Other Matchups:
QB Bo Nix
Nix threw for only 60 yards in last week's win, so it'll be hard to rely on him against the Raiders. But he does have some potential as a Superflex option with four teams on bye this week. He has totaled at least 25 rush yards in three of four games while throwing for over 200 yards in two of those contests. Given that Las Vegas could be missing Maxx Crosby (ankle) on Sunday, Nix is a low-end QB2 in Week 5.
Raiders RBs
This Raiders backfield is becoming extremely messy for fantasy purposes. Zamir White was supposed to be the team's RB1 this season, but Alexander Mattison has eaten into his workload to start the season. With head coach Antonio Pierce also saying that Mattison's role will increase moving forward, this is a backfield that fantasy managers should avoid until further notice.
Update: White is dealing with a groin injury and will miss Week 5. Mattison is an RB2 option this week in a tough matchup.
WR Tre Tucker
Tre Tucker is a sneaky play this week in most 12-plus team leagues. He has totaled over 15 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games while finishing as a top-28 fantasy wide receiver in both contests. With Adams out and Meyers drawing the Surtain shadow, Tucker should see plenty of opportunities in the passing game. He's a solid flex play on Sunday.
Courtland Sutton is the Broncos WR1. He has seen at least nine targets in three of four games and has scored in double figures in PPR formats in each of the last two contests. He now gets a solid matchup this week against cornerback Jakorian Bennett, who is allowing over 14 yards per reception this year. Given Sutton's big-play ability, he is a solid flex play in Week 5.
TE Brock Bowers
It has been a couple of disappointing weeks for tight end Brock Bowers. After finishing as the TE3 in each of the first two weeks, he has caught just five passes for 60 yards over the past two games. However, you're still starting the rookie tight end this week, especially against a Broncos secondary that has allowed 21 catches to the position this year.
Injuries:
- Davante Adams (hamstring)
- Zamir White (groin)
Arizona Cardinals at San Francisco 49ers
Spread: 49ers -7.5
Implied Total: Cardinals (21) vs. 49ers (28.5)
Matchups We Love:
QB Brock Purdy
After finishing as the QB6 last year, Purdy hasn't been a strong fantasy option through the first month of the season. He has only one top-12 quarterback finish and one multi-passing touchdown game. However, look for Purdy to have a nice day in Week 5 against a Cardinals defense that is allowing the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season. Fantasy managers should lock him in as their QB1 this week.
RB Jordan Mason
Jordan Mason has averaged 18.6 PPR fantasy points through the first four weeks and remains a strong RB1 option with Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) out. In Week 5, he draws a favorable matchup against the Cardinals. Arizona ranks dead last in run-stop win rate (27%) this season while allowing over 4.4 yards per carry to opposing backs. So, Mason should be started in every league this week.
The 49ers welcomed back Deebo Samuel last week following his one-game absence. In his return, he caught three passes for 58 yards and rushed two times for 14 yards. He now gets an excellent matchup against Arizona's secondary in Week 5. The Cardinals are allowing over 33 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season and almost 15 PPR fantasy points per game to the slot. So, Samuel is a must-start.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Kyler Murray
Kyler Murray has been disappointing to start the season. As a result, he isn't necessarily a must-start quarterback option moving forward. He has only scored more than 16 fantasy points once, and last week, he ran just one time for three yards. Given that the 49ers have allowed only 41 rush yards to quarterbacks this season while allowing less than 14 fantasy points per game to the position, Murray is a low-end QB1 this week.
TE Trey McBride
Trey McBride (concussion) missed last week's game due to a concussion but signs point to him playing in Week 5 against the 49ers. However, the matchup isn't the best for him. San Francisco is allowing only 5.6 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this year, and Fred Warner has been one of the best coverage linebackers this season. Still, you're starting McBride if he plays this weekend.
Update: McBride cleared concussion protocol, but he is questionable for Sunday with a rib injury.
Other Matchups:
RB James Conner
With the Cardinals being huge underdogs in this game, James Conner fantasy owners should be a bit concerned for him this week. If Arizona falls behind early, Conner might not see many opportunities in the run game. In the past three meetings between these two teams, the veteran hasn't seen more than 14 carries in any of those games. So, he'll be a lower-end RB2 this week, and you're hoping he can just fall into the end zone.
No fantasy wide receiver has been more disappointing than Brandon Aiyuk to start the season. Aiyuk has yet to score in double figures in any game this season and ranks bottom five in the league in average separation (2.1 yards) this year. Even with a matchup against Sean Murphy-Bunting and/or Starling Thomas V this week -- two corners who have struggled in the early going -- the 49ers wideout is a risky WR2.
Cardinals WRs
If the Cardinals fall behind early in this game, that could be good news for both Harrison and Michael Wilson. Harrison is almost a must-start this week after catching at least four passes and scoring a touchdown in three straight games. As for Wilson, he has some sneaky fantasy value this week. He has seen 16 targets over the past two games and remains the WR2 in Arizona's offense.
TE George Kittle
Kittle is dealing with a rib injury, but assuming he plays, he should be in your fantasy lineups. Kittle has scored at least 14.5 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games while finishing as a top-10 fantasy tight end in all three contests this season.
Update: Kittle is questionable for Week 5.
Injuries:
- Christian McCaffrey (Achilles)
- George Kittle (ribs)
Green Bay Packers at Los Angeles Rams
Spread: Packers -3
Implied Total: Packers (25.25) vs. Rams (22.25)
Matchups We Love:
QB Jordan Love
If you have Jordan Love, you are starting him this week against the Rams. Los Angeles has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to the position this season, and quarterbacks like Purdy and Murray both scored over 25 fantasy points against that secondary this season. Love is a top-5 play in Week 5.
RB Josh Jacobs
It hasn't been a strong start for Josh Jacobs, as he has yet to score above 13.5 PPR fantasy points in any game. However, the matchup against Los Angeles' front seven can't get any better. The Rams are allowing 4.8 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season, and Jacobs gets to run behind an offensive line that ranks 14th in run-block win rate (72%) this season. So, make sure to keep the Packers back in your lineup this week.
After seeing what Kyren Williams has done this season, you aren't sitting him in Week 5. Williams has totaled 49 touches across the last two games and now gets a Packers defense that has allowed the fourth-most receiving yards (197) to opposing backs. Green Bay also ranks 30th in run-stop win rate (28%) this season while Los Angeles ranks third in run-block win rate (75%). So, expect a strong day for the Rams back this week.
Packers WRs
Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, and Dontayvion Wicks are all strong plays this weekend against a weak Rams secondary. Reed is a must-start in Week 5 after finishing as the WR1 and WR2 in two games with Love under center. As for Doubs and Wicks, they are both strong plays this week. The former is a low-end WR3 after an eight-target game while the latter is a strong WR3 option.
Wicks is coming off a 13-target game in Week 4, in which he caught five passes for 78 yards and two touchdowns. With Christian Watson (ankle) likely out for this game, the 23-year-old could be a solid play against the Rams. Los Angeles has allowed the second-most touchdowns to wideouts (seven) this season and the sixth-most fantasy points to the position.
Update: Doubs has been suspended for Sunday's game. So, both Reed and Wicks are must-starts.
TE Tucker Kraft
Kraft is the clear TE1 in Green Bay's offense through four weeks. He has played at least 80% of the offensive snaps in three of four games this season. Last week, the 23-year-old enjoyed his best game of the year, catching six passes for 53 yards and one touchdown. Now, he goes up against a Rams defense that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to tight ends. So, he's a solid TE1 option this week in a great matchup.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Without Puka Nacua (knee) and Cooper Kupp (ankle), quarterback Matthew Stafford has struggled to put up solid fantasy numbers. He has scored a combined 18.7 fantasy points over the past two weeks against two top defenses (the 49ers and Bears). As a result, Stafford is a risky QB2 option this week against the Packers. Green Bay has forced eight interceptions through four weeks.
Rams WRs
Nacua and Kupp will both be out again this week, so that means Tutu Atwell and Jordan Whittington will have some flex appeal in Week 5. Atwell has totaled at least 12 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games while Whittington is coming off a six-catch, 62-yard game against the Bears. Given that Green Bay has given up the 10th-most receiving yards (643) through four weeks, both Rams wideouts are flex plays this week.
Colby Parkinson has been hard to rely on over the past few weeks. He has caught just eight passes for 66 yards since Week 1 while failing to finish as a top-15 option across the last three contests. But he has a great matchup against the Packers in Week 5. Green Bay has allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to tight ends this year, so Parkinson is a low-end TE1 this weekend.
Injuries:
- Christian Watson (ankle)
- Cooper Kupp (ankle)
- Puka Nacua (knee)
- Romeo Doubs (personal)
New York Giants at Seattle Seahawks
Spread: Seahawks -6.5
Implied Total: Giants (18.5) vs. Seahawks (25)
Matchups We Love:
Kenneth Walker returned in Week 4 following a two-game absence and didn't miss a step. Walker totaled 116 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns en route to an RB2 fantasy finish last week. Now, he gets a Giants defense that has given up 90-plus rush yards to both Aaron Jones and Brian Robinson Jr. this season. So, this is a great matchup for him against a New York front seven that is allowing over 5.1 yards per carry to running backs.
WR DK Metcalf
WR1s have had strong fantasy days against the Giants secondary this year, which included CeeDee Lamb (23.6 PPR points), Cooper (27.8 PPR points), and Jefferson (15.9 PPR points) all scoring a touchdown. So, Metcalf should be in store for a big fantasy day on Sunday. He should be matched up against Deonte Banks, who has given up 250 receiving yards and 14.7 yards per reception this year. Get Metcalf into your lineups.
Matchups We Hate:
It's looking more and more likely that Nabers (concussion) will not play in Week 5. So, that should mean more opportunities for Wan'Dale Robinson in the passing game. While he is likely a start in full PPR formats, fantasy managers should be hesitant to start him in half-PPR or standard leagues. Devon Witherspoon will match up against Robinson in the slot this week, which isn't the best thing for him.
Other Matchups:
QB Geno Smith
Geno Smith looks like a completely different quarterback from last year. He has finished as a top-8 fantasy quarterback in three of four games while throwing for over 300 yards in those two of those contests. So, Smith will enter Week 5 as a low-end QB1 option against a Giants defense that has allowed over 16 fantasy points to quarterbacks over the past two weeks.
QB Daniel Jones
Without Nabers on Sunday, it might be tough to roll out Jones in most formats. Seattle has only allowed 765 pass yards through four weeks, and it ranks 14th in pass-block win rate (43%) this season. So, even though Jones has been a decent fantasy option in Superflex formats, he's more of a low-end QB2 this week, especially with his top wideout likely out.
There's a good chance that Devin Singletary (groin) will not be able to suit up on Sunday. He has yet to practice this week and is dealing with a groin injury. So, even if he suits up, he might be limited in this game and would be a risky flex play. If he doesn't play, look for Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Eric Gray to split RB1 reps on Sunday. However, both backs are risks against a Seahawks defense that is allowing only 116 rush yards per game.
Update: Singletary is doubtful for Week 5.
WRs Jaxon Smith-Njigba/Tyler Lockett
The Giants secondary has had its troubles through the first four weeks, so both Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Tyler Lockett have some value in Week 5. Smith-Njigba is coming off an eight-catch, 51-yard performance last week and will now likely be matched up against Cor'Dale Flott in Week 5. Flott has not been a great slot corner this year, allowing a 128.4 passer rating in the early going. So, the young wideout is a solid WR3 option.
As for Lockett, he continues to have a solid fantasy floor. He has scored at least 9.5 PPR fantasy points in three of four games this season while seeing at least eight targets in each of the past two games. The matchup against New York's secondary is also solid for him, making him a potential flex play in 12-plus team leagues.
Injuries:
- Malik Nabers (concussion)
- Devin Singletary (groin)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Dallas Cowboys at Pittsburgh Steelers
Spread: Steelers -1.5
Implied Total: Cowboys (20.5) vs. Steelers (22)
Matchups We Love:
It appears that Justin Fields will remain the Steelers quarterback for the time being, which is great news for those fantasy managers who scooped him off waivers. Fields has scored at least 19 fantasy points in back-to-back games and just finished as the overall QB1 in Week 4. Given the Cowboys' struggles on defense and the fact they have allowed the sixth-most rush yards (127) to quarterbacks, Fields is a strong QB1 play this week.
RB Najee Harris
The Cowboys front seven did a nice job against Singletary last week, but expect Najee Harris to have a much better game in Week 5. Dallas has allowed the third-most fantasy points and the second-most rush touchdowns to running backs this season. With Jaylen Warren (knee) and Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle) not practicing as of Thursday, Harris is a solid RB2 option against a poor run defense.
WR CeeDee Lamb
It'll be interesting to see if Joey Porter Jr. shadows Lamb in this game. Porter has only lined up in the slot on 4% of snaps this season -- an area where the Cowboys wideout lines up over 55% of the time. Therefore, assuming the Steelers corner doesn't travel with him for most of the game, he will be lined up against undrafted rookie corner Beanie Bishop Jr. That's a fantastic matchup for the All-Pro wideout.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Dak Prescott
The Steelers have been one of the better defenses at preventing big fantasy days to opposing quarterbacks. That is certainly not great news for Dak Prescott in Week 5. Prescott has scored under 17 fantasy points in three of four games this season, and Pittsburgh is giving up only 11.1 fantasy points per game to the position this year. As a result, the Cowboys quarterback is a low-end QB1 on Sunday.
RB Rico Dowdle
Rico Dowdle appears to be the Cowboys RB1 this season after rushing a season-high 11 times in last Thursday's win. However, it's still too hard to rely on him in fantasy this week, especially against a tough Steelers defense. Opposing running backs are averaging only 3.5 yards per carry against Pittsburgh this season, and Dowdle is only averaging 3.9 yards per carry to start the season.
Other Matchups:
There's a strong chance that Trevon Diggs will be on Pickens throughout this contest, but that shouldn't necessarily scare fantasy managers away from starting him this week. The Steelers wideout has scored in double figures in PPR formats in three of four games this season, and Nabers just torched Dallas' secondary last week. So, he'll be a solid WR2 option this week.
Jake Ferguson remains a solid TE1 option this year. He has caught at least six passes in back-to-back games while finishing with over 11.5 PPR fantasy points in both of those contests. As a result, Ferguson is a must-start in Week 5 against the Steelers. Pittsburgh is one of the few teams that has allowed two touchdowns to tight ends this year.
Pat Freiermuth enjoyed his best game of the season in Week 4, reeling in five passes for 57 yards and one touchdown. Freiermuth has been a consistent fantasy option for fantasy managers this season. He has caught at least four passes in all four games this season while also finishing as a top-15 fantasy tight end in every game. So, if you're looking for a tight end with a high fantasy floor, the Steelers playmaker could be a nice start.
Injuries:
- Brandin Cooks (knee)
- Russell Wilson (calf)
Matchups Analysis - Monday Night Football
New Orleans Saints at Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Chiefs -5.5
Implied Total: Saints (18.5) vs. Chiefs (24)
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
It's becoming hard to trust Patrick Mahomes in fantasy. He hasn't finished as a top-10 fantasy quarterback since Week 12 of the 2023 season. As a result, he is no longer a must-start at the position. Additionally, the Saints are allowing just 10.3 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, and they've held Prescott and Jalen Hurts to under 15 fantasy points this year. So, Mahomes might be better left on benches this week.
Other Matchups:
QB Derek Carr
After scoring 20-plus fantasy points in each of the first two weeks, Derek Carr scored under 10 fantasy points in both Week 3 and Week 4. Unfortunately, things don't get easy for him this week. Kansas City is allowing only 13.5 fantasy points per game to the last three quarterbacks it has faced (Justin Herbert, Kirk Cousins, and Burrow). With Carr being a pocket passer, he is a risky QB2 on Monday.
RB Alvin Kamara
This is no doubt a tough matchup for Alvin Kamara. The Chiefs have allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs through the first four weeks. Running backs are also averaging only 3.1 yards per carry against that tough Kansas City front seven. However, you're not sitting the RB1 this week because of the tough matchup. So, you just have to hope he can reel in a bunch of catches in the receiving game.
RB Kareem Hunt
After one week, Kareem Hunt appears to be the team's RB1 moving forward until Pacheco returns. In his first game, Hunt ran 14 times for 69 yards while catching two passes for 16 yards. So, he could be a solid flex play this week against a Saints defense that is allowing over 5.2 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season. The Chiefs also rank eighth in run-block win rate (73%) to start the season.
WRs Chris Olave/Rashid Shaheed
Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed continue to see most of the targets in the passing game. That should continue in Week 5 against the Chiefs, making both wideouts strong plays on Monday night. Both Olave and Shaheed should avoid Trent McDuffie in this game -- considering McDuffie plays most of his snaps in the slot.
As a result, Olave and Shaheed are solid WR2 plays in fantasy this week. Both wideouts have scored in double figures in PPR formats in three of four games this season.
Chiefs WRs
The only Chiefs wide receiver that fantasy managers should be thinking about starting this week is Xavier Worthy. But Worthy is a risky option against the Saints in Week 5. Of course, the rookie has big play potential, as we saw last week with his 54-yard touchdown. The Saints, though, rank middle-of-the-pack in yards per completion against (6.4) this season, and Worthy's low floor makes him too hard to trust in fantasy this week.
TE Travis Kelce
With Rashee Rice (knee) out for the foreseeable future, Travis Kelce should see more opportunities in the middle of the field. Last week, the veteran had his best game of the season, catching seven passes for 89 yards. So, make sure to keep Kelce in your lineups in Week 5 against a Saints defense that has allowed the sixth-most receiving yards (217) to tight ends this season.
Injuries:
- Rashee Rice (knee)
- Taysom Hill (ribs)
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