Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em: Your Ultimate Fantasy Football Week Guide
What Is “Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em” in Fantasy Football?
Fantasy football is all about strategy, and one of the most important weekly decisions is deciding which players to start and which to sit. This is where the concept of “start ’em, sit ’em” comes in—a guide that helps fantasy football managers optimize their lineups for maximum performance.
Whether you’re an experienced manager or a newcomer to the game, these recommendations are crucial. Making the right calls on players can mean the difference between clinching a victory or facing a heartbreaking defeat. Let’s dive into the week’s must-start players and those you should consider leaving on the bench.
Start ‘Em: Players You Should Absolutely Start This Week
1. Quarterbacks (QBs)
Start: Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)
If you have Patrick Mahomes on your roster, he’s almost always a no-brainer start. Facing a defense ranked in the bottom five against the pass, Mahomes is poised for a big performance this week. Expect plenty of touchdowns and passing yards.
Start: Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins)
Tua has been a top-tier quarterback this season, especially in matchups against weaker defenses. He’s facing a team with a struggling secondary this week, making him a high-upside start in both standard and PPR leagues.
2. Running Backs (RBs)
Start: Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers)
McCaffrey continues to dominate week after week. With his dual-threat ability as a runner and receiver, he remains a matchup-proof RB1. Start him with confidence.
Start: Travis Etienne Jr. (Jacksonville Jaguars)
Etienne has become a reliable option for fantasy managers, especially in games where the Jaguars are expected to control the clock. Look for solid yardage and touchdown potential this week.
3. Wide Receivers (WRs)
Start: Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings)
After returning from injury, Jefferson has resumed his elite WR1 status. Facing a defense that struggles to contain big plays, he’s poised for a monster week.
Start: Jaylen Waddle (Miami Dolphins)
Waddle has been thriving alongside Tua Tagovailoa, and this week’s matchup sets up perfectly for his speed and explosiveness. He’s a strong WR2 with WR1 upside.
4. Tight Ends (TEs)
Start: Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs)
As the most consistent tight end in fantasy football, Kelce remains an automatic start. This week, he’s facing a defense that struggles against the position, making him an even more appealing option.
Start: Dalton Kincaid (Buffalo Bills)
The rookie tight end has been a bright spot in the Bills’ offense. With consistent targets and red-zone opportunities, he’s becoming a reliable TE1 option.
5. Defense/Special Teams (DST)
Start: Dallas Cowboys DST
The Cowboys’ defense has been lights-out this season, creating turnovers and scoring defensive touchdowns. Against a turnover-prone offense this week, they are a must-start.
Start: San Francisco 49ers DST
San Francisco has one of the league’s most formidable defenses. With a favorable matchup against a struggling offensive line, they should rack up sacks and points.
Sit ‘Em: Players You Should Bench This Week1. Quarterbacks (QBs)
Sit: Deshaun Watson (Cleveland Browns)
Watson has been inconsistent this season and is facing one of the league’s top defenses this week. Consider other options if you have a viable backup.
Sit: Kenny Pickett (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Pickett has struggled to put up fantasy points, and this week’s matchup doesn’t offer much hope. Look elsewhere for QB help.
2. Running Backs (RBs)
Sit: Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Harris has been a disappointment for fantasy managers, and he faces a tough run defense this week. His low ceiling makes him a risky play.
Sit: James Conner (Arizona Cardinals)
Conner’s production has been inconsistent, and the Cardinals’ offense as a whole hasn’t been clicking. Bench him this week unless you’re desperate for an RB2 or flex.
3. Wide Receivers (WRs)
Sit: Brandin Cooks (Dallas Cowboys)
Cooks has had flashes of brilliance, but his role in the Cowboys’ offense remains unpredictable. This week’s matchup doesn’t favor his upside.
Sit: Drake London (Atlanta Falcons)
London has shown potential, but the Falcons’ run-heavy offense limits his fantasy value. This week’s tough secondary matchup makes him a risky start.
4. Tight Ends (TEs)
Sit: Tyler Conklin (New York Jets)
Conklin has been a low-floor option at best, and the Jets’ offensive struggles don’t help his case. Avoid starting him this week.
Sit: Gerald Everett (Los Angeles Chargers)
Everett’s usage in the Chargers’ offense has been inconsistent. Look for more reliable options at tight end if you can.
5. Defense/Special Teams (DST)
Sit: Los Angeles Chargers DST
The Chargers’ defense has been a liability in fantasy this season. Facing an explosive offense this week, they’re best left on the bench.
Sit: Houston Texans DST
While the Texans’ defense has improved, this week’s matchup against a high-scoring offense makes them a risky play.
Expert Tips for Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em Success
1. Pay Attention to Matchups
Always evaluate a player’s matchup before making start/sit decisions. A great player facing a strong defense may underperform, while a lesser-known player facing a weak defense can shine.
2. Monitor Injuries and News
Check for injury updates before finalizing your lineup. A last-minute scratch can turn your week upside down, so stay informed.
3. Trust Your Bench
Sometimes, bench players can outperform your starters if the matchup is favorable. Don’t hesitate to bench a star player if their matchup is particularly tough.
4. Use Projections Wisely
While player projections are helpful, they aren’t always accurate. Use them as a guide, but also rely on trends and expert analysis.
FAQs About Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em
What is “start ‘em, sit ‘em”?
“Start ‘em, sit ‘em” is a fantasy football strategy that helps managers decide which players to start and which to bench each week based on matchups, trends, and performance.
How do I decide who to start in fantasy football?
Look at factors like matchups, recent performance, injuries, and expert rankings. Favor players with high usage and favorable matchups.
Should I bench a star player if they have a tough matchup?
It depends. While star players are often “matchup-proof,” it’s wise to consider benching them if you have a strong backup with a better matchup.
What’s the best way to stay updated on fantasy news?
Follow reputable fantasy football analysts, subscribe to updates from platforms like ESPN or Yahoo Fantasy, and monitor player news daily.
Can I trust projections on fantasy apps?
Projections are helpful but not always accurate. Combine them with expert advice and matchup analysis for the best results.
Final Thoughts: Win Your Week With Smart Decisions
Making the right start ‘em, sit ‘em decisions is the key to fantasy football success. By carefully analyzing matchups, monitoring news, and trusting expert advice, you can build a lineup that dominates your league.
Remember, fantasy football isn’t just about stats—it’s about strategy. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and enjoy the game. With these tips and recommendations, you’re well on your way to securing another win this week.
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