Get ready for some fantasy football insights that will have you on the edge of your seat!
The NFL's Week 6: A Fantasy Football Dilemma
In the world of fantasy football, every week brings new challenges and decisions. This week, we're diving into the must-start and must-sit players to help you dominate your league.
Let's start with the quarterbacks, shall we?
▶ Quarterback
Start: Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers
Despite the Packers' run-heavy approach, which can be frustrating for fantasy managers, they're projected to put up some serious points this week. Green Bay's implied team total is the highest in the league, and Love could be the key to their success. Cincy's defense has been leaky, allowing explosive passing plays and ranking low in EPA per dropback. If Love gets the chance to shine, he might just lead his team to victory.
Start: Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams
Stafford is on fire, and Sean McVay is ensuring he stays that way. He's currently ranked highly in EPA per dropback and fantasy points, and the Rams' offensive pace is impressive. This week, he faces a banged-up Baltimore defense that's been struggling against opposing passers. It's a perfect storm for Stafford to continue his hot streak.
Sit: Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins' offense is up against a formidable opponent this week - the LA Chargers. Known for their ability to stop quick-pass offenses, the Chargers have allowed some of the lowest YPA and touchdown rates in the league. And guess what? Tua relies heavily on those quick plays. With the books not favoring Miami, it's a tough week for Tagovailoa.
Sit: Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears
The Washington Commanders might not be an elite defense, but they're a formidable opponent for Williams and the Bears. Washington's pressure rate and quick pressure speed are among the best in the NFL, and Williams has struggled against this type of defense. His grades on pressures are low, and I expect some frustrating mistakes from him this week.
Now, let's move on to the running backs and see who's worth starting and who might be better left on the bench.
▶ Running Back
Start: Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Washington Commanders
Bill has taken over the Washington backfield, and his numbers are impressive. He's leading the league in yards per carry and rush yards over expected. This week, he faces a Bears defense that's been generous to opposing running backs. Croskey-Merritt could be in for a big game.
Start: J.K. Dobbins, Denver Broncos
Dobbins has dominated the Denver backfield, and his role in the red zone is significant. He's scored in all but one game this season and has a clear lead over his teammate, RJ Harvey. As favorites against the Jets, Dobbins should continue his success against a defense that's struggled against running backs.
Sit: Tony Pollard, Tennessee Titans
With Tyjae Spears back in the lineup, Pollard's snap and carry shares have taken a hit. Spears' role is only expected to grow, which means less fantasy production for Pollard. As underdogs on the road, the Titans might not establish a strong ground game, further limiting Pollard's opportunities.
Sit: Chase Brown, Cincinnati Bengals
Brown has been getting a good share of the work, but the Bengals' running game has been inconsistent. With Joe Flacco at the helm, it's uncertain if things will change. Vegas isn't giving the Bengals much hope, making them heavy underdogs against the Packers. Brown's ceiling might be limited this week.
Now, let's shift our focus to the wide receivers and see who's worth starting and who might need to take a seat.
▶ Wide Receiver
Start: Matthew Golden, Green Bay Packers
Golden has been given a new role, and he's thriving. He set career-highs in targets, catches, and yards in Week 4, and he's facing a Bengals defense that's been vulnerable to slot receivers. Golden could be in for a big game.
Start: George Pickens, Dallas Cowboys
Pickens has been feasting on zone coverage since joining the Cowboys, and the Panthers' defense relies heavily on this strategy. He's ranked highly in YPRR against zone, making him a great start this week. With Lamb out, Pickens becomes an even more attractive option in DFS contests.
Sit: DK Metcalf, Pittsburgh Steelers
Metcalf has been struggling against man coverage, and the Browns run man coverage at the highest rate in the NFL. His YPRR against man looks is minuscule, and his target share is far from alpha territory. In a tough matchup against Cleveland, Metcalf might be better off on your bench.
Sit: Travis Hunter, Jacksonville Jaguars
Hunter had a good showing in Week 5, but his role and target-earning ability aren't quite there yet for fantasy purposes. He's not seeing enough targets or snaps to be a reliable option. It might be best to hold off on starting him until his role expands.
Finally, let's wrap up with the tight ends and see who's worth starting and who might need some time on the sidelines.
▶ Tight End
Start: Darren Waller, Miami Dolphins
Waller is a pure wide receiver playing at the tight end position, giving fantasy managers an advantage. He increased his route rate and target share last week, and his aDOT of 14 is impressive. Waller could be a difference-maker for your team.
Start: Jake Ferguson, Dallas Cowboys
Ferguson has stepped up in the absence of CeeDee Lamb, topping a 30% target share in two games. With Lamb expected to miss Week 6, Ferguson could be in for a big game against the Panthers, who give up a lot of fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Sit: Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens
Andrews' production has taken a hit with the return of Isaiah Likely, and he's now playing a part-time role. Catching passes from Cooper Rush doesn't help his case either. It might be wise to look for other options at tight end this week.
Sit: Evan Engram, Denver Broncos
Engram's role is limited, and his target depth is low. He's seen zero end zone targets since returning to the lineup, which limits his ceiling and floor. It's a tough week for Engram, and he might be better off as a waiver wire option.
There you have it! A comprehensive guide to help you navigate Week 6 of the NFL season. Remember, these are just recommendations, and fantasy football is all about strategy and a bit of luck. Good luck, and may the best fantasy manager win!
