Fantasy Football: Who To Start?

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Draft day is over, and now the real fun begins: setting your lineup each week! Knowing who to start can be the difference between a win and a frustrating loss. Every decision matters, so let's dive into how to make the best choices for your fantasy team.

Evaluating Your Players

Before setting your lineup, assess your players' current status:

  • Injuries: Is your star running back questionable with a hamstring issue? Check the latest injury reports from reliable sources like ESPN or NFL.com.
  • Matchups: A tough matchup against a strong defense can significantly limit a player's potential. Target players facing weaker opponents.
  • Recent Performance: Has your wide receiver been on a hot streak, or has he struggled in recent games? Recent performance can be a good indicator of future success.

Key Considerations

  • Quarterbacks: Consider the quarterback's passing yards, touchdown rate, and interception history. A QB facing a team known for allowing passing yards is a strong start.
  • Running Backs: Look at the running back's workload (number of carries and targets), the opponent's run defense, and the likelihood of goal-line carries. A RB with a high workload against a weak run defense is a valuable asset.
  • Wide Receivers: Analyze the receiver's target share, the quarterback's performance, and the cornerback matchup. A WR with a high target share and a favorable matchup can produce big numbers.
  • Tight Ends: Tight ends can be boom-or-bust. Look for TEs who are heavily involved in the passing game and have a good rapport with their quarterback.
  • Defense/Special Teams (DST): Target DSTs facing turnover-prone quarterbacks or teams with weak offensive lines. Sacks, interceptions, and fumble recoveries lead to high scores.

Analyzing Matchups

Matchups are crucial. Use resources that provide detailed defensive rankings and statistics. Websites like Pro Football Focus (PFF) offer advanced metrics to help you make informed decisions.

Utilizing Expert Advice

Don't go it alone! Many fantasy football analysts provide weekly start/sit recommendations. Some reputable sources include:

  • ESPN Fantasy Football: Offers rankings, articles, and analysis from experts like Matthew Berry.
  • CBS Sports Fantasy: Provides start/sit columns, player projections, and waiver wire advice.
  • FantasyPros: Aggregates rankings from multiple experts to create consensus rankings.

Making the Final Call

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Trust your gut, but also rely on data and expert analysis. Don't be afraid to take calculated risks, but always consider the potential consequences.

Call to Action

Good luck this season, and may your starting lineups lead you to victory! For more in-depth analysis and tips, check out our other fantasy football articles. Remember, staying informed is key to fantasy football success!