NFL Fantasy Week 14: Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Guide

Alright fantasy GMs, welcome back to the trenches! We're hitting Week 14, which means playoff time for most of you guys. This is where seasons are made or broken, so every single start-sit decision is absolutely crucial. Let's dive deep into who you should be plugging into your lineups and who might be better left on the bench this week. We'll be looking at matchups, injury reports, and all that juicy fantasy goodness to give you the edge you need to advance.

Quarterback Starts for Week 14: Slinging Your Way to Victory

When it comes to quarterback starts for Week 14, you want a signal-caller who's not only reliable but also has a favorable matchup. This is the business end of the fantasy season, and we need guys who can put up numbers consistently. First up, let's talk about Patrick Mahomes. I know, I know, he's usually a no-brainer. But Week 14 sees the Chiefs taking on the Denver Broncos. The Broncos' defense has been leaky, especially against the pass, and Mahomes just loves to pick apart defenses that give him space. He's been slinging it, and while the Chiefs have had their ups and downs, Mahomes remains an elite fantasy option. Expect him to put up some serious yardage and multiple touchdowns in this one. He's a QB1 with QB1 overall upside. Another guy you should be looking at is Lamar Jackson. The Ravens are playing the Jacksonville Jaguars this week, and while the Jags have some defensive talent, Jackson's dual-threat ability makes him a cheat code. He can rack up points with his arm and his legs, and the Ravens' offense generally runs through him. If he’s healthy and ready to go, he’s a must-start. Don't forget about Dak Prescott. The Cowboys are facing the Philadelphia Eagles in what should be a high-scoring affair. While the Eagles' defense is solid, they can be exploited, and Prescott has been on fire lately. He’s throwing with confidence, spreading the ball around, and his ability to find the end zone is undeniable. He’s another top-tier QB1 play. For those of you looking for a slightly less obvious play but still with huge upside, consider Jalen Hurts. Yes, he's playing against his own team's rival in the Cowboys, but the Eagles offense is just too potent to ignore. Hurts' rushing upside is immense, and even if he has a slightly off day through the air, his legs can carry your fantasy team. He's a high-end QB1. Finally, don't sleep on C.J. Stroud. The Texans rookie sensation has been an absolute revelation. This week, they face the Tennessee Titans, who have struggled defensively, particularly against the pass. Stroud has shown incredible poise and accuracy, and his connection with his receivers is developing beautifully. He’s a strong QB1 play and a guy who can absolutely win you your matchup.

Quarterback Sits for Week 14: Avoiding the Busts

Now, let's talk about the flip side: quarterback sits for Week 14. These are the guys who, despite their usual talent, have a tough matchup or are dealing with too many uncertainties. First up, Russell Wilson. The Denver Broncos are playing the Kansas City Chiefs this week. The Chiefs' defense, especially their pass rush, is no joke. They can get after the quarterback, and Wilson has been prone to turnovers when under heavy pressure. While he's been okay for fantasy this year, this is a tough spot, and I'd be looking for safer options if I have them. He’s a borderline QB1/QB2, and in this matchup, leans heavily towards QB2 territory, making him a risky start. Next, Baker Mayfield. The Buccaneers are up against the Atlanta Falcons. The Falcons' defense, while not elite, has been surprisingly stout against quarterbacks lately, and their secondary can make things difficult. Mayfield has had some good games, but also some duds, and this matchup feels like it could lean towards a dud. He’s more of a QB2/3 play here, and if you have a more reliable option, it’s probably wise to sit him. Another signal-caller to consider sitting is Aaron Rodgers. Assuming he's somehow back and playing, the New York Jets are facing a stout Houston Texans defense. The Texans have been playing inspired football, and their defense can generate pressure. Rodgers, if he were to play, would be coming off a major injury and facing a tough unit. It's too much uncertainty, and I'd avoid him like the plague for fantasy purposes. He’s a definite sit. Bryce Young is another one. The Carolina Panthers are playing the New Orleans Saints. The Panthers' offense has been anemic all season, and Young has struggled mightily. The Saints' defense is decent, and it’s hard to see where Young is going to find consistent fantasy points in this situation. He’s a QB3/sit candidate. Finally, Matthew Stafford. The Rams are playing the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens' defense is absolutely ferocious, particularly their pass rush and secondary. Stafford has shown flashes of brilliance, but this matchup is one of the toughest in the league. He's facing a defense that can shut down opposing offenses. Unless you're absolutely desperate, Stafford is a sit for Week 14. Remember, playoff games are about minimizing risk and maximizing your chances of advancing, so don't gamble on these guys if you have better alternatives.

Running Back Starts for Week 14: Ground and Pound Your Way to Glory

When it comes to running back starts for Week 14, we're looking for volume, efficiency, and favorable matchups. This is where you win your fantasy matchups, guys. Let's talk about the bell cows. Christian McCaffrey is, of course, always a start. The San Francisco 49ers face the Arizona Cardinals, and McCaffrey is arguably the most dominant player in fantasy football. The Cardinals' defense has struggled, especially against the run, and CMC should feast. He’s a top-tier RB1 and a must-start in every single lineup. Next up, Bijan Robinson. The Atlanta Falcons are playing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs' run defense has been vulnerable, and Robinson, despite some questionable coaching decisions, is incredibly talented. When he gets the volume, he produces. This matchup presents a great opportunity for him to break out. He’s a high-end RB1. Another guy to consider is Derrick Henry. The Tennessee Titans are facing the Houston Texans. Henry has been a workhorse, and while his efficiency hasn't always been elite this year, his volume is undeniable. The Texans have a decent run defense, but Henry's sheer talent and ability to break tackles make him a threat every time he touches the ball. He’s a strong RB1. For those looking for a value play with significant upside, check out James Cook. The Buffalo Bills are playing the Kansas City Chiefs. This is a tough matchup on paper, but the Bills' offense has been potent, and Cook has been heavily involved in the passing game, which provides a PPR floor. If he can get going on the ground against the Chiefs' defensive front, he could be a league winner. He’s a solid RB2 with RB1 upside. And finally, don't forget about Javonte Williams. The Denver Broncos are facing the Detroit Lions. The Lions' defense has been good, but they can give up chunk plays, and Williams has been getting more consistent volume lately. He’s shown flashes of his old self and has the potential for a big game. He’s a mid-to-high RB2 play. Remember to always check the injury reports, but these guys are poised for big weeks if they get the touches.

Running Back Sits for Week 14: Avoiding the Stalls

On the flip side, we have running back sits for Week 14. These are the guys who are in tough spots or dealing with too much uncertainty. First off, Rhamondre Stevenson. The New England Patriots are playing the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers have a stout run defense, and the Patriots' offense has been struggling mightily. Stevenson has been getting volume, but the efficiency just hasn't been there against tough defenses. He’s a borderline RB2/3, and in this matchup, he leans towards RB3 territory, making him a risky start. Next, Isiah Pacheco. The Kansas City Chiefs are playing the Buffalo Bills. The Bills have a strong defensive front, and while Pacheco is the lead back, he doesn't get a ton of pass-catching work, which limits his ceiling in tougher matchups. He’s a RB2, but this matchup is challenging, so consider alternatives if you have them. Breece Hall is another name to consider sitting. The New York Jets are facing the Houston Texans. The Texans' defense has been playing well, and the Jets' offensive line continues to be a major issue, hindering Hall's ability to get going on the ground. While Hall is incredibly talented, the circumstances make him a risky play. He’s a mid-to-low RB2, but the matchup and offensive line woes push him towards a sit if you have safer options. Devin Singletary is also on the chopping block. The Houston Texans are playing the Tennessee Titans. While the Titans' run defense isn't elite, the Texans have been a bit of a committee backfield, and Singletary's volume can be inconsistent. If you're looking for a consistent floor, he might not provide it this week. He's a RB3/sit. Finally, Najee Harris. The Pittsburgh Steelers are playing the New England Patriots. While the Patriots' offense has struggled, their run defense can be tough. Harris has been inconsistent this season, and while he gets volume, his efficiency is a concern. In a week where you need reliability, Harris might not be the guy. He's a borderline RB2/3, and against a defense that can stuff the run, he's leaning towards sit. Remember, Week 14 is about survival, so don't get cute with your running backs if you can avoid it.

Wide Receiver Starts for Week 14: Getting Open for Big Plays

When it comes to wide receiver starts for Week 14, we're looking for guys who are getting targets, scoring touchdowns, and facing vulnerable secondaries. Let's get into it! Tyreek Hill. The Miami Dolphins are playing the New York Jets. Yes, the Jets have a tough secondary, but Hill is a superstar who can win against anyone. He's Tua Tagovailoa's favorite target, and the Dolphins' offense is explosive. Hill's ability to take any reception to the house makes him a must-start WR1 every single week, regardless of matchup. Next up, Amon-Ra St. Brown. The Detroit Lions are facing the Chicago Bears. The Bears' secondary has been improving, but St. Brown is the undisputed alpha in Detroit. He gets a ridiculous amount of targets, and Jared Goff looks for him constantly. He’s a top-tier WR1 with a massive target share. CeeDee Lamb. The Dallas Cowboys are playing the Philadelphia Eagles. This is a huge NFC East matchup, and Lamb has been outstanding this season. He's a true No. 1 receiver, and while Darius Slay is a good corner, Lamb has the ability to win against him. He’s a WR1 with WR1 overall upside. For those looking for a solid WR2 with upside, consider DeVonta Smith. The Eagles are playing the Cowboys. While A.J. Brown gets a lot of attention, Smith is a dynamic receiver who can rack up yards and touchdowns. He’s a reliable option in a high-powered offense. He’s a WR2 with WR1 upside. Finally, Nico Collins. The Houston Texans are playing the Tennessee Titans. Collins has quietly become one of C.J. Stroud's favorite targets, and the Titans' defense has been struggling, especially in the secondary. He’s a strong WR2 with WR1 upside in a plus matchup. These guys are your week-winners, so get them in your lineups!

Wide Receiver Sits for Week 14: Getting Covered

Now for the wide receiver sits for Week 14. These are the players who have tough matchups, declining target share, or other red flags. First, Adam Thielen. The Carolina Panthers are playing the New Orleans Saints. Thielen started the season hot, but his production has cooled off considerably, and Bryce Young isn't exactly an elite quarterback right now. The Saints' defense is decent, and Thielen's target share might not be enough to overcome the poor offense. He’s a WR3/sit. Next, Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The Seattle Seahawks are playing the San Francisco 49ers. The 49ers have one of the best defenses in the league, and their secondary is no slouch. Smith-Njigba is a talented rookie, but this is a brutal matchup, and he’s also sharing targets with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. He’s a WR3/sit. Jaylen Waddle. The Miami Dolphins are playing the New York Jets. This is a tough one because Waddle is incredibly talented, but he's up against Sauce Gardner and the Jets' elite pass defense. While he can break off big plays, his floor is significantly lowered in this matchup. If you have safer options, consider sitting him. He’s a WR2/3 and leans towards sit here. Terry McLaurin. The Washington Commanders are playing the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams' defense has been playing better lately, and while McLaurin is a talented receiver, the Commanders' offense has been inconsistent. He’s a WR3 and might struggle to find a consistent rhythm against a decent Rams unit. Finally, Rashid Shaheed. The New Orleans Saints are playing the Carolina Panthers. Shaheed is a big-play threat, but his target share can be inconsistent, and Andy Dalton isn't exactly a quarterback who throws for a ton of yards. The Panthers' defense, while not elite, can make things difficult. He’s a WR4/sit. In playoff games, you want reliable production, and these guys might not provide it.

Tight End Starts for Week 14: Finding the End Zone

For tight end starts for Week 14, we’re looking for tight ends who are heavily involved in their team's offense and have favorable matchups. These guys can be difference-makers. Travis Kelce. The Kansas City Chiefs are playing the Buffalo Bills. Kelce is still the gold standard at tight end. He gets a massive target share and is Patrick Mahomes' go-to guy in crucial situations. The Bills' defense can be tough, but Kelce is matchup-proof. He’s a top-tier TE1 and a must-start. Sam LaPorta. The Detroit Lions are facing the Chicago Bears. LaPorta has been a revelation this season, quickly becoming a favorite target for Jared Goff. The Bears' defense has shown vulnerabilities, and LaPorta's red-zone presence makes him a constant touchdown threat. He’s a high-end TE1. George Kittle. The San Francisco 49ers are playing the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals' defense has struggled mightily this season, and Kittle is a dynamic playmaker who can get open deep and is a threat after the catch. He should have a field day against this defense. He’s a TE1 with TE1 overall upside. Evan Engram. The Jacksonville Jaguars are playing the Baltimore Ravens. While the Ravens' defense is strong, Engram has been a target hog for the Jaguars, especially in the short to intermediate areas. He provides a safe floor, and if he can find the end zone, he'll be a league-winner. He’s a mid-to-high TE1. Finally, Dalton Kincaid. The Buffalo Bills are playing the Kansas City Chiefs. With Dawson Knox injured, Kincaid has seen a significant uptick in targets and production. He’s becoming a vital part of the Bills’ passing game. This is a high-profile matchup, and Kincaid has the potential to exploit matchups. He’s a TE1 with upside. These guys have the volume and talent to produce.

Tight End Sits for Week 14: Getting Blocked

Finally, let's talk tight end sits for Week 14. These are the guys who are in tough matchups or have limited upside. Taysom Hill. The New Orleans Saints are playing the Carolina Panthers. While Taysom Hill is a unique fantasy asset due to his rushing ability, his role can be inconsistent, and the Panthers' defense, while not elite, can be physical. His floor is too low for a crucial playoff game if you have better options. He’s a TE2/sit. Dalton Schultz. The Houston Texans are playing the Tennessee Titans. Schultz has been a reliable target for C.J. Stroud, but the Titans have been surprisingly decent against tight ends this season. While he can catch passes, the touchdown upside might be limited in this matchup. He’s a mid-tier TE2, leaning towards sit if you have a more consistent option. Kyle Pitts. The Atlanta Falcons are playing the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Pitts has all the talent in the world, but the Falcons' offensive struggles and inconsistent usage make him frustrating. The Buccaneers' defense isn't a cakewalk either. Unless you're desperate, Pitts is a sit this week due to the offensive limitations. Pat Freiermuth. The Pittsburgh Steelers are playing the New England Patriots. While Freiermuth has returned from injury and shown flashes, the Steelers' offense has been inconsistent, and the Patriots' defense can be tough. His target share might not be enough to overcome the offensive struggles. He’s a low-end TE2/sit. Lastly, Hunter Henry. The New England Patriots are playing the Pittsburgh Steelers. Henry has had some touchdown upside, but the Patriots' offense is one of the worst in the league. The Steelers' defense is solid, making it very difficult for Henry to find meaningful fantasy production. He’s a TE2/sit. Remember, playoff football is about securing wins, and reliable production is key. Good luck, GMs!