Week 13 of the 2024 NFL season is upon us, and with the playoff picture coming into focus, every matchup takes on added significance. As teams jockey for position in the standings, our panel of experts is here to break down the key games, identify under-the-radar fantasy sleepers, and pinpoint potential upsets that could shake up the landscape. Plus, we have the latest buzz from around the league to keep you informed. Let’s dive in!
5 Stat Trends to Watch in Week 13
Analytics expert Seth Walder highlights five pivotal statistical storylines that could determine outcomes this weekend, including:
- Can the Texans exploit the Jaguars’ cornerback imbalance to set up a big game for WR Nico Collins?
- Will Giants DL Leonard Williams’ surging pass rush disrupt his former team, the Jets?
- Do the Panthers’ run game improvements give them upset potential against the Bucs?
Fantasy Sleepers to Target
If you need a boost to your fantasy lineup, Eric Moody has you covered with five sleeper picks, including Patriots QB Drake Maye and Broncos WR Devaughn Vele. As Moody notes:
Maye struggled in Week 12 but has a much better matchup against the Colts, who allow the fourth-highest completion rate to QBs. He’s a solid start in deeper leagues.
Expect the Unexpected
NFL analyst Matt Bowen lists five potential surprises for Week 13, such as:
- Baker Mayfield throwing for three TDs against the Panthers’ vulnerable pass defense
- Rookie Riq Woolen picking off Aaron Rodgers on a perimeter throw
- Marvin Harrison Jr. bouncing back with a TD against the Vikings
Upset Watch: Steelers Over Bengals?
Ben Solak makes the case for the Steelers (+3) to upset the Bengals, citing Pittsburgh’s ability to control the game with a strong run attack and timely play-action shots—areas where Cincinnati has struggled defensively.
Insider Buzz: Coaching Changes, Injury Updates
Jeremy Fowler shares the latest rumblings from his sources around the NFL:
- Bears interim coach Thomas Brown will continue calling plays as he angles for the permanent job
- Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence plans to play through a shoulder injury that will likely require offseason surgery
- Winston and the Browns mutually open to extending their relationship beyond 2024
As the stakes rise and tensions mount, Week 13 promises to deliver a captivating slate of games with major implications. Will the favorites hold serve, or will underdogs shake up the hierarchy? Tune in to find out, and stay locked in here for wall-to-wall coverage and analysis all weekend long.
