Week 12 of the fantasy football season has arrived, and with most leagues nearing their playoffs, start and sit decisions are more critical than ever. As always, ESPN’s expert fantasy analysts are here to help with their top plays and players to avoid at each position.
Quarterbacks to Start and Stream
According to scoring leader data, Justin Herbert has been on an absolute tear lately. The Chargers’ signal caller has produced four straight top-4 fantasy outings, averaging over 24 points per game in that span. Fire up Herbert with confidence against the Ravens, as another shootout could be in store.
If you need a streamer, Matt Bowen recommends rolling with Geno Smith. “With at least four carries in each of his past four games, Smith is more willing to pull the ball down on scramble attempts,” Bowen notes. Smith’s dual-threat ability raises his floor and ceiling against the Cardinals.
Risky QB Plays
On the other hand, our experts advise fading a few notable names at quarterback this week. Eric Karabell warns not to chase Anthony Richardson’s big game, as the Lions have been tough on QBs. Likewise, Tristan H. Cockcroft says to temper expectations for Matthew Stafford against the Eagles’ staunch pass defense.
Running Backs: Starts, Sits, and Sleepers
At running back, workload concerns are putting a damper on a few usual fantasy studs. Mike Clay notes that Tony Pollard’s outlook hinges on Tajae Spears’ availability, as a timeshare would limit Pollard to low-end RB2 status in a tough spot.
“Cam Akers has recorded double-digit touches in back-to-back games, enough to further lower Aaron Jones’ ceiling. The Bears are better against the pass than the run, however, giving Jones waning RB2 appeal heading into the weekend.”
– Liz Loza on Jones’ diminished upside
For RB sleepers, Matt Bowen is intrigued by Roschon Johnson and Trey Benson as secondary options in their backfields who are seeing more work. Both are in play for deep leagues.
Wide Receivers: Trust the Studs?
Moving to wideout, most managers likely aren’t considering benching the elite tier. However, Mike Clay says it’s getting harder to trust CeeDee Lamb and the Cowboys’ passing game with Dak Prescott out. Lamb is just a WR2 until Dak returns.
Vikings receiver Jaylen Waddle has also disappointed lately. Clay warns not to cut bait on Waddle yet, as he still warrants flex consideration, but expectations need to be lowered given his meager 4.7 targets per game.
- Mike Clay tabs Jauan Jennings as a must-start against the Packers if Brock Purdy suits up.
- Matt Bowen views Christian Watson’s big-play ability as worth chasing versus the 49ers.
Tight End Plays and Fades
The tight end landscape remains as barren as ever, but a few worthwhile options emerge in Week 12.
- Tristan H. Cockcroft likes Hunter Henry’s chances of producing against a vulnerable Dolphins defense.
- Liz Loza sees Theo Johnson as a top-16 play with the Giants expected to throw often.
“Though Mark Andrews has restored his fantasy TE1 status over the past six weeks, the top-ranked Chargers defense has seen only one tight end exceed 12 points all season. Downgrade Andrews for this tough matchup.”
– Tristan H. Cockcroft’s advice for Andrews managers
Week 12 Lineup Dilemmas
Still not sure whom to start or sit after combing through all the rankings and recommendations? Rest assured, as you’re not alone. Even the experts wrestle with tricky lineup decisions, especially this late in the season with so much at stake.
- For the Ravens-Chargers clash, Mike Clay would lean toward Ladd McConkey over Nelson Agholor if both play. McConkey operates from the slot, where the Ravens are more generous.
- Eric Karabell favors Kareem Hunt over any Broncos RB in their timeshare against the Raiders.
- At quarterback, Matt Bowen prefers the upside of Geno Smith over Trevor Lawrence or Tom Brady.
Ultimately, fantasy managers know their teams best. Use the expert guidance to make informed decisions, but don’t be afraid to trust your gut. After all, fantasy glory favors the bold!
Injury Impact on Week 12
Finally, don’t forget to monitor the injury reports leading up to kickoff. The statuses of banged-up stars like Josh Jacobs, George Kittle, DeVonta Smith and more will have major fantasy implications.
Jacobs’ shoulder issue is especially concerning after he missed practice time. Should Jacobs sit, MarShawn Lloyd would be in line for lead duty and RB2 value against the 49ers.
“Even if Kittle plays through his injuries, the missed practice reps could lead to a reduced role. I like Lloyd’s chances of positive regression after some near-misses last week.”
– An unnamed Niners beat writer on the fantasy fallout if Kittle is limited
As always, be sure to check the inactives before finalizing your lineups. A surprise scratch or last-minute downgrade could force some difficult start-sit audibles. Build some roster flexibility where possible to account for the unknowns.
There you have it: ESPN’s complete compilation of Week 12 fantasy football start and sit advice. Best of luck to all managers as you make that playoff push!
