NFL Week 13 delivered a rollercoaster ride for fantasy football managers, with jaw-dropping performances, disappointing duds and crucial injuries shaking up the standings. As the fantasy playoffs approach, let’s dive into the key takeaways from this week’s action and examine the winners, losers, injury updates and more.
Fantasy Winners of Week 13
Russell Wilson, QB, Pittsburgh Steelers
Wilson erupted for his best game as a Steeler, torching the Bengals for over 400 passing yards and three touchdowns. His 26.86 fantasy points marked his highest output since 2022, solidifying his status as a QB1 heading into the fantasy playoffs.
Brock Bowers, TE, Las Vegas Raiders
The rookie tight end sensation continues to make history, becoming just the second rookie TE ever to post multiple 30-point PPR games. Bowers’ 197.5 fantasy points through 12 games trail only the legendary Mike Ditka’s pace.
Other Top Performers
- Terry McLaurin, WR, Commanders – Season-high 27.3 PPR points
- Najee Harris, RB, Steelers – 24.9 PPR points, 75 rush yards, 54 receiving yards, TD
- Caleb Williams, QB, Bears – 256 pass yards, 3 TDs, 39 rush yards
Fantasy Losers of Week 13
Kirk Cousins, QB, Atlanta Falcons
Cousins endured a nightmare outing, tossing four interceptions and zero touchdowns en route to a measly 2.10 fantasy points. It was his fifth-worst single game output in 13 seasons, putting the Falcons’ playoff hopes in jeopardy.
Kirk’s gotta be better, bottom line. Those picks were killers today.
– Falcons head coach Raheem Morris
Breece Hall, RB, New York Jets
The standout rookie was hampered by a knee injury and the Jets’ sputtering offense, mustering just 6.0 PPR points. Hall’s receiving work surprisingly vanished, concerning fantasy managers banking on his elite upside.
Other Disappointing Performers
- Justin Herbert, QB, Chargers – Season-low 7.98 fantasy points
- Aaron Jones, RB, Vikings – Two fumbles, season-low 9.8 PPR points
- Kenneth Walker III, RB, Seahawks – 16 carries, 48 yards, 3.0 YPC
Injury Impact
Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars
Lawrence exited Sunday’s game with a concussion after absorbing a vicious hit while sliding. His status for Week 14 appears murky, likely thrusting backup Mac Jones into the starting role as the Jaguars cling to slim playoff hopes.
Week 13 Grades and Surprises
A Grade: Tarheeb Still, CB, Los Angeles Chargers
The fifth-round rookie sparkled with two interceptions of Kirk Cousins, including a 61-yard pick-six. Still’s lockdown coverage (-27 EPA allowed) has been a revelation for the Chargers’ defense.
F Grade: Jonathan Gannon, Head Coach, Arizona Cardinals
Gannon’s puzzling decision to kick a field goal on 4th and goal late in the game backfired spectacularly. Analytics suggest the Cardinals decreased their win probability by 8% by not going for the touchdown, a blunder that ultimately cost them the game.
Looking Ahead to Week 14
As the fantasy playoffs draw near, managers must navigate the Week 14 minefield with six teams on bye. Stay glued to injury reports and be prepared to pounce on emerging waiver wire options in this crucial week. Every lineup decision could mean the difference between a postseason berth or an early exit.
Week 13 reminded us once more of fantasy football’s fickle nature, but also the thrill of unexpected breakouts. As the stakes rise and the playoff race tightens, trust your process, stay active on the wire and make the bold calls that could define your season. Best of luck in Week 14!
