The NFL season is heating up as we head into Week 11, and fans and fantasy owners alike are scouring expert analysis for that competitive edge. As kickoff approaches, our insiders have crunched the numbers and gathered the latest buzz to bring you key predictions for the week ahead. From under-the-radar sleepers poised for breakout performances to favorites who could be ripe for an upset, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to set your lineups with confidence and catch every must-watch matchup this weekend.
5 Sleeper Picks to Boost Your Fantasy Roster
Struggling with injuries or underperformers weighing down your fantasy team? According to our expert Eric Moody, these five sleepers – all available in over 50% of ESPN leagues – could provide the points injection you need:
- Audric Estime, RB, Broncos – The rookie is earning more touches in a favorable matchup vs Atlanta’s soft run D.
- Drake Maye, QB, Patriots – The mobile QB’s rushing ability gives him a safe floor against the Rams.
- Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR, Saints – With New Orleans desperate for WR help, MVS could feast on targets vs Cleveland.
- Jameis Winston, QB, Browns – Revenge game narrative aside, Winston has volume upside against a leaky Saints secondary.
- Dawson Knox, TE, Bills – Injuries have pushed Knox into a larger role in a juicy matchup with the Chiefs.
Stat Trends Shaping Week 11
Analytics expert Seth Walder has identified five key stat trends that could decide some of the week’s biggest contests:
- Bills WR Khalil Shakir could exploit a Chiefs D allowing the 6th-most yards after catch
- With the Bills giving up the most RB targets, Kareem Hunt may be the Chiefs’ secret weapon
- Vikings QB Will Levis faces a steep test against Minnesota’s blitz-happy scheme
- Ravens rookie Jared Verse is primed for a statement game vs the Patriots’ struggling O-line
- The Jets’ run game faces an uphill battle against the Colts’ elite outside zone defense
Bold Predictions: Upsets & Surprises
Even in a league where “any given Sunday” is a mantra, some outcomes in Week 11 would be truly shocking. Our analysts say don’t be surprised if:
- Josh Allen runs for a TD against the Chiefs on a second-reaction scramble
- Josh Jacobs tops 100 rush yards against the Bears, a rare feat in 2024
- Amani Hooker picks off Sam Darnold, who has regressed with poor decisions of late
- George Pickens eclipses 100 receiving yards against the Ravens’ burnable secondary
- Quentin Johnston finds the end zone for a 3rd straight game vs Cincinnati
It feels like the Cardinals game was finally the time for the Jets to roll over and give up on the season…Give me the Colts at MetLife Stadium.
– Ben Solak on his upset pick of the week
Insider Buzz: Injury Updates & More
It wouldn’t be an NFL weekend without a frenzy of last-minute news and rumors. As kickoff nears, Jeremy Fowler has the latest insider buzz:
- Chiefs RB Isiah Pacheco could return from a broken fibula as soon as Week 12
- Despite a cast, Amari Cooper is pushing to play through a wrist injury for the Bills on Sunday
- After a frustrating absence, Bengals WR Tee Higgins used the mini-bye to get healthy for the stretch run
- Ravens RB Derrick Henry is key vs Pittsburgh; Baltimore is 7-1 when he gets 15+ carries
- Sources say the 2-week benching “definitely got the attention” of Colts rookie Anthony Richardson
There you have it – a whirlwind tour of the key factors and storylines that will shape Week 11 of this unpredictable NFL season. From fantasy sleepers to betting trends and injury updates, you’re now armed with the knowledge to tackle the weekend like a pro. Enjoy the games!
