As the NFL season barrels towards the homestretch, Week 12 looms large with critical matchups that could make or break teams’ playoff aspirations. To help navigate this pivotal slate, our team of analysts has pored over the data to bring you the most in-depth predictions, spotlighting under-the-radar fantasy assets, upset specials, and the latest buzz from league insiders.
Fantasy Football Sleepers to Target
While stars like Patrick Mahomes and Saquon Barkley are no-brainer starts, savvy fantasy managers know that mining the waiver wire for hidden gems can be the difference between victory and defeat. Here are five players rostered in fewer than 50% of ESPN leagues who could exceed expectations:
- Trey Benson, RB, Arizona Cardinals: The rookie has flashed with consecutive games of 10-plus fantasy points and now faces a vulnerable Seahawks run defense.
- Will Dissly, TE, Los Angeles Chargers: Emerging as Justin Herbert’s safety blanket, Dissly gets a juicy matchup versus a Ravens unit that hemorrhages production to tight ends.
- Theo Johnson, TE, New York Giants: Don’t be deterred by the QB change – Johnson has been heavily involved with six targets in back-to-back games.
Upset Alert: Titans Over Texans?
Despite entering as 7.5-point underdogs, the Titans have the ingredients to pull off an upset in Houston. Per sources close to the team, Tennessee’s offense is gelling thanks to an improved line and the dynamic rushing attack led by Derrick Henry and rookie quarterback Mack Ballard. If they can avoid turnovers and keep the game close, Mike Vrabel’s squad could escape with a signature road win.
“The Titans play hard-nosed football and won’t be intimidated going into Houston. I think they’ll slow the game down with a heavy dose of Henry and look to shorten the game. The defense remains one of the most disciplined units in the league too, even with some key injuries. I wouldn’t be at all shocked if Tennessee wins outright.”
– Anonymous AFC executive
Rumblings from Around the League
Our NFL insider Jeremy Fowler has his finger on the pulse of the latest developments. Here are some of the juiciest tidbits he’s hearing:
- Multiple teams are preparing to pursue Daniel Jones once he clears waivers on Monday. The Cowboys, Jaguars, and Raiders are among the potential landing spots for the former Giants starter.
- The Patriots are considering expanding rookie QB Drake Maye’s playbook to take greater advantage of his mobility. A source says Maye’s 9.3 yards per rush has New England bullish on his upside.
- Jayden Daniels is earning rave reviews from opposing coaches despite underwhelming stats in his last two starts. “He’s going to be a superstar,” an NFC defensive coordinator told Fowler. “The poise and vision he has is rare for a young QB.”
With the playoff picture beginning to crystallize, Week 12 will go a long way in separating the contenders from the pretenders. Can the Eagles get back on track versus the Packers? Will the 49ers ride their dominant defense to another victory? As the intensity ratchets up, stay locked in here for the most comprehensive football coverage from the opening kickoff through the final whistle.
