Fantasy Football Week 14: Start & Sit
As we enter the final stretch of the fantasy football regular season and head into the crucial playoff week 14, every decision matters. With injuries, matchups, and player inconsistencies at an all-time high, it’s important to make informed calls when setting your lineup. Below, we highlight some of the most notable starts and sits for the week, based on matchups, recent performance trends, and the stakes at hand.
Week 14 Starts
1. Calvin Ridley (WR – Tennessee Titans)
Despite a slight hiccup in Week 13, Calvin Ridley remains a solid start heading into Week 14 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Ridley continues to be the Titans’ number one receiver and has been a consistent performer since Week 8, posting 15+ points per game following DeAndre Hopkins’ departure from the team. Jacksonville’s defense, which ranks 4th in points allowed to wide receivers, has been susceptible to wideouts lining up outside, where Ridley thrives. With over 25 points per game allowed to outside receivers (behind only Atlanta and Denver), Ridley is positioned to bounce back this week.
2. Aidan O’Connell (QB – Las Vegas Raiders)
A sneaky start in Week 14, Aidan O’Connell has flashed potential in recent weeks, including a 300-yard, 2-touchdown performance against the Kansas City Chiefs. With Devante Adams and Jacoby Myers as his primary weapons, O’Connell is positioned to excel against a Tampa Bay defense that ranks among the worst in terms of fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks (2nd most at 24.8 points per game). After a solid stretch in the second half of last season and improved play as the season progresses, O’Connell should be in your lineup if you need a streaming option or a QB2 with upside.
3. Tyrone Tracy (RB – New York Giants)
If you’re searching for a deep sleeper, look no further than Tyrone Tracy, who has quietly become a lead back for the struggling New York Giants. His increased role in Week 13 (73% snap share) and his ability to contribute both on the ground and in the air give him a chance to outperform expectations. The New Orleans Saints, who rank 5th in points allowed to running backs, have been vulnerable to backs with Tracy’s skill set. With more volume likely coming his way, he’s an excellent flex option for those in need of an under-the-radar play.
4. Isaac Garrendo (RB – San Francisco 49ers)
With injuries to Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason, Isaac Guerendo has the opportunity to shine in the San Francisco backfield. The Bears have been middle-of-the-pack against running backs, but Guerendo’s speed, strength, and ability to break off big runs make him a prime candidate for a strong showing. With Patrick Taylor and Izzy Abanacanda not expected to take away significant snaps, Guerendo should be locked in for a heavy workload in Week 14. If you need a plug-and-play RB2 or flex, he’s a fantastic pickup.
Week 14 Sits
1. Travis Etienne (RB – Jacksonville Jaguars)
It’s painful to say, but Travis Etienne is a player you might need to keep on your bench in Week 14. After a strong start to the season, Etienne has seen his production falter recently, and now he faces a difficult matchup against a Titans defense that has stiffened up against the run in recent weeks. The Jaguars’ offense has been struggling as a whole, and with Trevor Lawrence also limping through some injuries, Etienne’s upside is limited. Unless you’re desperate, it’s best to look for a more favorable option.
2. Kyle Pitts (TE – Atlanta Falcons)
The fantasy potential of Kyle Pitts has been frustrating to watch. Once considered an elite talent, Pitts has seen his role in the Falcons’ offense diminish significantly, and it’s hard to trust him in a crucial Week 14 matchup. With only 6 receptions for 75 yards over his last four games and reduced snaps (41% in Week 13), Pitts has become a high-risk option in fantasy. Minnesota’s defense, though not elite against tight ends, has been solid enough to limit Pitts’ upside, making him an easy sit for this week.
3. Bryce Young (QB – Carolina Panthers)
While Bryce Young has shown signs of improvement throughout the season, Week 14 brings a tough matchup against a ferocious Philadelphia Eagles defense. Philadelphia’s secondary ranks 6th in points allowed to quarterbacks, and with the Eagles controlling the game flow, it’s tough to see Young having much success in this contest. Unless you’re in a 2-QB league or desperate for a streamer, it’s best to look elsewhere.
4. Jalen Waddle (WR – Miami Dolphins)
Jalen Waddle has been one of the most frustrating fantasy assets this season, and his inconsistencies only heighten as we enter the playoffs. He posted just 53 yards in Week 13, continuing a trend of underwhelming performances. Even with Tua Tagovailoa at the helm, Waddle has failed to find the end zone in 3 of his last 4 games and has been held to under 60 yards in 8 contests this year. Going up against the New York Jets, a defense that excels against wide receivers, Waddle’s role and lack of volume make him a risky play this week. Unless you’re desperate, keep him on the bench.
Closing Thoughts
As Week 14 approaches, it’s more important than ever to be mindful of matchups, player roles, and any injury concerns. The Fantasy Football playoffs are just around the corner, and one wrong start can make or break your season. Pay close attention to your lineup and consider these recommendations when making your start/sit decisions.
Whether you’re heading to the playoffs or just trying to stay alive in your league, these strategic choices can help guide you to a better chance of success. Remember to keep an eye on injury reports leading into the weekend, as last-minute news can impact your decisions.
Good luck in Week 14, and here’s to securing a playoff spot!
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