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The race to the fantasy playoffs is in full swing. Six teams are on a bye this week, which makes roster decisions more challenging than usual. Here are 11 thoughts worth thinking about as we inch closer to the playoffs.
11 Thoughts Worth Thinking
1. The young quarterback crop is going to be just fine.
Some of these younger quarterbacks, who we collectively decided weren't quite fantasy-ready, are now starting to prove that they can produce for us. This includes Bo Nix, Anthony Richardson, and Drake Maye. Nix is dominating in Sean Payton's scheme. This is not news, but if you have been starting someone else at quarterback who has dropped off recently, Nix is worthy of reaching your starting lineup. This season, he has steadily improved his downfield vision, decision-making, and trust in Sean Payton's offense. Since Week 4, he has 14 touchdown passes and only two interceptions. It may take Anthony Richardson some time to grow into a consistent, capable quarterback, but he has the tools to provide decent production while he works out the kinks. Drake Maye has made strides in his rookie season, and while this year may not be in the cards for the Patriots as a contender, there is hope around the corner with a wealth of cap space available. The belief is that New England will make the moves necessary to help build a team around Maye as their cornerstone.
2. Week 15 juggernaut matchup to yield high fantasy numbers.
The Week 15 game between the Bills and Lions in Detroit will tell us a lot about both teams as they jockey for playoff seeding, but it could also be a game that yields a steady dose of fantasy production. If the game script leans in a direction where both teams find success moving the ball and putting up points, it could be a tremendous source of point production that could elevate your team to Week 16. Sam LaPorta or Jameson Williams may even be the reason why your team advances.
3. An unlikely hero for the playoffs.
San Francisco wide receiver Jauan Jennings has been outstanding since his return from a hip injury and the subsequent loss of Brandon Aiyuk (knee). He has taken over as Brock Purdy's go-to option, especially when George Kittle is out. He outperformed the oft-injured Deebo Samuel Sr. this past week and looks to be on a course that would make him one of the more sought-after fantasy plays for the playoffs with two big positive matchups against the Rams in Week 15 and the Lions in Week 17. Another plus is that the 49ers have already had their bye, so there is no concern for lineup issues.
4. Ride the Buccaneers players for the playoff stretch.
Mike Evans (hamstring) may return just in time to make a difference, but this belief includes Baker Mayfield, Rachaad White, Bucky Irving, Cade Otton, and the Tampa D/ST. Looking ahead to the Buccaneers' schedule, they face one difficult opponent in the LA Chargers in Week 15. Everyone else is a favorable matchup that includes Carolina twice, the Giants, the Cowboys, and the Raiders. If you can navigate your way through and past Week 15, you'll be in good shape with any Buccaneers on your roster.
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