Finding the Right Lineup: Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em for Week 3
This week’s fantasy football preview focuses on key players to start and sit as NFL teams head into their third week of competition. Fantasy managers need to pay attention to matchups, injuries, and recent performances to make the most of their lineups.
Quarterback Starts
**Dak Prescott, QB, Cowboys** is a clear start against a Chicago Bears defense that is struggling. After a strong performance against the Giants, Prescott is poised for another big game. Chicago has injuries that further weaken their defense, making this matchup favorable.
**Caleb Williams vs. Cowboys** also stands out, especially as he faces a Dallas team that’s been easy on quarterbacks. This could be a shootout given the high point total projected.
**Drake Maye vs. Steelers** appears ready to capitalize on a softened Steelers defense, building off a promising performance in Week 2.
Running Back Recommendations
For running backs, **Jordan Mason, RB, Vikings** is set to shine against the Bengals. With the Vikings missing key players due to injury, Mason’s workload will increase significantly.
**Kenneth Walker III vs. Saints** has turned heads with his recent performance and is emerging as a reliable RB2 option this week.
**Javonte Williams at Bears** and **Jaylen Warren at Patriots** are also great start candidates due to favorable matchups.
Wide Receiver Spotlight
**Zay Flowers, WR, Ravens** is making waves this season and continues to be a must-start with a solid target share. His performances thus far indicate he has the potential for a breakout game.
**Rome Odunze vs. Cowboys** should also be considered, as he has been productive so far and has top-tier scoring potential this week.
**Jakobi Meyers at Commanders** might not be the flashiest option, but his consistent volume makes him a viable start for fantasy managers.
**Ricky Pearsall vs. Cardinals** is worth starting too, as the Cardinals secondary has injuries that could allow for significant offensive production.
Tight End Choices
**Zach Ertz, TE, Commanders** continues to perform well and should be a reliable target again, especially with a possible quarterback change.
**Juwan Johnson at Seahawks** can be a strong start due to his role in the Saints’ offense against a defense prone to giving up points to tight ends.
Quarterbacks to Bench
If you’re deciding who to bench, **Jared Goff, QB, Lions** should be considered, as he will face a challenging Ravens defense outdoors. His previous struggles in similar matchups raise concern.
**Trevor Lawrence vs. Texans** and **Matthew Stafford at Eagles** should also be on fantasy benches due to tough matchups.
Running Backs to Avoid
**J.K. Dobbins, RB, Broncos**, has looked promising but faces a tough Chargers defense that has effectively limited running backs this season. He’s a risky start this week.
**David Montgomery at Ravens** and others like **Omarion Hampton vs. Broncos** should also be benched, as their respective matchups do not favor strong performances.
Wide Receivers to Sit
**Tee Higgins, WR, Bengals** is likely to struggle this week given the quarterback situation in Cincinnati. The Vikings matchup won’t ease his burden.
**DeVonta Smith vs. Rams** and **Jerry Jeudy/Cedric Tillman vs. Packers** should also face struggles, putting them in the sit category.
Evaluating Tight End Options
**Mark Andrews, TE, Ravens** is in a slump and may see his role decrease with the return of teammate Isaiah Likely, making him a candidate for the bench. This week’s matchup against the Lions does not help his case either.
**T.J. Hockenson vs. Bengals** is another tight end to watch closely, given recent usage issues in the Vikings’ offense.
Strategic Reminders for Week 3
As fantasy managers, balancing your roster with a mix of proven stars and those with favorable matchups is key. Stay active on the waiver wire as well, particularly when players become available due to injuries.
This week includes a blend of stars and potential breakout candidates, so ensure that lineups are set with the latest information!
Stay Agile and Informed
In fantasy football, conditions change rapidly. Staying on top of injury reports and adapting strategy is crucial for success. The third week of the season presents teams with opportunities and hurdles that can define your fantasy season.
Keep analyzing matchups, player conditions, and performance trends to maximize your points each week!