Fantasy football managers face critical lineup decisions for the pivotal Week 13 slate. The action kicks off with a trio of Thanksgiving Day games, shaping playoff pushes across all leagues. Start-sit choices this week will define many season-long outcomes.Expert analysis from top sources highlights must-start players and risky busts. According to USA TODAY Sports, certain elite matchups offer clear paths to fantasy points. The key is identifying the softest defenses and the hottest offensive trends.
Why Patrick Mahomes Is the Premier Quarterback Start
Patrick Mahomes is the top quarterback play this week. The Kansas City Chiefs star faces the Dallas Cowboys on Thanksgiving. Dallas has allowed the most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season.Their secondary is a major weakness. Mahomes is projected for over 20 fantasy points in this matchup. He is set for a massive bounce-back performance in a potential shootout.
Running Backs to Trust and Avoid in Week 13
Kenneth Gainwell of the Pittsburgh Steelers is a strong start. He faces a Buffalo Bills run defense that has struggled badly. The Bills have allowed a league-high 14 rushing touchdowns to running backs.Devin Neal is another intriguing option if Alvin Kamara is out. The New Orleans Saints rookie could see expanded work against the Miami Dolphins. Miami’s defense has also been generous to opposing rushers.Conversely, some big-name backs carry risk. Players facing top-tier run defenses like the Cleveland Browns should be evaluated carefully. Volume alone may not be enough against these formidable units.

Wide Receiver Matchups Offering Major Value
Khalil Shakir of the Buffalo Bills is a must-start wideout. He faces a Pittsburgh Steelers secondary that has allowed over 2,000 receiving yards to wide receivers. Shakir is coming off a strong 110-yard performance.Xavier Worthy also presents a high-ceiling play. The Kansas City Chiefs rookie faces that same vulnerable Dallas Cowboys pass defense. His speed could result in a big-play touchdown.Stefon Diggs remains a locked-in starter despite recent fluctuations. The Baltimore Ravens receiver has a favorable draw against the New York Giants. His target share guarantees a solid fantasy floor.
Key Players to Consider Benching This Week
Brock Purdy is a quarterback to consider sitting. The San Francisco 49ers signal-caller faces the Cleveland Browns’ elite defense. Cleveland’s pass rush led by Myles Garrett creates a tough environment.Jared Goff also profiles as a risky start. The Detroit Lions quarterback faces a Green Bay Packers defense that limited him earlier this season. The Packers have been stingy against the pass recently.At tight end, streaming options may be better than inconsistent stars. Matchups are crucial for tight end production in Week 13. Always check the defensive rankings against the position before locking in your choice.
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The Week 13 fantasy football landscape demands smart, matchup-based decisions. Patrick Mahomes stands alone as the premium play. Leveraging these start-sit insights can secure a crucial late-season victory.
Thought you’d like to know
Is Patrick Mahomes a surefire start in Week 13?
Yes, absolutely. He has the best possible matchup against the Dallas Cowboys’ league-worst pass defense. All projections point to a high-scoring game ideal for fantasy production.
Which running back has the best matchup for Week 13?
Kenneth Gainwell has an excellent matchup against the Buffalo Bills. Buffalo allows the third-most rushing yards per game and has major tackling issues, making him a strong RB2 or flex play.
Should I start Khalil Shakir this week?
Yes. Shakir is a top-tier start against the Pittsburgh Steelers, who have allowed the most receiving yards to wide receivers this season. He is the clear top target in Buffalo’s offense.
Why is Brock Purdy a sit candidate for Week 13?
Purdy faces the Cleveland Browns, a top-three defense against fantasy quarterbacks. His recent turnover problems combined with this tough road matchup create too much risk for starting lineups.
What makes the Cowboys such a good matchup for QBs?
The Cowboys defense has given up more fantasy points per game to quarterbacks than any other team. They consistently allow high yardage and multiple touchdowns through the air.
How important is Week 13 for fantasy playoffs?
It is very important, as it’s often the final week before the fantasy playoff field is set in many leagues. Winning your matchup this week can secure a postseason berth or a crucial first-round bye.
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