NFL Fantasy Football Stats & Trends for Week 10: Planning for the Playoffs
Introduction
Welcome to our weekly exploration of NFL fantasy football stats and trends, where we go beyond basic numbers to provide you with deep insights that can give you a competitive edge in your fantasy league. As we approach Week 10 of the 2023 NFL season, it’s crucial to plan strategically, especially with an eye on the upcoming fantasy playoffs. Let’s delve into eight notable nuggets that could shape your fantasy decisions.
1) Planning Ahead
The age-old adage holds true in fantasy football: failing to prepare is preparing to fail. As we anticipate the fantasy playoffs just five weeks away, savvy fantasy managers are already thinking championship. We’ve identified players with both exciting and concerning playoff matchups, offering you a foresight advantage.
Concerning Players:
QB Tua Tagovailoa
Facing formidable defenses like the Jets (2nd vs. QBs), Cowboys (14th), and Ravens (1st), Tagovailoa’s fantasy output may face challenges. In games against top-16 QB defenses this season, he’s averaged 16.6 fantasy points.
RB Saquon Barkley
Barkley’s playoff opponents include the Saints (10th vs. RBs), Eagles (1st), and Rams (7th). Compounded by the Giants’ struggling offense, averaging 10.4 points per game, Barkley’s fantasy prospects seem concerning.
Exciting Players:
RB Austin Ekeler
Ekeler’s matchups against the Raiders (29th vs. RBs), Bills (24th), and Broncos (32nd) bode well. Ranking top-three in targets and goal-line carries per game among running backs in 2023, Ekeler is poised for a strong playoff run.
RB Bijan Robinson
The rookie faces the Panthers (28th vs. RBs), Colts (26th), and Bears (31st). Despite fewer carries than some peers, Robinson’s efficiency shines, with more rushing yards after contact than others.
WR DK Metcalf
Metcalf’s matchups against the Eagles (31st vs. WRs), Titans (29th), and Steelers (27th) make him an exciting prospect. Leading in end-zone targets for the second consecutive year, Metcalf’s touchdowns are expected to regress positively.
2) Prepare to Launch: Calvin Ridley’s Strategy
Calvin Ridley’s fantasy performance is intricately tied to matchups. Against top-12 WR defenses, he averages 6.4 fantasy points, but against others, this number jumps to 16.4 PPG. As Ridley faces two bottom-seven defenses soon, consider timing your trade to maximize returns. Post-Week 11, caution is advised as he encounters tougher opponents.
3) Our Kittle Secret: George Kittle’s Impact
George Kittle’s success correlates with the absence of other elite weapons on the 49ers’ offense. In games without key receivers, Kittle’s targets triple, leading to stellar performances. This trend extends to 2022, highlighting Kittle as a top-three tight end as long as injuries affect San Francisco.
4) Picken up Where They Left Off: George Pickens’ Fantasy Outlook
George Pickens’ role in Pittsburgh is intriguing. Despite Diontae Johnson being the primary receiver, Pickens serves as a deep threat. Recent statistics reveal Johnson’s dominance, emphasizing Pickens’ limited fantasy reliability. Consider alternatives unless Johnson faces health issues.
5) King of the Hill: Taysom Hill’s Versatility
Taysom Hill’s position ambiguity doesn’t hinder his fantasy dominance. Whether at tight end, quarterback, running back, or wide receiver, Hill excels. His recent success stems from increased volume, notably in the red zone, making him a valuable fantasy asset.
6) Tampa 2 Easy: Will Levis’ Favorable Matchup
Will Levis boasts three of the longest touchdown passes in the NFL, and his upcoming matchup against the Buccaneers is promising. Tampa Bay’s struggles against explosive pass plays present an opportunity for Levis to capitalize, especially given their vulnerability to rushing touchdowns by quarterbacks.
7) You Got unMossed! Jonathan Taylor’s Ascendance
Jonathan Taylor’s emergence as the Colts’ primary back is evident. With a consistent increase in snaps, Taylor combines goal-line work and passing routes, making him a fantasy force. As one of the few running backs averaging over 20 fantasy points, Taylor is set to join the elite ranks.
8) Stroud-pleaser: Dalton Schultz’s Resurgence
C.J. Stroud’s connection with Dalton Schultz has transformed the Texans’ tight end landscape. Schultz’s increased target share and end-zone targets position him as a fantasy stud, debunking any early-season skepticism. Expect Schultz to maintain his impressive fantasy output.