Fantasy Football Week 13: Who To Start & Sit For Wins

Hey fantasy football fanatics, guys and gals, welcome to the crucial Week 13 Start/Sit guide! We're officially in the thick of the fantasy playoffs race, and for many of us, this is the week that truly makes or breaks your season. Every single decision, from your quarterback all the way down to your defense, could be the difference between punching your ticket to the postseason and packing up for next year. Trust me, I know the pressure! This isn't just about picking the obvious studs; it's about digging deep, looking at matchups, injuries, and those sneaky volume plays that can propel you to victory. We're going to break down some of the toughest decisions you'll face this week, focusing on players across all positions that present significant start or sit dilemmas. Our goal here is to provide you with high-quality, actionable insights to help you navigate this treacherous landscape. Remember, one bold move, one smart benching, could be the key to securing that all-important win. So, let's dive in and get you ready to dominate your opponents this Sunday. We're talking about avoiding those costly mistakes and identifying the undervalued gems that can give you that competitive edge. It's time to make some winning decisions!

Quarterbacks: Who to Trust Under Center

Alright, let's talk about the field generals, the guys who orchestrate the offense – your quarterbacks. Choosing the right QB in Week 13 can be absolutely pivotal, especially with bye weeks winding down, but injuries and tough matchups still throwing wrenches into our plans. This week, we've got some interesting dynamics at play, from high-flying offenses facing struggling defenses to established stars in potentially tricky spots. It's not always about raw talent; sometimes, it's about the opportunity and the matchup. For instance, a QB who's been hot might cool off against an elite secondary, while a middle-tier guy could absolutely erupt against a porous pass defense. We need to be savvy and look beyond just the names. Consider factors like opponent's pass defense DVOA, recent performance trends, and the potential for a high-scoring game environment. Are they playing in a dome? Outdoors in potential bad weather? All these tiny details can add up to a big difference in fantasy points. This is where we earn our stripes as expert fantasy managers, by not just following the herd but making informed, strategic choices. Let's dig into some specific names and scenarios to help you lock in a QB who can deliver. We're looking for that perfect blend of safety and upside to lead your team to glory. Remember, consistency is key, but sometimes a high ceiling pick can win you the week.

QBs to Start with Confidence

When we're talking about quarterbacks to start, we're looking for guys with a high floor and an even higher ceiling, especially in a critical Week 13. Our top priority for starts this week should definitely include Jared Goff from the Detroit Lions. Goff has been consistently excellent at home this season, and in Week 13, he faces a New Orleans Saints defense that, while generally solid, can be exploited through the air, particularly if their pass rush isn't getting home. The Saints have given up some big passing games, and Goff, armed with elite weapons like Amon-Ra St. Brown and a strong rushing attack that keeps defenses honest, is in a prime spot. The Lions' offense is humming, and their offensive line is one of the best in the league, giving Goff plenty of time to dissect secondaries. Furthermore, the Saints offense can put up points, which often leads to a higher-scoring game script, forcing Goff to throw more. Expect at least 250 yards and multiple touchdowns from Goff, making him a strong QB1 play this week. Another guy I'm absolutely loving is Brock Purdy. The 49ers' QB has been on fire, managing the offense masterfully, and in Week 13, he goes up against a Philadelphia Eagles defense that, despite their formidable reputation, has shown vulnerability to quarterbacks who can extend plays and distribute the ball effectively. Purdy benefits from one of the most talented arrays of offensive weapons in the NFL – Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk, George Kittle – it's an embarrassment of riches. The 49ers' scheme is designed to get these playmakers the ball in space, and Purdy executes it flawlessly. The Eagles game promises to be a high-total affair, which bodes well for passing volume and touchdown opportunities. Purdy's efficiency combined with the sheer talent around him makes him a must-start with fantastic upside. Don't overthink it with Purdy; he's delivering top-tier QB numbers right now. These two guys offer a blend of safety and explosive potential that you absolutely need in your lineup.

QBs to Sit if You Can

Now, for the other side of the coin: the quarterbacks to sit, if you have better options available on your roster or the waiver wire. This isn't about these guys being bad players; it's about tough matchups or current circumstances that make them risky plays for Week 13. One signal-caller I'm hesitant about this week is Will Levis. While Levis has shown flashes of brilliance since taking over as the Titans' starter, his Week 13 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts is a red flag. The Colts' defense has been surprisingly stout against the pass, particularly in recent weeks, generating consistent pressure and limiting big plays. Rookie quarterbacks often struggle on the road against disciplined defenses, and the Colts' defensive line can make life miserable for Levis. Without a consistently strong receiving corps outside of DeAndre Hopkins, Levis's ceiling is often capped, and his floor can be quite low due to potential turnovers or a lack of passing volume if the run game struggles. This isn't the week to gamble on a rookie against a defense that can exploit his inexperience. Look for safer alternatives if you have them. Another QB I'm advising you to pump the brakes on is Matthew Stafford. The Rams face a formidable Cleveland Browns defense, one that boasts arguably the best pass rush in the entire league, led by Myles Garrett. Cleveland's secondary is also very talented, making it incredibly difficult to throw against them. While Stafford has moments of brilliance, this matchup presents a significant challenge. He'll be under constant duress, and forcing throws against a secondary that rarely gives up big plays is a recipe for low fantasy output and potential turnovers. The Rams' offense can be inconsistent, and against a defense of the Browns' caliber, Stafford's fantasy prospects take a serious hit. Unless you are in a super deep league or have absolutely no other choice, try to find another option. These are the weeks where you need to make the tough but smart decisions to protect your team's fantasy playoff hopes. Don't let a bad matchup derail your season, guys. Trust the analytics and make the strategic move to sit these QBs this week if at all possible.

Running Backs: Finding the Ground Game Advantage

Shifting gears to the engine of most fantasy teams, let's talk about running backs. This position can be the cornerstone of a consistent fantasy roster, but navigating the weekly landscape of injuries, committee approaches, and matchup volatility makes it one of the most challenging to predict. For Week 13, the goal remains the same: identify backs who are poised for significant volume, either through rushing attempts or targets in the passing game, and who face defenses susceptible to the run. We're looking for backs who are workhorses, or at least feature prominently in their team's game plan, especially against weaker run defenses. Sometimes, a back who has been underwhelming can suddenly pop against a team that struggles to contain the ground game, while a star can be stifled by an elite defensive front. It's crucial to consider offensive line strength, game script (will their team be ahead, leading to more running?), and red zone usage. The difference between a good week and a great week often comes down to goal-line opportunities. Remember, volume is king in fantasy football, and nowhere is that truer than at the running back position. We need to cut through the noise and find those backs who are set up for success, whether it's through sheer volume or explosive playmaking against a favorable opponent. Let's dig deep into who you should be plugging in and who might be best left on your bench this critical Week 13. Every carry matters as we fight for those playoff spots.

RBs to Start with Confidence

When it comes to running backs to start in Week 13, we're targeting volume, favorable matchups, and backs who are integral to their team's offensive game plan. My top recommendation for a strong start this week is Breece Hall. The New York Jets face the Atlanta Falcons, who, despite some strengths, have shown vulnerability against opposing running backs, especially those who can catch passes out of the backfield. Hall is a true dual-threat back, and even in a less-than-stellar Jets offense, his talent and usage are undeniable. He's been getting a solid workload, and the Falcons' defense can be run on, particularly outside the tackles, where Hall excels. With the Jets' passing game often struggling, they tend to lean on Hall heavily, both as a runner and a receiver. This gives him a high floor and a tremendous ceiling in PPR formats. Look for him to get 15+ carries and several targets, making him a strong RB1/RB2 play. Don't be shy about firing him up this week. Another guy I'm very confident in is Javonte Williams. The Denver Broncos take on the Houston Texans, and this game has the potential to be a high-scoring affair, which bodes well for all offensive pieces. Williams has been steadily improving throughout the season, getting healthier and seeing his snap share and touches increase significantly. He's now clearly the lead back in Denver, and the Texans' run defense, while not terrible, isn't elite. Williams' physical running style wears down defenses, and he's also involved enough in the passing game to provide a safe floor. The Broncos' offense has found a rhythm, and they'll likely look to establish the run against Houston. Expect Williams to be heavily involved and have plenty of opportunities to rack up yards and potentially find the end zone. He's a solid RB2 with upside this week, especially in full-PPR leagues. These backs provide a fantastic combination of usage and matchup that's tough to beat.

RBs to Sit if You Can

Now, let's discuss the running backs to sit in Week 13, focusing on players who, despite their talent or typical usage, face challenging circumstances. First up, I'm advising caution with Najee Harris. The Pittsburgh Steelers face a formidable Arizona Cardinals run defense. While the Cardinals have struggled in some areas, their run defense has been surprisingly stout this season, often bottling up opposing ground games. Harris's production is often volume-dependent, and the Steelers' offensive line, while improved, can struggle to open consistent running lanes against tough fronts. Furthermore, the Steelers' offense as a whole has been inconsistent, and if they fall behind, it could lead to fewer rushing attempts for Harris. With Jaylen Warren also commanding a significant share of touches, Harris's ceiling can be limited even in good matchups. Against the Cardinals, his floor is uncomfortably low. Unless you're absolutely desperate, try to find a different option. Another back I'd look to bench is Khalil Herbert. The Chicago Bears face a tough road matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings' defense has been playing surprisingly well, and their run defense has been particularly stingy. Herbert, while efficient when he gets touches, is part of a timeshare with D'Ontre Foreman, and his volume is simply not guaranteed. The Bears' offense can be inconsistent, and against a Vikings team that's fighting for playoff positioning, it could be a tough day on the ground. Herbert relies heavily on efficiency and big plays, and against a disciplined Vikings front, those might be hard to come by. His workload is too unpredictable to trust in a must-win Week 13 scenario, making him a very risky play. These are the guys who could disappoint you when you need them most, so be strategic and consider other options to keep your playoff hopes alive. We want reliable production, and these guys just don't offer that this week due to their challenging matchups and uncertain volume.

Wide Receivers: Catching the Winning Edge

Moving on to the playmakers on the outside, let's talk about wide receivers. This position is often characterized by explosive plays and high-scoring potential, but it's also heavily influenced by target share, quarterback play, and cornerback matchups. In Week 13, nailing your wide receiver selections is absolutely critical for fantasy success. We need to identify receivers who are commanding a high volume of targets, especially in offenses that are projected to throw a lot, or those who have advantageous matchups against weaker secondaries. It's not just about the big names; sometimes, a lesser-known receiver in a prime spot can outproduce a fantasy stud facing a lockdown corner. Consider the opponent's defensive scheme – do they play a lot of zone, which might favor slot receivers, or do they play man-to-man, which can highlight elite route runners? Also, keep an eye on injury situations within the receiving corps, as a vacated target share can elevate other receivers on the team. We're looking for receivers who are not only getting targets but also have the opportunity to turn those targets into significant yardage and, most importantly, touchdowns. The red zone looks are huge for wide receiver production. This is where we dissect the matchups and unearth those undervalued gems or confirm the confidence in our regular starters. Let's get down to the nitty-gritty and help you pick the receivers who will haul in those crucial fantasy points for your team in this pivotal week. Every reception counts in the fight for playoff berths.

WRs to Start with Confidence

For wide receivers to start in Week 13, we're targeting volume, talent, and advantageous matchups against vulnerable secondaries. My top pick to fire up with confidence is Puka Nacua. The Los Angeles Rams face the Cleveland Browns, and while the Browns' defense is elite, their secondary, particularly their slot corner situation, can be exploited. More importantly, Nacua has cemented himself as a target hog in the Rams' offense, consistently drawing a massive share of Matthew Stafford's passes. Even if Stafford faces pressure, Nacua's ability to get open quickly and his high catch rate make him a reliable option. The Browns' offense might put up points, forcing the Rams to throw, which directly benefits Nacua. His red-zone usage also gives him a high touchdown upside. He's a must-start WR2 with WR1 upside every week, and this week is no different. Another receiver I'm absolutely loving is Garrett Wilson. Despite the Jets' quarterback woes, Wilson continues to command an elite target share and makes spectacular plays regardless of who's throwing him the ball. In Week 13, the Jets face the Atlanta Falcons, whose secondary, while decent, is not impenetrable. Wilson's pure talent and target volume make him essentially matchup-proof. The Jets will have to throw to keep pace, and Wilson is far and away their most reliable and explosive offensive weapon. He sees a high percentage of the team's air yards and red zone targets, which is exactly what we want in a fantasy receiver. Even if the QB play isn't stellar, Wilson's sheer ability to get open and make contested catches ensures he still produces. He's a solid WR2 with high upside because of his sheer volume and talent, making him a strong play you can confidently plug in. These two are primed for big weeks, guys, so get them in your lineups!

WRs to Sit if You Can

Now, let's talk about wide receivers to sit in Week 13, where matchups or uncertain circumstances make them too risky to trust. One receiver I'd be looking to bench is Christian Watson. The Green Bay Packers face the Kansas City Chiefs, who, despite some occasional lapses, have a relatively strong secondary and are excellent at limiting big plays. While Watson has shown flashes of his high ceiling, his production has been inconsistent, and he relies heavily on big plays and touchdowns. Against a disciplined Chiefs defense, those opportunities might be few and far between. Furthermore, the Packers' offense can be streaky, and against a strong opponent, they might lean more on the run or shorter passes, limiting Watson's deep targets. His target share isn't always robust, and his floor can be quite low if he doesn't hit a big play or find the end zone. Unless you're in a very deep league, there are likely safer options. Another wideout I'm advising you to pump the brakes on is Drake London. The Atlanta Falcons face the New York Jets, who boast one of the elite secondaries in the NFL, particularly with Sauce Gardner locking down one side of the field. London's production is already inconsistent due to the Falcons' run-heavy scheme and often suboptimal quarterback play. Going up against a defense of the Jets' caliber significantly lowers his ceiling and his floor. He's likely to draw tough coverage, and the Falcons' reluctance to air it out makes it difficult for London to overcome a challenging matchup through sheer volume. This is a classic situation where a talented player is simply in a very poor fantasy environment for a given week. Don't risk it with London this week; his upside is minimal against such a stingy pass defense. It's about making those tough calls to safeguard your fantasy team's prospects, so consider these guys on your bench if you have viable alternatives. We want predictable production, and these guys are too volatile against these matchups.

Tight Ends: The Elusive Weekly Advantage

Alright, let's tackle the enigma of fantasy football: tight ends. This position is notoriously volatile, with only a handful of consistent producers week after week. For Week 13, finding a tight end who can give you a reliable floor, let alone a high ceiling, is like finding a needle in a haystack – but that's exactly what we're going to try to do! We need to focus on tight ends who are receiving a decent target share, especially in the red zone, or those who are facing defenses that notoriously struggle against the position. Sometimes, it's about a strong offensive scheme that funnels targets to the tight end, or a quarterback who heavily relies on his safety blanket in crucial situations. Injuries to other pass-catchers can also open up opportunities for tight ends. We're looking for that sweet spot where opportunity meets matchup, giving us a higher probability of getting those crucial catches, yards, and touchdowns. Don't fall into the trap of chasing a single big performance from a tight end; consistency, even modest consistency, is golden at this position. This is the week where a savvy tight end pick can elevate your entire lineup and give you an edge over your opponents who might be struggling to find production at the position. Let's zero in on some tight ends who could deliver for your squad in this high-stakes environment. Every point matters, especially from a position as tricky as tight end.

TEs to Start with Confidence

When we're talking about tight ends to start in Week 13, we're looking for guys who are either elite, or who have a fantastic matchup and consistent target share. My top recommendation for a confident start this week is T.J. Hockenson. The Minnesota Vikings face the Chicago Bears, and this matchup is incredibly favorable for tight ends. The Bears have consistently struggled to defend the tight end position all season, giving up significant fantasy points to opposing TEs. Hockenson is the undisputed target hog in the Vikings' offense, regardless of who is under center, and his volume ensures a very high floor. He leads all tight ends in targets, and he's a reliable chain-mover and red-zone threat. Even if the Vikings' offense isn't always explosive, Hockenson's role is secure, and against a weak TE defense, he's primed for a big day. He's a must-start TE1 every week, and this week is no exception – expect a massive target share and plenty of opportunities to score. Another tight end I'm feeling good about is David Njoku. The Cleveland Browns face the Los Angeles Rams, and while the Rams aren't typically a pushover against TEs, Njoku has quietly become a very reliable target in the Browns' offense, especially with their recent quarterback changes. He's seeing consistent targets, particularly in the red zone, and his athleticism makes him a mismatch for many defenders. The Browns will likely need to throw to keep pace with the Rams, and Njoku is a trusted safety valve for whatever QB is under center. He's been getting more involved in the game plan and offers a solid floor with significant touchdown upside. He's a strong streaming option and a low-end TE1 this week, especially in PPR formats. Don't sleep on Njoku; he could be a sneaky difference-maker. These are the guys who can give you that crucial edge at a difficult position.

TEs to Sit if You Can

Now, for the tight ends to sit in Week 13, where the combination of difficult matchups, inconsistent usage, or other factors makes them too risky. One tight end I'm advising you to bench is Tyler Higbee. The Los Angeles Rams face the Cleveland Browns, who boast one of the stingiest defenses in the league against tight ends. The Browns' linebackers and safeties are excellent in coverage, and they consistently limit fantasy production from opposing TEs. Higbee's target share can be inconsistent even in good matchups, and against an elite defense like Cleveland's, his ceiling is severely capped, and his floor is worryingly low. There are simply better options out there with more favorable matchups. Don't get caught starting a player against a defense that excels at shutting down his position. Another tight end I'd look to avoid starting this week is Dalton Schultz. The Houston Texans face the Denver Broncos, and while the Broncos' defense isn't elite, they've been surprisingly effective at containing tight ends for much of the season. More importantly, Schultz's role in the Texans' offense can be feast or famine, heavily dependent on game script and C.J. Stroud's preferred targets. While Stroud is excellent, he has a plethora of talented wide receivers he likes to target, and Schultz's volume can fluctuate wildly. Against a defense that isn't particularly vulnerable to the tight end, and with other mouths to feed, Schultz's floor is precarious. Unless you have absolutely no other viable option, it's best to look elsewhere. These are the weeks where you need to be ruthless with your tight end decisions, guys. Don't risk valuable points on players facing tough sledding when your playoff hopes are on the line. Prioritize those with higher target certainty and easier matchups.

Defenses/Special Teams (DSTs): Playing the Matchup Game

Finally, let's talk about Defenses/Special Teams (DSTs), a position often overlooked but one that can swing matchups dramatically. In Week 13, playing the matchup game with your DST is paramount. We're looking for defenses going up against turnover-prone quarterbacks, struggling offensive lines, or teams that are likely to be playing from behind, leading to more passing attempts and potential sacks and interceptions. DSTs thrive on sacks, turnovers, and low points allowed, and these usually come when facing offenses that are either inefficient, missing key players, or forced into desperation mode. Identifying these situations is key to maximizing your DST's output. Don't just stick with a