B/R Fantasy Football's Game-by-Game Guide to Winning Week 12
To say Week 12 is a big one on the fantasy calendar is an understatement.
Firstly, all 32 NFL teams are in action for the first time since Week 4. Injuries have punched several holes in lineups this week, but at least we don't have to worry about bye weeks adding to it.
Also, only 2-3 weeks remain in the regular season in most leagues. For fantasy managers sitting at 6-5 or 5-6 and fighting for a playoff spot, this is a critical weekend. It's must-win time.
And four games will be played by Friday night due to the Thanksgiving weekend, which throws the fantasy schedule out of whack and means managers have to make quite a few decisions earlier than usual.
This column aims to help you make those decisions, whether the games are on Thursday afternoon or Monday night.
Here you'll find a game-by-game guide containing everything you need (coupled with our weekly Big Board) to earn a victory in Week 12: Injury news, players to start and sit, sleepers and even guys who are (or should be) on the trade block.
Let's get started with the annual Turkey Day game in Detroit.
Fantasy points allowed and scored data courtesy of My Fantasy League.
Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions
1 of 16
Key Injuries
The Packers have been hit hard by injuries on both sides of the ball, which is far from ideal on a short week.
Running back Aaron Jones won't play, although the team is hopeful that his knee injury won't land him on injured reserve. Fellow running back A.J. Dillon has been limited in practice by a groin injury but is expected to go. Tight end Luke Musgrave landed in the hospital after suffering a lacerated kidney last week against the Chargers, and he's also out this week.
The Lions roll into their annual Thanksgiving tilt in much better shape, with no offensive players of note on the injury report.
Start of the Week
David Montgomery, RB, Detroit Lions [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,300]: In each of Montgomery's two games back from injury, he's topped 75 rushing yards with a touchdown. Three in a row is a real possibility in a favorable running back matchup with the Packers.
Sit of the Week
A.J. Dillon, RB, Green Bay Packers [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,400]: It's not bad enough that Dillon is nicked up. The Lions rank fifth in the league in run defense and have surrendered the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to running backs in 2023.
Sleeper
Christian Watson, WR, Green Bay Packers [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,300]: The Lions aren't a great matchup for wide receivers, and Watson has disappointed in 2023. But the Packers are likely going to have little recourse but to try to move the ball through the air Thursday.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
From here on, the Trade Block will feature more of a dynasty focus. Watson's 16 catches for 257 yards and two scores are hardly what fantasy managers expected, but this is a receiver who was a top-10 fantasy option from Week 10 on in 2022. If you believe in his talent, now is the time to try to acquire him with an eye toward 2024.
Stat to Know
399.6. That's the number of yards the Lions are averaging this season, which tops the NFC. They aren't just prolific, they are also balanced: they are fourth in the NFL in passing yards (263.0 yards per game), fifth in rushing yards (136.6 yards per game) and sixth in scoring (27.2 points per game).
Washington Commanders at Dallas Cowboys
2 of 16
Key Injuries
The visiting Commanders are getting healthier heading into Thursday's NFC East showdown in Dallas. Wide receiver Curtis Samuel is off the injury report after a toe problem. The only skill-position player who isn't is running back Antonio Gibson, who has been limited by a toe injury of his own and is a game-time decision.
The Dallas Cowboys have no such problems and will roll into this game healthy offensively.
Start of the Week
Dak Prescott, QB Dallas Cowboys [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,800]: In three of the past four games, Prescott has thrown for at least 300 yards with three or more touchdowns. No team has surrendered more fantasy points per game to quarterbacks than the Commanders.
Sit of the Week
Terry McLaurin, WR, Washington Commanders [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,400]: McLaurin has half as many touchdown catches this season as Cowboys cornerback DaRon Bland, which is a statistic that aptly sums up the Washington wide receivers in 2023.
Sleeper
Brandin Cooks, WR, Dallas Cowboys [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,500]: Cooks' 2023 season has been one huge game and a whole lot of disappearing acts. But the Commanders have surrendered the third-most PPR points per game to wide receivers this season.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Dallas running back Tony Pollard hasn't been as productive as fantasy managers had hoped this season—18th in PPR points among running backs. If you can deal him to a contender for picks in dynasty formats, it's not a bad idea. His first season as the Cowboys' lead back may well be his last.
Stat to Know
45. That's where Commanders receiver Jahan Dotson ranks in PPR points among wide receivers. After hauling in seven touchdown catches as a rookie, he was a trendy breakout pick in many fantasy circles. But despite Sam Howell leading the NFL in passing yards, Dotson has all of one game with 70 receiving yards this season.
San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks
3 of 16
Key Injuries
The home team in this NFC West battle enters the game all kinds of beat up. It would be easier to list the parts of Seahawks wideout DK Metcalf that aren't hurt, and both he and running back Kenneth Walker III (oblique) are doubtful to play Thursday, with the latter the more uncertain of the pair
However, quarterback Geno Smith (arm) has been able to practice in a limited fashion and tracking toward playing, and wideout Tyler Lockett (hamstring) is practicing fully and should be a go.
In what appears to be a theme on Thanksgiving, one of the teams is banged up and the other isn't. The 49ers have no significant offensive injuries in Week 12.
Start of the Week
Tyler Lockett, WR, Seattle Seahawks [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,000]: The Seahawks badly need to win this game, and if Metcalf is out, Lockett could be peppered with targets against a 49ers defense giving up the seventh-most PPR points per game to WRs this season.
Sit of the Week
Zach Charbonnet, RB, Seattle Seahawks [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,300]: With Walker likely to sit Thursday, many fantasy managers may be ready to pivot to Charbonnet at running back. But the 49ers are third in the league in run defense, allowing just 81.4 yards per game on the ground.
Sleeper
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, WR, Seattle Seahawks [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,100]: Calling Smith-Njigba a "sleeper" isn't really accurate as he's waking up more and more every week. If Metcalf is sidelined against the Niners, this could be the rookie's true coming-out party.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Speaking of Smith-Njigba, dynasty managers looking to next season should consider taking a hard run at the rookie. Lockett isn't getting any younger, and the Ohio State product's time as Seattle's No. 2 (potentially No. 1) wide receiver is coming. Sometimes, sacrificing production now for potential later is the right play, especially if your odds of a deep playoff run in 2023 aren't great.
Stat to Know
118.9. That's the number of total yards per game 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey has averaged through 11 games this season. That puts the 27-year-old on pace to eclipse 2,000 total yards for the second time in his career. There is no debate that a healthy McCaffrey is the most valuable running back in fantasy football.
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Miami Dolphins at New York Jets
4 of 16
Key Injuries
The New York Jets will start Tim Boyle at quarterback this week, because head coach Robert Saleh hates the forward pass. It appears the 29-year-old will have his No. 1 wideout on Friday though. Garrett Wilson continues to nurse an elbow injury, but it hasn't prevented him from practicing, albeit in a limited fashion.
The Dolphins have injury issues of their own. De'Von Achane returned to action last week just long enough to hurt his knee again, and the running back isn't expected to play Friday. Fellow RB Raheem Mostert has been a regular on the injury report with knee and ankle issues but hasn't missed any game time yet. Tyreek Hill is on the injury report with a hand problem, but his status isn't in jeopardy.
Start of the Week
Miami Dolphins Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,500]: The Dolphins defense has been nothing to write home about this season, but the Jets are a complete mess offensively and now it's Boyle time. What's comes after "complete mess?" Utter disaster?
Sit of the Week
Garrett Wilson, WR, New York Jets [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,200]: On paper, the Dolphins are a good matchup for wideouts. But Miami is getting healthy on the back end, and Wilson has been saddled with a dismal situation under center.
Sleeper
Tyler Conklin, TE, New York Jets [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,000]: The Dolphins have been a top-15 fantasy matchup for tight ends this season, and it's not hard to imagine Boyle regularly dumping short passes over the middle in a game where New York is playing from behind.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Mostert is a perfect example of the sort of player dynasty managers out of the postseason hunt should be looking to unload. For a contending team, he could be the missing piece in a championship puzzle. For the team trading him, the 31-year-old is a valuable commodity who can be parlayed into more picks in next year's draft.
Stat to Know
One. The number of touchdown passes Boyle threw in 19 games at Connecticut, against 13 interceptions. His numbers in the NFL aren't any better: Three touchdowns and nine interceptions with zero wins over three starts in five professional seasons.
New Orleans Saints at Atlanta Falcons
5 of 16
Key Injuries
The New Orleans Saints come out of the bye short an important offensive contributor. Wide receiver Michael Thomas has seen another season cut short by injury, and he's on injured reserve with a knee problem. However, quarterback Derek Carr has cleared the NFL's concussion protocol and is off the injury report.
The Falcons are coming out of the bye with a new (old) quarterback. Taylor Heinicke (hamstring) is injured, so they are going back to Desmond Ridder this week.
Start of the Week
New Orleans Saints Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,600]: The Saints are quietly among the league leaders in a number of defensive categories, including seventh in fantasy points. The Atlanta offense hasn't exactly been a juggernaut this season.
Sit of the Week
Bijan Robinson, RB, Atlanta Falcons [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,500]: Robinson's erratic usage this season is problem enough, but the Falcons also face a Saints defense that ranks 30th in the NFL in fantasy points per game given up to running backs.
Sleeper
Rashid Shaheed, New Orleans Saints [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,300]: The Falcons admittedly aren't a favorable matchup for wide receivers. But with Thomas out Shaheed should see a bump in targets, and he's always just one long pass from a big stat line.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
I can't believe I'm writing this, but dynasty managers should take a run at grabbing Falcons tight end Kyle Pitts on the cheap as the season winds down. In a perfect world, Atlanta will fire Arthur Smith and hire a coach who knows how to use his best players. Even if it doesn't, Pitts is still one of the most naturally talented TEs in the league. That talent is worth a roll of the dice.
Stat to Know
29. That's the number of total touches Saints running back Alvin Kamara has in his last two games combined. When he first returned to the lineup, he logged at least 20 touches in five straight games. But in the last two contests, his workload has plummeted. He still has fantasy RB1 upside, but his fantasy floor has gotten exponentially lower in recent weeks.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals
6 of 16
Key Injuries
The Cincinnati Bengals are reeling after losing starting quarterback Joe Burrow for the season to a torn ligament in his wrist. They will also be short a wide receiver this week as Tee Higgins is out after missing Week 11 with a hamstring injury.
There are big changes for the Pittsburgh Steelers as well. Offensive coordinator Matt Canada was fired this week, with running backs coach Eddie Faulkner set to assume interim play-calling duties. Wideout George Pickens missed some practice time earlier in the week, but he's off the injury report and good to go.
Start of the Week
Ja'Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals [DraftKings DFS Value: $8,300]: Yes, the switch to Jake Browning under center in the Queen City isn't ideal. But don't overthink starting Chase this week, because the Steelers are 23rd in the league against the pass this season.
Sit of the Week
Diontae Johnson, WR, Pittsburgh Steelers [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,900]: The Bengals are a middle-of-the-pack fantasy matchup for wide receivers. If the Steelers had a middle-of-the-pack passing attack, Canada would still have a job.
Sleeper
Tyler Boyd, WR, Cincinnati Bengals [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,600]: There's real risk involved with starting Boyd this week even in a favorable matchup. But Browning could use a safety valve over the middle, and Boyd could be that guy.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
There are two things that dynasty fantasy managers should be doing right now: Buying if they're winning, and selling if they are losing. However, both sides should kick the tires on Tee Higgins. Awful 2023 season aside, he will likely be the top receiver changing teams in 2024. He has WR1 upside next year, but winning teams looking to make a run in 2023 might not be able to wait for that.
Stat to Know
170.0. That's the number of passing yards the Steelers are averaging this year, which ranks dead-last in the AFC. Pittsburgh has a decent wideout duo in Pickens and Diontae Johnson. You can blame some of the struggles on Canada's predictable play-calling, but the real root of the problem is that Kenny Pickett isn't a franchise quarterback. And with the Steelers continuing to win enough games that high draft picks are out of the question, getting "the guy" isn't going to be easy.
Carolina Panthers at Tennessee Titans
7 of 16
Key Injuries
There may not be a player in the entire NFL who has been mentioned more in this column this year than Tennessee Titans wide receiver Treylon Burks. He remains in the NFL's concussion protocol and will miss another game. Running back Derrick Henry (ankle) was limited in practice earlier this week, but he's off the injury report.
Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst is in the same situation as Burks--he'll sit Sunday after failing to clear the league's concussion protocol.
Start of the Week
Adam Thielen, WR, Carolina Panthers [DraftKings DFS Value: $7,300]: Thielen came roaring out of the gate this season before cooling off. Look for the veteran to heat back up against a Tennessee defense surrendering the sixth-most PPR points per game to wide receivers in 2023.
Sit of the Week
DeAndre Hopkins, WR, Carolina Panthers [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,100]: Hopkins had a massive first game with Will Levis at quarterback. But while the Panthers may be the NFL's worst team, they have also been a poor fantasy matchup for opposing WRs this season.
Sleeper
Tennessee Titans Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,400]: The Titans haven't been particularly good defensively, especially against the pass. But the Panthers are 31st in the league in total offense and third in fantasy points per game allowed to defenses in 2023.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Adam Thielen is fantasy football's 10th-ranked wideout in PPR points and one of the biggest fantasy bargains at his position of the season. He's also a 33-year-old receiver whose chances of repeating this season are slim. If you have him rostered and aren't a legitimate title contender, flip the veteran to a team that is and add some more draft capital for 2024.
Stat to Know
16.3. The number of points the Panthers are averaging per contest, which ranks 30th in the league. Many will point the finger at first-year quarterback Bryce Young, but he hasn't had much help. Carolina's offensive line is average on a good day. Thielen is the only viable pass-catcher on the roster. And the ground game is 29th in the league in rushing yards per game. This year at least, the rookie QB has been set up to fail.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Indianapolis Colts
8 of 16
Key Injuries
Sometimes the bye week comes at an optimal time for an NFL team. That appears to be the case for the Indianapolis Colts, who head into Week 12 with an injury report devoid of any prominent offensive players.
Neither of these offenses are tearing it up, but the Buccaneers also head into Week 12 relatively healthy. Their only potentially significant offensive injury is wide receiver Chris Godwin, who has been limited in practice by knee and shoulder issues but isn't on the injury report.
Start of the Week
Michael Pittman Jr., WR, Indianapolis Colts [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,800]: Pittman has double-digit targets in three of the past five games, at least eight catches in four of the past five games and gets a top-five fantasy matchup for wideouts this week with the Buccaneers.
Sit of the Week
Jonathan Taylor, RB, Indianapolis Colts [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,900]: Taylor logged a season-high 23 carries last time out, but he also averaged just three yards per carry. The Buccaneers are stout against the run, allowing just 90 rushing yards per game.
Sleeper
Josh Downs, WR, Indianapolis Colts [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,800]: Downs was quiet in his last game, catching just two of three targets for 40 yards. But he's had two weeks to get healthy and draws a favorable Week 12 matchup with Tampa's leaky secondary.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Dealing a young running back who ranks inside the top 10 in PPR points may seem counterintuitive, but Rachaad White's 2023 season is a fluke born of tons of short receptions. The Bucs are last in the NFL in rushing, and it's a safe bet they will address the backfield in the offseason. Flip White to a dynasty contender while the fun is still happening before his production starts matching his middling talent level.
Stat to Know
3. That's the number of touchdown passes Gardner Minshew has thrown over the Colts' last six games. Only twice this season has he thrown multiple touchdown passes, and he hasn't had more than two scoring throws in a game. However, if ever there was a week where he might break out of that funk, it's against the Buccaneers. They rank dead-last in the NFC in pass defense and have allowed the sixth-most passing touchdowns in the league.
New England Patriots at New York Giants
9 of 16
Key Injuries
The New England Patriots have one of the worst offenses in the NFL, and if that wasn't bad enough, running back Rhamondre Stevenson is nursing a back injury. But he isn't on the injury report, and only wide receiver DeVante Parker (concussion) is among skill-position players.
The Giants are in a relatively similar position. Wide receivers Sterling Shepard and Darius Slayton are nicked up and Slayton (neck) is doubtful, but other than that, the NFL's least-productive offense in terms of yards per game is healthy.
Well, outside all the players already on injured reserve at least.
Start of the Week
New York Giants Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,500]: The Giants are coming off, arguably, their best defensive effort of the season last week against the Commanders, and the Patriots have surrendered the most fantasy points per game in the AFC to team defenses this season.
Sit of the Week
Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,400]: Henry had a great first two games of the season, but he's spent almost the entire rest of the season on a milk carton. That's unlikely to change in a surprisingly poor matchup for tight ends with the Giants.
Sleeper
Demario Douglas, WR, New England Patriots [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,400]: Trusting any "weapon" in one of the AFC's weaker passing games isn't easy, but the Giants have surrendered the fifth-most PPR points per game to wide receivers this season.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
There really isn't much to talk about in this matchup trade-wise on either team. The quarterback situations are bad, and the wide receiver situations are worse. The only truly valuable trade chips are Stevenson and Saquon Barkley, but even with the latter headed into free agency, it's not likely that the compensation offered in a deal for him would be worth unloading him.
Stat to Know
27.6. The number of points the Giants and Patriots are averaging per game combined. That's less than the Miami Dolphins, Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers and the same as the Baltimore Ravens. The Giants can point to injuries to players like quarterback Daniel Jones and tight end Darren Waller, but the reality is they were awful in offense before the quarterback got hurt. From a fantasy perspective, with the exception of the two running backs and maybe a defense, this is a contest best avoided if you like winning.
Jacksonville Jaguars at Houston Texans
10 of 16
Key Injuries
There's good news for both the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars ahead of Sunday's big AFC South showdown.
Texans wide receiver Noah Brown (knee) is out, but running back Dameon Pierce is back at practice. Given how Devin Singletary has looked the past two weeks though, Pierce's lead role is likely gone even if does play.
In Jacksonville, Zay Jones has struggled through an injury-marred season, spending more time off the field than on it thanks to a knee issue. He is back at practice, though, and expected to make his return in Week 12.
Start of the Week
Evan Engram, TE, Jacksonville Jaguars [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,200]: Through 11 weeks, Engram is ninth in PPR points among tight ends. He faces a Houston Texans team that has given up the second-most fantasy points per game in the league to the position.
Sit of the Week
Christian Kirk, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,700]: Kirk has been a solid fantasy WR2 while Jones was sidelined this season. But in addition to a below-average matchup with the Texans, the QB's return leaves Kirk's target share and snap counts open to question.
Sleeper
Houston Texans Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $2,600]: The Texans have been neither great nor terrible defensively this season, but the Jaguars are a sneaky-good fantasy matchup for defenses—12th in fantasy points per game allowed to the position.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Given all the young talent on these teams, there might seem to be a lot of "buy" situations. But good luck getting your hands on Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud without giving up a monster haul. However, if there's an RB-needy contender in your dynasty league, trading them Singletary for whatever you can get isn't a bad idea. He is the dynasty equivalent of found money. Take advantage of it while he still has considerable value.
Stat to Know
296.2. The number of passing yards Stroud is averaging per game. That puts the Ohio State product on pace to clear 5,000 passing yards in his first season, which would shatter the rookie record in that category. He's not quite on pace to break Justin Herbert's record for touchdown passes by a first-year QB, but if he can get the Texans into the playoffs, he should be in the MVP conversation.
So much for Buckeyes quarterbacks not being able to make it in the pros.
Cleveland Browns at Denver Broncos
11 of 16
Key Injuries
The Cleveland Browns and Denver Broncos are two of the hotter teams in the NFL, and both enter this Mile High matchup in relatively good shape offensively.
Broncos running back Samaje Perine (ankle) is the only offensive skill-position starter who spent time on the injury report this week, and even he's off it now.
Of course, "relatively" means just that with the Browns, who have already lost quarterback Deshaun Watson and running back Nick Chubb for the season.
Start of the Week
Cleveland Browns Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,800]: There's a reason why the Browns are DraftKings' most expensive defense in Week 12. They rank at or near the top of the league in a fistful of statistical categories, including third in fantasy points.
Sit of the Week
Courtland Sutton, WR, Denver Broncos [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,400]: Sutton has been a valuable fantasy asset this season, checking in 18th in PPR points among wideouts for the year. But no team has ceded fewer PPR points per game to WRs in 2023 than the Browns.
Sleeper
Kareem Hunt, RB, Cleveland Browns [DraftKings DFS Value: $4,800]: Hunt and Ford are splitting the backfield work in Cleveland just about right down the middle. Denver's run defense has improved of late, but it still ranks dead-last in the league in that category.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Watson's fantasy value is essentially non-existent right now—he's out for the season with a shoulder injury and was erratic when he was on the field. But his last half of football against the Baltimore Ravens was probably his best since joining the Browns, and if you believe that's the real Deshaun Watson and have some patience, you could obtain a solid fantasy starter at a fairly deep discount.
Stat to Know
143.7. The number of passing yards the Browns defense is allowing per game. That's over 25 yards per game less than the No. 2 pass defense (the Baltimore Ravens) in the AFC. From the Myles Garrett-led pass rush to the Denzel Ward-keyed secondary, Cleveland is playing excellent complimentary football on defense. It's not going to be easy for Russell Wilson and Co. to move the ball through the air Sunday.
Los Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals
12 of 16
Key Injuries
The Arizona Cardinals have quarterback Kyler Murray back, but a couple of secondary offensive players are dinged up and the team could be short its top wide receiver.
Wide receiver Michael Wilson (shoulder) and running back Emari Demercado (toe) both missed Week 11. The former is out this week, while the latter is questionable. Wide receiver Marquise Brown missed practice Friday with a heel injury and is truly questionable.
The Rams have bigger names on the injury report. Running back Kyren Williams is back at practice and looks to be on track to returning from injured reserve. Wide receiver Puka Nacua (shoulder) was limited in practice Wednesday, but he's been limited in practice for weeks and played through injuries. Wideout Cooper Kupp didn't practice Wednesday after spraining his ankle in last week's win over the Seahawks, but he's off the injury report and appears good to go.
Start of the Week
Kyren Williams, RB, Los Angeles Rams [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,600]: The release of Darrell Henderson would appear to indicate that the Rams will not only have Williams back for a highly favorable fantasy matchup but that he'll also likely receive a full workload (or close to it).
Sit of the Week
Matthew Stafford, QB, Los Angeles Rams [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,300]: Stafford has been OK for fantasy managers this year but not much more than that. This year's QB24 in points per game in a so-so fantasy matchup isn't a play that inspires a lot of confidence.
Sleeper
Greg Dortch, WR, Arizona Cardinals [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,300]: Dortch led the Cardinals last week in targets, receptions and receiving yards. With Wilson out again this week, Dortch could be a sneaky start against a Rams team that sports an average pass defense.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Between his ACL tear and a miserable season in Arizona, some fantasy managers might appear inclined to try to sell quarterback Kyler Murray before the Redbirds draft his replacement. But the Cardinals aren't getting out from under his contract for a while, and even if they do, there will be other teams willing to give the former No. 1 overall pick a second chance. He has shown elite fantasy upside in the past, and his asking price right now could be relatively low.
Stat to Know
18.5. That's the number of PPR points per game Williams was averaging before getting hurt, which ranks fourth among running backs. If the 23-year-old can come close to matching that production once he returns, he is going to be one of the players who makes (or breaks) teams during the fantasy postseason.
Kansas City Chiefs at Las Vegas Raiders
13 of 16
Key Injuries
The Las Vegas Raiders are essentially healthy ahead of Sunday's meeting with the Chiefs, but Kansas City has a couple of players out.
Running back Jerick McKinnon (groin) will sit against the Raiders, while wideout Mecole Hardman will be sidelined by a sprained thumb.
Start of the Week
Isiah Pacheco, RB, Kansas City Chiefs [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,200]: Pacheco's 4.7 yards per carry last week against the Philadelphia Eagles may have been his most impressive performance of the season. If he can do that against Philly, success on the ground against a soft Raiders run defense should be relatively easy.
Sit of the Week
Davante Adams, WR, Las Vegas Raiders [DraftKings DFS Value: $7,800]: Not that long ago, benching Adams would have been unthinkable. But Aidan O' Connell has been inconsistent at quarterback, and the Chiefs did an excellent job limiting Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown on Monday night.
Sleeper
Kansas City Chiefs Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,100]: The Chiefs defense hasn't received nearly the credit it deserves this season—it's been more consistent than the offense. The Raiders have given up the eighth-most fantasy points per game to team defenses this season.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
This is another play for dynasty managers whose 2023 season hasn't gone according to plan. Despite a somewhat disappointing season, some are reluctant to trade Adams, certain that he will be traded to the New York Jets next spring to be reunited with Aaron Rodgers. But that's no sure bet. Selling aging players for significant draft capital is the textbook way to rebuild a dynasty team. If the price is right, move on.
Stat to Know
42. The highest any Kansas City wide receiver (Rashee Rice) ranks in PPR points for the season at the position. The Chiefs appear to have believed Patrick Mahomes could turn any receiver into a fantasy star, but that hasn't happened this season.
Buffalo Bills at Philadelphia Eagles
14 of 16
Key Injuries
The Eagles got a huge win in Kansas City Monday night, but ahead of another big matchup with the Bills, Philly is pretty beat up.
Tight end Dallas Goedert (fractured forearm) won't play against the Bills. Running back D'Andre Swift (ankle) and wide receiver A.J. Brown (thigh) both started the week with limited practices, although they are off the injury report.
The Bills are in much better shape ahead of one of the biggest games of the week, with no noteworthy offensive players on the injury report as the practice week began for Week 12.
Start of the Week
Dalton Kincaid, TE, Buffalo Bills [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,200]: Over the past month or so, Kincaid has emerged as arguably the top target in the Bills' passing attack. The Eagles have been kind to opposing tight ends, surrendering the 10th-most fantasy points per game to the position this season.
Sit of the Week
James Cook, RB, Buffalo Bills [DraftKings DFS Value: $7,800]: Isiah Pacheco was able to find some success last week on the ground against the Eagles. But Philadelphia still leads the league in run defense and PPR points per game given up to running backs this season.
Sleeper
Khalil Shakir, WR, Buffalo Bills [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,100]: Shakir had a big game last week against the Jets, reeling in three catches for 115 yards and a touchdown. No team has allowed more PPR points per game this season to wide receivers than the Eagles.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
For the season, Stefon Diggs of the Bills ranks fourth in PPR points among all wide receivers. But in each of the past two weeks, he's failed to hit seven PPR points. He may well be in Buffalo for the next five years, but his drop in targets at least raises the possibility that the offense is changing into one where he isn't targeted a dozen times per game. And slump or no, he'd still likely fetch a sizable haul from a dynasty contender looking to close 2023 with a title run.
Stat to Know
5. That's the number of times Diggs has received less than 10 targets in a game this season. Normally, that number wouldn't be all that alarming. But three of those games have come in the last three weeks, and there's a new offensive play-caller in Western New York. This isn't to say Diggs is going to vanish, but a sizable dip in target share will take a chunk out of his fantasy ceiling.
Baltimore Ravens at Los Angeles Chargers
15 of 16
Key Injuries
The Ravens got the win last week, but it came at a cost: Star tight end Mark Andrews suffered an ankle injury so severe his season is likely over. Baltimore is also banged up at wide receiver: Odell Beckham Jr. sat out practice early in the week with the shoulder injury he's been nursing for several weeks, and Zay Flowers landed on the injury report with a hip issue. Both are questionable, but both also logged full practices Friday.
The Chargers have pass-catcher problems of their own. Tight end Gerald Everett (chest), wide receiver Keenan Allen (shoulder) and fellow wideout Jalen Guyton (groin) are all nicked up, but all practiced in some capacity this week, and Allen is off the injury report.
Start of the Week
Gus Edwards, RB, Baltimore Ravens [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,000]: Edwards hasn't piled up the yardage, but he found the end zone two more times last week and takes on a Chargers defense allowing the seventh-most PPR points per game to RBs this year.
Sit of the Week
Justin Herbert, QB, Los Angeles Chargers [DraftKings DFS Value: $7,800]: Sitting Herbert is all but impossible given all the injuries at quarterback this season, but the Ravens are surrendering less than 12 PPR points per game to the quarterback position in 2023.
Sleeper
Odell Beckham Jr., WR, Baltimore Ravens [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,800]: This hinges on Beckham playing, of course. But he topped 100 receiving yards for the first time as a Raven last week, and the Chargers have the worst pass defense in the entire NFL.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
Edwards hasn't rushed for more than 80 yards in a game this season. The 28-year-old is averaging a career-low 4.2 yards a carry, but he's also scored 10 touchdowns—just three fewer than his first four seasons combined. High-score seasons like this are aberrations that are almost never repeated. He is an ideal "buy" target for dynasty teams in win-now mode, as he shouldn't cost more than a second-round rookie pick.
Stat to Know
291.6. The number of passing yards per game the Chargers are allowing this season. With Mark Andrews out, someone is going to have to step up for the team as Lamar Jackson's go-to guy, and it appeared to be Beckham last week. He has been sitting out practice and then playing with regularity this year, and he's always loved to step up in prime-time games. If he's out there Sunday night. Beckham's going to have a big outing.
Chicago Bears at Minnesota Vikings
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Key Injuries
The Bears have just one injury ahead of Monday's trip to Minnesota, but a notable one. Running back D'Onta Foreman is questionable for Week 12 after leaving last week's loss to the Detroit Lions with an ankle injury.
For the Vikings, the $64,000 question is whether Justin Jefferson will be activated from injured reserve and play against the Bears. There's a chance he will suit up against Chicago, but the more likely scenario ahead of the Vikings' bye week in a winnable game is two more weeks off ahead of the stretch run. Tight end T.J. Hockenson is questionable with a rib injury, but he appears more likely than not to play.
Start of the Week
Joshua Dobbs, QB, Minnesota Vikings [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,900]: In many respects, Dobbs is similar to Bears' quarterback Justin Fields, a player whose legs may be even more dangerous than his arm. Of the two quarterbacks, though, Dobbs has the far superior fantasy matchup in Week 12.
Sit of the Week
Khalil Herbert, RB, Chicago Bears [DraftKings DFS Value: $5,100]: With Foreman on the shelf, Herbert resumed lead back duties for the Bears last week against the Lions. But he averaged just 2.2 yards per carry against Detroit, and this week's fantasy matchup isn't a great one.
Sleeper
Minnesota Vikings Defense [DraftKings DFS Value: $3,200]: The Vikings aren't an especially good defensive team, and they have been hit hard by injuries at linebacker and cornerback. But the Bears are a plus fantasy matchup for defenses, sixth in fantasy points per game allowed to the position.
Trade Block Buy Low/Sell High
This is another contest where it's hard to pinpoint a trade target who isn't prohibitively expensive. But it might be worth an inquiry to see if Fields managers are concerned enough about his future to consider moving on.
Stat to Know
184.4. That's the number of passing yards per game the Bears have averaged this season, which ranks 25th in the NFL. It's the second consecutive year that they have had all kinds of trouble passing the ball. And while the arrival of wideout D.J. Moore has helped and injuries bear part of the blame, the Chicago offense remains far too one-dimensional for 2023. There are going to be big changes coming in 2024. Definitely at receiver, probably at head coach and maybe at quarterback.
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Gary Davenport is a two-time Fantasy Sports Writers Association Football Writer of the Year. Follow him on Twitter, @IDPSharks.
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