Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Your Week 1 Fantasy Football Guide for 2024
The 2024 NFL season is finally here, and with it comes the crucial Week 1 fantasy football decisions. This guide will provide you with in-depth analysis to help you make the best start/sit calls for your fantasy lineup, covering key matchups, player projections, and potential sleepers to give you an edge as you begin your quest for a championship. Let's dive into the matchups and help you win your league.
Quarterbacks: Navigating Week 1's Passing Prowess
Selecting the right quarterback is paramount in fantasy football, and Week 1 presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities. Evaluating quarterback matchups, considering offensive schemes, and understanding player health are critical components of the decision-making process. Furthermore, factors such as weather conditions and home-field advantage can also significantly influence a quarterback's performance, so we’ll address those too.
Start 'Em: Quarterbacks to Target
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Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs usually get off to a strong start. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and utilize a variety of targets makes him a top-tier selection every week. His week one matchup (needs verification) looks favorable, offering the potential for a high scoring game. Starting Mahomes in Week 1 could provide a solid foundation for your team.
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Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills): Josh Allen's dual-threat capabilities make him a perennial fantasy football stud, and Week 1 should be no exception. Allen's ability to accumulate points through both passing and rushing touchdowns is a significant advantage. Consider Allen a must-start in Week 1, especially against a defense that struggles against mobile quarterbacks (needs verification).
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Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles): Jalen Hurts has consistently been one of the top fantasy quarterbacks due to his rushing ability and strong arm. His offensive line and receiving core are also solid. Consider the Eagles quarterback a strong play.
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Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): Lamar Jackson remains a top fantasy quarterback due to his running ability and explosive passing plays. He is in a favorable offensive system, and has solid options to pass to. He makes a great starting choice.
Sit 'Em: Quarterbacks to Avoid
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Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings): Kirk Cousins, while typically a reliable fantasy option, might face a tougher Week 1 matchup. The specific defense's ability to pressure quarterbacks and limit passing yards could pose a problem. Assess the specific defensive matchup carefully before starting Cousins.
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Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints): Derek Carr's performance can be inconsistent, and his matchup in Week 1 may not be ideal. The Saints' offense also still needs to gel. Evaluate Carr's offensive weapons and the defensive matchup before deciding if he is start-worthy.
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Daniel Jones (New York Giants): Daniel Jones’s inconsistency and the Giants' offensive struggles make him a risky start. The team still needs to build a consistent offense. Unless there is a very favorable matchup, it is best to avoid starting Jones.
Running Backs: The Ground Game's Crucial Decisions
Running backs are the workhorses of fantasy football, and the choices you make here can drastically impact your team's success. Analyzing their expected workload, considering their opponents’ defensive strengths and weaknesses, and monitoring their injury status are crucial factors when selecting running backs. Also, understand the usage of the backs in the red zone.
Start 'Em: Running Backs to Deploy
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Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers): Christian McCaffrey is a top-tier running back and should be started every week. His versatility as a receiver and runner makes him a high-floor, high-ceiling play. If he is healthy, you want him in your lineup.
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Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers): Austin Ekeler has been a consistent fantasy performer. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him a valuable asset in PPR leagues. Consider starting Ekeler, especially if he is healthy.
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Jonathan Taylor (Indianapolis Colts): Jonathan Taylor, when healthy, is a workhorse running back with the potential for a high volume of touches. His ability to break tackles and find the end zone makes him a strong start. If healthy, Taylor should be in your lineup.
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Saquon Barkley (New York Giants): Saquon Barkley is a talented running back who is expected to be the focal point of the Giants' offense. His ability to run and catch passes makes him a valuable asset. Assuming good health, Barkley should be considered a starter.
Sit 'Em: Running Backs to Bench
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Rachaad White (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Rachaad White’s performance could be dependent on his team's offensive game plan. Evaluate the defensive matchup, as well as his touches. His performance may be unpredictable.
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Dameon Pierce (Houston Texans): Dameon Pierce's usage and performance can be inconsistent. Evaluate the specific matchup carefully, particularly the opposing defense's ability to stop the run. He is a risky play.
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David Montgomery (Detroit Lions): David Montgomery may be part of a running back-by-committee approach. The Lions’ offense could have many capable rushers. Assess the situation before you start him.
Wide Receivers: Navigating the Receiving Corps
Wide receivers are essential in fantasy football, as they are often the primary targets of passing attacks. Analyzing their individual skills, considering their team's offensive strategy, and examining the defensive matchups are crucial when deciding who to start and sit. Furthermore, understanding the expected target share, considering the receiver's health, and assessing the potential for big plays all play into the decision-making process.
Start 'Em: Wide Receivers to Trust
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Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings): Justin Jefferson is a top-tier wide receiver and a must-start every week. His ability to create separation and make contested catches makes him a reliable option. Look at his history to consider his ceiling.
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Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins): Tyreek Hill's speed and big-play ability make him a top fantasy receiver. His ability to score long touchdowns makes him a valuable asset. He should be started every week. — Days Until March 7, 2025: Your Ultimate Countdown!
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Ja'Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals): Ja'Marr Chase is a primary target in a pass-heavy offense. He is a key player. Consider him a must-start, provided he is healthy.
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Stefon Diggs (Buffalo Bills): Stefon Diggs is the primary target in his offense. He should be considered a safe start in most matchups. Diggs has consistently produced strong fantasy numbers.
Sit 'Em: Wide Receivers to Avoid
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Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos): Courtland Sutton’s matchup should be evaluated carefully. The Broncos' offensive performance could vary. Assess the quarterback situation, and the opposing defense.
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Christian Watson (Green Bay Packers): Christian Watson's production may depend on his health and target share. Evaluate his usage, and the quality of his targets. His performance might be unpredictable.
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Michael Thomas (New Orleans Saints): Michael Thomas’s production may depend on his health and target share. Evaluate his usage, and the quality of his targets. His performance might be unpredictable. — Green Screen Of Death: Causes And Solutions
Tight Ends: The Often-Overlooked Position
Tight ends can be a key to fantasy success, but the position often presents a challenge. The ability to score touchdowns and catch passes is what you want in a tight end. Analyzing their roles in the offense, considering the defensive matchups, and monitoring the potential for targets in the red zone are crucial considerations when making start/sit decisions.
Start 'Em: Tight Ends to Target
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Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Travis Kelce is a top-tier tight end and should be started every week. His connection with Patrick Mahomes makes him a reliable option. His volume of targets make him a key player.
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Mark Andrews (Baltimore Ravens): Mark Andrews is a key target in a high-powered offense. Andrews has consistently produced strong fantasy numbers when healthy. His role in the Ravens’ offense makes him a valuable start.
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George Kittle (San Francisco 49ers): George Kittle is a strong receiving threat. His athleticism and ability to gain yards after the catch make him a valuable fantasy asset. His consistency makes him a great choice to start.
Sit 'Em: Tight Ends to Bench
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Darren Waller (New York Giants): Darren Waller’s usage and production may be inconsistent. Evaluate the matchup, and consider the Giants' offensive situation. Waller may be a risky play.
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Dalton Schultz (Houston Texans): Dalton Schultz’s production may depend on his health and target share. Evaluate his usage, and the quality of his targets. His performance might be unpredictable.
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Cole Kmet (Chicago Bears): Cole Kmet's role may be limited. Assess the Bears’ offensive strategy and the opposing defense. His performance may be inconsistent.
Kickers and Defenses: The Often Overlooked, Yet Important Decisions
Kickers and defenses may often be overlooked, but they can be very impactful on your fantasy team. Selecting the right kicker, as well as choosing the right defense, can give you the edge that you are looking for. Consider the offensive matchup, and the defensive potential. Let’s talk about kickers and defenses.
Kickers: Choosing the Right Leg
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Start 'Em: Look for kickers on teams with strong offenses that can move the ball into field goal range. Consider kickers in favorable weather conditions, and those with a history of making long field goals.
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Sit 'Em: Avoid kickers on teams with weak offenses that struggle to reach field goal range. Also, consider a kicker's accuracy. Consider the defense they are up against, because they may limit the need for field goals.
Defenses: Finding a Solid Unit
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Start 'Em: Select defenses facing weak offenses or quarterbacks who are prone to turnovers. Look for defenses with a strong pass rush and a history of forcing turnovers.
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Sit 'Em: Avoid defenses playing against high-powered offenses or quarterbacks who protect the ball well. Consider the injuries the defense is facing. Also, consider the home-field advantage. — Bears In Arizona: Habitats, Safety, And Conservation
Week 1 Sleepers: Potential Value Picks
These are players that could outperform their average draft position and provide significant value in Week 1. Keep an eye on any news that comes out, and these players may perform well. Sleepers can vary depending on individual team and league dynamics.
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Running Backs: Look for running backs who may have an opportunity due to injuries or a favorable matchup. Watch for backs who are expected to get a heavy workload.
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Wide Receivers: Identify wide receivers who are in line for an increased target share or a favorable matchup against a weak secondary. Keep up on their health.
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Tight Ends: Look for tight ends who may have an increased role in their offense, or a favorable matchup against a defense that struggles against tight ends. Review their history.
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Quarterbacks: Pay attention to quarterbacks with favorable matchups, or those who have shown promise in the preseason. Their performance may be unexpected.
Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions for Week 1
Ultimately, making informed start/sit decisions is essential for Week 1 fantasy football success. By considering the factors outlined in this guide – matchups, player health, offensive schemes, and more – you can increase your chances of starting the season strong and positioning yourself for a successful fantasy campaign. Good luck in Week 1!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How important is the matchup when making start/sit decisions?
A: Matchups are extremely important because they can significantly impact a player's potential. Consider the defensive strengths and weaknesses of the opposing team, and how they align with your player's strengths. Some matchups are much easier than others.
Q: How much weight should I give to preseason performances when making my lineup choices?
A: Preseason performances should be viewed with caution but can offer some insights. Pay close attention to players who have shown improvement or have earned more playing time. However, it is important to consider that starters may not play as much.
Q: What is the best strategy for handling injuries to key players in my lineup?
A: Injuries demand immediate action. If a key player is injured, first check all the news. Then, evaluate your bench options and consider potential waiver wire pickups. If you do not have a solid replacement, you may have to adjust your strategy.
Q: How do I account for weather when making start/sit decisions?
A: Weather can significantly affect player performance. Check the weather forecast before kickoff. Consider the impact of wind, rain, or snow on passing and kicking. If the weather is bad, consider benching players.
Q: How can I find more information about a player's health and injury status?
A: Reliable sources of information include team announcements and sports news outlets. Keep an eye on injury reports released throughout the week. Also, look for updates from reputable sources.
Q: Should I always start my studs, regardless of the matchup?
A: Generally, yes, you should start your studs, but there are exceptions. While star players are usually reliable, even they can struggle against elite defenses. Evaluate the matchup to determine if there is a compelling reason to bench a stud.
Q: What is the value of home-field advantage in fantasy football?
A: Home-field advantage can provide a boost to a team's performance. Players often perform better at home due to the familiarity, crowd support, and fewer travel issues. Consider this advantage when making your choices.
Q: How important is it to monitor the waiver wire early in the season? A: Monitoring the waiver wire is crucial, especially early in the season. Keep an eye out for emerging players, sleepers, and players whose roles have changed. The waiver wire is a source of players that can turn a team around.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide professional advice. Fantasy football outcomes are based on the unpredictable events of real-world games.
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