Fantasy footballers looking for a postseason challenge are most likely involved in what’s called a “One and Done” league. In these formats, managers can pick a player once in the playoffs, and the team with the most points after the Super Bowl wins. This unique twist on fantasy football adds an exhilarating layer of strategy, especially as the stakes rise in the playoffs.
I’m involved in such a league, and I had a bit of a “mid” week in the Wild Card Round. Here’s the lineup I submitted. I’m required to start one quarterback, one running back, one wide receiver, one tight end, and one flex starter (running back, wide receiver, or tight end).
QB – Jayden Daniels, Commanders (22.3 points)
RB – Saquon Barkley, Eagles (14.3 points)
WR – Nico Collins, Texans (25.2 points)
TE – Mark Andrews, Ravens (5.2 points)
FLEX – Puka Nacua, Rams (10.1 points)
Unfortunately, Andrews and Nacua hurt me with subpar performances, and I can no longer use either one of them again. As a result, I find myself 16 fantasy points out of first place as we head into the Divisional Round. I want to make a big push this week, but I also want to use big-name players who I think could have big stat lines on teams that I’m projecting to lose.
So, here’s the lineup I’ve put together for the Divisional Round and my thoughts on each.
### Quarterback Strategy: Lamar Jackson
QB – Lamar Jackson, Ravens: I think the Bills will win at home, so I want to use Jackson now. This is a bold move, but if the Ravens pull off an upset, I’ll be left regretting not using Josh Allen. That’s the challenge of the format. It’s all about timing and making the right calls at the right moments.
### Running Back Power: Derrick Henry
RB – Derrick Henry, Ravens: Just like with Jackson, I want to make sure I get a week of the King. The Bills were vulnerable to the run during the regular season, so Henry should have a field day. He’s a beast, and when he’s on, he can single-handedly change the outcome of a game.
### Wide Receiver Spotlight: A.J. Brown
WR – A.J. Brown, Eagles: I think we’ll be talking about Brown’s stats this week, and not him reading a book on the sidelines. I could also see the Eagles losing, which makes me want to use Brown while I still can. He’s proven to be a game-changer, and I’m banking on him putting up some serious numbers.
### Tight End Choice: Zach Ertz
TE – Zach Ertz, Commanders: I believe the Lions and Chiefs will win, so I don’t want to burn Travis Kelce or Sam LaPorta just yet. Instead, I went with Ertz on a team I expect to lose this weekend. It’s a calculated risk, but it could pay off if Ertz finds the end zone.
### Flex Position: Terry McLaurin
FLEX – Terry McLaurin, WR, Commanders: I’m expecting a high-scoring affair at Ford Field, and that should benefit McLaurin. I want to use him before Washington loses, too. He’s a dynamic player who can make big plays, and in a shootout, he could be the key to racking up points.
### The Challenge Ahead
As we gear up for the Divisional Round, the pressure is on. Every decision counts, and with the “One and Done” format, you have to think several steps ahead. It’s not just about picking the best players; it’s about maximizing your lineup while anticipating potential outcomes.
The thrill of fantasy football lies in its unpredictability. Will my choices lead me to victory, or will I find myself wishing I had gone a different route? This week, I’m banking on big performances from Jackson, Henry, Brown, Ertz, and McLaurin to help me close the gap in the standings.
In the world of fantasy football, every point matters. The Divisional Round is pivotal, and the excitement is palpable. Who will rise to the occasion? Who will falter? As the games unfold, I’ll be glued to my screen, rooting for my players to deliver and hoping my strategy pays off.
With the playoffs in full swing, it’s a perfect time to reflect on the strategies that work and those that don’t. Whether you’re in a “One and Done” league or a traditional format, the key is to stay engaged, make informed decisions, and embrace the unpredictability of the NFL.
This is what makes fantasy football so exhilarating. Each week is a new opportunity to outsmart your opponents, and as the playoffs progress, the stakes only get higher. So, gear up, make your picks, and let’s see who can emerge victorious in this thrilling postseason journey!
