With only two weeks remaining before the fantasy playoffs, the stakes are incredibly high. Each matchup is crucial as fantasy managers scramble to secure their playoff spots or even clinch a coveted bye week. Given the importance of these last few games, it’s essential to scrutinize lineup decisions closely.
The Flex Dilemma: Making Tough Choices
One of the most challenging decisions in fantasy football often revolves around the Flex position. Unlike other positions, where standout players are easier to identify, the Flex can feel like a guessing game. How do you choose between players who seem equally matched? The answer lies in evaluating the opportunity within their respective offenses and analyzing their matchups.
Week 13 Fantasy Football Flex Finder: Players to Consider
After diving into the rankings, we’ve pinpointed five players who could make a significant impact in your Flex spot this week. If you’ve been wavering over any of these names, it’s time to make a decision and get them into your lineup.
Keenan Allen, WR, Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears’ offense has undergone a transformation in recent weeks, and it’s evident that Shane Waldron was holding them back. Over the last two games, the Bears have surpassed 390 yards of offense, a feat they hadn’t accomplished previously. This resurgence has also led to season-best performances for both Keenan Allen and DJ Moore.
Under the new offensive scheme led by Thomas Moore, quick decision-making is key. Caleb Williams, the Bears’ quarterback, has improved his average time to throw from over 2.5 seconds to around 2.4 seconds in the last two weeks. This change has allowed Allen, who thrives on short, quick passes, to become a focal point of the offense. With the Lions presenting a top-10 matchup for wide receivers, don’t hesitate to start Allen this week.
Jeremy McNichols, RB, Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders’ backfield has been plagued by injuries, with Austin Ekeler suffering his second concussion and Brian Robinson battling multiple ailments. With Chris Rodriguez recently signed from the practice squad, it’s likely that both Ekeler and Robinson could miss this week’s game. If that happens, Jeremy McNichols becomes a viable emergency Flex or RB2 option.
While McNichols may not be the most talented back, he has a clear path to touches this week. He could see around 15 carries, which is all you can ask for from a low-end RB2. The Commanders are favored by 5.5 points against the Titans, suggesting a game script that favors their running backs. If McNichols can find the end zone, he could provide a valuable score for your fantasy lineup.
Rachaad White, RB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Despite the buzz surrounding Bucky Irving after his impressive performance last week, don’t overlook Rachaad White. He’s currently the RB23 overall and has been a top-24 back for four straight games. The Buccaneers’ backfield is likely to continue splitting carries evenly, meaning both backs can thrive.
White has demonstrated his skills as a receiver and consistently handles double-digit carries. This week, the Buccaneers face the Panthers, who have been the most generous team to running backs this season, allowing an average of 27.1 points per game. With both backs likely to see high-value touches, they could both finish as top-20 options if the offense clicks.
Dontayvion Wicks, WR, Green Bay Packers
With Romeo Doubs likely sidelined due to a concussion, Dontayvion Wicks is set to step into a more significant role for the Green Bay Packers. When on the field, Wicks has earned targets at an impressive rate, ranking fifth among all receivers in targets per route run.
However, his catch rate has been a concern, sitting at a mere 37.8%. Despite this, Wicks has shown he can command a strong target share. In a game with a projected total of 47.5 points against the Dolphins, this could be the week Wicks finally converts those targets into fantasy points.
Xavier Legette, WR, Carolina Panthers
In recent weeks, Bryce Young has shown signs of improvement, throwing for 263 yards against the Chiefs last week. While it may be premature to declare the Panthers’ offense as high-quality, rookie Xavier Legette is emerging as a potential fantasy asset.
Over the last four games, Legette has been targeted six or more times three times and has finished as a WR3 or better twice. Facing the Buccaneers, who have struggled against opposing wide receivers, Legette could be in for a breakout performance. With Tampa Bay allowing an average of 255.5 passing yards per game, this matchup presents a prime opportunity for Legette to shine.
Final Thoughts
As the fantasy playoffs loom, the decisions you make in the coming weeks could define your season. Whether it’s starting a player like Keenan Allen, taking a chance on Jeremy McNichols, or rolling the dice with rookies like Wicks and Legette, every choice counts. Stay informed, analyze matchups, and trust your instincts. Good luck as you navigate the final stretch of the fantasy football season!
