Tagovailoa is undoubtedly on fire in the fantasy football realm, and the Miami Dolphins are set to make their return to South Beach. But before you get too excited about starting him in your lineup, let’s take a closer look at the challenge he faces this week. The New York Jets’ defense is no joke, presenting one of the toughest matchups for any fantasy quarterback.
Jets Defense: A Tough Nut to Crack
The Jets have been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks this season. They’ve allowed the second-fewest passing yards in the league and have only given up nine passing touchdowns. That’s right—New York is the only team that hasn’t allowed double-digit passing touchdowns in 2024. This is a defense that knows how to stifle the air attack, and it’s crucial to consider this when setting your fantasy lineup.
Tagovailoa’s Recent Performance
Tua Tagovailoa has been lighting up the fantasy scoreboard lately, showcasing his talent and potential. However, it’s essential to remember that he hasn’t been as mobile since returning from his latest concussion, which could play a significant role in his performance against the Jets. While mobile quarterbacks tend to exploit the Jets’ weaknesses, Tagovailoa has not been using his legs much lately.
In fact, during his two games against the Jets last season, Tua managed to throw just one touchdown and failed to surpass 250 passing yards in either game. That’s concerning for fantasy managers who are banking on him to deliver big points this week.
Historical Struggles Against the Jets
Looking back at his career against the Jets, the numbers aren’t pretty. In five games, Tagovailoa has thrown six touchdowns but has also tossed five interceptions. His average passing yards per game against New York sit at a mere 189. With these stats in mind, it’s hard not to wonder: can Tua break the mold this time around?
The Jets’ defense has a knack for forcing mistakes, and if Tagovailoa isn’t careful, he could find himself in a tough spot. The combination of a strong pass defense and his historical struggles raises a red flag for fantasy owners considering starting him.
Consider Your Options
So, what should you do if you have Tagovailoa on your roster? If you have another viable option, it might be wise to consider that route. The fantasy playoffs are just around the corner, and every point counts.
On the other hand, if you’re feeling lucky and believe in Tua’s ability to turn things around, you might decide to roll the dice. After all, he’s shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season. But remember, the Jets are not the team you want to test your luck against.
The Importance of Matchups in Fantasy Football
Every fantasy football manager knows that matchups can make or break your week. The right matchup can lead to explosive performances, while a tough one can leave you scratching your head. This week, Tagovailoa faces one of the toughest defenses in the league, which should make you think twice before inserting him into your starting lineup.
In fantasy football, it’s not just about the player’s talent; it’s about how that talent matches up against the opponent. The Jets have proven they can shut down even the best quarterbacks, and with Tua’s recent struggles against them, it’s hard to ignore the potential for disappointment.
Final Thoughts
As you finalize your lineup, keep in mind the challenges Tagovailoa faces this week. The Jets’ defense has been a brick wall against the pass, and Tua’s historical performance against them raises concerns. If you have a solid alternative, it might be best to pivot away from him this week.
In the world of fantasy football, the stakes are high, and making the right decisions is crucial. So, weigh your options carefully, and remember: sometimes, it’s better to play it safe than to gamble on a tough matchup. Whether you choose to start Tagovailoa or not, make sure you’re ready for the excitement that NFL Sundays bring!