As we dive deeper into the fantasy football season, the excitement is palpable! With the fantasy playoffs just around the corner, fantasy managers are gearing up to secure their spots and make a run for the championship. These final weeks are crucial, and every decision counts. But while we focus on the future, it’s equally vital to reflect on the past. By analyzing previous performances, we can uncover valuable insights that might just give us the edge we need over our competition.
Key Stats and Trends for Week 17 Success
Here, we’ll explore some of the standout performances and critical trends that can help fantasy managers navigate Week 17 and beyond. Let’s break down the essential takeaways from recent games!
Joe Burrow has the Cincinnati offense humming
Key Stat: Joe Burrow has thrown for at least 250 yards and three touchdowns in seven straight games, marking the longest streak in NFL history.
Fantasy Takeaway: The Bengals’ offense has been a fantasy goldmine this season, largely due to Burrow’s elite play and Zac Taylor’s commitment to a pass-heavy strategy. Burrow is playing the best football of his career, and his ability to support multiple high-end fantasy producers makes him a must-start each week.
Chuba Hubbard remains an uber bell cow
Key Stat: Chuba Hubbard has cleared an 80-percent snap share in six consecutive games, achieving this feat eight times this season.
Fantasy Takeaway: The Panthers have leaned heavily on Hubbard, especially with injuries to Miles Sanders and Jonathon Brooks. His consistent snap count makes him a reliable option in fantasy lineups, regardless of the matchup. If you have him, he should be in your starting lineup.
James Cook has been ridiculously efficient
Key Stat: James Cook has not exceeded a 50 percent snap share in five straight games, yet he has scored at least 19.0 PPR points in four of those contests.
Fantasy Takeaway: While a sub-50 percent snap share can doom many running backs, Cook is defying the odds. His ability to generate explosive plays and find the end zone consistently keeps him relevant in fantasy discussions. He’s a valuable asset in the high-octane Buffalo offense.
De’Von Achane continues to produce as a receiver
Key Stat: De’Von Achane was both the leading receiver and rusher for the Dolphins last Sunday, marking his second time achieving this in 2023.
Fantasy Takeaway: Achane’s dual-threat ability sets him apart from many running backs. With Tua Tagovailoa under center, Achane is averaging 6.6 targets per game, which would lead the NFL if sustained. His receiving prowess ensures he remains a fantasy darling, regardless of his rushing performance.
Nico Collins is set up for success in Houston
Key Stat: When Nico Collins was sidelined from Weeks 6-11, the Texans ranked 21st in pass rate over expectation. Since his return, they’ve surged to 1st in this metric.
Fantasy Takeaway: Collins has benefited from the Texans’ newfound commitment to the passing game. With the absence of Tank Dell, he’s poised for a big week ahead. If you’re looking for a receiver to plug into your lineup, Collins could be your guy!
Anthony Richardson is truly a unicorn
Key Stat: Anthony Richardson completed just seven passes last week but still managed to score 20.24 fantasy points, becoming only the third quarterback this century to do so.
Fantasy Takeaway: Richardson has proven that he can be a fantasy asset even when his passing numbers are low. His ability to contribute through designed runs and goal-line usage makes him a viable QB1 in any given week. If you’re in need of a quarterback, don’t overlook him!
Mac Jones has finally done it
Key Stat: After starting the year 0-18 on deep passes, Mac Jones finally connected with Brian Thomas Jr. for a 62-yard touchdown, improving his deep pass record to 1-20.
Fantasy Takeaway: Jones’ struggles with the deep ball have hindered the fantasy potential of his receivers. However, this recent connection could signal a turning point. If he can maintain this momentum, it could mean great things for Thomas and the rest of the receiving corps.
The Browns should already know what they have in Dorian Thompson-Robinson
Key Stat: Among 55 qualified quarterbacks, Dorian Thompson-Robinson ranks 54th in EPA per play and dead last in completion percentage over expectation.
Fantasy Takeaway: The transition to Thompson-Robinson has negatively impacted the fantasy value of Cleveland’s pass catchers. With his struggles, it’s hard to trust anyone in this offense, except perhaps David Njoku, who remains a viable tight end option due to scarcity.
Targeting the Giants’ offense is as easy as it gets in fantasy
Key Stat: Drew Lock threw two pick-sixes against the Falcons, marking just the second time this season a team has thrown multiple pick-sixes in one game.
Fantasy Takeaway: The Giants have the worst scoring offense in the league, making them an easy target for defensive streamers. The Colts face the Giants in Week 17, making them a prime D/ST option to consider.
Rhamondre Stevenson is back in the dog house
Key Stat: After fumbling for the seventh time this season, Rhamondre Stevenson saw a significant reduction in his workload, playing just 43 percent of snaps after the fumble.
Fantasy Takeaway: With his job security in question, Stevenson’s fantasy value is shaky. In a critical week for fantasy championships, it might be wise to look for alternatives if you have him on your roster.
As the fantasy playoffs approach, every decision carries weight. By keeping an eye on these trends and stats, you can position yourself for success. Good luck, and may your fantasy team thrive in Week 17!
