Welcome to the fantasy football postseason! Now is the time to lean on your big names to carry you to a league championship, but managers also have to make smart lineup choices when a “set-it-and-forget-it player” isn’t available at a specific position or positions. As we dive into Week 15, the stakes are higher than ever, and every decision counts.
If you’re looking to make smart lineup decisions, check out my player rankings and start ’em, sit ’em columns below. With so many options available, it’s crucial to pinpoint those hidden gems that can elevate your team to victory.
Looking at the Week 15 matchups, here are five players you didn’t draft or aren’t locked-in starters who you should consider. Also, for those who want even more fantasy advice, check out Lindsay Rhodes and me on Fantasy Dirt five days a week and live on Sundays!
Players to Consider in Week 15
RB – Rico Dowdle at Panthers
Dowdle, listed in this space over the last two weeks, has scored a combined 36.4 fantasy points in those contests. He’s also seeing a 45 percent touch share in the Dallas backfield over the last two weeks, which is impressive. With a matchup against the Panthers, he becomes a solid option. Did you know that no team in the league has allowed more fantasy points to running backs this season? That’s right! This makes Dowdle a must-start.
RB – Braelon Allen at Jaguars
Next up is Braelon Allen, who, along with Isaiah Davis, shared the workload for the Jets last week in the absence of Breece Hall. If Hall is unable to play this week too, both players become viable flex options in a favorable matchup against the Jaguars. Their run defense has been porous, allowing the second-most fantasy points per game to enemy backs. This could be a golden opportunity for Allen to shine!
RB – Sincere McCormick vs. Falcons (Mon.)
Sincere McCormick appears to have taken over the lead role in the Raiders backfield, seeing 35.4% of the touches last week. With Zamir White being placed on injured reserve, it seems that sort of workload will continue when he faces the Falcons on Monday night. Their defense has allowed seven backs to score 15-plus points against them since Week 7. Will McCormick be the next to join that list?
WR – Adam Thielen vs. Cowboys
Switching gears to wide receivers, Adam Thielen has been on fire since his return, scoring a combined 43.1 points in his last two games. During that span, he’s also seen 21 targets. The Cowboys have struggled against wide receivers lately, allowing the fifth-most points per game to the position over the last eight weeks. This makes Thielen a viable flex starter this weekend. Can you afford to miss out on that kind of production?
WR – Quentin Johnston vs. Buccaneers
Last but not least, we have Quentin Johnston, who is coming off his best game since Week 6, scoring 15.8 points in a loss to the Chiefs. If the Chargers are without Ladd McConkey again, Johnston would have some flex appeal in a plus matchup against the Buccaneers. Their defense has allowed the eighth-most PPR points per game to perimeter receivers, including giving up nine touchdowns in 2024. This could be a breakout moment for Johnston!
Smart Lineup Decisions
As we navigate these crucial matchups, making informed decisions is key. The players listed above may not have been your initial draft picks, but they are poised to make a significant impact in your lineup. Remember, it’s not just about the big names; sometimes, the lesser-known players can be the ones who carry you to victory.
For those still unsure, don’t forget to check out my player rankings and the start ’em, sit ’em columns. They’re designed to help you make those tough decisions, ensuring you have the best possible lineup each week.
In this exciting time of the NFL season, every point counts. Whether you’re in a tight playoff race or looking to secure a win in a must-have matchup, the right choices can make all the difference. So, gear up, make your picks, and let’s chase that championship together!
With the fantasy football postseason in full swing, it’s time to embrace the thrill of the game. Trust your instincts, stay informed, and let’s make this week one for the books!
