It’s Week 10, folks! Time to set those fantasy lineups! Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em is the ultimate look at the best and worst matchups in a given week for fantasy football leagues. Each week, I’ll examine the wide receivers who could exceed or fail to meet expectations based on their weekly opponent … like Cedric Tillman and Marvin Harrison Jr. in Week 9!
As we dive into the matchups, remember that bye weeks can complicate your lineup decisions. This week, the Browns, Packers, Raiders, and Seahawks are all on a break. Make sure to adjust accordingly!
For your final lineup decisions, check out my fantasy player rankings. I update them daily! Also, make sure you subscribe to the Fantasy Dirt Podcast with Lindsay Rhodes and me as we break down all things fantasy football five days a week!
Start of the Week
49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. is the start of the week. After a tough stretch with injuries, he’s primed for a comeback following the 49ers’ bye week. Facing a Buccaneers defense that has allowed the sixth-most fantasy points per game to perimeter receivers, Samuel has a golden opportunity to shine. In fact, eight wideouts have scored 14-plus points against them, with five of those going over 20. He should be a key player in your lineup this week!
WRs with Good Matchups
Let’s take a closer look at some wide receivers who are set to thrive this week:
DeVonta Smith at Cowboys (4:25 p.m. ET, CBS)
Smith is on fire, racking up 39.2 fantasy points in his last two games. With A.J. Brown nursing an injury and the Cowboys’ defense struggling, Smith is a must-start option in this NFC East showdown.
Tank Dell vs. Lions (8:20 p.m. ET, NBC)
Dell is coming off a stellar performance, scoring 18.6 points against the Jets. With Nico Collins likely out, Dell will see plenty of targets. The Lions have allowed the most fantasy points per game to wide receivers, making Dell a solid choice in this high-scoring matchup.
Brian Thomas Jr. vs. Vikings (1 p.m. ET, Fox)
Despite a quiet game last week, Thomas Jr. has been a reliable fantasy option, scoring 15-plus points in four of his last five games. The Vikings’ defense has been generous, allowing the most fantasy points per game to wide receivers. This matchup could be just what Thomas needs to bounce back.
Jaylen Waddle at Rams (Mon. 8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Waddle has struggled this season, but with four teams on a bye and a favorable matchup against the Rams, he’s worth considering as a flex option. The Rams have allowed the fourth-most points per game to perimeter receivers, so Waddle could finally break out.
WRs with Bad Matchups
Now, let’s shift gears and discuss some wide receivers you might want to think twice about starting this week:
Marvin Harrison Jr. vs. Jets (4:25 p.m. ET, CBS)
Harrison Jr. has not met fantasy expectations, scoring single digits in four of his last five games. With a tough matchup against CB Sauce Gardner and the Jets’ stingy defense, which has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to wideouts, it’s best to keep him on the bench this week.
Calvin Ridley at Chargers (4:05 p.m. ET, Fox)
Ridley has shown improvement recently, scoring 34.9 points in his last two games. However, he faces a Chargers defense that has surrendered the fifth-fewest points per game to wide receivers. It may be wise to sit him in this challenging matchup.
Keenan Allen vs. Patriots (1 p.m. ET, Fox)
Allen has been a frustrating player to trust this season, averaging just 8.8 points in his last six games. The Patriots’ defense has limited slot receivers, allowing only three touchdowns this season. Given his inconsistency, Allen might be better left on the bench.
Courtland Sutton at Chiefs (1 p.m. ET, CBS)
Sutton has had some strong outings, scoring 15-plus points in three of his last four games. However, the Chiefs’ defense has been tough on perimeter receivers, allowing the fewest fantasy points per game. This matchup presents a significant risk for Sutton.
Final Thoughts
As you finalize your fantasy lineups for Week 10, keep these matchups in mind. Whether you’re starting Deebo Samuel Sr. or sitting Marvin Harrison Jr., understanding the dynamics of each game is crucial. Remember to stay updated on player injuries and changes leading up to game day.
With the right decisions, you can maximize your chances of victory in your fantasy leagues. Good luck, and may your fantasy team thrive this week!
