In the world of fantasy football, nothing can be more frustrating than a player who underperforms and becomes a liability in your lineup. While it’s tough to deal with a superstar who doesn’t meet expectations, it’s even more infuriating when a fringe starter contributes to your loss. Fantasy managers should take every precaution to avoid these pitfalls, especially as we head into Week 13.
Last week, we highlighted players like Deebo Samuel, Najee Harris, Dallas Goedert, and Tank Dell as candidates to bench. If you took our advice lightly and started any of these four, you likely found yourself regretting that decision. But fear not, because Week 13 offers a fresh start with new matchups to analyze. The goal remains the same: sidestep those lineup landmines that could ruin your fantasy week.
This week, we’re bringing you a roundtable discussion featuring three of our seasoned fantasy football analysts. Each will spotlight a player they recommend avoiding at each position. With the potential for a frustrating Sunday looming, it’s crucial to heed their advice.
Fantasy QB Busts Week 13
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals
Michael O’Hara: Among the fantasy QB1 options, Kyler Murray has been the epitome of inconsistency. He boasts four games with over 22 fantasy points, but he also has four games where he scored 12 points or fewer. This week could see Murray hit his floor rather than his ceiling. The Minnesota Vikings’ defense has been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, boasting a 36.1 percent pressure rate. They allow just 16.6 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks, and if Brian Flores can force Murray into making poor decisions, he could be in for a rough outing.
Jared Goff, Detroit Lions
Ed Williams: The Lions have been on fire, but now they face the Chicago Bears on a short week after a solid performance against the Colts. While the Bears have had their struggles, their defense remains tough against the pass. They give up the second-fewest points to wide receivers and are stingy with points allowed to quarterbacks. It may seem bold to label a leading MVP candidate as a bust, but Goff’s matchup raises some red flags. Proceed with caution if you’re considering him for your lineup.
Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers
Vinnie Iyer: Love is likely to lean heavily on the run game against a Dolphins defense that can pose problems for his limited receiving corps. With the focus on the ground game, Love may not deliver the fantasy points you’re hoping for.
Fantasy RB Busts Week 13
James Conner, Arizona Cardinals
Michael O’Hara: Conner faces a tough matchup against the Vikings, who have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season. Minnesota ranks first in rushing yards allowed per game and second in yards per carry. They haven’t allowed a running back to reach double-digit fantasy points since Week 8, making it hard to envision Conner breaking that streak. Expect a challenging day for the entire Arizona offense.
Travis Etienne, Jacksonville Jaguars
Ed Williams: Coming off a bye, the Jaguars are still reeling from earlier struggles. With Doug Pederson still at the helm, they face a Texans team that gives up the sixth-fewest points to running backs. Etienne’s workload is further complicated by the presence of Tank Bigsby and D’Ernest Johnson, making this a risky play.
Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers
Vinnie Iyer: After a tough outing against the Browns, Harris faces a Bengals defense that has significantly improved against the run. With their front seven now healthy, expect a challenging matchup for Harris.
Fantasy WR Busts Week 13
Deebo Samuel, San Francisco 49ers
Michael O’Hara: Samuel finds himself back on the bust list this week. Known for his explosive plays after the catch, he faces a Buffalo defense that excels at limiting those types of plays. The Bills employ two-high safety looks at one of the highest rates in the league, making it difficult for receivers to break free. With a YAC per reception of just 5.12, Samuel could struggle to find his rhythm.
Jameson Williams, Detroit Lions
Ed Williams: Williams is the definition of a boom-or-bust player, and facing the Bears on a short week leans heavily toward the bust side. The Bears have allowed the second-fewest points to wide receivers, and with Goff also on the bust list, it’s wise to consider other options.
Jerry Jeudy, Cleveland Browns
Vinnie Iyer: Jeudy has shown promise as a target for Jameis Winston, but his matchup against Denver’s formidable cornerbacks could lead to a disappointing performance. Expect a low-scoring game, and don’t count on Jeudy replicating his previous success.
Fantasy TE Busts Week 13
Kyle Pitts, Atlanta Falcons
Michael O’Hara: Pitts has had an unpredictable role in the Falcons’ offense, making him a risky start. His target share has fluctuated wildly, and against a strong Chargers defense, he’s best left on the bench. The Chargers rank 11th in pass defense and have effectively shut down tight ends this season.
Dalton Kincaid/Dawson Knox, Buffalo Bills
Ed Williams: The Bills are coming off a bye, but Kincaid’s knee injury raises questions about his availability. Regardless, the tight end position for Buffalo has been disappointing this season. With the 49ers giving up the sixth-fewest points to tight ends, it’s wise to seek better options.
Mark Andrews, Baltimore Ravens
Vinnie Iyer: With Isaiah Likely emerging as a factor and the Eagles excelling in coverage against tight ends, Andrews may not be the reliable option you need this week. If you have a more favorable depth play, consider sitting him.
Fantasy Defense Busts Week 13
Pittsburgh Steelers
Michael O’Hara: The Steelers’ defense has been a staple in fantasy lineups this season, but they face a formidable Bengals offense that has scored at least 27 points in three consecutive games. With a must-win divisional matchup on the line, it’s time to rethink starting Pittsburgh’s defense.
San Francisco 49ers
Ed Williams: Despite their reputation, the 49ers’ defense has shown vulnerabilities this season. With a well-rested Bills team on the horizon, it may be best to keep them on your bench.
Chicago Bears
Vinnie Iyer: The Bears struggled against the Vikings, and a matchup against the high-scoring Lions could lead to further disappointment. It’s advisable to avoid starting them this week.
As we gear up for Week 13, make sure to evaluate your lineup carefully. Avoiding these potential busts could make all the difference in your fantasy matchup. Good luck!
