Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Week 3 Fantasy Football Guide

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Hey fantasy football fanatics! Week 3 is upon us, and you know what that means: time to make some critical decisions that could make or break your season. You've studied the matchups, analyzed the trends, and maybe even sacrificed a small woodland creature to the fantasy gods (kidding... mostly). Now, it's time to put your knowledge to the test with my ultimate Start 'Em, Sit 'Em guide for Week 3. Let's dive into some key players and situations that could swing your matchups this week. Remember, this is just a guide – always trust your gut (and maybe a little bit of advanced analytics). Let's get this bread, guys!

Quarterbacks: Navigating the Passing Game

Start 'Em: Quarterbacks Set to Shine

  • Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills): Alright, buckle up, because Josh Allen is about to unleash some serious fantasy fireworks. This week, he's going up against the Washington Commanders. The Commanders' defense has been generous to opposing quarterbacks so far this season, making them a juicy target. Allen's dual-threat ability – his arm and his legs – makes him a guaranteed top-tier QB play. Expect a high-scoring affair with Allen at the center of it all. Start him with confidence!

  • Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): Lamar Jackson is playing like the MVP candidate we all know and love. He's facing off against the Indianapolis Colts, who have shown vulnerabilities in their pass defense. Jackson's dynamic play style gives him a high floor and an even higher ceiling. His ability to run the ball significantly boosts his fantasy value. In fact, you could even bet on Jackson to be the top scorer for his position this week. Absolutely start Lamar. He should be a cornerstone of your team.

  • Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs): Even in a tough matchup, you should not be benching Mahomes. This week, he plays against the Chicago Bears. While the Bears' defense might put up a fight, Mahomes' talent and offensive weapons make him a must-start. His ability to create plays and spread the ball around keeps him in the elite tier. Never sit Mahomes if you have him. The floor is high, and the ceiling is even higher.

Sit 'Em: Quarterbacks to Consider Bench

  • Deshaun Watson (Cleveland Browns): Listen, Deshaun Watson has talent, but the inconsistency is real. This week, the Browns are playing against the Tennessee Titans, who have a solid defense. Watson's performance has been up and down, making him a risky play in your fantasy lineup. There are other quarterbacks in a better spot this week. Consider benching Watson unless you're in a bind.

  • Daniel Jones (New York Giants): Daniel Jones and the Giants' offense have been struggling to find their rhythm. Facing the San Francisco 49ers, one of the league's toughest defenses, doesn't help matters. The 49ers will likely put pressure on Jones and limit his opportunities. Avoid starting Jones this week, as there are probably better options on your bench or the waiver wire.

Running Backs: Ground and Pound Decisions

Start 'Em: Running Backs with Favorable Matchups

  • Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers): CMC is an every-week must-start, regardless of the matchup. He is the focal point of the 49ers' offense, and his versatility makes him a threat as a runner and receiver. He's going against the Giants, who may not stand a chance. Expect a huge workload and a boatload of fantasy points. Start McCaffrey with zero hesitation.

  • Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers): Ekeler is returning from injury, and you should slot him right back into your lineup. The Chargers are facing a shaky Minnesota Vikings defense. His role in the passing game and his goal-line opportunities make him a top-tier RB1. Plug Ekeler in, and watch the points roll in.

  • Saquon Barkley (New York Giants): Even though the Giants' offense is struggling, Barkley remains a valuable fantasy asset. He should see a high volume of touches against the 49ers. The matchup is tough, but Barkley's talent and workload make him a strong start. Start Barkley, and hope for the best.

Sit 'Em: Running Backs Facing a Challenge

  • Miles Sanders (Carolina Panthers): The Panthers' offense hasn't been clicking, and Sanders' production has been inconsistent. Facing the Seattle Seahawks, who have a decent run defense, makes Sanders a risky start. Consider benching Sanders if you have other viable options.

  • James Conner (Arizona Cardinals): Conner's situation is tricky because the Cardinals' offense isn't very strong. Facing the Dallas Cowboys, who boast a stout defense, adds to the challenge. Look for alternatives rather than starting Conner.

Wide Receivers: Targeting the Pass Catchers

Start 'Em: Wide Receivers Poised for Production

  • Stefon Diggs (Buffalo Bills): Stefon Diggs is a target monster in a high-powered Bills offense. His matchup against the Commanders is favorable, as their secondary has been vulnerable. Diggs will see plenty of targets and is a must-start. Diggs is locked in your lineup.

  • Justin Jefferson (Minnesota Vikings): Even with tough matchups, Jefferson's talent is undeniable. The Chargers' defense can be exploited. Jefferson's route running and ability to create separation make him a top-tier WR. Start Jefferson with confidence.

  • A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles): Brown is a primary target in the Eagles' offense. He's going against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have a decent pass defense, but Brown's volume and talent make him a safe bet. Start Brown.

Sit 'Em: Wide Receivers in Questionable Spots

  • Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos): The Broncos' offense has been inconsistent, and Sutton's targets may vary. Facing the Miami Dolphins, who have a good pass defense, Sutton is a risky start. Consider benching Sutton.

  • George Pickens (Pittsburgh Steelers): While Pickens has talent, the Steelers' offense is struggling to find a rhythm. Facing the Las Vegas Raiders could limit his opportunities. Find other WRs to play over Pickens.

Tight Ends: Seeking Value at the Position

Start 'Em: Tight Ends to Target

  • Travis Kelce (Kansas City Chiefs): Kelce is an every-week starter. Even against a tough defense, Mahomes will find ways to get him the ball. Kelce is an elite TE. Start Kelce with no doubts.

  • Mark Andrews (Baltimore Ravens): Andrews is Lamar's favorite target. Facing the Colts, he should get plenty of targets. Start Andrews and enjoy the points.

Sit 'Em: Tight Ends to Avoid

  • Darren Waller (New York Giants): The 49ers' defense is tough, and the Giants' offense isn't clicking. Waller might struggle to produce. Consider alternatives.

Defense/Special Teams and Kickers

  • Defenses to Start: The Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers defenses have favorable matchups and should perform well. Start these defenses.
  • Kickers to Start: Look for kickers in high-scoring games. Choose a kicker in a favorable matchup.

Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts

Remember, this is just a starting point. Always consider your specific league settings, your opponent's roster, and any last-minute injury updates before making your final decisions. Good luck in Week 3, and may your fantasy teams dominate! Now go out there and crush your opponents! May the fantasy force be with you. Stay tuned for more fantasy football insights and analysis every week. Happy gridiron-ing!