Week 13 Fantasy Football: Key Matchups to Exploit – Titans, Jaguars, Steelers, Bills

As the 2025 NFL regular season reaches Week 13, fantasy football players must focus on key matchups to exploit. Analyzing funnel defenses can provide insight into favorable starts for players. A funnel defense typically allows a high volume of pass or rush attempts, making some matchups particularly appealing.

Pass Funnel Matchups

Titans vs. Jaguars

The Tennessee Titans are showing newfound aggression in their passing game. After a heavily run-oriented start to the season, their neutral pass rate rose to 65% in Weeks 11 and 12. This indicates a shift in strategy, particularly since rookie quarterback Cam Ward has been increasingly involved.

• In Week 12, Ward produced 70 rushing yards, a sharp increase from just 50 in the previous weeks.
• The Jacksonville Jaguars lead the NFL in pass funnel defense, allowing a neutral pass rate of 68% against them.

The Titans’ rookie receiver Chimere Dike is emerging as a top target. Last week, he commanded a 30% first-read target share. With Elic Aoyomanor sidelined, Dike could see significant targets again. Additionally, tight end Gunnar Helm offers potential for deeper leagues, showing efficiency metrics that support his involvement.

Cardinals vs. Buccaneers

Teddy Bridgewater’s expected start for the Buccaneers complicates the matchup against the Cardinals. Arizona’s offense has relied heavily on the pass since quarterback Kyler Murray’s departure. They boast a neutral pass rate of 72% over the past five weeks.

• The Buccaneers’ defense is a top-tier pass funnel, with a 62% neutral passing rate allowed.
• Wide receiver Michael Wilson continues to produce, holding the highest air yards in recent games.

Should Marvin Harrison Jr. return from injury, both he and tight end Trey McBride could contribute significantly with added touches.

Run Funnel Matchups

Rams vs. Panthers

The Los Angeles Rams are facing the Carolina Panthers, who have become a prominent run funnel defense. Carolina has seen a dwindling 48% passing rate against them in recent games. The Rams have an implied total of 27.75 points, suggesting a strong offensive performance is likely.

• Running back Kyren Williams is projected for a bounce-back performance after a disappointing showing in Week 12.
• Blake Corum could also see touches, depending on the game flow.

Steelers vs. Bills

The Buffalo Bills are one of the league’s leading run funnel defenses, making this matchup important for running backs Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell. The Bills allow a minimal neutral pass rate of 49%, indicating a run-heavy game script.

• Gainwell has been particularly active in the receiving game, averaging 22 targets over the past four games.
• The Bills’ defense has struggled against the run, surrendering high rates of missed tackles.

The upcoming matchups in Week 13 offer critical opportunities for fantasy managers to optimize their lineups. These insights into funnel defenses can aid in making informed decisions as teams look to seize favorable matchups.