Week 14 Fantasy Football: Exploit Broncos, Raiders, Bears, and Packers Matchups
As Week 14 of the NFL season approaches, fantasy football players are focusing on specific matchups that could provide substantial advantages. Analyzing teams with funnel defenses can highlight key player opportunities and help inform crucial start-sit decisions.
Funnel Defenses to Exploit in Week 14
Pass Funnel Matchups
Two notable matchups stand out for passing opportunities: Saints vs. Buccaneers and Commanders vs. Vikings.
- Saints vs. Buccaneers: The Buccaneers have a high neutral pass rate of 62%. Only the Broncos and Jaguars have faced more pass attempts. The Saints, with a neutral pass rate of 57%, may see their attempts rise against this inviting defense.
- Key Players: Chris Olave remains a must-start, commanding 44% of the team’s air yards. Additionally, Juwan Johnson, who has shown a solid route participation from the slot, could be a valuable option in PPR leagues.
Run Funnel Matchups
The Commanders and Bears also face favorable run funnel situations that fantasy managers should consider.
- Commanders vs. Vikings: The Vikings are allowing opponents to rush the ball at a 50% rate. Chris Rodriguez is emerging as the lead back, but his touch count may vary based on game script.
- Bears vs. Packers: The Bears lead the league in rush attempts and face a Packers defense allowing only 42% of offensive plays to be passes. This matchup favors running backs D’Andre Swift and Kyle Monangai.
Specific Player Insights
Player selections should be informed by their matchups and recent performance trends.
- Chris Rodriguez (Commanders): He has secured the majority of carries in the past two games. However, his involvement in the passing game has been limited.
- D’Andre Swift (Bears): Benefiting from Chicago’s run-heavy strategy, he is likely to see significant carries against a Packers defense struggling against the run.
Additional Considerations
The Broncos face the Raiders, another team that has shifted toward run-heavy strategies. Denver’s neutral pass rate stands at 60%, and with RJ Harvey leading the backfield, he may see enhanced rushing volume if the Broncos adopt a ground-and-pound approach.
As fantasy managers prepare for their Week 14 lineups, leveraging insight into funnel defenses will be crucial. Identifying favorable matchups will enhance the likelihood of securing victory in fantasy leagues.
