With all the recent injury buzz, this week can bring some difficult decisions on who to start and sit in fantasy. Many superstars have found themselves on the inactive list, creating a panic for those needing a spark to streak towards the playoffs. However, there are plenty of options that can save the day. Here’s my Week 11 selections:
Brandon’s Picks:
Two players you should start this week:
• AJ Dillon – With Aaron Jones out this week due to a MCL sprain, the backfield is all but wide open to the second year running back. The former Boston College standout has received touches in every game this season behind Jones. In one of his first games “let loose,” Dillon racked up 128 yards and two touchdowns against Seattle. While the Vikings are a better defense on paper, their tendency to give up receptions and TD’s to running backs makes Dillion a great option for Week 11.
• Russell Wilson – The Seahawks QB made a relatively quick return last week after breaking his finger in Week 5. Unfortunately, his first game back went worse than expected due to turnovers and a slow-paced game against the Packers. While he is facing the NFL’s best team in Arizona, the Cardinals’ injuries will likely make them play conservative this week before their Week 12 bye. Considering this and that RB Chris Carson is out for the season, I could see Russell get his team back on track through the air and have a true bounce-back game this week.
Two players you should sit this week:
• Tyler Boyd – Being a third wheel in the Bengals’ receiving room makes Boyd have boom or bust appeal each week. While he has boomed four of those games, he has fell flat in the other five. Travelling to Sofi Stadium to play the Raiders will be a tough challenge for the Bengals passing attack. Outside of the Chiefs’ revival last week, the Raiders have only allowed 186.5 yards per game through the air. Competing with a loaded offense and a stingy Raiders defense, IBM’s 28% bust projection makes Boyd a risky play on the road.
• Cole Kmet – As the Bears continue to feel out Justin Fields, the offense seems to shift every few weeks. While the former Fighting Irish draft selection has had a great sophomore season, the Bears have had inconsistencies under Matt Nagy’s schemes. There is a good chance Don Martindale and the Baltimore secondary will force the Bears to try and make big plays deep down the field. Considering the Ravens’ are due for a big game defensively, the idea of the game plan going against Kmet puts him on the pine for me in Week 11.
One player you could stream this week:
• Jimmy Garoppolo – With 89% availability in standard ESPN leagues, the San Francisco QB has great opportunity to produce against a weak Jaguars’ defense. With the emergence of Deebo Samuel and return of George Kittle, the 49ers should have no problem throwing the ball all over Jacksonville. The 49ers’ injuries to the running back position should also be a cause for avoiding a run-heavy game plan. If you are an owner of Kyler Murray or Lamar Jackson, Garoppolo can be a favorable streaming option.