Perseverance and Grit
Welcome to Championship Week, Week 17 — the culmination of our season-long efforts. The hours spent grinding the waiver wire, conducting exhaustive research, and delving into the depths for the most obscure insights have led us to this moment. This season posed challenges, from quarterback injuries to the frustration of untapped potential in depth charts, like Denver’s reluctance to fully utilize Marvin Mims or Dalton Kincaid‘s diminished role upon Dawson Knox‘s return from injured reserve. If you’ve reached your league’s championship, congratulations are in order. Your perseverance and grit in navigating the hurdles of adversity deserve recognition. As you embark on your Week 17 championship matchup, may these carefully curated stats be the guiding force propelling you to a well-deserved victory.
Matthew Stafford has thrown 10 TDs and 0 INTs over his last four games
In the past four weeks, Matthew Stafford has had some remarkable performances. He has earned the highest PFF pass grade among quarterbacks over that stretch. Notably, he ranks No. 4 in passing yardage, trailing only Joe Flacco, Jake Browning, and Brock Purdy. Stafford’s efficiency extends beyond yardage – he excels in avoiding sacks, minimizing interceptions, and creating significant plays, particularly in collaboration with Puka Nacua. Stafford also leads all quarterbacks with a 7.9-percent Big Time Throw Rate over the same period.
While Stafford’s end-of-year fantasy finish is projected around QB18, his recent momentum is undeniable. Heading into Week 17, he boasts five consecutive top-12 weekly QB finishes. Additionally, he has thrown for at least two touchdowns and 229 or more yards during that impressive stretch. The upcoming matchup against the New York Giants presents a favorable opportunity, given the Giants’ recent struggles. The G-Men allowed 24.44 fantasy points to Jalen Hurts in Week 16 and 21.32 fantasy points to Derek Carr in Week 15. Stafford is poised to capitalize on a favorable situation. He is a compelling choice for fantasy success in Championship Week.
Breece Hall earned 15 targets in Week 16
In Week 16, Breece Hall received an impressive 15 targets, marking the highest among all position players. This continues a trend, as Hall has earned nine or more targets in three of his last five games. He is No. 2 in targets among running backs for the season with 79, trailing only Alvin Kamara. Hall’s 537 receiving yards tie him for No. 1 among RBs with Christian McCaffrey.
The question surrounding Hall isn’t whether he’s a first-round pick in 2024. It’s whether he should be the first overall pick. When considering running backs not named Christian McCaffrey, Hall possesses the clearest path to claiming the RB1 spot overall in 2024.
Fantasy managers might hesitate to start Hall against the formidable Browns defense in Week 17. However, the apprehension is unfounded. Hall ranks No. 2 among running backs in Evaded Tackles and third in Juke Rate. His fourth-highest Target Share at the position ensures he will get opportunities. Fantasy managers should dismiss any concerns and confidently start Hall. The Browns recently allowed 24.1 fantasy points to the Houston Texans backfield. The evidence strongly supports Hall’s potential, making him a compelling choice in any fantasy lineup.
Mike Evans leads all WRs with 13 TDs on the season
In what stands as a career-defining season for Mike Evans, marked by his impressive 10th consecutive 1,000-yard season achieved in Week 13 against Carolina, he has now recorded at least 13 touchdowns in a season for the third time. Notably, Evans is currently on track to establish a career-high with 2.45 yards per route run and an impressive 4.1 yards after catch per reception. Despite being drafted outside the Top-30 of wide receivers this past season, selected in the sixth round of fantasy drafts, Evans has emphatically disproven any notion of an age-related decline. His stellar performance underscores one of the best values for fantasy managers in 2023.
As Tampa Bay prepares to face New Orleans in Week 17, hosting the game in Tampa, the absence of Marshon Lattimore from the Saints’ lineup adds to the favorable outlook. It’s worth noting that all three of Evans’ 140+ receiving yard games this season occurred at home. With these factors in play, it’s a clear call to fire up Evans, anticipating an upside matchup that aligns perfectly with his exceptional form and track record.
Press the Gas, Champ
As we approach Championship Week, the culmination of a season marked by relentless dedication, your journey has been one of perseverance and strategic prowess. The challenges, from navigating quarterback injuries to deciphering frustrating depth charts, reflect the true grit required for fantasy success. Now, armed with carefully curated stats, you stand at the precipice of victory.
Matthew Stafford‘s recent prowess, showcasing 10 touchdowns and zero interceptions over four games, positions him as a compelling choice for your championship week. Breece Hall‘s remarkable 15-target performance in Week 16 solidifies him as a prime contender, even against a formidable Browns defense. Lastly, Mike Evans‘ career-defining season, marked by 13 touchdowns and an impressive 1,000-yard milestone, underscores his value as one of the best finds of the year. As you embark on the final showdown, may the insights provided guide you to a well-deserved triumph. Press the gas, champ, and claim your fantasy glory in Week 17. Best of luck!
