Spring Through the Finish Line
In the realm of long-distance running, an age-old adage emphasizes the importance of sprinting through the finish line. In football, coaches remind players to hold onto the ball until the refs signal touchdown. The rationale behind this guidance lies in the risk of being outpaced by opponents if runners decelerate or fumble prematurely.
This principle extends to our fantasy teams during this crucial time of the year. The directive is clear: maintain momentum, aim for a first-round playoff bye whenever feasible, and meticulously monitor injuries, player trends, and matchups. Following these strategies, along with the insights provided in this Week-Winning Stats Article, will significantly enhance your prospects for playoff success.
Nico Collins is a top-5 WR in targets, receiving yards, and Yards Per Route Run over the last three weeks
Even with Tank Dell in the lineup, Nico Collins was delivering a performance akin to a WR1 this season. The recent emergence of CJ Stroud, who currently leads all quarterbacks in passing yards over the last three weeks, further propels Collins into the spotlight. Only Trevor Lawrence boasts a higher average depth of target than Stroud since Week 11. Collins secures a place in the top-12 wide receivers in target depth during the same timeframe. What sets Collins apart is his proficiency converting downfield targets, enhancing his overall potential.
Collins is not only a force downfield, but Stroud consistently targets him in scoring opportunities. In the past three games alone, CeeDee Lamb is the only receiver with more Red Zone Targets. With Dell now sidelined for the remainder of the season, Collins is a must-start, presenting an excellent opportunity for fantasy success.
Chris Olave averages 18.9 fantasy points per game this season in games where Jameis Winston drops back at least 5 times
Amid Derek Carr‘s concussion, back, shoulder, and rib injuries, Jameis Winston is poised to step into the starting role if Carr is sidelined. Notably, in games where Winston has attempted more than five passes, Olave averages an impressive 12.3 fantasy points per game. The synergy between Olave and Winston is evident when Winston is under center. Winston’s Big Time Throw Rate is 50-percent greater, and his Average Depth of Target exceeds Carr’s by 48-percent this season.
While Olave has consistently maintained a high floor (eight games as WR24 or better), he has yet to break into the top-9 wide receivers in any given week. The introduction of Winston, with a career 10.8 Yards Per Target (30-percent higher than Carr’s) presents the prospect of altering this pattern. Winston’s penchant for bigger plays could unlock Olave’s potential, offering a valuable boost during the fantasy playoff stretch. Consider this dynamic pairing for enhanced fantasy performance.
No Running Back rushed more than Chuba Hubbard over the last two weeks
Chuba Hubbard achieved a career milestone by registering 25 rush attempts against formidable division rival Tampa Bay. The increase in volume resulted in Hubbard’s first 100-plus yard rushing performance of the season. Over the last two weeks, only Derrick Henry has scored more rushing touchdowns than Hubbard. Now with the Panthers undergoing a coaching shakeup that saw the departure of Frank Reich, Deuce Staley and Josh McCown, the team is poised to strategically deploy their most effective running back (Hubbard) in crucial game situations.
The difference between Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders on this chart is staggering https://t.co/xU4DMa19Qc
— Edgar Salmingo, Jr. ✌🏽 (@PanthersAnalyst) December 5, 2023
Notably, Hubbard has consistently secured a spot among the top-12 running backs in the past two weeks, accumulating more than 90 yards in both contests. Anticipate Hubbard maintaining his pivotal role in terms of volume, positioning him as a top-18 running back for the remainder of the season. The confluence of increased opportunities and recent impressive performances signifies Hubbard as a compelling choice for sustained fantasy success.
Maintaining Momentum
As we navigate the critical juncture of the fantasy football season, the analogy of sprinting through the finish line holds true. Just as long-distance runners and football players heed the importance of maintaining momentum until the very end, fantasy managers are advised to do the same for playoff success.
With Nico Collins emerging as a top-tier wide receiver in various metrics and Chris Olave poised for increased success with Jameis Winston at the helm, there are clear opportunities to elevate your fantasy team. Additionally, Chuba Hubbard’s recent surge in volume and performance positions him as a compelling choice for sustained success at the running back position. By adhering to these strategic considerations, fantasy managers can confidently navigate the playoffs and enhance their prospects for victory.
