Week 6 NFL Preview: Watch Sam Darnold, Fantasy Sleepers, Key Trends

As Week 6 of the 2025 NFL season approaches, analysts are weighing key trends, fantasy sleepers, and potential surprises. With matchups on the horizon, here’s a look at what fans can expect from the upcoming games.
Statistical Trends for Week 6
An analysis of three significant statistical trends could shape the outcomes of Week 6 games.
Lions vs. Chiefs: Play-Action Offense
- The Detroit Lions are employing play-action on 32.1% of their plays, ranking second in the NFL.
- The Kansas City Chiefs have struggled against play-action, allowing a league-high 0.48 expected points added per play.
- With a 65.8% success rate on such plays, the Lions may exploit this weakness on Sunday.
Bengals vs. Packers: Protecting the Quarterback
Joe Flacco leads the Bengals but faces pressure from the Packers’ Micah Parsons. Cincinnati has the lowest pass block win rate in the league at 47.5%. Flacco’s job is tougher as he has limited protection against an aggressive defense.
Jets vs. Broncos: Offensive Challenges
The Jets are struggling to establish a run game, ranking 27th in EPA per designed carry. Meanwhile, the Broncos present a formidable defense, making it a difficult matchup for the Jets.
Fantasy Sleepers to Consider
- Elic Ayomanor, WR, Tennessee Titans – Rostered in 30.1% of leagues. He ranks second on the team with 29 targets and has a favorable matchup against the Raiders.
- Kimani Vidal, RB, Los Angeles Chargers – Rostered in 22.7%. He is expected to play a key role in a favorable matchup against the Dolphins’ defense.
- Sam Darnold, QB, Seattle Seahawks – Rostered in 20.6%. Coming off a strong performance against the Buccaneers, he faces a Jaguars defense that allows high passing yards.
- Jake Tonges, TE, San Francisco 49ers – Rostered in 15.4%. With George Kittle on IR, Tonges is likely to see increased targets against the Buccaneers.
- Dillon Gabriel, QB, Cleveland Browns – Rostered in 2.4%. After a promising debut, he could excel against a Steelers defense vulnerable to quarterbacks.
Potential Surprises to Watch
- Matthew Stafford, QB for the Rams, could throw three touchdown passes against a depleted Ravens defense.
- Packers cornerback Xavier McKinney might capitalize on Flacco’s risky throws and secure another interception.
- Seahawks receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba could surpass 100 receiving yards against the Jaguars, who have allowed significant passing yardage.
Best Bet for Week 6
For a compelling betting option, consider taking the UNDER 52.5 points in the game between the Detroit Lions and the Kansas City Chiefs. The Lions are expected to focus on the run, reducing scoring opportunities, while both teams have offenses that may not deliver high-scoring performances.
This Week 6 preview provides essential insights for fans and fantasy managers as they prepare for what promises to be an exciting slate of NFL action.