The world of fantasy football presents weekly challenges, particularly when making lineup decisions. Players often find themselves perplexed between two comparable athletes. One effective strategy is to select the player facing a more favorable matchup.
Understanding Matchup Rankings
Matchup rankings offer a reliable method to assess positional matchups without season totals. They rank all 32 defenses from most to least favorable for key positions: quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and tight end. Instead of relying solely on total points allowed, this approach evaluates how defenses performed against the quality of opponents they have faced.
Using adjusted fantasy points allowed (Adj. FPA) reflects the performance of defenses compared to players’ averages. A positive number indicates a favorable matchup, while a negative number suggests the opposite. Additionally, it is important to recognize team strategies involving multiple running backs and wide receivers, as these averages reflect the performance against entire rosters rather than individual athletes.
Highlighted Matchups for Week 7
Running Backs: Quinshon Judkins
Quinshon Judkins of the Cleveland Browns is expected to shine against the Miami Dolphins this week. Despite the Browns trailing often, Judkins has impressed with his substantial yardage gains, collecting 101 rushing yards beyond expectations according to Next Gen Stats. The Browns enter this matchup favored by 2.5 points, which may provide Judkins with more opportunities to excel.
Quarterbacks: Jalen Hurts
Contrastingly, Jalen Hurts from the Philadelphia Eagles faces a tough opponent in the Minnesota Vikings. Although Hurts ranks as a top-four fantasy quarterback, the Vikings, well-rested from their bye week, present one of his most formidable challenges. The Vikings allow minimal yards per passing attempt, making this a hard matchup for the prolific rushing quarterback.
Wide Receivers: Deebo Samuel
Deebo Samuel from the Commanders stands out against the Cowboys’ defense, which has allowed numerous wide receivers to score significant fantasy points. With an Adjusted FPA of 17.8 against wide receivers, Samuel could capitalize on this weakness, particularly if teammate Terry McLaurin is unavailable.
Tight Ends: Mason Taylor
Mason Taylor, playing for the Jets against the Panthers, represents a strong start at the tight end position. The Panthers have allowed tight ends to score well, providing Taylor with a promising matchup. Conversely, T.J. Hockenson of the Vikings is recommended to be avoided against the Eagles, who have stifled tight end performances effectively.
Defensive Matchup Rankings
| DEF to Avoid | Opponent | Rank (Rk) | Adj. FPA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Seahawks | @ SEA | 1 | -6.9 |
| San Francisco 49ers | @ SF | 2 | -6.4 |
| New York Giants | @ NYG | 3 | -5.0 |
| DEF to Exploit | Opponent | Rank (Rk) | Adj. FPA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Commanders | vs. WSH | 32 | 7.9 |
| Dallas Cowboys | @ DAL | 31 | 4.1 |
| Los Angeles Chargers | @ LAC | 30 | 3.3 |
As fantasy football enthusiasts prepare for Week 7, understanding matchups is essential. Favorable matchups like Judkins against the Dolphins present opportunities for significant fantasy contributions, while challenging matchups, as seen with Hurts against the Vikings, require cautious consideration. For detailed advice on who to start or sit, regularly updated rankings should be consulted on El-Balad.
