Fantasy Football: 6 Players Who’ll Out/Underperform Projections in Championship Week
As fantasy football managers prepare for the championship week, it’s crucial to set realistic expectations for their players. While projections can provide a general idea of what to expect, there are always those who will outperform or underperform their projected totals. Here are six players who could be in for a big day or a disappointing outing in Week 17:
Outperformers
1. Justin Jefferson, WR, Minnesota Vikings
Jefferson has been one of the most consistent wide receivers in fantasy football this season, averaging 10.4 targets and 7.2 receptions per game. He faces a Green Bay Packers defense that has allowed the most passing touchdowns in the NFL this season. Jefferson is a strong candidate to lead all wide receivers in scoring in Week 17.
2. Christian McCaffrey, RB, San Francisco 49ers
McCaffrey has been a workhorse for the 49ers since being acquired from the Carolina Panthers. He has averaged 19.3 touches per game and has scored at least one touchdown in four of his last five games. McCaffrey faces a Las Vegas Raiders defense that has allowed the fifth-most rushing touchdowns in the NFL this season. He is a prime candidate to have a big day on the ground and through the air.
3. Ja’Marr Chase, WR, Cincinnati Bengals
Chase has emerged as one of the most dynamic playmakers in the NFL in his rookie season. He faces a Kansas City Chiefs defense that has struggled against top wide receivers this season. Chase has the potential to put up big numbers in Week 17 and help the Bengals secure a playoff berth.
Underperformers
1. Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers
Rodgers has had a disappointing season by his standards, throwing for just 20 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He faces a Vikings defense that has allowed the fewest passing touchdowns in the NFL this season. Rodgers is a risky start in Week 17, especially considering the Packers’ struggles on offense this season.
2. Ezekiel Elliott, RB, Dallas Cowboys
Elliott has been a disappointment for fantasy managers this season, averaging just 4.1 yards per carry and scoring only eight touchdowns. He faces a Philadelphia Eagles defense that has allowed the second-fewest rushing yards in the NFL this season. Elliott is a risky start in Week 17, especially considering the Cowboys’ struggles on offense this season.
3. Mark Andrews, TE, Baltimore Ravens
Andrews has been one of the most consistent tight ends in fantasy football this season, but he faces a tough matchup in Week 17 against the Los Angeles Rams. The Rams have allowed the fewest receiving touchdowns to tight ends in the NFL this season. Andrews is a risky start in Week 17, especially considering the Ravens’ struggles on offense this season.
It’s important to note that these are just projections, and anything can happen in the NFL. However, these six players are all facing situations that could lead to them outperforming or underperforming their projections in Week 17. Fantasy managers should consider these factors when making their lineup decisions for the championship week.