Who to Start or Sit in Week 11 Fantasy Football
Week 11 is here, and with it comes a fresh slate of NFL games—and tough decisions for your fantasy football lineup. Whether you’re agonizing over sit/start decisions, scouring the waiver wire for last-minute replacements, or tweaking your daily fantasy sports (DFS) lineups, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into this week’s matchups, key player insights, and strategies to give you the edge.
Who’s on Bye in Week 11?
First, let’s address the scheduling hurdle: the Arizona Cardinals, Carolina Panthers, New York Giants, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers are all on bye this week. That means some notable players like Kyler Murray, Saquon Barkley, and Mike Evans won’t be available for your lineup. Be sure to adjust accordingly and explore your bench or waiver wire for viable alternatives.
How Vegas Predicts Week 11
Understanding Vegas odds can help you anticipate high-scoring games and favorable matchups. This week, many games are projected to be lower-scoring, with a few exceptions. High over/unders can signal opportunities for your key players to shine. For instance, games with lines near or above 48 points often feature strong offensive performances. If the odds favor your player in such matchups, it’s likely a good day to start them.
Game-by-Game Breakdown and Key Player Picks
Baltimore Ravens (7-3) @ Pittsburgh Steelers (7-2)
- Favorite: Baltimore (-3.0)
- O/U: 48.0
This AFC North showdown pits two strong defenses against each other, making for an intense battle. Baltimore’s ability to stop the run and Pittsburgh’s defensive balance create a challenging environment for fantasy points.
Must-Starts:
- Lamar Jackson (BAL, QB): A consistent fantasy performer with both passing and rushing upside.
- Derrick Henry (BAL, RB): Explosive and always a threat in close games.
Maybe Starts:
- George Pickens (PIT, WR): With a high target share, he’s a solid option despite the tough matchup.
- Zay Flowers (BAL, WR): A bounce-back candidate after a quiet Week 10.
Potential Sits:
- Najee Harris (PIT, RB): Monitor Jaylen Warren’s workload before deciding.
Cincinnati Bengals (4-6) @ Los Angeles Chargers (6-3)
- Favorite: Chargers (-1.5)
- O/U: 48.0
The Bengals are seeking redemption after last week’s loss, but the Chargers’ offense remains potent.
Must-Starts:
- Joe Burrow (CIN, QB): Always reliable in bounce-back scenarios.
- Ja’Marr Chase (CIN, WR): A target machine and must-start in any matchup.
- Justin Herbert (LAC, QB): Consistent production with multi-touchdown potential.
Maybe Starts:
- Quentin Johnston (LAC, WR): A deep-threat option who thrives on big plays.
Flex Plays:
- Gus Edwards (CIN, RB): Risky but could find value in red-zone opportunities.
Seattle Seahawks (4-5) @ San Francisco 49ers (5-4)
- Favorite: San Francisco (-6.5)
- O/U: 47.5
Seattle comes off a bye week healthier, but San Francisco’s defense poses a significant challenge.
Must-Starts:
- Christian McCaffrey (SF, RB): A no-brainer start with potential for a big day.
- Kenneth Walker III (SEA, RB): Could thrive against the 49ers’ recent run-defense struggles.
Maybe Starts:
- DK Metcalf (SEA, WR): Back in action and ready to contribute.
Potential Sits:
- Geno Smith (SEA, QB): With his starting center out and San Francisco’s pass rush looming, he’s a risky play.
Jacksonville Jaguars (2-8) @ Detroit Lions (8-1)
- Favorite: Detroit (-14.0)
- O/U: 47.5
Detroit is on a tear this season, and Jacksonville’s struggles make this a lopsided matchup.
Must-Starts:
- Amon-Ra St. Brown (DET, WR): A fantasy stud with massive upside.
- Jahmyr Gibbs (DET, RB): Involved in both the rushing and passing game.
Flex Plays:
- Travis Etienne Jr. (JAX, RB): Likely the team’s workhorse, but temper expectations against a stout Detroit defense.
Kansas City Chiefs (9-0) @ Buffalo Bills (8-2)
- Favorite: Buffalo (-2.0)
- O/U: 46.5
This marquee matchup is packed with star power but also poses some fantasy risks.
Must-Starts:
- Josh Allen (BUF, QB): A dual-threat QB always worth starting.
- Travis Kelce (KC, TE): Patrick Mahomes’ go-to target, especially in tight games.
Maybe Starts:
- Patrick Mahomes (KC, QB): Has had some off weeks but remains a high-upside option.
Sleeper:
- Dalton Kincaid (BUF, TE): With Dawson Knox out, he could see increased opportunities.
DFS Spotlight and Contests
Looking for a way to stay even more involved this weekend? Join our free daily fantasy contests on FanDuel and Fantasy Sports EVO! Not only can you test your skills, but you’ll also have a chance to win our exclusive Fan Girl Football prize pack, including a canvas bag, koozie, and mini football.
Week 11 offers plenty of intriguing matchups and fantasy opportunities. Use these insights to finalize your lineups and enjoy the action. Don’t forget to share your victories (and close calls) with us on social media—we love hearing from our league!
