Fantasy Football Sit-and-Start Advice: Week 3
As we dive into Week 3 of the fantasy football season, the stakes are getting higher, and the decisions more critical. While some start-and-sit choices are straightforward, the real challenge lies in the fringe options—those players who could either make or break your lineup. This week, we’ll explore some intriguing starts and sits across various matchups, providing insights to help you navigate your roster effectively.
Philadelphia Eagles @ New Orleans Saints
Start: Rashid Shaheed
Derek Carr has emerged as the No. 2 fantasy quarterback, despite the Saints attempting the fewest passes in the league (only 40) over the first two weeks. Klint Kubiak’s innovative use of play action and motion has proven effective, allowing the Saints to score 91 points while barely trying after halftime. Rashid Shaheed has been a standout, leading the NFL in yards per route run and ranking high in average separation. With the Eagles allowing the second-most fantasy points to wide receivers, Shaheed is a solid top-20 WR option this week.
New York Giants @ Cleveland Browns
Start: Amari Cooper
Amari Cooper’s slow start could have been much better, but he remains Cleveland’s clear WR1. The Browns have a positive pass rate over expectation, and the Giants are yielding the fifth-most yards per attempt. Historically, Cooper performs better at home, making him a must-start this week.
Chicago Bears @ Indianapolis Colts
Start: DJ Moore
Despite the Bears’ offensive struggles, DJ Moore stands out as Chicago’s clear WR1, especially with Keenan Allen out. The Colts’ defense has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to wide receivers, making this a favorable matchup for Moore. Keep him in your lineup as he looks to capitalize on a favorable matchup.
Houston Texans @ Minnesota Vikings
Start: Tank Dell
Tank Dell has been impressive, running routes on 86% of C.J. Stroud’s dropbacks. With the Texans likely to become more pass-heavy, Dell’s targets should increase, especially against a Vikings defense that has struggled. He’s a strong play this week, particularly with Joe Mixon out, which could shift the Texans’ game plan.
Los Angeles Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers
Sit: Najee Harris
Najee Harris has seen his snap rate drop, and with a banged-up Justin Herbert, the game script may not favor him. The Chargers have allowed the fewest rushing yards per game, making Harris a risky start this week. Consider benching him for a more favorable option.
Denver Broncos @ Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Start: Rachaad White
Rachaad White is dealing with a groin injury but managed to practice fully on Friday. He remains the lead back in a Buccaneers offense that has looked strong. With the Broncos allowing the 11th-most fantasy points to running backs, White is a solid start, especially with Tampa Bay favored at home.
Green Bay Packers @ Tennessee Titans
Start: Tony Pollard
Tony Pollard has shown explosive potential, gaining significant yards after contact. With Tyjae Spears dealing with an ankle injury, Pollard is set to take on a larger role. The Titans’ defense has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to running backs, making Pollard a top-15 RB this week.
Carolina Panthers @ Las Vegas Raiders
Start: Zamir White
Zamir White’s snap share has increased, and he’s seen work in the passing game. With Andy Dalton starting for the Panthers, the game script should be competitive, favoring White. The Panthers have allowed the second-most rushing yards per game, making White a strong start this week.
Miami Dolphins @ Seattle Seahawks
Start: Zach Charbonnet
With Kenneth Walker III doubtful to play, Zach Charbonnet is set to take on a larger role in the Seahawks’ offense. He saw a league-high 95% of the snaps last week and is in a favorable matchup against a Dolphins defense that has struggled against running backs. Charbonnet is a must-start this week.
Detroit Lions @ Arizona Cardinals
Start: Jameson Williams
Jameson Williams has been a target for Jared Goff, ranking high in expected fantasy points. With Amon-Ra St. Brown coming off an injury, Williams could see increased opportunities. The Lions have a high implied team total, making Williams a solid start against a Cardinals defense that has struggled.
Baltimore Ravens @ Dallas Cowboys
Sit: Ezekiel Elliott
Ezekiel Elliott has struggled to find his footing, averaging just 3.5 yards per carry. With a tough matchup against a Ravens defense that has allowed the fewest rushing yards per game, Elliott is a risky start. Consider benching him for a more productive option.
San Francisco 49ers @ Los Angeles Rams
Sit: Matthew Stafford
With the Rams missing key players and facing a tough 49ers defense, Matthew Stafford is a sit this week. The Rams’ low implied team total makes it difficult to trust Stafford in your lineup.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Atlanta Falcons
Start: Kyle Pitts
Despite some struggles, Kyle Pitts remains a viable option against a Chiefs defense that has allowed the most fantasy points to tight ends. With a favorable matchup and the potential for increased targets, Pitts is a top-seven option this week.
Jacksonville Jaguars @ Buffalo Bills
Sit: Trevor Lawrence
Trevor Lawrence has struggled this season, ranking low in completion percentage and facing a tough Bills defense. With the Jaguars’ offensive struggles, it’s wise to sit Lawrence this week.
Washington Commanders @ Cincinnati Bengals
Start: Zack Moss
Zack Moss has seen a significant share of the Bengals’ backfield, making him a strong start this week. With favorable game script expected, Moss is set up for good volume and production.
As you finalize your lineups for Week 3, consider these insights to make informed decisions. Good luck, and may your fantasy team thrive!