Fantasy Football Playoffs: Must-Start Players and Surprising Sit Candidates for Week 15

As the fantasy football playoffs kick off, the stakes couldn't be higher. In these critical matchups, every decision counts, making it essential to know which players to activate and which to leave on the bench. Let’s delve into the key players to watch in our Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em guide for Week 15.

Quarterbacks to Start and Sit:

Start: Bo Nix Nix may have stumbled in Week 13, but don't be fooled. He's primed for a big bounce-back game against a weary Colts defense that ranks fourth-worst in the league, allowing an average of 230 passing yards per game. This presents a golden opportunity for Nix to prove his worth to fantasy managers.

Sit: Jared Goff Despite the Bills' vulnerable secondary, Goff’s performance has often relied on matchups against subpar teams. With a top-10 passing defense in the Bills, combined with the Lions' preference for a run-heavy approach, it’s wise to consider other options at quarterback this week.

Start: Tua Tagovailoa Since his return, Tua has lit up the fantasy scene with over 275 passing yards and multiple touchdowns in four consecutive games. With the Dolphins likely playing from behind against a talented Texans team, Tua’s fantasy potential only increases. Get him in your lineup!

Running Backs To Watch:

Start: Chuba Hubbard Chuba Hubbard has emerged as a top-performing running back over the past month, ranking as such in four out of five weeks. His impressive performances have kept the Panthers competitive, and with a favorable matchup against the Cowboys, expect him to keep delivering in Week 15.

Sit: Tyrone Tracy Things are looking bleak for Tracy, who hasn’t surpassed 50 rushing yards since Week 10. With the Giants favoring Devin Singletary and facing off against a formidable run defense, it’s clear that Tracy isn’t a viable start this week.

Start: Sincere McCormick McCormick has taken over as the Raiders' starting running back and offers dual-threat capabilities in both the rushing and passing game. As the coaching staff emphasizes the run to facilitate the pass, McCormick is a strong flex option if you're in dire need.

Wide Receivers to Start and Sit:

Start: Jaxon Smith-Njigba JSN continues to impress, boasting over 70 receiving yards in his last five games, along with four touchdowns. Facing a leaky Packers defense that has allowed over 275 yards recently, Smith-Njigba should see plenty of action and is a fundamental start this week.

Sit: Jayden Reed Reed has struggled to find any rhythm. Even during a two-touchdown outing, his overall numbers were far from impressive. With uncertainty surrounding which Packers receiver will shine, it’s safer to bench Reed for the remainder of the season.

Start: Jakobi Meyers Meyers has consistently produced solid numbers with multiple catches and yards in recent matchups. His value might elevate further depending on the quarterback situation, making him a reliable flex option this week.

Tight Ends: Who to Start and Who to Sit

Start: Jonnu Smith Emerging as one of Tagovailoa’s go-to targets over the past few weeks, Smith has adapted well in Miami’s offense. Expect him to continue his productive role, regardless of a challenging matchup.

Sit: Cade Otton Otton's role has diminished significantly with Mike Evans back in the lineup, severely impacting his production. With the Chargers known for their stingy defense against tight ends, it is advisable to look elsewhere for your TE slot this week.

As the fantasy playoffs unfold, making the right calls can lead to victory or elimination. Stay tuned for more updates and insights as we approach Week 15!