Facts vs. Feelings: Navigating Fantasy Football with Heart and Data
Fantasy football is a passion for many. Sometimes that passion pushes fantasy managers to make emotional decisions even when the data suggests otherwise. Each week during the 2024 NFL season, Liz Loza will attempt to strike a balance between what the data states and what the heart wants. This is called Facts vs. Feelings.
Thanksgiving week is here, and for many, it’s a time to reflect on gratitude, family, and, of course, football. For Liz Loza, returning home after five whirlwind days in Las Vegas covering the Grand Prix, the word “lucky” couldn’t feel more appropriate. From poker tables to pumpkin pie, her journey has been anything but conventional, yet it’s been fulfilling. And isn’t that what Thanksgiving is all about? Filling our plates—and our lives—with a little extra goodness.
Sure, life can feel like a never-ending sprint, and burnout is a real concern. But what if we shifted our focus? Instead of cramming our schedules with obligations, what if we filled our days with things (and people) that energize us? For Liz, the exhaustion of Vegas was balanced by the joy it brought. A nap was necessary, but the smile she’s been wearing since? That’s the real reward.
As you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, let’s ditch the stress over lumpy mashed potatoes or a dry turkey. Instead, focus on the people around the table. Whether you stick to tradition or start something new, let this be a day that fuels you. And hey, why not bring that same energy to your fantasy football lineup? With playoffs just two weeks away, now is the time to lean in, not pull back.
Fantasy Football: Double-Digit Weeks Demand Double the Effort
Missed out on Jordan Addison last week? You’re not alone—he blew up on Liz’s bench too. But there’s no time to dwell on the past. The goal is to keep playing well into December, and that means taking stock of your roster and going all in. Set your lineups with the same enthusiasm you bring to debating canned versus homemade cranberry sauce. Treat your flex spot like the marshmallows on top of sweet potatoes—essential and delightful. And remember, it’s all extra. Even if you need a nap afterward, we’re lucky to play this game.
Player Spotlights: Who’s Trending Up?
- Bryce Young, QB, Carolina Panthers: It’s been a tough year for Young, but the 2023 first overall pick is showing signs of growth. Over his last four games, he’s thrown for over 200 yards twice and found the end zone in every contest since Week 8. He’s also added 12 rushing attempts in that span. Coming off his third-highest fantasy output of the season (16.5 points), Young’s 263 passing yards in Week 12 were the second most of his career. While starting him this week might not be wise, his arrow is pointing up, and his development is worth monitoring.
- Jeremy McNichols, RB, Washington Commanders: With Brian Robinson Jr. sidelined by an ankle injury, McNichols stepped up. Though he only logged three carries in relief, he’s been a steady presence in Washington’s backfield since Week 4. The Commanders rank fourth in total rushing attempts (368) and rushing scores (20), and McNichols has already tallied four rushing TDs this season. If Robinson or Austin Ekeler (concussion) miss time, McNichols could be a sneaky flex play this week.
- Nico Collins, WR, Houston Texans: Welcome back, Nico! Since returning from a hamstring injury, Collins has averaged 16 targets over two games. While he’s officially found the end zone just once, penalties have negated TDs in back-to-back weeks, underscoring his red zone dominance. His Week 12 performance (5-92-1) against a tough Titans defense was impressive, and with a favorable matchup against Jacksonville, Collins has top-5 potential this week.
Frustration and Fading Stars
Marvin Harrison Jr., WR, Arizona Cardinals: Harrison’s talent is undeniable, but his fantasy production has been maddeningly inconsistent. He’s posted fewer than 70 receiving yards in 10 of 12 games, relying heavily on TDs to boost his value. While his red zone prowess is notable (eight end zone targets, 40% team share), his 56.3% catch rate leaves much to be desired. Consider him a risky flex option moving forward.
Noah Gray, TE, Kansas City Chiefs: Gray has emerged as a surprising contributor in Kansas City’s offense, scoring four TDs on eight catches since Week 11. With Travis Kelce seeing reduced usage, Gray’s role appears intentional. While chasing TDs is risky, Gray could be a viable streaming option against a Raiders defense that’s struggled against tight ends recently.
As we head into Week 13, remember: fantasy football, like Thanksgiving, is about savoring the experience. Whether you’re chasing a playoff spot or just enjoying the ride, lean in and make the most of it. And don’t forget to grab a slice of pie—pecan, pumpkin, or fantasy victory.
Originally Written by: Liz Loza
