Pittsburgh Steelers Keep Playoff Dreams Alive

The Pittsburgh Steelers put themselves back in the playoff conversation on Monday night, thrilling fans and creating a must-watch atmosphere for the upcoming Week 16 matches. The focus now shifts to an exciting Thursday night showdown between the Los Angeles Rams and Seattle Seahawks, reminiscent of a postseason battle, as many fantasy football fans find themselves in win-or-go-home situations.

Fringe Flex Options to Consider

With fantasy managers preparing for crucial matchups, it's essential to analyze both the stars and fringe players. Below are some interesting starts and sits in point-per-reception (PPR) leagues.

Start: Michael Carter, Arizona Cardinals

With the Arizona Cardinals' backfield in disarray following injuries to James Conner and Trey Benson, Michael Carter is stepping into a significant role. Following Bam Knight's ankle sprain in Week 15, Carter scored an impressive 13.4 fantasy points. Facing the Atlanta Falcons, who rank 15th in fantasy points allowed to running backs, he's a favorable start this week.

Sit: Kenneth Walker III, Seattle Seahawks

Despite being a starting back for the Seattle Seahawks, Kenneth Walker III has struggled recently, averaging just 10.1 fantasy points per game. With Zach Charbonnet taking away goal-line opportunities, Walker has scored under 10 points in four of the last seven games and will now face a tough Rams defense that offers the least fantasy points to running backs.

Start: DK Metcalf, Pittsburgh Steelers

Now the WR1 for the Steelers following a trade in the offseason, DK Metcalf has had a mixed fantasy output. Nonetheless, he has shown flashes in recent weeks, with two weeks of surpassing 14 fantasy points. This week, he faces the Detroit Lions, who have been generous to opposing wide receivers, allowing the second-most fantasy points.

Sit: Tre Tucker, Las Vegas Raiders

Las Vegas Raiders' rookie Tre Tucker began the season strong but has since stagnated, averaging 9.8 fantasy points—a figure propped up by earlier breakout performances. With the Raiders' offense in turmoil, Tucker is unlikely to excel against the Houston Texans, who allow the third-fewest fantasy points to receivers.

Start: Darren Waller, Miami Dolphins

Darren Waller's performance against the Steelers was one of the bright spots in a tough loss for the Dolphins. With six catches for 66 yards and two touchdowns, he delivered an impressive 25.6 fantasy points. As the Dolphins host the Cincinnati Bengals, who allow the most fantasy points to tight ends, Waller is a solid streaming option this week.

Sit: Gunnar Helm, Tennessee Titans

Tennessee Titans' rookie Gunnar Helm has shown promise with his developing chemistry with QB Cam Ward, scoring notable fantasy points in recent weeks. However, against the Kansas City Chiefs—despite their elimination and loss of Patrick Mahomes—Helm faces a defense that grants the fifth-fewest points to tight ends, making him a risky start.