Introduction

As Week 12 approaches, Thanksgiving brings not only festivities but also the looming fantasy football playoffs. Managers are feeling the pressure, with every point mattering more than ever. With that in mind, it’s crucial to strategize effectively—viewing this week as a must-win scenario.

Quarterback Outlook for Week 12

After a shocking Week 11, the quarterback position sees some noteworthy players to watch.

Players to Watch

• Jared Goff, Detroit Lions (vs. NYG) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,000] - Goff struggled in his last game, but the Lions will have an indoor matchup against the Giants this week.
• Drake Maye, New England Patriots (at CIN) [DraftKings DFS Value: $6,900] - Coming off a lackluster performance, Maye is poised for a big rebound against a weak Bengals defense.

Players to Avoid

• Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys (vs. PHI) - Despite his impressive showing against the Raiders, the Eagles present a tough matchup for Prescott.
• Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers (vs. CAR) - Purdy may have performed well previously, but facing the Panthers could be tricky for him this week.

Running Back Rankings for Fantasy Managers

The running back landscape continues to evolve as the best players battle for position.

Players to Watch

• TreVeyon Henderson, New England Patriots (at CIN) - Henderson has been on fire lately, with five touchdowns in the last two games.
• Kyren Williams, Los Angeles Rams (vs. TB) - Williams ranks ninth in PPR points among running backs and faces a favorable matchup this week.

Players to Avoid

• Tyrone Tracy Jr., New York Giants (at DET) - Tracy's performance is suspect against a solid Lions defense.
• Rachaad White, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (at LAR) - White's inconsistent play raises concerns against the Rams.

Wide Receiver Landscape for Week 12

The NFC leads the receiver rankings, making for some interesting matchups this week.

Players to Watch

• A.J. Brown, Philadelphia Eagles (at DAL) - Brown had solid targets last week, making him a strong candidate against the Cowboys.
• Rome Odunze, Chicago Bears (vs. PIT) - Odunze has emerged as a top option for the Bears as they face a shaky Steelers defense.

Players to Avoid

• Michael Pittman Jr., Indianapolis Colts (at KC) - Although consistent, this week’s matchup isn’t favorable.
• Khalil Shakir, Buffalo Bills (at HOU) - Shakir may struggle against the Texans' tight pass defense.

Tight End and Team Defense Insights

A deep dive into tight ends shows valuable sleepers who could impact fantasy rosters dramatically.

Players to Watch

• Hunter Henry, New England Patriots (at CIN) - With the Bengals' weak defense, Henry could see a revival.
• Travis Kelce, Kansas City (vs. IND) - Kelce remains a top target with high potential in an advantageous matchup.

Players to Avoid

• Harold Fannin Jr., Cleveland Browns (at LV) - A difficult matchup awaits Fannin, making him a risky play.
• Dalton Schultz, Houston Texans (vs. BUF) - Facing a tough Bills defense, Schultz is also better avoided this week.

Conclusion

As we head into Week 12, managers must utilize these insights to set their best lineups. Whether targeting potential breakout candidates or avoiding pitfalls, every decision counts as the fantasy playoff picture unfolds.