Week 14 NFL Preview: Key Matchups and Fantasy Insights

The NFL’s Week 14 kicks off with an exciting matchup between the Dallas Cowboys and the Detroit Lions on Thursday night. This week’s preview provides score projections, over/unders, win probabilities, and essential fantasy advice for both season-long leagues and daily fantasy sports (DFS).

In addition to game breakdowns, this column integrates previously separate Shadow Reports, which analyze defensive schemes and individual matchups, a critical resource for fantasy managers making start/sit decisions and last-minute roster adjustments.

Key Matchups and Fantasy Projections

The matchup between the Cowboys and the Lions projects a close score, with the Lions expected to edge out the Cowboys 29-27. Lineup locks for this game include Dak Prescott, Jared Goff, CeeDee Lamb, and Jahmyr Gibbs. Notably, Amon-Ra St. Brown is unlikely to play due to an ankle injury sustained last week, increasing the workload for Jameson Williams, who posted a season-high 26.9 fantasy points last week.

The Cowboys’ defense has struggled against wide receivers, allowing the most touchdowns (21) and fantasy points this season. This makes Williams a viable option, alongside Lamb and George Pickens, both of whom should see increased opportunities in the absence of St. Brown.

The over/under for this matchup is set at 56.1, the highest of the week, with the Lions holding a 59% chance of victory according to analytics models.

The Seattle Seahawks travel to face the Atlanta Falcons with a projected score of 23-19 in favor of Seattle. Key players to watch include Bijan Robinson and Drake London. The Seahawks’ running back, Zach Charbonnet, has been productive with eight touchdowns this season, but his lack of receiving work limits his fantasy upside, making him a riskier play.

In the game between the Cincinnati Bengals and Buffalo Bills, the Bills are projected to win 30-24. Both Josh Allen and Joe Burrow are must-starts, while tight end Dalton Kincaid could shine if he returns from injury, as the Bengals have struggled against tight ends, allowing the highest fantasy points in that position.

Fantasy Insights and Recommendations

The Tennessee Titans face the Cleveland Browns, with the Browns favored to win 19-12. Tight end Harold Fannin Jr. has emerged as a key target for Cleveland, making him a potential starting option despite the Titans’ strong defense against tight ends.

In the Washington Commanders versus Minnesota Vikings game, projected at 22-19 in favor of Washington, Justin Jefferson stands out as a reliable play. Meanwhile, running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. has taken the lead role in Washington’s backfield, and while he has not exceeded 12.5 fantasy points this season, he could see increased volume against a defense that has allowed the most carries to running backs.

The Miami Dolphins are set to play the New York Jets, with a projected score of 23-19. De’Von Achane and Jaylen Waddle are essential lineup considerations against a Jets defense that has faced challenges this season.

The New Orleans Saints visit the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, where the Bucs are favored to win 23-17. Bucky Irving is expected to lead the backfield for Tampa Bay after a strong performance last week, while Chris Olave remains a lineup lock for the Saints.

As the week progresses, fantasy managers should monitor injury reports and player performance closely. Projections and rankings will continue to update leading up to kickoff, ensuring that decisions are based on the latest available information.

This comprehensive overview aims to equip fantasy players with the insights needed to navigate their lineups effectively for Week 14, maximizing their chances for success.