Week 13 Fantasy Football Fallout: Smith Out, Ravens Game Implications
Week 13 of the fantasy football season brought a significant shake-up with Lamar Jackson's injury, leaving many fantasy managers scrambling to adjust their lineups. The Baltimore Ravens' game against the Denver Broncos suddenly looked very different, impacting not only Ravens players but also those facing their defense. Let's dive into the fantasy fallout from this crucial game.
Lamar Jackson's Injury: A Fantasy Nightmare
Lamar Jackson's absence due to a knee injury is a devastating blow for Ravens fans and fantasy owners alike. His dual-threat capabilities make him a top-tier fantasy quarterback, and his loss significantly alters Baltimore's offensive game plan.
Impact on Ravens' Offensive Players:
- Tyler Huntley: Huntley takes over as the starting quarterback. While a capable backup, he doesn't possess Jackson's rushing upside, making him a riskier fantasy play. His passing stats will likely be less impressive than Jackson's, reducing his overall fantasy points. Expect a more conservative game plan focused on the running game.
- J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards: The Ravens' running backs are likely to see an increased workload. This is good news for fantasy managers, as they should be solid RB2 options, at least for the short term. Look for more carries and potential goal-line opportunities.
- Mark Andrews: Andrews remains a valuable tight end, even with Huntley at quarterback. However, his target share might fluctuate depending on the game script. He's still a high-end TE1, but expect some week-to-week variability.
- Rashod Bateman and Demarcus Robinson: The wide receivers become less reliable fantasy options without Jackson's dynamism. Their targets are likely to decrease, reducing their fantasy value. They could be considered flex options at best.
Ravens' Defense: A Sleeper Opportunity?
While the Ravens' offense took a hit, their defense might benefit from a more run-heavy approach. The Broncos' offense, while not spectacular, could still be susceptible to pressure if the Ravens' defense can consistently force Denver into passing situations. This makes the Ravens' defense a potentially sneaky play in Week 13, especially in deeper leagues.
Week 13 Fantasy Takeaways and Looking Ahead
This unexpected injury throws a significant wrench into fantasy football strategies. Adaptability is key; be prepared to adjust your lineup based on the latest news and injury reports.
Practical Tips for Fantasy Managers:
- Stay Informed: Keep a close eye on injury reports throughout the week. Fantasy news websites and apps are invaluable resources.
- Utilize the Waiver Wire: The waiver wire is your friend. Look for players who could benefit from increased opportunities due to injuries.
- Consider Streaming: Don't be afraid to stream players based on matchups. This is particularly important at quarterback and defense given the unpredictable nature of the NFL.
- Don't Panic: One bad week doesn't ruin your season. Analyze your team and make strategic moves to improve your lineup for the upcoming weeks.
The Ravens' game against Denver highlighted the unpredictable nature of fantasy football. While Lamar Jackson's injury created significant challenges, it also presents opportunities for savvy managers to adapt and potentially gain an edge. Remember to stay informed, adjust accordingly, and keep an eye on the waiver wire. Good luck in the remaining weeks of your fantasy season!