Week 13 Highlights: Jordan Love Shines, Austin Ekeler Struggles in Fantasy Football
ICARO Media Group
Injuries continue to plague the Fantasy Football season as Week 13 sees a wave of setbacks that overshadow the action on the field. However, amidst the chaos, there were several notable winners and losers emerging from Sunday's games. Let's take a closer look at the key players who saw their stock rise or fall in Week 13.
Jordan Love, the quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, delivered an impressive performance against the formidable Kansas City Chiefs defense. Facing the No. 3 scoring defense in the league, Love completed 25 of 36 passes for 264 yards and three touchdowns with no interceptions. This marked Love's third consecutive game without throwing a pick, showcasing his growth and improved decision-making. Additionally, Love has excelled in play-action, accumulating 378 yards in the last three games, the highest in the league. While it remains uncertain if Love can be considered a top-12 quarterback going forward, his recent performances certainly put him in the conversation.
De'Von Achane, running back for the Miami Dolphins, made a splash in his return after an injury absence. Despite concerns about his workload following previous injuries, Achane received significant opportunities and excelled. As the team's leading rusher with 17 carries, he turned them into 103 yards and two touchdowns. While the majority of his production came when the game was already in hand, the fact that Achane handled a substantial number of touches without reinjury is promising. With the Dolphins trusting his capabilities and deploying him as a focal point in the offense, Achane could potentially be considered a top-12 running back moving forward.
Chuba Hubbard, the running back for the Carolina Panthers, stood out in the team's first game without head coach Frank Reich. Hubbard received a heavy workload, carrying the ball 25 times for 104 yards and two touchdowns. Although he wasn't targeted in the passing game, Hubbard's involvement in the running attack is encouraging. While the Panthers' new coaching staff may prioritize fewer passing opportunities for their running backs, Hubbard's increased usage in the running game bodes well for his Fantasy value.
Nico Collins, wide receiver for the Houston Texans, is poised to benefit from a potentially significant opportunity following the injury to Randall Dell. Collins has already been outperforming Dell since his return from a calf injury, and with Dell now sidelined, he is expected to cement his role as the Texans' primary receiver. Against the Colts, Collins caught nine of 12 targets, showcasing his ability to make an impact in the passing game. With clear opportunities for targets, Collins has the potential to become a valuable Fantasy option down the stretch.
Puka Nacua, wide receiver for the Los Angeles Rams, provided some initial concern to Fantasy owners after suffering what appeared to be a severe injury. However, Nacua showed resilience by returning to the game and delivering an impressive performance. He accumulated 139 total yards on six touches, including a 70-yard touchdown against a strong Cleveland Browns defense. Nacua also had a 45-yard run called back due to a penalty. With his ability to make big plays and surpass the 1,000-yard mark, Nacua remains a must-start Fantasy option and a top-12 receiver for the rest of the season.
Trey McBride, the tight end for the Arizona Cardinals, continues to secure a prominent role in the team's offense. McBride's consistent target share and exceptional talent have elevated him among the top tight ends in the league. While his numbers may not always be eye-popping, his contested catches, big plays after the catch, and ability to make defenders miss have made him a reliable option. Despite a minor groin injury concern, McBride's locked-in role and talent make him an attractive Fantasy asset.
On the flip side, there were several disappointing performances in Week 13. Sam Howell, the quarterback for the Commanders, struggled to produce significant Fantasy numbers against a staunch Miami Dolphins defense. With three consecutive underwhelming outings, Howell's regression is concerning, potentially impacting his overall Fantasy value moving forward.
Austin Ekeler, the running back for the Los Angeles Chargers, has been struggling to replicate his early-season success following an ankle injury. Hindered by lingering health issues and a lackluster Chargers offense, Ekeler's production has declined significantly. With just 18 yards on 14 carries and minimal involvement in the passing game, Ekeler's Fantasy outlook remains uncertain.
Devin Singletary, the running back for the Houston Texans, faced diminishing opportunities in both rushing and passing situations. While Singletary initially seemed to establish himself as the preferred choice in the Texans' backfield, the emergence of Dameon Pierce and decreased passing-down work have impacted his role. With a split in carries and a reduced workload, Singletary's Fantasy value becomes more matchup-dependent.
Breece Hall, running back for the New York Jets, continues to face challenges in the team's struggling offense. Despite increased involvement for Dalvin Cook, Hall failed to capitalize on his opportunities, averaging a mere 16 yards on 13 carries. Hall's ceiling remains high due to his explosive playmaking ability, but his inconsistent workload and split carries may limit his Fantasy potential.
Lastly, Adam Thielen, wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, seems to have fallen out of favor within the team's offensive scheme. Targeted just six times on 31 passes, Thielen struggled to create big plays and saw rookie Jonathan Mingo receive more attention. With the Panthers shifting their focus to younger options and a less effective offense overall, Thielen's Fantasy relevance is diminishing.
As Fantasy Football heads into the crucial final weeks, these performances and developments will undoubtedly impact managers' strategies and decisions. Evaluating the winners and losers from Week 13 becomes crucial in adapting to the ever-changing landscape of the Fantasy Football realm.