Death, taxes, and 21 rush attempts for the Jets again in Week 14.  It makes zero sense to have running backs like Breece Hall and Braelon Allen not running the ball more than 25 times per game, even with a future Hall of Fame quarterback.  Has any team received as much offseason hype but ended up disappointing as much as the Jets did in 2024?

Anyway, let’s shift to a more positive topic. Congratulations on making it to the fantasy football playoffs! In just a moment, we’ll discuss some players you should consider starting or sitting for this crucial first week of the playoffs.  For those who didn’t make it, here’s some food for thought: don’t let this end your engagement with football in 2024. Start paying attention to trends and players now to get a head start on 2025. For now, let’s focus on these players for Week 15, and we’ll start with Tank Bigsby.

Tank Bigsby, Jacksonville Jaguars

For the majority of the season, the Jaguars have struggled to score points. In the last four games with Mac Jones as the starting quarterback, their performance has been particularly poor, averaging just 9.75 points per game. If you thought I was critical of the Jets earlier, the Jaguars are not far behind. They are attempting only 22.8 rushes per game, which ranks as the fourth fewest in the NFL.  Tank Bigsby had 18 carries last week in the lowest combined scoring game of 2024. 

Meanwhile, Travis Etienne Jr. is still in the mix for touches, though his season has been a complete disappointment.  At one point, he was even considered droppable in favor of players like Tyrone Tracy Jr.  In Week 15, the Jets will face off against the Jaguars, with both teams holding a 3-10 record and competing for a higher draft pick.  The Jaguars need to improve their scoring quickly, as the Jets have averaged 24.7 points over their last three games, which could put the Jaguars in a negative game script.  This situation does not bode well for Bigsby, especially since he does not contribute to the passing game.  It's crucial to get off to a strong start in the playoffs. Players like Tyrone Tracy Jr., Jaylen Warren, and Sincere McCormick are better starting options than Tank Bigsby in Week 15. 

Recommendation: Sit Bigsby

Isiah Pacheco, Kansas City Chiefs

No one was more excited to have Isiah Pacheco back than the grounds crew for the Kansas City Chiefs.  Pacheco's earth-stomping runs keep the grounds crew busy!  Patrick Mahomes II was thrilled to have his backfield mate returning and understands that Pacheco needs to find his rhythm again.  Week 14 was significant as Pacheco, in his second game back, led the backfield with 66 percent of the touches despite being on the field for only 46 percent of the snaps.  As for the Cleveland Browns, their disappointing season continues, but they've been playing valiantly since Jameis Winston became the starter.  He is exciting to watch, and his speeches are pure gold. 

The Browns have become a tougher matchup for running backs lately, only allowing an average of 91.3 rushing yards per game to their last three opponents.  The Browns have given up a rushing touchdown in all but two games this season.  They are currently on a bit of a streak, having allowed a rushing touchdown in their last six games:

• Week 14: Najee Harris
• Week 13: Javonte Williams and Michael Burton
• Week 12: BYE
• Week 11: Jaylen Warren
• Week 10: Taysom Hill x3
• Week 9: J.K. Dobbins
• Week 8: Derrick Henry

Just in the nick of time for the playoffs, Pacheco’s matchup and chances to get a touchdown are inevitable.

Recommendation: Start Pacheco

Najee Harris, Pittsburgh Steelers

There is nothing a fantasy manager values more than consistency in a player. Even a player who consistently fails to score points can be appreciated for their reliability. This season, Najee Harris has consistently scored over 12 points per game in a PPR format. However, Jaylen Warren made headlines last week with his 11 touches, and interestingly, his snap percentage surpassed that of Harris for the first time since Week 7. It also looks like George Pickens could miss this week as well, leaving more passing opportunities for Warren.

The matchup between the Eagles and the Steelers is one of the more intriguing games in Week 15. Despite their star WR A.J. Brown, the Eagles have been on a roll, expressing a desire for the passing game to improve. One aspect that doesn’t need enhancement is the Eagles' defense, particularly their run defense, which has been strong lately. Over the last three games, the Eagles have allowed only 84 rushing yards per game.  Both Pennsylvania teams are leading the NFL in rush attempts, and with Saquon Barkley chasing history, the Eagles may have extra motivation to focus on the run throughout the game. In terms of Week 15 options, players like James Cook, Aaron Jones, and Isiah Pacheco are all viable choices ahead of Najee Harris.

Recommendation: Sit Harris

Have Fun In Playoffs...

Remember that the fantasy football playoffs are meant to be fun. Don't forget to enjoy yourself and do your research. Your preparation should always start with Footballguys. Be sure to check where Tank Bigsby ranks on the Waiver Wire Report. Outsmart your opponents and advance to the next week, bringing you one step closer to victory. Good luck!