Congratulations on reaching your fantasy football championship! Before we discuss some players who could either boost or hinder your chances of winning the league trophy this week, let's address a few things. First, what on earth happened to the Cardinals?  They must be labeled the most disappointing team over the past month of the season. With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, they managed to lose in overtime to the Panthers, of all teams.

Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers, once a dominant force in the league, have also underperformed this season. Injuries have taken a toll on them, but it seems they will make a strong comeback in 2025.  Lastly, let's talk about the Cowboys. As "America's Team," they were eliminated from the playoffs in Week 16. While injuries have been a factor, their struggles in the running game have certainly contributed to their disappointing performance throughout the season. 

Since we are talking about underwhelming performances, we have to talk about Isiah Pacheco, Javonte Williams, and Kendre Miller.  These naughty listers combined for a total of 65 yards rushing and 20.9 fantasy points in a PPR format. It's safe to say sitting these three was the right move in Week 16.  For Championship Week, we will talk about three wide receivers.  Two of them have been producing as of late.  The other player is so due that I am considering adding a Charles Barkley "I GUARANTEE" behind it.  But you'll have to wait and read the first player we talk about.

Cooper Kupp (Kupp Full of Goodness?)

There's no doubt that the last two games have left many of us questioning whether Cooper Kupp can be relied upon this week. However, taking a page from Aaron Rodgers, let's all relax!  Kupp has scored six touchdowns in 13 career games against the Cardinals. He has also been a key player in helping you win games this season. While he may not be the same player he once was, and Puka Nacua has stepped up as the primary target, Kupp and Matthew Stafford still have a strong connection. Kupp has always excelled in the short and intermediate game, and this year, he's back to over 50 percent on deep ball receptions catch percentage.

• 2024: 54 percent
• 2023: 50 percent
• 2022: 60 percent
• 2021: 66 percent

The Rams need to keep focusing on attacking downfield, and Kupp still has that ability in his skill set. "I GUARANTEE" Kupp will score more this week than combined in the last two weeks. Though that may not mean much, I strongly believe you should start Kupp over players like DJ Moore, Calvin Ridley, and Jakobi Meyers, especially when you need him the most to take you to the Promise Land. 

Recommendation: Start

Nick Westbrook-Ikhine (West-Brick-Ikhi-Nay)

For starters, in the last matchup between the Jaguars and Titans, the teams combined for only 16 points.  Yep, that's the lowest point total in the season so far.  If that doesn't steer you away, this next stat won't either.  Nick Westbrook-Ikhine boasts an impressive 36 percent touchdown rate this season, scoring nine touchdowns on just 25 receptions. While this production is efficient, it's not something you can depend on during the critical fantasy playoffs.  In his seven career games against the Jaguars, Westbrook-Ikhine has accumulated only 80 yards and one touchdown. Furthermore, in the last three games, the Jaguars have allowed the seventh-fewest passing touchdowns. Westbrook-Ikhine is one of the most touchdown-dependent players in the NFL, making him a risky choice. Therefore, it's advisable to avoid starting Westbrook-Ikhine in your championship game and keep him on the bench. Given his limited opportunities and the recent trend of the Jaguars' defense, staying away from Westbrook-Ikhine in your championship game is the best course of action.  Players like Rashod Bateman, Quentin Johnston, and Marquise Brown should be considered over Westbrook-Ikhine.

Recommendation: Sit

Jalen McMillan (Ja-WIN McMillan)

Rookies can finish a season strong, as demonstrated by Amon-Ra St. Brown in his rookie year back in 2021. Could Jalen McMillan be the next rookie to shine in the fantasy playoffs? Some would argue that he already has. McMillan has scored in each of the last three games, totaling four touchdowns during that span. Being part of one of the NFL's highest-scoring offenses certainly helps, as the Buccaneers are currently averaging 28 points per game.  This week, they host the Panthers, who have improved defensively, especially in defending the pass lately. However, it's important to note that they still allow an average of 29 points per game. Earlier in the season, the Panthers were on pace to give up the most points in a season since the 1981 Baltimore Colts.  Additionally, McMillan matched his season-high snap count at 83 percent in the last game. This is crucial for his success, as he has focused on gaining the trust of both his coaches and quarterback during training camp. Recently, Baker Mayfield has developed a rapport with McMillan, who has averaged over six targets per game in the last three contests. McMillan will likely score double-digit points again this week. In fact, starting him over players like Jayden Reed, Adam Thielen, and Khalil Shakir in Week 17 is a reasonable decision.

Recommendation: Start

Good Luck In Championship Week…

Trust me, all of us are thrilled you made it this far in your leagues.  Reflect on what you have accomplished this season, and show gratitude for the moment you are currently in.  Take your time and research all that you can during this busy time of the year.  Always start with us at Footballguys.  We are all here for you, win or lose.  Check out tools like  Upgrade/Downgrade to make sound decisions and help you take home the gold. For those who haven't made it this far.  This is time to get a leg up on your league mates for next year.  Keep paying attention to trends and pay attention to players making a name for themselves late in the season.  Happy Holidays! Peace!