What We Learned in Week 12
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Cowboys are the favorites for OBJ
In what many called the "OBJ Bowl" the Cowboys triumphed over the Giants 28-20 on Thanksgiving. Not only were Cowboy fans thankful for a win, but they can also celebrate a greater chance of getting OBJ. In the win Dak Prescott led the team throwing 21/30 for 261 yards and 2 TDs, but it was clear the ground game was the focal point. CeeDee Lamb and Michael Gallup lead the WR core, so OBJ would have no problem finding targets in this offense. OBJ is a great stash for fantasy managers preparing for playoffs, especially if he lands in Dallas.
Josh Jacobs is a top 5 RB
Jacobs had himself one of the most impressive fantasy performances to date, totaling 229 yards on the ground, 2 TDs, and 6 receptions for 74 yards. The 5th year RB carried the raiders on his back to an overtime win against Seattle, and made it clear he is a top back in the league. Managers may have thought Jacobs cooled down after his initial hot stretch, but he showed he is an elite must start RB1 with this production.
Mike White gives Jets WRs value
With Zach Wilson being benched, many owners did not know what to expect from the Jets, but Mike White balled out. Mike White went 22/28 with 315 yards and 3 TDs while leading the Jets to a 31-10 win against the injured Bears. White also revived the careers of Garrett Wilson and Elijah Moore, who both went for over 60 yards. Wilson saw the biggest positive impact, attracting 8 targets for 6 receptions, 95 yards, and 2 TDs in the bounce back performance of the Jets offense. White hopefully will remain the starter for the rest of the year, and revive faith in this Jets offense scattered with talent.
Sometimes it is better to store a good backup
This week we saw good performances from several backup RBs, including Rachaad White and Samaje Perine. White took 14 carries for 64 rushing yards, but also showed his skills in the receiving game taking all 9 targets for 9 receptions for 45 yards in a overtime loss to the Browns, while Perine took 17 carries for 58 yards and a TD, and gaining 7 targets for 4 receptions and 35 receiving yards. Both backs not only worked as serviceable fill ins for starters, they both also maintained their work in the passing game. These types of backs are worth saving a roster spot for, especially considering Fournette and Mixon's injury history. Rather than taking a chance on starters like Michael Carter Jr, Latavius Murray, or Cam Akers, take a shot with these backs who have already established roles, and room to gain carries as a fill in.
Rodgers is not right
Rodgers is clearly not 100% as he left the Packers game against the Eagles. Rodgers tried to stayed in the game as long as possible, but eventually it became too overwhelming as he left with trainers to the locker room. Rodgers threw two bad interceptions in the game, but still managed 2 TDs. It is tough to imagine Rodgers fully recovering into the QB we know this year, but he will likely be the starter as soon as he can return. On a positive note, Jordan Love looked surprisingly good in his time in as the starter throwing 6/9 with 113 yards, including a 63 yard strike to TD magnet Christian Watson. While neither Rodgers nor Love will be great QB options, it seems as if Christian Watson will join Aaron Jones as the highlight fantasy players in this offense.