Fantasy football managers know that every lineup decision can make or break a week, and choosing the right players to start or sit is where championships are won. With the 2025 NFL season underway, matchups, stats, and trends are more important than ever. From favorable matchups and scoring trends to players you should avoid in tough spots, my weekly positional start and sit guide is built to give you an edge.
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DEF to Start
Los Angeles Chargers
The Chargers are one of the strongest defensive starts of Week 13 thanks to a matchup against a Raiders offense that continues to implode. Las Vegas has allowed 41 sacks, committed 16 giveaways, and ranks dead last in scoring at just 15 points per game. Geno Smith has been sacked 20 times across his last three games, and he already threw three interceptions against the Chargers earlier this season. Los Angeles has also recorded three or more sacks in three of its last four games, showing improved pass-rush consistency. Coming off a well-timed bye, this unit should be fresh and prepared to take advantage of a vulnerable offensive line. With all the matchup metrics pointing in their favor, the Chargers DST carries legitimate top-five upside this week.
Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jaguars are a strong start this week thanks to a matchup against a Titans offense that has been a fantasy cheat code for opposing defenses. Tennessee has allowed a league-high 45 sacks while ranking last in total yards and bottom three in scoring. Cam Ward has flashed talent, but he continues to take sacks at one of the highest rates in the NFL. Jacksonville’s defense has heated up recently, recording 13 sacks in its last four games after producing just eight in its first seven. The Titans have also allowed the most fantasy points per game to opposing DSTs, making this an ideal streaming spot. With improved pass-rushing momentum and a premium matchup, the Jaguars DST should deliver another strong fantasy outing.
DEF to Sit
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings may rank well in real-life total defense, but their production hasn’t translated to fantasy success. Since a huge 30-point performance in Week 3, they’ve surpassed three fantasy points only once. Their defense has just two takeaways across their last eight games, severely limiting upside. This week’s matchup against Seattle is one of the worst possible scenarios. The Seahawks average 32.6 points per game at home and have surrendered only four sacks in five games at Lumen Field. With Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Sam Darnold playing efficient football, Minnesota’s defense is far too risky to start.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Steelers’ defense has been strong against the run and elite in takeaways, but the matchup with Buffalo makes them an automatic sit. Josh Allen leads a top-five scoring offense that averages 28.3 points per game. Pittsburgh has struggled badly in pass coverage, allowing 277 or more passing yards in recent contests. The Bills have allowed the 10th-fewest fantasy points to opposing defenses, making this a low-upside spot. Chasing last week’s Texans production against Buffalo would be a major mistake. Given Pittsburgh’s weaknesses in the secondary, this is not a matchup to test.
Kickers to Start
Cam Little JAC
Cam Little remains one of the most consistent fantasy kickers heading into Week 13. He has scored at least 13 fantasy points in three of his last four games, including a strong performance against Arizona. His elite range and Jacksonville’s improving red-zone efficiency provide a reliable floor every week. The Titans have surrendered the third-most points per game to road kickers, creating extra opportunity. Six opposing kickers have scored at least nine points against Tennessee this season. With volume and matchup both in his favor, Little is an easy start across all formats.
Cairo Santos CHI
Cairo Santos enters Week 13 as one of the safest kicking options in fantasy football. He has scored at least eight points in five of his last six games, showcasing outstanding reliability. The Bears‘ offense continues to offer steady drives, giving Santos consistent opportunities. His matchup against the Eagles is extremely favorable, as Philadelphia has allowed nearly 10 fantasy points per game to visiting kickers. All but one road kicker has scored at least eight points against them this season. With ideal conditions and dependable usage, Santos should deliver another strong fantasy outing.
Kickers to Sit
Michael Badgely IND
Michael Badgley has struggled to produce meaningful fantasy value during his time with the Colts. He has scored single digits in five of his six games, offering little upside. This week’s matchup against the Texans is one of the toughest for any kicker. Houston has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to opposing kickers this season. Only three kickers have surpassed seven points against them, making volume a major concern. With limited scoring opportunities expected, Badgley belongs firmly on the bench.
Will Reichard MIN
Will Reichard has flashed upside at times, but Week 13 presents one of his toughest matchups. The Seahawks allow the third-fewest fantasy points per game to kickers this season. Their defense tightens in the red zone, often eliminating field-goal chances entirely. Only three opposing kickers have scored more than seven points against Seattle. While Reichard has been efficient, efficiency doesn’t outweigh limited opportunity. With the matchup stacked against him, he should not be started this week.
