In Week 13, certain players are predicted to perform well, while others may be best left on the bench. Here’s a breakdown of who to start and who to avoid in this week’s matchups.

**Quarterbacks**
*Start: Sam Darnold, Vikings vs. Cardinals*
After experiencing a slump a few weeks back, Darnold has bounced back impressively, recording five combined touchdowns in his last two games. He threw for a season-high 330 yards against the Bears’ formidable defense last week, despite their strong pass coverage. In contrast, the Cardinals possess a competent secondary, but it doesn’t compare to what Darnold faced recently.

*Other recommendations*:
—Jalen Hurts at Ravens
—Baker Mayfield at Panthers
—CJ Stroud at Jaguars
—Justin Herbert at Falcons
*Avoid: Jared Goff, Lions vs. Bears*
Goff is unlikely to force plays against a top-notch Bears secondary, especially following their recent performance against Darnold. With a dynamic duo in the backfield like Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, Goff will likely see less action than if he were faced with a weaker defense, making him a risky start this week.

**Running Backs**
*Start: Chuba Hubbard, Panthers vs. Buccaneers*
Hubbard’s fantasy managers were understandably apprehensive about rookie Jonathon Brooks taking the field last week. However, Brooks managed only two carries for seven yards, allowing Hubbard to maintain his starting position for at least another week. The Buccaneers’ run defense is a favorable matchup for Hubbard this week, making him a good choice for fantasy rosters.
*Other recommendations*:
—Bucky Irving at Panthers
—Jonathan Taylor at Patriots
—Josh Jacobs vs. Dolphins
—Tyrone Tracy Jr. at Cowboys
*Avoid: James Conner, Cardinals at Vikings*
Conner’s performance has been lackluster since returning from his Week 11 absence, managing only eight yards on seven carries last week. While he did catch five passes for 41 yards, facing a Vikings defense that is strong against the run poses a significant challenge, and it might be wise to leave him on your bench.

**Wide Receivers**
*Start: DJ Moore, Bears at Lions*
Following a disappointing stretch from Weeks 6 to 10, Moore appears to be regaining his form, achieving a season-best 119 combined yards and a touchdown recently. With new offensive coordinator Thomas Jones revitalizing the team’s strategy, the Bears could lean on their passing game against the Lions. Moore is well-positioned to continue his resurgence.
*Other recommendations*:
—Ladd McConkey at Falcons
—Puka Nacua at Saints
—Jaxon Smith-Njigba at Jets
—Jakobi Meyers at Chiefs
*Avoid: Quentin Johnston, Chargers vs. Ravens*
Johnston has been hit-or-miss this season, often yielding either a strong fantasy performance or minimal output. His recent game against the Bills saw him fail to catch any passes. Even though the matchup appears favorable, Johnston’s inconsistent performance makes him a risk this week.

**Tight Ends**
*Start: Luke Schoonmaker, Cowboys vs. Giants*
Following a solid showing against Washington, where he caught three passes for 55 yards and a touchdown, Schoonmaker is likely to continue as a reliable target for quarterback Cooper Rush. If Jake Ferguson remains out due to concussion protocol, Schoonmaker will be counted on again, especially with CeeDee Lamb dealing with injuries.
*Other recommendations*:
—Jonnu Smith at Packers
—Trey McBride at Vikings
—Taysom Hill vs. Rams
—Dallas Goedert at Ravens
*Avoid: Sam LaPorta, Lions vs. Bears*
LaPorta’s inconsistency has been a concern; after missing a game due to injury, he managed only three catches for 19 yards last week. Faced with a strong Bears defense, it’s likely the Lions will focus more on the run, decreasing LaPorta’s potential for fantasy points this week.

In summary, these insights should help you navigate your fantasy lineup for Week 13, ensuring you make informed decisions based on matchups and players’ recent performances. Adjustments may be crucial for securing a win this week.