Fantasy Football Heat Index

Quarterback

Jared Goff (QB – DET) has had a somewhat erratic season. In 14 starts, he's finished as the QB10 or better on six occasions but no higher than QB15 in the other eight games. This makes him a rather unpredictable fantasy asset. However, in Week 15, he truly shone. An early two-touchdown deficit forced the Lions into a pass-happy game script, and Goff rose to the occasion. He completed 38 of 59 passes for an impressive 494 passing yards and five touchdowns, despite the team's defeat. Detroit won't often abandon the run, but when they do, Goff has demonstrated his ability to elevate the passing offense. He should remain a boom-or-bust QB1 option when they face Chicago next week.

The Lions quarterback's performance this season showcases his potential and the risks associated with him. He has the ability to put up big numbers but also has the potential to disappoint. Fantasy managers need to keep a close eye on his performance as he continues to navigate through the season.

Running Back

Jerome Ford (RB – CLE) saved his best game of the season for the fantasy playoffs. After a slow start, he scored double-digit fantasy points for the first time since September. His 62-yard third-quarter touchdown run was a highlight, and he finished with 84 rushing yards and one touchdown, along with 20 receiving yards. With Browns starting running back Nick Chubb breaking his foot on Sunday, Ford has now entered the RB2 conversation for the next two weeks against Cincinnati and Miami. His Week 15 performance may have been a bit of a fluke, but with the opportunity ahead, he could make a significant impact.

Ford's ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air makes him a valuable asset. His performance in Week 15 gives fantasy owners hope that he can continue to produce at a high level, especially with the added responsibility due to Chubb's injury.

Wide Receiver

Jalen McMillan (WR – TB) is making waves in Tampa Bay. After finishing as the WR8 in the previous week with 19.9 fantasy points, he had another productive outing in Week 15, catching five passes for 75 receiving yards and one touchdown. He's now the current WR16 on the week and has pushed himself into WR3/Flex territory. This has had a significant impact on Cade Otton's fantasy stock, which has taken a hit.

If this trend continues, McMillan could end the season as a league-winning waiver wire pickup. He has favorable matchups against Dallas and Carolina on the horizon, which could further boost his fantasy value. Fantasy managers should keep a close eye on his performance as he continues to develop as a key pass-catcher for the team.

Tight End

Brenton Strange (TE – JAX) had an outstanding game on Sunday. Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson announced that starting tight end Evan Engram would undergo season-ending shoulder surgery. In response, Strange caught 11 of his 12 targets for 73 receiving yards in Jacksonville's 32-25 defeat to the New York Jets. He's now the current TE4 on the week and has two juicy matchups against Las Vegas and Tennessee to close out the fantasy season.

Strange's performance shows his potential as a key contributor at the tight end position. With Engram out, Strange has stepped up and could make a big impact in the final weeks of the season. Fantasy owners should consider adding him to their rosters if they need a tight end boost.