Below are the biggest OL vs. DL mismatches heading into Week 14, a potentially helpful fantasy start sit resource.
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Week 14 OL & DL Matchups
Buccaneers OL vs. Raiders DL
The reason we are seeing Baker Mayfield continue to be successful this season is because of the protection he is getting upfront. The Buccaneers’ offensive line ranks third in Pro Football Focus’ (PFF) pass-blocking grade with an 81.1 grade. They are allowing the second-lowest pressure rate (17.8%).
Despite having one of the best pass-rushers in the game in Maxx Crosby, the Raiders rank 25th in PFF’s pass-rushing grade (62.3) and they are 29th in pressure rate (29.5%).
It’s also worth noting the Bucs allow the fourth-lowest sack conversion rate (10%) as well. That will go a long way if the Mayfield is a bit banged up after leaving the game last week for a brief period.
After a sub-par Week 13 against the Panthers, I’d expect a nice bounce back from Mayfield and the Buccaneers’ offense.
49ers OL vs. Bears DL
Despite losing Christian McCaffrey and Jordan Mason to injuries, the 49ers still have a massive advantage in the trenches, especially when it comes to the run game.
Per PFF, the 49ers’ offensive line has generated 1.7 rushing yards before contact per attempt, the third-best in the NFL.
On the flip side, the Bears’ defensive line has allowed 1.4 rushing yards before contact per attempt, which ranks 24th.
This sets up well for 49ers running back Isaac Guerendo. When given the chance to carry the rock, he has averaged 5.9 yards per carry. And to circle back around to the yards before contact stat, when provided at least one rushing yard before contact, Guerendo averages nine yards per carry, leading all backs with at least 20 carries in those situations.
Browns OL vs. Steelers DL
While the Browns were able to keep T.J. Watt in check two weeks ago, we may not see the same story unfold this week.
The Browns’ offensive line has been a wreck all season long, with a pass-blocking grade of 55.9, the 28th-lowest in the league.
While they allow the fifth-highest pressure rate (30.5%), their division rival has the NFL’s highest pass-rush grade (90.7).
The Steelers’ sack conversion rate of 19% is the best in the NFL, while Cleveland allows the fifth-highest sack conversion rate (18%).
Ironically, Jameis Winston completed a season-high 66.7% of his passes against this Steelers defense two weeks ago during a blizzard. I think we see a different outcome this time around.
When pressured, Winston has thrown just 18.2% of his total touchdown passes, which ranks 29th out of all qualifying quarterbacks. The Steelers’ defensive line has the ninth-highest pressure rate in the league. This is by far the best Winston has faced this season.
Also, it’s worth noting Alex Highsmith did not play in their meeting two weeks ago. He is set to come back this week, giving the Steelers a significant advantage.
Eagles OL vs. Panthers DL
You can argue this may be a letdown spot for the Eagles after their big win against the Ravens, but let’s not overthink this one.
The Eagles have the No. 1 rated offensive line, while the Panthers have the league’s worst defensive line.
Jadeveon Clowney is the Panthers’ biggest pass-rush threat, but with his knee banged up and going up against arguably the best right tackle in the league (Lane Johnson), Clowney should pose no threat.
Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley and company should be able to do pretty much whatever they want in Week 14.
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