We’re officially getting to the end of the NFL Season. As is tradition, the league is giving us a few Saturday games to keep our interest while bowl season begins. All three games are pretty interesting and all are important for the playoff picture. With fantasy playoffs on the line, be sure to check each game’s injury report so you don’t miss anything.
Vikings @ Bengals Injury Report
Minnesota Vikings
Alexander Mattison: An ankle injury will sideline Minnesota’s starting running back this week. Starting in his place will be Ty Chandler, who had already been splitting carries with Mattison before his injury. Against a weak Bengals rush defense, Chandler should get 12-14 carries on around four yards per carry.
Brian O’Neill: An ankle injury will also hold out Minnesota’s star right tackle. O’Neill has enjoyed one of the best years of his career. Backup David Quessenberry will replace him this week. Quessenberry has played well this year and has gotten some meaningful snaps. Expect him to give up a couple of pressures, but to play well overall.
Cincinnati Bengals
No notable injuries.
Steelers @ Colts Injury Report
Pittsburgh Steelers
Kenny Pickett: An ankle injury suffered three weeks ago will continue to sideline Pittsburgh’s starting quarterback. Mitch Trubisky will again get the start against an average Colts defense. Trubisky has struggled these past couple of weeks and that shouldn’t end this week. Expect a couple of turnovers from him.
Indianapolis Colts
Braden Smith: Indianapolis will be missing their best offensive tackle as he recovers from a knee injury. Blake Freeland will be stepping in. After a strong start to his season, Freeland has struggled when in the lineup. That trend should continue this week, whether he’s facing T.J. Watt or Alexander Highsmith. Expect Smith to give up around two sacks.
Jonathan Taylor: A thumb injury will keep Taylor out for a third consecutive week. Zach Moss will be inserted back into the starting lineup. Moss should get a decent amount of carries this week since the Steelers’ weak point is their rush defense. I’d expect Moss to have his best performance since Taylor got surgery a few weeks ago.
Broncos @ Lions Injury Report
Denver Broncos
Nick Bonitto: A knee injury will ensure Denver’s starting weak side linebacker doesn’t play. Bonitto has enjoyed his best season, racking up seven sacks thus far. He’s been a huge bright spot on the Broncos’ defense. Look for Jonathon Cooper to take his place in the lineup. Cooper has similar production and could complicate Jared Goff sitting in the pocket.
Detroit Lions
No notable injuries.