5 Stars Who Could Flop in the Fantasy Football Playoffs

Russell Wilson, QB, Seattle Seahawks

Russell Wilson is currently first in the NFL in fantasy points (238.2) and trails on Deshaun Watson in fantasy points per game (26.5), overcoming a disastrous offensive line and no running game to help keep the Seattle Seahawks in playoff contention. He is literally a one-man show in Seattle, and he likely will lead many fantasy teams into the playoffs as a result.

However, once in the big dance, don’t be surprised if Wilson struggles to maintain that same level of dominance. The Seahawks are slated to play some of the more stingy pass defenses in the league in Weeks 14 and 15 -- facing off against the Jaguars and Los Angeles Rams. Jacksonville currently is the top-ranked pass defense, per our schedule-adjusted metrics, with the Rams not far behind in fourth.

The outstanding corner duo of Jalen Ramsey and A.J. Bouye has devastated passing games all season, not to mention the outstanding pass rushers the bring on every play down in Sacksonville. Only Philip Rivers has thrown multiple touchdowns against the Jaguars -- who lead the league in sacks with 35 and have allowed a league-low 6 passing touchdowns all season -- and Rivers' 2 scores were short passes that running back Austin Ekeler took to the house.

Wilson faced the division rival Rams already once this season, producing just 15 fantasy points as the Seahawks won 16-10 back in Week 5. While it wasn’t a devastating performance by any means, you certainly are looking for more from your stud quarterback in the fantasy playoffs.

If you can somehow advance past those two difficult opponents, you do get a great championship matchup in Week 16 -- championship week -- against the 20th-ranked D of the Dallas Cowboys, but getting to that point won’t be easy. While Wilson may not cost you a win in the playoffs, it’s hard to see him having a huge game, either.