As we dive into Week 10 of the 2024 Fantasy Football season, it's crucial to identify the players who can turn your fantasy fortunes around. After a mixed bag of results in Week 9 — where some like Matthew Stafford and the Tennessee Titans' defense provided fireworks, while others like D'Andre Swift and DJ Moore fell flat — fantasy managers are hungry for standout performers. With playoffs looming, here’s a look at the key players poised to deliver big results this week.

Fantasy Football Smash Starts for Week 10

Quarterback

Daniel Jones (QB – NYG) vs. Carolina Panthers

Fresh off a stellar QB5 finish against Washington, Daniel Jones has shown he can be a dependable streaming option. In that game, he completed 20 of 25 passes for 174 yards and two touchdowns, adding 54 rushing yards and another score. This week, facing a Carolina defense that ranks 27th against the pass and has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks, Jones is in an ideal spot to capitalize on his form, aiming for a strong QB1 performance.

Running Back

Jonathan Taylor (RB – IND) vs. Buffalo Bills

Jonathan Taylor is set to be the focal point of the Colts' offense, especially with top receiver Michael Pittman out. The Colts will likely lean heavily on Taylor to control the clock against a Bills defense that has allowed substantial yardage on the ground. Notably, Taylor rumbled for 185 yards and five touchdowns in his only previous game against Buffalo. While we might not see such an eruption again, a performance of over 100 total yards and two touchdowns is within reach.

Tyrone Tracy Jr. (RB – NYG) vs. Carolina Panthers

Emerging as the lead back for the Giants, Tyrone Tracy Jr. has surpassed veteran Devin Singletary in both touches and snaps. In a matchup against the Panthers — the league's worst run defense — Tracy is primed for success. With Carolina giving up an average of 29.3 fantasy points per game to running backs, expect Tracy to deliver a top-tier running back performance this week.

Wide Receiver

Tank Dell (WR – HOU) vs. Detroit Lions

After a slow start, Tank Dell has come on strong, particularly in recent weeks. As the Texans prepare to battle the Detroit Lions — who have struggled against wide receivers, giving up 32.9 fantasy points per game — Dell could be a difference-maker. He had an impressive outing against the Jets and is positioned to exploit a weak Detroit secondary, making him a must-start.

George Pickens (WR – PIT) at Washington Commanders

George Pickens has become a primary target for quarterback Russell Wilson and should continue to benefit from that connection this week. The Commanders, while improving, haven't been able to consistently defend against the pass. With new talent in the mix to take defensive pressure off him, Pickens has the potential for a deep touchdown or two.

Khalil Shakir (WR – BUF) at Indianapolis Colts

Khalil Shakir has found his groove in the Bills offense, averaging 13.1 fantasy points this season. This week, he faces an Indianapolis secondary that has allowed nine receiving touchdowns. With other wide receivers battling injuries, Shakir's role should expand, and he’s expected to be a high-end WR2 with the potential for a breakout game.

Tight End

Taysom Hill (TE – NO) vs. Atlanta Falcons

With injuries impacting the Saints’ receiving corps, Taysom Hill is in line for a greater role against the Falcons. His recent performances show he can produce both through the air and on the ground, making him a high-upside tight end option for fantasy managers looking for a reliable starter with a solid floor.

Defense/Special Teams

Minnesota Vikings D/ST at Jacksonville Jaguars

Facing an undermanned Jaguars offense without Trevor Lawrence could spell big trouble for Jacksonville. The Vikings' defense, led by Brian Flores, has been opportunistic and ranks highly in turnover rate. Expect them to capitalize on a struggling Jaguars offense, making them an excellent choice for your defense this week.

Conclusion

This week is packed with potential as fantasy managers seek those players who can provide the spark needed to secure victory. Keeping an eye on these smash starts can make or break your lineup as we head into the crucial parts of the season. Get ready to set your lineups, and may your fantasy dreams come true this Sunday!