Yahoo Fantasy Forecast: Draft Edition Championship preview & prop bets you NEED to know + 5 fantasy free agent best landing spots
Jan 23, 2026
In this discussion, Joel Smyth, a savvy fantasy football analyst, brings his insights about upcoming championship matchups. He dives into why Jarrett Stidham is a fitting choice for Denver and debates the team's rushing challenges. The duo also showcases their favorite prop bets for the AFC and NFC games. As the conversation shifts to free agency, Joel highlights five key fantasy players who could land in optimal spots, with Breece Hall to the Chiefs as his top pick, offering great potential for fantasy managers.
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Stidham Has Real Ceiling In Payton System
- Jarrett Stidham fits Sean Payton's short‑throw, high‑attempt offense and brings unexpected ceiling potential despite being a backup.
- His preseason work and past spot starts under Josh McDaniels suggest he can keep Denver's offense functional in a big game.
Milton Williams Shifts Run‑Game Dynamics
- Milton Williams' presence dramatically improves New England's run defense metrics and alters Denver's rushing efficiency.
- Denver's running backs struggled in playoff games with Williams active, making the ground game a weakness despite a strong offensive line.
Watch Bryant/Franklin For Target Shifts
- Monitor Pat Bryant and Troy Franklin availability since their absences raise Marvin Mims' snap share and target responsibility for Stidham.
- If Bryant and Franklin miss time, expect Mims and Jordan Humphrey to see larger roles and route volume.