With the NFL fantasy playoffs bearing down, Week 14 separates contenders from pretenders. Here's what you need to know to keep your season alive.

Must-Start Players

De'Von Achane tops the slate. The Dolphins running back projects for 21.8 PPR points against the Jets, buoyed by Miami's high-octane offense and his big-play ability. Start him without hesitation.

Jahmyr Gibbs follows closely behind at 21.7 PPR points in Detroit's matchup with Dallas. He's become the Lions' difference-maker and the Cowboys matchup is ideal.

At quarterback, Josh Allen is a lock against Cincinnati. Projected for 20.5 points, the Bills offense is firing on all cylinders.

Other elite Week 14 options:

• Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR) vs. Falcons: 21.2 PPR points
• Jonathan Taylor (RB) vs. Jaguars: 20 PPR points
• Ja'Marr Chase (WR) vs. Bills: 20.3 PPR points
• Dak Prescott (QB) vs. Lions: 19.8 points
• Puka Nacua (WR) vs. Cardinals: 19.5 PPR points

Trey McBride leads tight ends at 16.4 PPR points against the Rams. Arizona's passing attack may lean on him even more if Marvin Harrison Jr. is hindered by injury.

Sleepers Worth Targeting

Raheem Mostert presents value in Miami's backfield against the Jets. His workload has climbed recently and a favorable matchup could unlock significant production, particularly if De'Von Achane sees limited time.

Courtland Sutton deserves consideration for Denver against Las Vegas. The Broncos' most reliable receiver faces a vulnerable opponent, and his role should remain consistent despite Denver's addition of Sammis Reyes.

Trey McBride doubles as a tight end sleeper, with upside if Harrison Jr. can't go.

Other sleepers to watch:

• Trey Benson (RB) if he returns from injury for Arizona
• Chris Olave (WR) vs. Tampa Bay with New Orleans likely airing it out
• Dalton Schultz (TE) vs. Indianapolis as Houston continues featuring its tight ends

Kansas City's defense offers promise against Houston. The Texans' struggling offense typically yields double-digit fantasy points to opposing defenses.

Busts to Fade

David Montgomery is a fade against Dallas. He's averaging just 4.1 yards per carry and the Cowboys rank among the league's stiffest run defenses. Jahmyr Gibbs will dominate the workload, squeezing Montgomery's touches.

Tua Tagovailoa profiles as a bust candidate. New York's defense has tormented opposing quarterbacks, and Tagovailoa has six interceptions in his past three games.

Other players to avoid:

• Cooper Kupp (WR) vs. Broncos: Inconsistent production against Denver's effective receiver defense
• Christian McCaffrey (RB) vs. Buccaneers: Battling chronic Achilles tendinitis and has missed 48.5% of his games since 2021
• Tyreek Hill (WR) vs. Jets: Lacking explosiveness with Miami's offensive line in disarray
• Alvin Kamara (RB) vs. Browns: Limited touches in a tough matchup for running backs