McCaffrey is a fantasy RB1, while Titans' Ridley faces a tough defensive test. Who should you start?
As the 49ers return from their bye and host the Tennessee Titans, the fantasy landscape for this matchup looks very different from what it would have earlier in the season. Tennessee, meanwhile, is still searching for rhythm with a rookie quarterback and a reshaped skill-position group that no longer includes Derrick Henry or DeAndre Hopkins.
Despite this, the matchup still offers several strong options and several options to avoid on both sides of the ball.
49ers Fantasy Outlook
Even with their receiving corps depleted, the 49ers remain one of the league’s most reliable offenses in fantasy all thanks to Christian McCaffrey, Kyle Shanahan’s system, and Brock Purdy’s efficiency.
Christian McCaffrey: The Clear RB1
CMC remains as always, a must start. With San Francisco likely leaning on him even more this week, managers should expect a heavy workload in both the run and pass game. He’s locked in as the top overall running back for Week 15, and has been for all 15 weeks of the season so far.
George Kittle: Target Spike Incoming
The 49ers will funnel passing volume through Kittle, especially in the red zone. Expect him to be heavily involved on third down as well, giving him elite TE1 upside and one of his best opportunities of the season.
Brock Purdy: Still Startable
Shanahan’s scheme should keep the passing game efficient always. Look for more underneath routes, backfield involvement, and tight end usage. Purdy remains a low end QB1 or strong QB2, depending on league format.
Jauan Jennings or Ricky Pearsall: Next-Man-Up Options
Jennings and Pearsall have seen expanded roles when they have been healthy this season, but the pass game usually goes through one of them, not both. Jennings brings reliability and red-zone potential, making him a flex-worthy WR3. Pearsall should pick up slot work and gadget usage, giving him deep-league flex appeal with upside.
Titans Fantasy Outlook
Tennessee’s offense has struggled to find consistency, and a matchup against San Francisco’s defense does not make things easier. Still, a few Titans remain playable depending on roster needs.
Tony Pollard: Volume-Based RB2
Pollard is expected to lead Tennessee’s backfield, though running room will be limited. His fantasy value comes through touches rather than efficiency, making him a usable RB2, but not a game-breaker this week.
Tyjae Spears: PPR Flex
Spears may be the Titans player most likely to benefit from a tough matchup. If Tennessee falls behind early, a realistic scenario, he should see increased usage in the passing game. In PPR formats, he’s a strong flex start.
Calvin Ridley: Boom-or-Bust Play
Ridley steps into the WR1 role by default, but the matchup is difficult and quarterback play remains inconsistent. Expect volume, but also volatility. He’s a risky flex option rather than a must start.
Players to Avoid
Cam Ward
Cam Ward has shown flashes, but this matchup is one fantasy managers should stay far away from. The 49ers’ defense presents one of the league’s worst possible scenarios for a young quarterback. He’s a clear sit in all formats, including 2QB leagues unless completely desperate.
Final Fantasy Takeaway
The fantasy strength of this matchup leans heavily toward the 49ers, with Christian McCaffrey, George Kittle, and Brock Purdy positioned to deliver. For Tennessee, Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears, and Calvin Ridley offer playable value but come with significant risk due to the matchup.