Both the Indianapolis Colts and the Jacksonville Jaguars enter with identical records, and with the division tightening fast, the winner of this one walks away temporarily in control of the South. This might be the most compelling AFC South matchup of the entire slate.
The Colts have looked flat the past couple of weeks, struggling to find consistency on offense. The Jaguars, meanwhile, continue to squeak out wins, even while navigating injuries and a reshuffled offense. This matchup has sneaky-high fantasy potential across the board.
Here’s your full Start ’Em / Flex ’Em / Sit ’Em outlook for Colts vs. Jaguars.
START ’EM — QUARTERBACKS
Start: Daniel Jones, Colts QB
Jones played through injury and still tossed two touchdowns last week. Now he gets a tougher Jaguars defense, but the volume and mobility remain encouraging signs. Expect a competitive outing with 215+ yards and at least one score, making him a viable starter in traditional leagues and an especially strong play in 2-QB formats.
Start: Trevor Lawrence, Jaguars QB
Lawrence has looked sharper without Hunter on the field, showing more command and efficiency. This week presents a tougher challenge, but Lawrence has settled into a rhythm, especially in quick-passing situations. He’s a confident start with a safe floor.
START ’EM — PASS CATCHERS
Start: Jakobi Meyers, Jaguars WR
The trade looks like a win already. Meyers has provided reliable hands and chain-moving ability that Jacksonville desperately needed. With Lawrence leaning into high-percentage throws, Meyers should see solid volume again. Great matchup, great role, so start him with confidence.
Start: Alec Pierce, Colts WR
Pierce has been one of the most consistent WR2 producers over the last few weeks, emerging as a dependable target. Whether you start him in your WR2 slot or use him as a Flex, he’s earned the nod. His field-stretching ability complements the Colts’ offense perfectly right now.
Start: Tyler Warren, Jaguars TE
Coming off a red-zone touchdown against a stout defense, Warren carries momentum into this week. The Colts have struggled against tight ends at times, giving Warren a strong chance at continued production, including another potential scoring opportunity.
FLEX ’EM — HIGH-VARIANCE OPTIONS
Flex: Jonathan Taylor, Colts RB
Taylor has slowed down lately, partly due to the game script and partly due to inconsistent run blocking. He’s too talented to bench outright, but right now, he’s best viewed as a flex play until the Colts offense stabilizes.
Flex: Michael Pittman Jr., Colts WR
Pittman is still the WR1 in Indy, but recent games have been rocky. His target share stays encouraging, and he’s too integral to fade entirely. A bounce-back game is possible, but he lands in flex territory this week.
Flex: Josh Downs, Colts WR
Downs’ usage and reliability throughout the season keep him in play, especially for deep leagues or PPR formats. His chemistry with the QB makes him a safe, if modest, flex option.
Flex: Brenton Strange, Jaguars TE
A deep-league tight end play, but a viable one. Strange has been quietly productive and should continue seeing consistent snaps and short-area opportunities. If you need tight end depth, he’s more than serviceable.
SLEEPER OF THE WEEK
Sleeper: BTJ (Brian Thomas Jr.), Jaguars WR
Not his usual territory, but as he works back into form, BTJ becomes an intriguing upside stash—and even a desperation play. His athletic profile alone can tilt a matchup if he’s fully involved again. Keep him on the radar.
SIT ’EM for Jaguars
Sit: Bhayshul Tuten, Jaguars RB
With Travis Etienne healthy and owning the backfield, Tuten takes a clear back seat. There’s just not enough volume to justify playing him this week.
Final Takeaway
This AFC South showdown has major implications and plenty of fantasy value sprinkled throughout. The Jaguars feel slightly safer, thanks to steadier quarterback play and better situational execution. But the Colts still have enough weapons to make this a punch-for-punch divisional battle.
Expect meaningful fantasy performances across the board, and maybe even a late-game hero to determine both the AFC South standings and your fantasy matchup.
