The Taxta rule adds a unique twist to your fantasy football strategy by allowing you to earn extra points when you predict a player’s poor performance. Marking a player as Taxta can reward you when they have a difficult game, but if they perform better than expected, you’ll still benefit from their actual score. Here’s a guide to help you think about players and make the best Taxta selections each week.
What is the Taxta Rule?
When you choose a player as your Taxta, their performance is treated differently:
- If the player earns 6 points or fewer, you receive 6 points for them, no matter their actual score.
- If they earn more than 6 points, you get their actual score.
The Taxta feature allows you to anticipate a player having a bad week. If your prediction is right, you’ll gain extra points. However, it also presents a risk because if the player exceeds your expectations, you’ll still benefit from their actual score.
How to Choose the Right Taxta Player
Choosing the right player for Taxta can be a strategic game-changer. Here are some factors to help you make the best choice:
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Look for Players Who Are Out of Form
- Form is key: If a player has been struggling in recent weeks, they might be a good candidate for Taxta. This could be due to poor performances, injuries, or lack of involvement in their team’s key moments.
- Players who are not performing well in previous matches are more likely to have a difficult game, making them a good candidate for Taxta.
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Consider Difficult Matchups
- If a player is facing a tough opponent (e.g., a strong defensive team or a team with a solid goalkeeper), their chances of scoring highly might be reduced.
- Look for matchups where you expect the player to struggle due to the quality of the opposition. For example, an attacking player going up against a top defensive side could have a tough time earning points.
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Check for Squad Rotations
- Players who are on the fringe of the starting lineup or have been rotated frequently by their manager might not perform at their usual level.
- A key player who’s rested or rotated could struggle to make an impact, so marking them as Taxta might be a smart play.
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Injury Concerns
- If a player is recovering from an injury, they might not be at full fitness. Players who are not 100% fit often struggle to make an impact in the game.
- Monitor injury reports and pick a player who might still be dealing with fitness issues. Even if they play, they could underperform, giving you a Taxta bonus.
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Players with High Expectations but Low Performance
- If a player has been consistently underwhelming despite a lot of hype, they could be a good Taxta candidate. These players might be seen as "high potential," but recent form suggests they’re not meeting those expectations.
- For instance, a striker who has been missing chances or a midfielder who hasn’t been involved in the attack could be primed for a tough game.
When to Take a Risk with Taxta
While marking a player as Taxta is usually about predicting a bad performance, sometimes taking a calculated risk can pay off. If you have a feeling that a player is going to struggle despite their past form, they might be worth the gamble. However, be prepared for the possibility that they could perform better than expected and you’ll earn their actual score.
Key Takeaways for Taxta
- Don’t just look for poor form: Consider matchups, injuries, and squad rotations that could contribute to a player’s tough week.
- Be bold: Sometimes marking a star player who seems "due for a bad game" can be a clever way to maximize your points.
- Think strategically: While it's tempting to go for safe players, taking risks with your Taxta can help differentiate you from your competitors.
Summary
Marking a player as Taxta is a powerful tool in your fantasy football arsenal. It gives you the chance to earn points even when a player performs poorly, but also presents the risk of losing out if the player exceeds expectations. By carefully evaluating player form, matchups, injuries, and squad rotations, you can make the most of this strategic feature and increase your chances of earning extra points. Use the Taxta rule wisely, and let it elevate your fantasy game!