Standard Scoring
In standard leagues, receptions score zero points—only yardage and touchdowns matter. This setup rewards true workhorse runners who pile up carries and punch it in near the goal line.
- Example Projection: Bijan Robinson is forecast for 1,350 rushing yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. In a standard format, those numbers alone make him the consensus top pick.
- Why It Matters: Every carry and red-zone rush is maximized. Three-down backs dominate, while high-volume receivers lag without catch credit.
Half-PPR Scoring
- Example Projection: Jahmyr Gibbs is expected to finish with 75 receptions, 1,200 scrimmage yards, and 10 total touchdowns. That pass-catching role vaults him into the top three in half-PPR drafts.
- Why It Matters: Workhorse backs remain elite, but high-volume pass-catchers gain just enough floor boost to challenge them.
Full-PPR Scoring
Full-PPR hands out a full point per catch. Reception-hungry players rise to the top, often eclipsing even the league’s best runners.
Example Projections:
- Ja’Marr Chase: 115 receptions, 1,600 receiving yards, 12 touchdowns
- Justin Jefferson: 130 receptions, 1,900 receiving yards, 9 touchdowns
- In full-PPR formats, those two receivers jockey for the top spots ahead of any pure rusher.
Comparative Value Table
PlayerStandard RankHalf-PPR RankFull-PPR RankBijan Robinson146Jahmyr Gibbs722Ja’Marr Chase533Justin Jefferson454Derrick Henry368
Bonus-Point Leagues and Custom Quirks
Many leagues layer in bonus and penalty rules to shake up the board:
Yardage Bonuses
+3 points for 100+ rushing or receiving yards
+2 points for 300+ passing yards
Big-Play Bonuses
+1 point for a rushing or receiving score of 40+ yards
+2 points for a passing touchdown of 50+ yards (Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat upside makes him a top QB in big-play builds)
Negative-Play Penalties
−1 point for losing two fumbles
−0.5 points for each interception
Even a single +6 bonus for 200 rushing yards can catapult a grinder like Derrick Henry into first-round territory.
Expert Takeaways
Always confirm your league’s exact scoring before you draft.
In half-PPR, don’t ignore slot standouts—players like Gibbs can outproduce bruisers.
In full-PPR, reception kings (Chase, Jefferson) often leap ahead of three-down backs.
Identify bonus thresholds early; targeting players who clear 100-yard or big-play bonuses can yield league-winning value.
Stay nimble on draft day—late injury news, weather forecasts, and role changes can pivot values even in well-known formats.
Understanding these format nuances—and tailoring your board accordingly—will give you an edge in your 2025 fantasy campaign. Good luck!
