New York Giants

NFC East Predictions for 2022

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NFC East Predictions for 2022

By Tim Lazenby

In 2020, we saw for only the third time in NFL history where a team with a losing record won the division.  The Washington Football Team represented the NFC then, sporting a 7-9 record.  Moving into 2022, spoiler alert, I see the NFC struggling compared to the rest of the league and promoting a losing team to the playoffs.  Without further ado, here we go.

Dallas Cowboys

Record in 2021: 12-5-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 8-9-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

It seems like forever since the Dallas Cowboys haven’t had the best offensive line in football.  Zack Martin and crew give Dak Prescott his best shot each and every game.  The defense is also among the best in the league.  The biggest problem I see is Mike McCarthy’s late gate decision making.  Boasting the best of both worlds, he has to be wiser when the game matters the most.

Situation to Watch

Personally I’m watching to see the continued growth of CeeDee Lamb.  With Amari Cooper now calling Cleveland home, I can only imagine what CeeDee is truly capable of.  There are only seven receivers in the great history of the Cowboys who bested Lamb’s 79 receptions last season.  It’s not out of the question to think he can top the century mark for receptions; which only one Dallas wide receiver has accomplished.

Conclusion

A big part of the Cowboys not doing as well in 2022 as they did last season is the improvement of another team in this division.  I also see the Cowboys losing two key games to bottom feeders will sink their chances at a winning record.  Although they will be under 500, it doesn’t mean they’re done after 17 games though.

New York Giants

Record in 2021: 4-13-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 6-11-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

I’m sure everyone is aware of how well the Giants did in this year’s draft.  It helps, mind you, when you have two picks in the top ten.  And it’s even more helpful when, at one point, both Kayvon Thibodeaux and Evan Neal were in contention to be drafted first overall.  That being said, so many question marks surround the team’s future.  The biggest two are Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley.

Situation to Watch

Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley may be the two biggest question marks moving forward, but there are many more.  All in all, the Giants had 16 players miss half the games or more last season and many were starters.  It’s hard to evaluate what kind of team you have if so many are missing in action.  If the Giants are to make some noise this season, they’ve got to stay on the field.

Conclusion

I see positive strides coming the way of new coach Brian Daboll as he should instill a work ethic that has been missing for quite some time.  I also think that Daniel Jones proves management right with his play this year.  Though they won’t make the playoffs, it won’t be a laughing stock situation like it has been for so long.

Philadelphia Eagles

Record in 2021: 9-8-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 8-9-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Philadelphia Eagles shocked the world during the draft when they traded for superstar wide receiver, AJ Brown.  In Brown the Eagles finally have an alpha, but we can’t forget the makeup of this team.  They roster a quarterback who loves to run and the best ground game in the league.  A new identity has to be coming, but I wonder how long that will take to arrive fully.

Situation to Watch

With the addition of AJ Brown, changes are coming.  I worry for the long term security of Miles Sanders.  Last year he scored zero touchdowns and players like Kenneth Gainwell cannot be held off forever.  I don’t think the Eagles can justify another poor season of play from Miles Sanders now that they’re all in with their receiving game.

Conclusion

It’s easy to get excited about AJ Brown, but AJ Brown will not instantly make this team a contender.  If I were looking at the keys to success, I remember that they drafted living bulldozer Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean; maybe the best value in the draft.  The defense was good before, but now they can contend with the big boys.  That being said, I can’t see the offense magically changing overnight.  I’m certain it’s a year of growing pains before the Eagles really fly.

Washington Commanders

Record in 2021: 7-10-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 4-12-1

Strengths and Weaknesses

The biggest strength of this team is their schedule.  Ranking at sixth best, the cards are in their favor, but I’ll be real with you when I say that this team worries me.  Since they improbably limped into their division win two years ago, not much has gone right for this team.  A once rock solid defense has become a sieve and Carson Wentz is not the solution at quarterback.

Situation to Watch

For me, I’m watching to see how first round pick Jahan Dotson does out of the gate.  In my humble opinion, there were other areas they should have addressed in the draft instead of taking a receiver.  In fact, from my estimations, there was a better option even at the position available.  I’m hoping Jahan Dotson proves me wrong though.

Conclusion

There aren’t many teams that I think will finish lower than the Commanders in 2022.  While on paper, the defense should be way better and they are more improved than last year, it won’t be enough.  I predict a six game losing streak out of the gate and it’s a hurdle that wouldn’t likely be overcome by a favorite, let alone the lowly Commanders.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

NFC East Best Values

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NFC East Best Values

By Tim Lazenby

Each and every season, dynasty football managers have tough decisions to make.  Whether it be who to draft, when to trade a player or what time to make a move to acquire a talent, the life of a fantasy manager is rich with many choices.  In the off season, as some of us are drafting and others are making moves on our established teams, there are choices to make nonetheless.  Your dynasty season, and future frankly, relies on smart decisions and some of these are finding the best values possible in drafts or trades.  There are better players to choose from than the list I’m going to give, but none are better at their value on their respective team.

Here are the best values for each team in the NFC East in dynasty.

Dallas Cowboys: Tight End - Dalton Schultz

There are two common themes for Dalton Schultz heading into next season.  While some say that he is just hitting his stride, others say he is heading for regression.  Before the departure of Amari Cooper, although I disagreed, I could see the merit behind this thought.  After the trade, however, I simply cannot see a regression coming.  Aside from the fact that he’s only 25 in a barren wasteland of a position in fantasy football, there will be more of a need than ever to employ his talents.  

While all the accolades in the receiving game go to CeeDee Lamb, Dalton Schultz quietly put up TE1 numbers, even with Amari Cooper still employed.  Michael Gallup should gain more targets, but make no mistake that the tight end is the second best option for Dak Prescott.  I already wrote a dynasty dilemma article on his merits, so it’s no surprise that I’d see things this way.  Check it out for more detailed information if you’re curious.

New York Giants: Wide Receiver - Kenny Golladay

It wasn’t too long ago that Kenny Golladay was a bonafide top ten in dynasty among wide receivers.  Catching balls from Matthew Stafford while in Detroit was a better situation than the one he’s in now, but talent is talent.  The 6’4” speedster still has plenty left in the tank and after such injury ridden years last season and the one before, many managers will have written him off.  Let’s not forget that he’s only two years removed from a near-1200 yard, 11 touchdown season.  

Daniel Jones has to throw the ball to someone, and the other options are much less appealing.  Sterling Sheppard has been serviceable at best, and Kadarius Toney is unproven and often injured, Golladay is a much more feasible option on your fantasy team.  When looking for a top option at wide receiver, there aren’t too many cheaper than Kenny Golladay.  And while it’s possible that he’s not quite what he used to be, he’s still the top dog in New York.  You should cash in now.

Philadelphia Eagles: Running Back - Kenneth Gainwell

This is a secret to no one who knows me or has read anything I’ve written when I say that I love this kid.  One of two guys that I just have to have everywhere, the name Kenneth Gainwell isn’t grabbing at managers as he should.  Sure, the situation isn’t perfect and he’s yet to show what he could do as a starter, but if you look at what he’s done with the little opportunity he’s had, you have to give him credit.  It doesn’t hurt that he is only 23, with lots of years left to give to you on your fantasy team. 

The Philadelphia Eagles are the top rushing team in the NFL, and although they had quite a logjam of running backs last season, it all comes down to Kenneth Gainwell and Miles Sanders moving forward.  And while he hasn’t been terrible, last season Miles Sanders didn’t do himself any favors; paving the way for Gainwell to creep his way into more and more play time.  In fact, I wrote a dynasty dilemma about him too.  Check it out if you want more in depth facts.

Washington Commanders: Quarterback - Carson Wentz

This last choice in the NFC East won’t be the cheapest if you play in a two quarterback or superflex league, but it’s the right one.  With Antonio Gibson and Terry Mclaurin being all that people want to talk about in fantasy in Washington, don’t forget about the former Colt.  While he’s certainly had his negative moments, Carson Wentz was one of the quieter success stories in fantasy before the last few games of the season and he’s certainly an improvement over Taylor Heinicke.

Let’s not forget that at one point Carson Wentz was in discussions as a bonafide keeper early on in his career.  Lately, he hasn’t looked like a second overall pick, but he certainly hasn’t been a bust either.  I believe there is still plenty left in the tank and a sizable chip on his shoulder.  I am sure that Carson Wentz is looking to prove Philadelphia, Indianapolis and everyone else that doesn’t believe in him wrong.  And it’s also important to know that, like in real life, if you don’t have a starting quarterback, you’re dead in the water.  And among starters, his price point right now is quite appealing.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

Bob Miller’s 2021 NFL Mock Draft

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by Bob Miller

 

1. Jacksonville Jaguars - Trevor Lawrence (QB - Clemson)

Do I really need to give a reason? He's the best QB prospect since Andrew Luck. Done.

2. NY Jets - Zach Wilson (QB - BYU)

Wilson's athletic ability, accuracy from the pocket and on the run, and leadership makes him a no brainer here for the Jets.

3. San Francisco 49ers - Justin Fields (QB - Ohio State)

The 49ers play Russell Wilson and Kyler Murray twice a year. They know what kind of a problem that type of quarterback is to defend. San Francisco decides that they need one of those QBs as well.

4. Denver Broncos - Trey Lance (QB - North Dakota State) Trade w/ Atlanta

Ladies and gentlemen, we have a trade! Atlanta trades the 4th pick to the Denver Broncos. After Denver failed to trade for Deshaun Watson, they decide that they won't fail again. They move up to get the their man, a mobile quarterback with a big arm for those cold games. Trey Lance fits that perfectly. Teddy Bridgewater is not their future, Trey Lance is.

5. Cincinnati Bengals - Ja’Marr Chase (WR - LSU)

Lots of mock drafts have Oregon LT Penei Sewell going here to the Bengals. Not mine. Ja'Marr Chase is the undisputed #1 wide receiver in this draft. Tackle is deeper is this draft than the past few years. They'll get one in the 2nd or 3rd. Cincinnati just can't pass on the opportunity to reunite Joe Burrow and his favorite WR. 

6. Miami Dolphins - Kyle Pitts (TE - Florida)

The Dolphins are thrilled to get Kyle Pitts. This once in a generation TE talent is just what they need to ensure that Tua Tagovailoa has every opportunity to succeed.

7. New England Patriots - Mac Jones (QB - Alabama) Trade w/ Detroit

We have our 2nd trade of the day! Detroit has been targeting WR Jaylen Waddle here for quite some time, but New England makes an offer that Detroit can't refuse. The Patriots get their guy! Jones needs the right situation to be successful in the NFL. What better situation to be in than being coached by Bill Belichick.

8. Carolina Panthers - Penei Sewell (LT - Oregon)

Sewell has dropped far enough. Carolina is in desperate need of a LT. Sewell starts day one and is the staple of their offensive line for the next decade.

9. Atlanta Falcons - Patrick Surtain II (CB - Alabama)

Defense is the priority for Atlanta. They traded back from pick #4 knowing that they were going to get one of the best corners available. They just happen to land the absolute best corner in this year's draft.

10. Dallas Cowboys - Jaycee Horn (CB - South Carolina)

Dallas fans are left disappointed after Patrick Surtain II gets sniped the pick before them. With cornerback being a major priority they take the best corner available. Horn is fast, physical, and will step in and start day one.

11. NY Giants - Jaelan Phillips (EDGE - Miami)

Phillips is arguably the most talented edge rusher in this class. He has had some injuries but is absolutely worth taking at pick #11. He will fill the void needed since Jason Pierre-Paul left years ago.

12. Philadelphia Eagles - Devonta Smith (WR - Alabama)

A dream come true for Philadelphia Eagles fans. They are in dire need for a WR, so what better than the unstoppable Heisman Trophy Winner. He is a bit undersized, but he's played that way his entire career. Congrats to Jaylen Hurts on getting a shiny new toy.

13. LA Chargers - Rashawn Slater (LT - Northwestern)

Los Angeles failed to land LT Orlando Brown Jr. from the Ravens. They didn't want to give what Baltimore was asking, because they knew they could land their franchise LT in this draft. Slater will be a very good left tackle in the NFL protecting Justin Herbert's blind side for years to come.

14. Minnesota Vikings - Kwity Paye (EDGE - Michigan)

Minnesota doesn’t have a second-round pick this year, so trading back is definitely a possibility. Adding a pass-rusher with this type of agility and strength opposite of Danielle Hunter may be just too hard to pass up.

15. Detroit Lions - Jaylen Waddle (WR - Alabama)

How about that. Detroit trades back with the hopes that Waddle would still be available, and he is. Waddle is a weapon that Detroit will use in many different ways. With the loss of Kenny Golladay via free agency, Waddle will targeted early and often.

16. Arizona Cardinals - Caleb Farley (CB - Virginia Tech)

With a glaring hole in the secondary left by Patrick Peterson, Arizona has to walk out of the first two rounds with a CB. Farley would have been a top-10 pick, but has fallen a bit due to the back injury concerns. Arizona believes that the reward outweighs the risk here.

17. Las Vegas Raiders - Micah Parsons (LB - Penn State)

This just makes too much sense. The Raiders need major help at linebacker, and Parsons is the best LB in this draft. Character issues prevents Parsons from being taken in the top 10, but that's not a concern for GM Mike Mayock. Jon Gruden may hurt himself running to the phone to call in this pick.

18. Miami Dolphins - Azeez Ojulari (EDGE - Georgia)

Azeez Ojulari is an edge defender with incredible speed and explosiveness. His upside is just to good for Miami to pass up.

19.Washington - Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah (LB - Notre Dame)

Washington is very thin at LB. JOK is an extremely fast linebacker that can line up against slot receivers and deliver a big pop to outside runs. This combined with his leadership makes this a big get for the Football Team.

20. Chicago Bears - Christian Darrisaw (LT - Virginia Tech)

Chicago considers going with WR Rashod Bateman here, but LT is a bigger need for the Bears. Darrisaw is a top tier OT, and is too good of a value here to pass up. Chicago can grab a WR in the next couple of rounds.

21. Indianapolis Colts - Alijah Vera-Tucker (OT – USC)

Left Tackle is by far the biggest need for the Colts, and Vera-Tucker is a versatile, athletic, and strong lineman that can line up anywhere. That won't matter as the Colts will plug him in at LT immediately.

22. Tennessee Titans - Rashod Bateman (WR - Minnesota)

The Titans "had" 2 major needs: Pass rush and wide receiver. They addressed the pass rushing need via free agency by signing Bud Dupree and Denico Autry. Now they need to replace the hole at WR with Corey Davis leaving for New York. They get a solid replacement in Rashod Bateman.

23. NY Jets - Greg Newsome (CB- Northwestern)

Cornerback is a major weakness for the Jets. Head Coach Robert Saleh is going to be thrilled that he lands a talent such as Newsome here.

24. Pittsburgh Steelers - Gregory Rousseau (EDGE - Miami)

Pittsburgh has to replace EDGE with the loss of Bud Dupree. Rousseau is an absolute freak. He is 6'6/260 and has incredible reach. He has tremendous length for the position, and he's still building out his frame. He is still a little raw, but his upside is amazing.

25. Jacksonville Jaguars - Trevon Moehrig (S - TCU)

The best safety in this draft falls to the team that needs him the most. Jacksonville can use quite a bit of help on defense, and they get it here. Moehrig has great acceleration and closes on the ball quickly. He's a playmaker that Jacksonville desperately needs.

26. Cleveland Browns - Zaven Collins (LB - Tulsa)

Collins is a big, physical, and mobile linebacker that covers the middle of the field. He is fantastic against the run, which Cleveland will need to help them get over the hump against teams like Baltimore. He fills a need for Cleveland.

27. Baltimore Ravens - Joe Tryon (EDGE - Washington)

Baltimore has 3 holes to fill: EDGE, OT, and WR. Joe Tryon has elite upside as a pass rusher and will make an immediate impact for the Ravens. He opted out of the 2020 season, but his 2019 tape is fantastic. He has the potential to produce double digit sacks his rookie year in that Baltimore defense.

28. New Orleans Saints - Asante Samuel Jr. (CB - Florida State)

We all know about the Saints' salary cap situation. I wouldn't be surprised to see New Orleans trade back here, but their secondary is the top priority. They are in bad shape behind Marshon Lattimore, so drafting Samuel here makes all the sense in the world.

29. Green Bay Packers - Terrace Marshall (WR - LSU)

It's no secret that Green Bay needs help at WR behind Davante Adams. Marshall has size, speed, and great hands. He is a big target that is a mismatch for opposing corners. He will be a welcomed addition to the Packers offense.

30. Buffalo Bills - Joseph Ossai (EDGE - Texas)

I almost went with Najee Harris here, but EDGE is a bigger need for this team. They can get a RB in the next rounds. Ossai has a high motor and  high upside. He has great size and a very strong lower body. He is built for the NFL, and should be a solid EDGE defender that the Bills need.

31. Baltimore Ravens - Teven Jenkins (OT - Oklahoma State)

The Ravens were really hoping that Rashod Bateman or Terrace Marshall would fall to them here, but unfortunately that doesn't happen.  Rumor is the Ravens are shopping this pick. I'm 50/50 on the them trading back, because they already have 9 picks. With that being said they draft Teven Jenkins, a big, nasty RT with incredible size and strength. He's an elite pass protector and a fantastic run blocker. He fits right in where Orlando Brown left off.

32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Jayson Oweh (EDGE - Penn State)

Jason Pierre-Paul isn't getting any younger, and Oweh will be a great replacement when the time comes. He has a ton of talent but has a bit to learn. He lands in the perfect situation in Tampa. He can be a situational player for now and learn from two great pass rushers in JPP and Shaq Barrett.

 

I want to give a special thanks to @McManusDesigns, @SwapKingdom, @SchapDesign, @Golden.GRFX, @SnaggyGFX, and @DesignedbyFranco for the awesome jersey swaps!

You can follow me on twitter at @BaltimoreBobFF

 

 

A Giant Acquisition

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A Giant Acquisition

by Tommy Harvey

Picture Credit: @McManusDesign

During Week 2, a rash of injuries plagued the NFL and fantasy owners.  Saquan Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, Raheem Mostert, and others were lost...some even lost for the season.  Barkley tore his ACL and will miss the remainder of the season, requiring the Giants to look for a RB replacement.  On Monday, reports surfaced that free agent Devonta Freeman was visiting New York.  On Tuesday, it was announced that Freeman will be signing with the Giants pending testing.

With Freeman landing in New York, every fantasy owner...especially Saquan owners...need to be placing waiver wire bids on the former Falcon.  The 2x Pro Bowler has proven to be a bell cow RB when healthy.  Even though 2019 was down year, he was coming off an injury that limited him to 2 games in 2018.  Before then, he ran for exactly 3,000 yards in the previous 3 seasons.  In 77 career games, Freeman has also caught 257 passes.  He is perfectly capable of filling in for Saquan Barkley for the remainder of the season and should be rostered in all leagues and formats.

Fantasy Outlook:

196 carries 823 yards 6 TDs; 38 receptions 296 yards 2 TDs

Freeman should be used as a backend RB2 or FLEX play moving forward for the rest of the season.  Dion Lewis will probably eat in to some pass catching production, but Freeman should see enough work to be a startable option for your team.

 

Start ‘Em or Sit ‘Em: 2020 Week 2

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Start 'Em or Sit 'Em

By Isuf Gega

Start ‘Em or Sit ‘Em is our weekly look into the NFL match-ups and how they will affect your starting lineups. Starting guys like Lamar Jackson, Patrick Mahomes, and Christian McCaffrey are easy decisions and that is not the reason you are reading this article. For the most part, these are borderline starting players you are considering placing in your lineups due to injury, poor play, bye week, etc. 

Quarterbacks Start ‘Em

Ben Roethlisberger started off with a very shaky week 1 against the Giants, but was significantly better as the game went on. This was Big Ben’s first game back from his 2019 season ending elbow injury and he completed 21-of-32 passes for 229 yards and three touchdowns. This week he plays a banged up Broncos defense who is without star pass rusher Von Miller (ankle) and likely cornerback A.J. Bouye (shoulder). Big Ben has also been much better at home than on the road. Over the last 8 full games he played at Heinz Field, Big Ben has been averaging over 20 fantasy points per game. He has the potential to finish as a top 10 quarterback this week.

Tom Brady finished last week with 239 passing yards, 3 touchdowns and 2 interceptions, good enough for 20.5 fantasy points. The Saints were a tough matchup for Brady as they typically are for most quarterbacks. This may be due to the Saints returning most of their starters on defense from last year. This week Brady plays the Panthers who are decimated on defense after losing 7 starters in the offseason including start linebacker Luke Kuechly. Their top cornerback, Donte Jackson, also suffered an injury week 1. With Mike Evans back to full health, expect Brady to put up QB1 numbers this week.

Philip Rivers had himself a solid game week 1 against the Jaguars, finishing with 363 passing yards, 1 touchdown and 2 interceptions. This week he plays the Vikings who’s defense looked horrible in week 1. The Vikings are playing without stud pass rusher Danielle Hunter as well as without 5 of last year’s starters on defense. The Colts offensive line should be able to protect Rivers and provide him ample time in the pocket. My expectation for Rivers is a high-end QB2 finish.

Quarterbacks Sit ‘Em

Carson Wentz was sacked 8 times, fumbled twice (lost one) against Washington last week while also throwing 2 interceptions. Wentz did all of that against an average Washington defense and this week he plays the Rams whose defense is much better. Aaron Donald and that defensive line brought pressure to Dak Prescott all game last week even though that Dallas offensive line is considered to be one of the best in the league. The Rams now face an offensive line that has had multiple injuries to their starters. Besides that, star cornerback Jalen Ramsey will give Wentz nightmares when throwing the ball outside. I have Wentz as a low end QB2 this week.

Drew Lock will undoubtedly have great fantasy value going forward, but not this week. Courtland Sutton is expected to play against the Steelers this week after missing week 1 with a shoulder injury, though he certainly will not be 100% ready. This Steelers defense is legit. In the last 11 games, no quarterback has scored more than 18 fantasy points against this defense. If you are playing the streaming game at QB, this is the week to pivot from Drew Lock and look elsewhere.

Teddy Bridgewater finished with 270 yards and a touchdown in last week's game, good enough for 19.4 fantasy points. However, most of Bridgewater’s points came from a 75-yard touchdown pass to Robby Anderson. This week he plays the Buccaneers who held Drew Brees to just 160 passing yards. This Bucs defense is significantly better than the Raiders and I expect Bridgewater to have low-end QB2 numbers this week.

Running Backs Start ‘Em

David Montgomery looked very good against the Lions week one with 13 carries for 64 yards and 1 reception for 10 yards. Now he gets to play the Giants who gave up 113 yard to a backup running back in Benny Snell week 1. Montgomery was coming off a groin injury to start week 1 but will be fully healthy going into this week. While Tarik Cohen is a good running back, he is mostly considered to be a pass catching back and will not vulture away Montgomery’s goal-line opportunities. I have Montgomery as a mid-end RB2 this week.

Ronald Jones looked fast and explosive week 1 against the Saints where he totaled 82 yards from 17 carries and 2 receptions. Jones played 33 snaps compared to 9 for Leonard Fournette. Most importantly though, Jones got two carries inside the 10-yard line while Fournette did not get any. This week he plays the Panthers who may have the worst run defense in the NFL. Josh Jacobs torched them last week for 139 total yards and 3 touchdowns. In a game where the Buccaneers are heavy favorites (8.5), expect them to be in a positive game script. Jones should be considered as a RB2 with RB1 upside.

Nyheim Hines had himself a week 1 most people did not expect. Everyone was excited for Jonathan Taylor but it was Hines who stole the show. He finished with 8 receptions for 45 yards and a touchdown as well as 7 carries for 28 yards and a touchdown. Philip Rivers kept Hines involved all game long. I expect Taylor and Hines to be similar to Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler of last year except Taylor and Hines have a much better offensive line. I foresee Hines finishing as a RB3 with a solid floor this week. 

Running Backs Sit ‘Em

Melvin Gordon had himself a great game week 1 with 86 total yards and a touchdown for 14 fantasy points. He looked good throughout but was most productive when Phillip Lindsay went out with an injury. This week he plays the Steelers who completely shut down the Giants run game last week. Saquon Barkley, arguably the best running back in the league, only had 6 yards on 15 carries. Gordon is going to be playing on the road on a short week against one of the best defenses in the league. Benching Melvin Gordon is going to be difficult, but expectations should be lowered on what he can do. I have Gordon as a RB3 this week.

James Robinson was the only running back in week 1 to have 100% of his team’s running back carries. He finished the day with 90 total yards and a reception. While Robinson played well in his first NFL game, the Jaguars ran the fewest plays in the NFL with 47. Robinson will be facing a better defense in Tennessee than he saw last week, which means the Jaguars might be playing from behind. Chris Thompson being the pass catching back also hurts Robinson. I expect him to finish as a RB4 with limited upside.

Sony Michel led the Patriots running backs in carries with 10 last week. He had 37 rushing yards and a touchdown to go along with it. While Sony scored 9 fantasy points, he is not to be trusted in your lineups. The Patriots involved multiple running backs and Cam Newton had 15 carries and 2 touchdowns. Sony may have the goal line work locked down, but Cam Newton will surely vulture some away. The entire Patriots backfield should be under a wait and see approach until we see more. Fade Sony this week and consider him as a low-end RB4.

Wide Receivers Start ‘Em

Diontae Johnson saw a team high 10 targets week one and caught 6 of them for 57 yards. He also had a 31% target share. This week he will face the Broncos defense and the expectation is for star cornerback A.J. Bouye to sit out due to a separated shoulder suffered in week 1. The Broncos secondary allowed Corey Davis 101 yards and 7 receptions. Diontae Johnson is much better than Corey Davis and I expect him to finish as a high end WR3 with incredible upside.

T.Y. Hilton had a subpar game against the Jaguars last week. He had a team high 9 targets but finished with only 4 receptions for 53 yards due to two drops in the fourth quarter. The high target count suggests that Rivers is comfortable throwing to Hilton especially when it matters most. Hilton plays the Vikings this week that just got cooked by the Packers. All three of the Packers starting wide receivers scored touchdowns last week and I can see this as a big week for T.Y. and the entire Colts team. Hilton will be a high end WR3 with a safe floor this week. 

Michael Gallup had three catches last week for 50 yards against the Rams. It would have been closer to 100 receiving yards for the game if not for a very questionable offensive pass interference call. This week the Cowboys play the Falcons who were torched last week by the Seahawks. This is one of the highest over/under of the week and I am expecting a complete shootout in Dallas. Gallup should be viewed as a high end WR3 with upside.

Wide Receivers Sit ‘Em

Courtland Sutton missed all of week 1 with a shoulder injury he sustained in practice. Sutton has a lot of draft capital as most people drafted him in around the 6th round if not earlier, but this is not the game you start Sutton. Sutton is expected to play this week against the Steelers, but he certainly will not be 100%. Besides that, Sutton does not travel into the slot very often, which means he will be matched up with one of the best cornerbacks in the league, Joe Haden. I am staying away from Sutton this week and would not feel comfortable using him as anything more than a low-end WR3 at best.

Robby Anderson turned 8 targets into 6 receptions, 115 yards and a touchdown last week. Truthfully though, he was less impressive than his stat line suggests. Anderson caught a 75-yard touchdown, which made up for nearly all of his fantasy production. The touchdown was due to the safety undercutting the ball and led to an easy score. The Buccaneers locked Michael Thomas down last week for only 3 receptions and 17 yards before he went down with an injury. I anticipate Robby Anderson being a very boom or bust WR4.

Sammy Watkins has a tendency to show up in games and then disappear for the next few weeks. Do not be fooled by what he did to bottom 10 defenses like the Texans last week. Besides Tyreek Hill, it is nearly impossible to decipher which Chiefs wide receiver will produce in a given week. This week Watkins plays the Chargers who may have the best cornerbacks in the league between Chris Harris Jr., Casey Hayward, and Desmond King. Fade Watkins this week as he is a very risky WR4.

Tight Ends Start ‘Em

Jared Cook should be in everyone’s lineup this week. Cook had a great game last week with 5 receptions for 80 yard. With Michael Thomas expected to be out this week, Brees will lean on the veteran and provide him with more opportunities than before. Cook also has a favorable matchup against the Raiders this week who ranked second last year in touchdowns given up to tight ends. Expect Cook to be a TE1 this week with top 3 potential.

Dallas Goedert was by far the Eagles best player week 1 against Washington. Goedert finished the game with 8 receptions for 101 yards and a touchdown. While Zack Ertz is the official starter, the Eagles run a lot of 12 personnel (two tight ends). Goedert played 81% of snaps compared to Ertz who played 85%. Both of these tight ends should be started, as the Eagles do not have many other options to throw to. Goedert is a TE1 with upside. 

Hayden Hurst turned 5 targets into 3 receptions for 38 yards in last week’s loss to the Seahawks. Even though that is not a good line, Hurst played on 78% of snaps and ran a route on 81% of Matt Ryan’s drop-backs. This week he plays a Cowboys defense who allowed the third most points to tight ends last year and just lost linebacker Leighton Vander Esch to a broken collarbone last week. Expect Hurst to be a low end TE1 in one of the highest over/under games of the week.

Tight Ends Sit ‘Em

Rob Gronkowski on paper is the Buccaneers starting tight end, but it did not appear that way week 1 against the Saints. Gronk was out targeted 6 to 3 by O.J. Howard who had his first touchdown with Brady. Gronk has Brady’s trust, but he has not played football in over a year and the last season he played was not a productive one. There are so many mouths to feed in the offense and I predict that Gronk will be the last one to eat.

Jimmy Graham looked every bit his age against the Lions week 1. While he had 25 yards and a touchdown, Graham looked noticeably slower. Graham plays the Giants this week who allowed Eric Ebron just one catch for 18 yards last week. Ebron at this stage in his career is much younger, quicker and faster than Graham. Graham will most likely be covered by safety Jabrill Peppers who plays physical and will not allow Graham to push him around. Peppers has not allowed a touchdown to tight ends since joining the Giants last year. I expect Graham to be a very boom or bust player this week.

Evan Engram has been considered a top 10 tight end ever since his breakout rookie year. Since then, injuries have caused inconsistency and uncertainty even when he is on the field. There were also rumors in the offseason that the Giants were looking to trade him. After last week's game against the Steelers, maybe the rumors were true. Even though Engram was targeted 7 times, he only had two receptions for 9 yards. This week he faces the Bears who allowed just two tight ends over 50 receiving yards last year. Engram has the potential to produce each and every week purely based on targets. But until we see more consistency from him and the Giants offense, he should be sat in your lineups.

 

OMG!!! Week 1 Overreactions

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OMG!!! Week 1 Overreactions

By Ryan Wiebe

Week one has come and gone, with a lot of interesting results and leaving some fantasy managers who felt incredible after their draft in an absolute frenzy. Fantasy football remains a game forever dictated by our emotions. We pick players that we want to cheer for, who play for our favorite teams, and we’ll pass on players that we simply don’t like. After one week, we have an absolutely microscopic sample size, and I’m hear to tell you how and what you should, or should not overreact to.

Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt

Thankfully for owners of one of these two, you didn’t have to pay too heavily to get him. Chubb owners left Week 1 frazzled after Chubb was out-touched by Hunt, and saw almost all of the passing game work. Now is definitely the time to be concerned for the Chubb owners out there. Both of these guys, if we assume that the Browns don’t continue to resemble a freshly laid turd for the remainder of the season, are probably low end RB2’s, or high end flex plays. For Hunt, and what you paid for him, that’s just fine, and you should be thrilled, because his upside I think at this point is higher. If the Browns are terrible, and they appear to be terrible in perpetuity, the upside for Hunt remains much higher than for Chubb.

Overreaction Grade: Chicken Little-Chubb’s sky is falling at a tepid pace.

Saquon Barkley

Barkley’s absolute dud of 6 rushing yards against the Steelers no doubt sent several managers into panic mode, and if you play in a league with smart people, resulted in at least a couple lowball offers with the consensus top 2 pick in almost everyone’s drafts. Saquon, unlike Chubb however, has no significant backfield competition, and also has a QB under center that has shown that he at the very least has a chance to not be a complete bust (sorry Baker Mayfield). The Steelers defence looked tough, and a couple more weeks will show us if their performance was just a one-of, or if that defence is for real. Saquon owners though, don’t worry. The offence will continue to improve, and Saquon should see more use in the passing game as well, which just further bumps the upside. Don’t panic trade him for spare parts. He’s going to be just fine.

Overreaction Grade: Cool the jets, he’s going to be just fine.

Michael Thomas

Michael Thomas was a guy that I was thrilled to get at 10 overall in the main league that I play in, and as I watched a big chunk of the Saints on Sunday, I was less than thrilled with what I saw. There was always going to be a level of regression coming for MT- he caught 115 balls last year(!!!). Though he’s no doubt elite, that level of production was bound for a step or two back. The Saints heavily targeted and used Alvin Kamara and Jared Cook in the passing game and Thomas received a measly 5 targets for just 3 receptions. Not to mention, Thomas through the course of this game suffered a high ankle sprain, and then it was announced this evening that he was going to be out for several weeks, as the sprain was worse than initially thought. (Thankfully for me, I was able to unload him earlier today and am now feeling better and better with every passing moment). Even if Thomas re-captures 80% of what he was able to do last year, the Saints seem content not to force-feed him the ball, which is going to cap his ceiling even when he does get back from injury.

Overreaction Grade: Man, I’m happy that I don’t have to deal with this

Josh Jacobs

It’s always more fun to rag on the guys who suck. Managers and owners of teams love to kick the guys who are down...usually on other teams, but let’s take some positives from Week 1 too. Jacobs was a monster against the Panthers D, shredding them for 139 total yards and 3 TD’s. Not every game is going to be this massive, particularly in the TD department for Jacobs. But the Raiders are definitely going to continue to make a workhorse out of Jacobs, and he should continue to be a solid RB1 all season, even if he doesn’t score 3 TD’s every week.

Overreaction Grade: No overreaction needed.  This should be the norm.

Clyde Edwards-Helaire

 CEH proved the hype was real, playing a big role in the Chiefs destruction of my lowly Houston Texans on Thursday Night Football. It didn’t even feel like THAT spectacular of a game, and CEH was far and away the only Chiefs RB who played meaningful snaps, and we can expect that to continue.

Overreaction Grade: Not an overreaction