OffSEASON OUTLOOK ON WRS FOR THE 2021 nfl season

SOME FREE AGENT WRS	PROVEN WRS IN THE DRAFT	POTENTIAL TRADE TARGETS	TEAMS THAT NEED WRS	TEAMS THAT MIGHT WANT WRS
A. Robinson	Ja’Marr Chase LSU	Michael Thomas	GB Packers	NY Jets
A. Green	DeVonta Smith ALABAMA	Julio Jones	NE Patriots	WAS Football Teams
W. Fuller	Jalen Waddle ALABAMA	Odell Beckham Jr.	BAL Ravens	SF 49ers
K. Golladay	Terrance Marshall Jr. LSU	DeVante Parker	MIA Dolphins	CLE Browns
C. Godwin	Kadarius Toney FLORIDA	Amari Cooper	DET Lions	NY Giants
A. Brown	Marquez Stevenson HOUSTON		TEN Titans
J. Smith-Shuster	Chris Olave OHIO STATE		NO Saints
M. Jones	Ronald Moore PURDUE
T. Hilton	Rashod Bateman MINNESOTA
L. Fitzgerald	Rylan Wallace OKLAHOMA STATE
S. Watkins
D. Bryant
C. Davis
J. Ross
J. Gordon
B. Perriman
D. Amendola
K. Bourne
D. Robinson
C. Samuel
M. Sanu
N. Agholor
R. Higgins
T. Austin
L. Treadwell

Advertisement

NFC playoffs analysis… Can the niners or vikings make it? Who will win the nfc east?

While reading this keep in mind these are projections and what if scenarios for the Niners, Vikings and NFC East teams.

Current NFC Standings:

1. Saints (9-2)
2. Packers (8-3)
3. Rams (7-4)
4. Seahawks (7-3)
5. Buccaneers (7-5)
6. Cardinals (6-5)
7. Giants (4-7)

In the Hunt:

1. Niners (5-6)
2. Vikings (5-6)
3. Bears (5-6)
4. Falcons (4-7)
5. Washington Football Team (4-7)
6. Lions (4-7)

Let’s look at the top 3 teams in the hunt and their next three matchups.

Niners: The next 3 matchups are: The Bills, Washington and the Cowboys. Looking at record only the Niners need to beat Washington and the Cowboys. Ideally go 2-1 in the next 3 weeks.

Vikings: The next 3 matchups are: The Jaguars, the Buccaneers and the Bears. They need to be able to go 2-1 losing only to the Buccaneers.

Bears: The next 3 matchups are: The Lions, the Texans and the Vikings. The way the Texans and Vikings are playing and how Bears have been struggling at the QB position they are likely to go 1-2. They need to go at least 2-1 to stay in the hunt.

The Cardinals have an easy schedule for the next 3 weeks and should be able to go 3-0 and be a lock. The Rams play The Cardinals, the Patriots and the Jets, the Patriots are a wildcard team that could take down the Rams but it is likely that the Rams go 2-1 in the next 3 weeks. The Rams need to go 1-2 for the Vikings or Niners to have a true shot.

Projected NFC standings going into week 16:

1. Saints (11-3)
2. Packers (11-3)
3. Seahawks (11-3)
4. Buccaneers (9-5)
5. Cardinals (9-5)—- Next two opponents The Niners and The Rams
6. Rams (8-6)—- Next two opponents The Seahawks and The Cardinals
7. Giants (4-10)(all NFC East teams will be 4-10 except the Eagles at 3-9-1)—-Next two opponents The Ravens and The Cowboys

In the Hunt:

1. Niners (7-7)—- Next two opponents The Cardinals and The Seahawks
2. Vikings (7-7)—-Next two opponents The Saints and The Lions
3. Bears (6-8)—- Next two opponents The Jaguars and The Packers (likely eliminated)
4. Cowboys (4-10)—-Next two opponents The Eagles and The Giants
5. Washington Football Team (4-10)—-Next two opponents The Panthers and The Eagles

What needs to happen for Niners to make it:

Niners are likely to get Jimmy Garoppolo and Pro Bowl TE George Kittle for week 15 and 16 and they need to hope everyone on the roster stays healthy. With that team they can take down the Cardinals and the Seahawks and go 2-0 from weeks 15-16. They also need the Rams to lose at least one game out of the Seahawks and the Cardinals which is likely as both are high powered teams. This would put the Rams and the Niners at 9-7 each and the Niners would go ahead and take their spot since they swept the Rams.

What needs to happen for Vikings to make it:

The Rams need to 0-2 and the Niners need to go 0-2 or 1-1 while the Vikings go 2-0 against the Saints and the Lions. They are likely to lose to the Saints however as they are the best team in the NFC currently. But if they clutch the 2-0 they can take the Rams spot in the playoffs.

How will the NFC East shape out?

Out of the Cowboys, the Giants and the Football Team the Football Team or the Giants have the best shot. At the end of the day however, which ever team can have the best record in these two weeks will take that spot and this team will have to go 2-0.

Projected NFC playoff record:

1. Saints (13-3)
2. Packers (12-4)
3. Seahawks (12-4)
4. Buccaneers (10-6)
5. Cardinals (9-7)*
6. Niners (9-7)
7. Giants (6-10)

*If the Cardinals lose to the Rams week 13 and week 17 they could get replaced by the Rams in the playoffs.

Special scenario… 8 playoff teams?

If any game were to be canceled and their was a week 18 added due to COVID reasons (Ravens VS Steelers for example) 8 teams from the NFC and the AFC could make it and that would mean all 4 NFC West teams have a chance which would be the first time in history. This would also give the Bears and the Falcons a shot at making an attempt.

If you want to see the AFC projections comment below!

WEEK 11: PLUG EM IN/ SIT EM OUT

Projections are based on Geeksports calculator. All are PPR. 

Quarterbacks 

Plug em in

• Ben Roethlisberger (PIT Steelers): Projection- 26.07 fpts
  • Big Ben has his receiver core fully healthy and it is showing as over the last two games he has scored 25.04 and 29.32 fantasy points respectively.
  • Big Ben finds himself in another great matchup against the Jaguars.
    • Jaguars are allowing an average of 22.9 fantasy points per game to opposing QBs. 
  • The Steelers are 8-0 and Mike Tomlin has mentioned that this game could be a trap game. I wouldn’t expect the Steelers to take it easy and just run the ball. 
• Justin Herbert (LA Chargers): Projection- 20.05 fpts 
  • Herbert has absolutely been ballin out this year having only one game under 20 points all year. 
  • Sadly this Jets game seems like a blowout as the Jets are still without Darnold.
    • It’s likely the Chargers get up early and chew the clock with their run game. 
  • Nonetheless it’s a great matchup for Herbert and his ceiling is absurd. 
  • The Jets are allowing the sixth most points per game to QBs at 20.09 fpts. 
• Cam Newton (NE Patriots): Projection- 21.09 fpts 
  • Cam Newton has been a rollercoaster of a start all year, going over 20 fantasy points three times this season. 
  • However, Newton has a rushing TD in every game except one all year. 
  • Newton has a great matchup this week versus the Texans who are allowing an average of 19.4 fantasy points per game to QBs. 
  • Newton will also have to pass a lot more to keep this game close as Watson is always a threat. 
• Other plugs: Tua Tagovailoa (MIA Dolphins), Carson Wentz (PHI Eagles), Teddy Bridgewater (CAR Panthers)

Sit em out 

• Aaron Rodgers (GB Packers): Projection- 15.12 fpts
  • In his only hard matchup this season (Tampa Bay) Rodgers scored a mere 5.80 fantasy points with two interceptions. 
  • Rodgers has two back to back tough matchups coming up against the Colts and the Bears.
  • Having Allen Lazard will definitely improve Rodgers odds but except Rodgers to struggle against the second best fantasy defense in the league.
    • The Colts are allowing a league low 13.6 fantasy points per game to opposing QBs. 
• Deshaun Watson (HOU Texans): Projection 17.72 fpts
  • Watson does reasonably well in tough matchups. So far this year Watson has averaged 21 fantasy points in tough matchups.
  • However, two of those games his points came from garbage time. 
  • This week against the Patriots if Gilmore can suit up, Fuller will likely be locked down.
  • The Patriots have also done a good job of taking out big plays. 
    • Patriots are allowing only 15.5 fantasy points to QBs on average. 

• Tom Brady (TB Buccaneers): Projection- 10.36 fpts
  • Tom Brady has suffered in tough matchups all year, staying under 15 fantasy points each time.
  • Brady faces the LA Rams this week, a team that has allowed the second least fantasy points per game to opposing QBs.
    • 14.2 fantasy points per game
  • Last week the Rams kept the MVP frontrunner, Russell Wilson to 10 fantasy points. 
  • Bench Brady. 
• Other plugs: Ryan Tannehill (TEN Titans), Jared Goff (LA Rams), Phillip Rivers (IND Colts)

Running Backs

Plug em in  

• Antonio Gibson (WAS Football Team): Projection – 19.60 fpts
  • It was the JD Mckissic show the whole first half where he racked up 12 targets. 
    • However Mckissic was not efficient at all.
  • Second half Gibson took over and scored two TDs.
  • Gibson on the field also helped Alex Smith play miles better as he was able to throw for 390 pass yards.
  • I would expect the Football Team to roll with Gibson for the remainder of the season and with Alex Smith at QB that means checkdowns for days.
  • Gibson also plays Cincinnati this week who have been allowing 18.8 fpts per game to RBs. 
• Chase Edmunds (ARI Cardinals): Projection – 16.80 fpts
  • Edmunds actually plays much better with Kenyan Drake on the field.
  • It also seems as if the Cardinals are going with a 50/50 approach for the rest of the year with Edmunds taking the majority of the receiving work. 
  • Week 7 the Cardinals played the Seahawks and Edmunds scored 21.50 fantasy points and got 7 targets in the passing game. 
  • The Seahawks have one of the worst defenses in the league and this is a prime time divisional matchup for the first place spot in the NFC West. 
• Josh Jacobs (LV Raiders): Projection – 18.50 fpts
  • Over the past 3 weeks, Jacobs has rushed over a hundred yards 2 out of the 3 games. 
  • Jacobs also has 3 TDs over the past three weeks.
  • Jacobs finds himself in another tough matchup against the Chiefs.
  • Last time Jacobs played the Chiefs he scored 22.50 fpts. 
  • The Chiefs are allowing an average of 19.3 fpts to opposing running backs. 
• Other plugs: Nyheim Hines (IND Colts), Mike Davis (CAR Panthers), Damien Harris (NE Patriots)

Sit em out

• Melvin Gordon (DEN Broncos): Projection – 5.50 fpts
  • The Broncos offense has just been horrible over the last few weeks.
  • Drew Lock hasn’t stopped throwing picks and Melvin Gordon isn’t being efficient at all on the ground. 
  • Over the past three weeks Gordon has seen 8, 6 and 11 carries respectively.
  • Gordon has an average matchup against the Dolphins this week who are in the middle of the pack.
  • If Gordon couldn’t produce against the Raiders I doubt he will get anything going against the Dolphins. 
• Miles Sanders (PHI Eagles): Projection – 11.00 fpts
  • Sanders has been suffering with injuries all year and when he has played he’s just been decent. 
  • Sanders has a tough matchup against the Cleveland Browns this week who are the 8th hardest defense against running backs. 
  • Sanders has also only ran for a 100 yards once this season. 
• Bucs RBs: Projection – 8.7 fpts for Jones and 9.8 fpts for Fournette
  • It seems as if the Bucs are rolling with the hot hand at the running back position.
  • Last week it was Ronald Jones’ turn as he rushed for 192 yards.
  • This week it’ll be tough for any running back to produce as the Bucs take on the Rams.
  • The Rams are allowing the 5th least points to running backs this season. 
  • Fournette seems to get the bulk of the passing work so he has a slightly higher ceiling but a much lower floor in non PPR leagues. 
• Other sits: Kareem Hunt (CLE Browns), Clyde Edwards-Helaire (KC Chiefs), Todd Gurley (ATL Falcons)

Wide Receivers 

Plug em in

• Jalen Reagor (PHI Eagles): Projection – 14.79 fpts
  • Since Reagor returned from his injury he has seen 6 and 7 targets respectively. 
  • He is building up a connection with Wentz that will only get stronger as the weeks go on. 
  • This week Reagor plays the Browns.
    • The Browns are allowing the 5th highest, 27.6 fppg to opposing WRs.
  • Reagor has an insanely high ceiling this week in a potentially high scoring game. 
• Marquise Brown (BAL Ravens): Projection – 18.90 fpts
  • Ah Marquise Brown what a disappointment you have been so far.
  • This is the last time I will put Brown here if he doesn’t pop off. 
  • Look Brown has had only 4 good matchups this season, in those matchups he has scored 15.10, 9.20, 19.80 and 7.30 fantasy points. 
  • Brown has his best matchup of the season this week against the Titans who are allowing 27.5 fantasy points per game to opposing WRs.
  • The last time Lamar faced the Titans was in the 2019 playoffs where he threw for 400 yards. 
• David Moore (SEA Seahawks): Projection – 20.10 fpts
  • David Moore is only a start option if Tyler Lockett is out which is how its seeming to be. 
  • David Moore will move up to WR2 against the Cardinals on TNF. 
  • With Russell Wilson at QB Moore will get many looks his way especially with Lockett out. 
  • The last time the Seahawks played the Cardinals, Moore was WR3 and caught 3 passes for 54 yards. 
• Other plugs: Emmanuel Sanders (NO Saints), Dionte Johnson (PIT Steelers), DJ Chark (JAC Jaguars)

Sit em out

• DJ Moore (CAR Panthers): Projection – 10.20 fpts
  • DJ Moore has been very inconsistent so far in 2020. Some games he goes off and others he does nothing. 
  • This week against Detroit seems like a week where Moore will be shut down and here is why.
  • Teddy Bridgewater might be out.
  • Moore has fallen behind Anderson who is now the WR1 for the Panthers
  • Detroit has been tough on opponent WRs too as they stand in the middle of the pack. 
• Chris Godwin (TB Buccaneers): Projection – 10.50 fpts
  • Chris Godwin did decent last week as he caught all 6 of his targets for 92 yards.
  • Godwin only has two TDs this year and has yet to surpass 100 yards. 
  • Also the team has too many receiving options in Mike Evans, Antonio Brown, Rob Gronkowski and Leonard Fournette. 
  • In tough matchups like this week against the Rams Godwin will have trouble getting the ball.
  • Godwin is also likely to draw some coverage from All Pro CB Jalen Ramsey. 
• Tyler Boyd (CIN Bengals): Projection – 9.80 fpts
  • Tyler Boyd in tough matchups this season has stayed under 10 fantasy points.
  • This week Boyd faces the Washington defense who have allowed the second least fantasy points to WRs at 16.2 per game.
  • Washington also tends to be tougher against Slot WRs which makes it worse for Boyd. 
• Other sits: Mike Evans (TB Bucs), Robert Woods (LA Rams), Jamison Crowder (NY Jets)

Tight Ends 

Plug em in 

• Logan Thomas (WAS Football Team): Projection – 12.70 fpts
  • Logan Thomas has a great matchup against the Bengals this week.
    • The Bengals are allowing the second most points to TEs.
  • Alex Smith also loves throwing checkdown to his running backs and tight ends. 
  • Last week Thomas caught 4 passes for 66 yards in a tough matchup. 
• Hayden Hurst (ATL Falcons): Projection 15.50 fpts
  • Hayden Hurst has actually been doing very well over his last 4 matchups, getting over 10 points each game. 
  • This week Hurst takes on the Saints who are allowing the 7th most points to opposing Tight ends.
  • The Falcons are fully healthy for once. 
• Other Plugs: Dallas Goedert (PHI Eagles), Eric Ebron (PIT Steelers), TJ Hockenson (DET Lions)

Sit em out

• Noah Fant (DEN Broncos): Projection – 4.70 fpts
  • Noah Fant has been very unimpressive this year going over 10 points only 3 times this year.
  • Drew Lock is to blame for this.
  • This week Fant finds himself in his toughest matchup of the season against the Dolphins. 
  • The Dolphins are allowing only 6.3 fantasy points on average to opposing tight ends. 
• Darren Waller (LV Raiders): Projection – 8.70 fpts
  • It’s tough to bench Waller so just be wary of him this week against the Chiefs. 
  • The Chiefs are allowing only 5.8 fppg to opposing tight ends.
  • Last week Waller only scored 6.70 fantasy points. 
• Other sits: Jonnu Smith (TEN Titans), Jared Cook (NO Saints), Trey Burton (IND Colts)

D/ST

Plug em in

• Steelers D/ST
• Dolphins D/ST
• Chargers D/ST

Sleeper starts

• Browns D/ST
• Vikings D/ST
• WAS D/ST

Desperate starts

• Packers D/ST
• Ravens D/ST
• Patriots D/ST

Sit em out

• Saints D/ST
• Colts D/ST
• Broncos D/ST

WEEK 8: Plug em in/ sit em out

Quarterbacks 

Plug em in 

• Jimmy Garoppolo (SF 49ers):
  • Divisional header versus the Seattle Seahawks who are allowing 26.4 fantasy points a game on average to opposing QBs.
  • Must win game for the Niners in the toughest division in the league. 
  • Last week Garoppolo threw two picks, one of which came with 10 secs in the half when he had to throw it deep. 
  • Jamaal Adams might still be out this week which would leave George Kittle to feast on the Seahawks weak secondary. 
• Derrick Carr (LV Raiders):
  • Derrick Carr and the Raiders are playing a Browns team that is allowing the 4th most fantasy points to opposing QBs (21.3 avg). 
  • Ruggs is finally healthy. 
  • Agholor is stepping up.
  • Renfrow is a great 3rd down option.
  • Darren Waller. That’s it. 
  • The Raiders will be looking to win after getting blown out by the Bucs offense. 
• Ryan Tannehill (TEN Titans):
  • The Titans will look to show out after taking their first loss of the year to the Steelers during week 7. 
  • The Titans play the Cincinnati Bengals this week.
  • The Bengals are allowing almost 20 points a game to opposing QBs. 
  • The Cincinnati Bengals also have a turnover differential of -2. 
• Other plus: Carson Wentz (PHI Eagles), Joe Burrow (CIN Bengals), Teddy Bridgewater (CAR Panthers)

Sit em out

• Mathew Stafford (DET Lions):
  • The Lions play the Colts this week. 
  • This is a must win for the Lions as they are in a tough division and have a shot to make the playoffs.
  • That being said, the Colts have the best defense in the league. Colts are allowing a league low 11.7 fantasy points a game to opposing QBs, 
• Jared Goff (LA Rams): 
  • The Rams take on the Dolphins led by Tua during this week’s matchup. 
  • The Dolphins cornerback duo of Xavien Howard and Byron Jones has been allowing a mere 16.8 fantasy points to opposing QBs. 
  • Jared Goff has also been unimpressive lately.
    • In the past 4 weeks; having only 1 game over 20 points, thrown 2 interceptions and averaging 2 Tds a game. 
• Daniel Jones (NY Giants):
  • Daniel Jones has had one game over 20 fantasy points (20.68) and that was due to his 80 yard rush. 
  • Jones has just been unimpressive this year. 
  • Jones also has a tough matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers who have been allowing a low 13.6 fantasy points a game to opposing QBs. 
  • The Buccaneers secondary is very tough.
• Other sits: Tua Tagovailoa (MIA Dolphins), Drew Brees (NO Saints), Kirk Cousins (MIN Vikings)

Running Backs

Plug em in  

• Todd Gurley (ATL Falcons):
  • Gurley might’ve choked the win for the Falcons last week but he did drop over 20 PPR fantasy points. 
  • Gurley finds himself in another favorable matchup on Thursday Night Football against the Carolina Panthers.
  • Panthers are allowing the fifth most fantasy points to opposing backs at 23.1 per game. 
• Kareem Hunt (CLE Browns):
  • Nick Chubb and Odell Beckham Jr. are both out for the Browns.
  • Kareem Hunt will look to carry the load this week against a Raiders weak run defense. 
  • The Raiders defense is allowing the third most fantasy points to backs at 25.4 per game. 
  • Hunt has double digit points in every game except the Steelers who are very tough against backs. 
• Jonathan Taylor (IND Colts): 
  • Jonathan Taylor hasn’t broken out like everyone thought he would. 
  • Taylor has yet to crack 20 fantasy points or go over 60% snap share. 
  • However, coming back from a bye week against an easy rushing matchups in the Detroit Lions JT will look to show out. 
  • JT also has a top 3 offensive line blocking for him, his breakout is inevitable. 
• Other Plugs: Le’veon Bell (KC Chiefs), Boston Scott (PHI Eagles), Darrell Henderson (LA Rams)

Sit em out

• Carlos Hyde (SEA Seahawks):
  • Chris Carson might have a shot to play this week as he is GTD.
  • Carlos Hyde is dealing with an injury of his own that makes him QUES.
  • Even if Hyde plays and Carson sits, look for Deejay Dallas to get carries as well because of Hyde’s injury.
  • The Niners Defense is also allowing a league low 12.7 fantasy points to opposing backs. 
• JK Dobbins (BAL Ravens):
  • Mark Ingram might be out this week and we might finally see the Dobbins show.
  • But Gus Edwards will liley take all the goal line work and split some of the first down work. 
  • Dobbins also faces a Steelers defense allowing the third least points to backs at 13.4 per game. 
  • This game is likely to be a shootout as well. 
• Chargers RBs:
  • Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley are splitting running back duties 50/50.
  • Neither of the backs have stepped up in Austin Ekeler’s absence. 
  • To make matters worse, the Chargers play a Denver defense allowing the second least points to backs at 12.7 per game. 
• Other sits: Latavius Murray (NO Saints), D’andre Swift (DET Lions), Ezekiel Elliot (DAL Cowboys)

Wide receivers 

Plug em in 

• Robby Anderson (CAR Panthers):
  • DJ Moore is also a great start, as well as Curtis Samuel in deeper leagues. 
  • Divisional header and a must win for the Panthers in a tough division. 
  • Falcons are allowing 29.6 fantasy points per game to opposing WRs which is the fifth highest in the league. 
  • Thursday night primetime matchup.
  • Anderson has double digit points every game this year and only two games with less than 8 targets. 
• Travis Fulgham (PHI Eagles):
  • Jalen Raegor is a great sleeper option this week as well.
  • Desean Jackson is out and Alshon Jeffery is questionable. It might go down to Fulgham season once again. 
  • In these 4 games, Fulgham has gotten 13.70, 31.20, 19.50 and 12.30 fantasy points respectively. To make matters even more impressive all of those showings were against top 10 secondaries. 
  • Cowboys are allowing the 4th most points to WRs this season at 30.0 points per game. 
• Rashard Higgins (CLE Browns):
  • OBJ is out for the season and so look for Higgins to step up in his replacement. 
  • Last week after OBJ wnt down Higgins stepped up and caught 6 passes for 110 yards. 
  • Higgins has another favorable matchup against a Raiders defense allowing 27.2 fantasy points per game. 
  • The Raiders have allowed a 100 yard receiver every week since week 4. 
• Other plugs: Tee Higgins (CIN Bengals), Brandon Aiyuk (SF Niners), Marquise Brown (BAL Ravens)

Sit em out

• Robert Woods (LA Rams):
  • Robert Woods has shown a tendency to be locked down in tough matchups as well. 29 yards against Jason Verrett, 22 yards against Fuller, 36 yards against James Bradberry and 14 yards against Darius Slay. 
  • Robert woods finds himself in another tough matchup against the Dolphins secondary. 
  • The Dolphins are allowing 23.0 fantasy points to WRs but with everyone fully healthy and the CB duo of Byron Jones and Xavien Howards Woods will struggle. 

• DK Metcalf (SEA Seahawks):
  • Jason Verrett is currently a top 3 cornerback in the league. 
  • Last week DK struggled for the first time this season against Patrick Peterson. 
  • Look for the Niners to to gamescript DK and Lockett out this week since Kuan Williams is also returning from IR. 
  • Tartt and Ward might also make a return this week for the Niners. 
  • The Niners are allowing the 4th least points to WRs at 18.8. 
• JuJu Smith-Shuster (PIT Steelers): 
  • Juju finally woke up last week and had a great performance. 
  • This week the Steelers play a Ravens defense allowing a mere 19.5 fantasy points to backs which is the 6th least in the league. 
  • Big Ben has also found his favorite target in Dionte Johnson. 
• Other sits: Preston Williams (MIA Dolphins), Julio Jones (ATL Falcons), Denzel Mims (NY Jets)

Tight ends

Plug em in 

• Jonnu Smith (TEN Titans):
  • Jonnu Smith has a great matchup this week.
  • Jonnu scored less two weeks ago due to an injury he suffered early. He struggled last week because he had a tough matchup. 
  • Jonnu is still a top 10 tight end in the league. 
  • The Bengals are allowing the third most points to opposing tight ends.
  • It’s a “REEEJONNUVATION!”
• Richard Rodgers (PHI Eagles):
  • Rodgers stepped up in the absence of Ertz and Goedert last week catching 6 passes for 85 yards and was a few yards away from a TD. 
  • If Goedert is out again this week, start Rodgers. 
  • Rodgers faces a Dallas defense allowing the 8th most points to opposing tight ends. 
• Other plugs: Jimmy Graham (CHI Bears), Drew Sample (CIN Bengals)

Sit em out

• Mark Andrews (BAL Ravens): 
  • The only reason Andrews is a reliable start is because he is a TD machine. 
  • Other than that he sees 3-5 targets most games. Lamar doesn’t throw enough.
  • Andrews plays a Pittsburgh team allowing the 4th least points to tight ends. 
• TJ Hockenson (DET Lions): 
  • Hockenson plays the Colts this week, the toughest defense against tight ends allowing a league low 2.3 points per game.
• Other sits: Trey Burton (IND Colts), Tyler Higbee/Gerald Everett (LA Rams)

D/ST

Plug em in 

• KC Chiefs D/ST
• LA Rams D/ST

Sleeper pick

• Bills D/ST
• Chargers D/ST

Desperate pick

• Colts D/ST
• Titans D/ST

Sit em out

• Niners D/ST
• Bears D/ST

week 7: plug em in/sit em out

Quarterbacks

Plug em in

• Mathew Stafford (DET Lions):
  • Plays the ATL Falcons this week who are allowing the second highest yards to opposing QBs at 361.3 YPG. 
  • Lions and Stafford are 2-1 since Kenny Golladay returned. 
  • Stafford has thrown over 200 yards every game and is averaging almost 2 touchdowns a game. 
  • A must win game for a Lions team in a tough division. 
• Gardner Minshew (JAC Jaguars):
  • Minshew has been on the struggle bus the last couple weeks but still has continued to put up at least 18 or more fantasy points each of those weeks.
  • In fact Minshew only has one game under 18 points and that was against an underrated Miami defense. 
  • Minshew plays the Chargers this week who have allowed 309.4 YPG to opposing quarterbacks which is the fourth most in the league. 
• Teddy Bridgewater (CAR Panthers):
  • The Panthers take on the Saints this week in a must win divisional game.
  • The Saints get MT back this week so expect this game to be an offensive shootout.
  • The Saints have allowed 265.4 YPG to opposing QBs.
  • The Saints have also allowed 23 fantasy points on average to opposing QBs
• Other plugs: Kyler Murray (ARI Cardinals), Ben Roethlisberger (PIT Steelers), Cam Newton (NE Patriots)

Sit em out

• Jared Goff (LA Rams):
  • Goff is a matchup dependent QB, he performs well in easy matchups and yet struggles in even the slightly tough ones.
  • Goff plays Chicago this week who are the toughest team against opposing QBs, they allow a league low 12.5 fantasy points per game. 
  • Goff has also thrown a pick in 4/6 games he has played. 
• Derrick Carr (LV Raiders):
  • Carr has been going off this year while helping the Raiders go 3-2 so far.
  • Carr however, has a tough matchup this week against a Tamba Bay defense allowing a mere 14.0 fantasy points a game. 
  • Josh Jacobs has also been struggling which puts more pressure on Carr to carry the load.
• Deshaun Watson (HOU Texans):
  • Watson has been performing well since Bill O Brien was fired. 
  • Be wary starting him this week against a tough Packers defense.
  • Packers have allowed an average of 17.9 fantasy points to QBs which ranks as 23rd.
  • Packers also have the best CB in the league right now in Jaire Alexander who will likely lock down Will Fuller V. 
• Other sits: Jimmy Garoppolo (SF 49ers), Drew Brees (NO Saints), Andy Dalton (DAL Cowboys)

Wide receivers 

Plug em in 

• Kenny Golladay (DET Lions):
  • Golladay has scored more than 14 fantasy points in each of his three starts. 
  • He has not had his breakout game yet however.
  • This week is a perfect time for a breakout game as Golladay plays the ATL Falcons. 
  • Falcons have allowed the fifth most fantasy points to WRs at 30.3 fantasy points a game. 
  • Look for Golladay to break out this week. 
• DJ Chark (JAC Jaguars):
  • Chark hasn’t performed as well as owners hoped in 2020. 
  • Chark has had only one game over 13 points this year and that was week 4.
  • Look for Chark to bounce back in an easy matchup against the Chargers. 
  • The injured Chargers defense is allowing 22 fantasy points on average to opposing WRs. 
• Dionte Johnson (PIT Steelers):
  • Dionte Johnson hasn’t truly played since week 3. 
  • With Claypool’s emergence and JuJu’s decline I think Johnson will have the same role.  
  • This week Johnson has a great matchup against a Titans defense who are allowing 28.7 fantasy points a game to opposing WRs. 
  • This is also a matchup against two 5-0 teams, it will be a shootout.
• Other plugs: Robby Anderson (CAR Panthers), Darius Slayton (NY Giants), Jamison Crowder (NY Jets)

Sit em in 

• Will Fuller V (HOU Texans): 
  • Will Fuller is playing against Jaire Alexander this week who is the number 1 rated CB according to PFF.
  • That is it. Fuller will have a tough time this week.
• Robert Woods (LA Rams):
  • Woods will be up against a tough Bears defense allowing the 4th fewest fantasy points to opposing WRs.
  • The Bears CB duo is one of the best in the league with Kyle Fuller and Jaylon Johnson.
  • Jared Goff will be struggling as well against the Bears defense. 
• Deebo Samuel (SF 49ers):
  • Deebo will be up against former DPOY Stephon Gilmore. 
  • New England is very tough against opposing quarterbacks as well, ranking 27th.
  • WR1s against the Patriots have struggled in the past. 
• Other sits: Kneal Harry (NE Patriots), Michael Gallup (DAL Cowboys), DJ Moore (CAR Panthers)

Running backs

Plug em in 

• Antonio Gibson (WAS Football Team):
  • Antonio Gibson is producing but isn’t getting the carries he deserves.
  • This week however, Washington has a great matchup against a Dallas defense that has allowed 22.4 points to opposing backs.
  • Gibson could have a huge game if he can get to his explosive quick start. 
  • Should be an even matchup for Washington in a Dak-less Cowboys team.
• Todd Gurley (ATL Falcons):
  • Gurley has been looking good recently and is getting fed.
  • Last week Gurley saw 20 carries in a tough matchup.
  • This week Gurley has a favorable matchup against a Detroit defense, currently allowing 25.4 points to opposing backs which is also the 4th most.
• David Johnson (HOU Texans):
  • Texans offense has been revived recently and along with them their run game flourished.
  • Since Bill O’Brien’s departure, DJ has actually seen an increase in carries (15+)
  • This week the Texans take on the Packers who have a good secondary and pass rush but allow RBs to average 28 fantasy points a game (second most!).
• Other plugs: Aaron Jones (GB Packers), Ronald Jones (TB Buccaneers), Justin Jackson (LA Chargers)

Sit em out 

• Niners RBs: 
  • Raheem Mostert is out for 3 weeks once again.
  • Jerrick Mckinnon and Jeff Wilson Jr. are likely to fill in for Mostert.
  • Niners do have a tough matchup this week against a Patriots defense.
  • Patriots defense is allowing only 14.8 fantasy points on average to RBs, the 4th lowest in the league.
  • At best only Mckinnon is worth a flex as he gets dump offs but Wilson and Hasty should be benched this week.
• Patriots RBs:
  • Patriots RBs have an even tougher matchup against the Niners defense allowing only 12.8 fantasy points per game to opposing backs which is the second least in the whole league. 
  • The Patriots backfield is also a huge mess with James White, Damien Harris, Rex Burkehead and JJ Taylor. 
  • I would avoid starting any of these this week as Niners have shut down even pass catching backs. 
• Clyde Edwards-Helaire (KC Chiefs):
  • This one is simple.
  • Le’veon Bell was signed and if he can play this week he will most likely split the backfield with CEH.
  • CEH also finds himself in a tough matchup against the Broncos. 
  • Broncos are allowing a league low, 12.1 fantasy points to opposing backs. 
  • CEH broke out last week but he did have 3 games under 15 fantasy points as the Chiefs sole back, I would expect another one of those games and if Bell plays CEH will most likely score less than 10 fantasy points. 

Tight ends 

Plug em in

• TJ Hockenson (DET Lions)
• Hunter Henry (LA Chargers)
• Other plugs: Chris Herndon (NY Jets), Tyler Eiffer (JAC Jaguars)

Sit em out

• Jonnu Smith/Anthony Firkser (TEN Titans)
• Hayden hurst (ATL Falcons)
• Other sits: Jared Cook (NO Saints), Eagles TE

D/ST

Plug em in 

• Bills D/ST

Sleeper pick

• Washington D/ST
• Niners D/ST

Desperate pick

• Bears D/ST
• Browns D/ST

Sit em out 

• Patriots D/ST
• Packers D/ST

Week 6: plug em in/sit em out

Trying a new format this week so make sure to comment below what you all think! Instead of paragraphs trying short bullet points to get to the point. Without further ado lets get into the week 6 list!

Quarterbacks

Plug em in

Kirk Cousins (MIN Vikings):

• Playing against the Atlanta Falcons who are allowing an average of 446 yards per game which is the second highest in the league. 
• Found a reliable WR2 in Justin Jefferson who has been stepping up recently.
• Dalvin Cook is out as well so Cousins will have to pass a lot more. 
• Mike Zimmer and the Vikings offense have found their groove after their slow start.

Cam Newton (NE Patriots):

• Cam Newton is likely to suit up this week after his COVID diagnosis two weeks ago.
• Newton faces a Broncos defense that has allowed 23.60, 22.88, 18.24 fantasy points respectively to QBs in the last three weeks. 
• Newton has only played 3 games this year, two of which he scored over 25 fantasy points (With his one subpar performance coming in a blowout).
• Broncos are allowing 365.2 yards per game to opposing offenses.

Ryan Tannehill (TEN Titans):

• Tannehill is playing against a Houston defense that has struggled on defense this year allowing 387.4 yards per game.
• Houston has 0 interceptions so far this year.
• Ryan Tannehill is coming off a 30 point fantasy game on Tuesday night, and is the QB 4 in PPG since week 7 of last season. 
• Tannehill also had a 26 point fantasy performance week 2 against the Jaguars, he clearly has the potential to show out. 

Other plugs: 

• Matthew Stafford (DET Lions), Gardner Minshew (JAC Jaguars), Baker Mayfield (CLE Browns)

Sit em out

Joe Burrow (CIN Bengals):

• Joe Burrow plays a Colts defense that is only allowing 10.70 fantasy points per game to opponents 
• Colts are allowing the least yards to opposing offenses in the entire league (266 yds/pg)
• Joe Burrow is coming from a tough matchup where he only threw for 183 yards and 1 INT.

Teddy Bridgewater (CAR Panthers):

• Teddy Bridgewater has had a great season so far but this week he has a tough matchup against the Bears.
• Bears are allowing 12.13 fantasy points on average to opponents.
• Bears are also allowing the 9th least yards to opposing offenses. 

Other sits:

• Jared Goff (LA Rams), Nick Foles (CHI Bears), Jimmy Garoppolo (SF Niners)

Running Backs 

Plug em in

Myles Gaskin (MIA Dolphins):

• Played over 60% snap share every week and has emerged as the Dolphins lead back.
• Has seen 4,7,5,4,5 targets from weeks 1-5, promising for PPR leagues. 
• Gaskins plays the Jets who have allowed 128.6 rush yards per game to opponents.
• Jets have also allowed the second most rush TDs on average in the whole league, allowing 1.8 per game.
• Gaskins saw 22 attempts week 3 and 16 attempts week 5, his volume is increasing. 

David Montgomery (CHI Bears): 

• Since Tarik Cohen went down, David Montgomery has seen an increase in snap % from around 50% to 80%.
• Week 5 against Tamba Bay, Montgomery saw a season high 8 targets from which he hauled in 7 for 30 yards.
• Bears play the Panthers this week who have allowed an average of 1.6 rush TDs that is the third most in the league. 
• Carolina is also allowing 133.4 rush yards per game to opponent backs. 

Chase Edmunds (ARI Cardinals):

• Edmunds is closing the gap on Kenyan Drake’s snap %. Drake has not been efficient this year and rumors are he is much slower, while Edmunds has shined with his limited carries. 
• Chase Edmunds saw a season high 44% snap share as well as two back to back weeks of 6 targets. 
• This week is a perfect opportunity for Edmunds to take over this backfield or at best make this a 50/50 committee.
• Arizona plays Dallas, a team that has struggled defensively allowing 1.4 rush TDs and 155.8 rushing yards per game on average. 

Other plugs:

• Phillip Lindsey (DEN Broncos), Antonio Gibson (WAS Football Team), La’Mical Perine (NY Jets)

Sit em out

Joe Mixon (CIN Bengals):

• Joe Mixon has finally broken out but this week he faces the toughest run defense in the league against the Colts so be wary of starting him.
• Colts have just allowed 1 rushing TD so far this year.
• Colts have also only allowed 86.4 rush yards per game which is the third lowest.

Miles Sanders (PHI Eagles): 

• Sanders had a huge game last week dropping 23.90 fantasy points, but those points don’t show his true stats. 
• Sanders had 11 carries for 80 yards; from those yards he got 75 yards from one attempt which he took to the house. So in reality he had 10 rushes for around 5 yards and 1 TD. 
• Sanders plays Baltimore this week with a team that is allowing only 92 rush yards per game.
• The game script also doesn’t favor Sanders. 

Darrell Henderson (LA Rams):

• The Rams backfield is once again crowded since Cam Akers returned from his injury. 
• This backfield is a three headed committee with all running backs playing under 50%.
• To make matters worse, Henderson plays the Niners this week. 
  • The Niners have allowed only 107.4 yards per game to opposing rushers which is the 10th lowest in the league. 
  • Niners have also only allowed 0.8 TDs per game on average.
• Not a favorable matchup or situation for Henderson.

Other sits:

• Niners RBs, Ronald Jones (TB Buccaneers), Damien Harris (NE Patriots)

Wide receivers 

Plug em in

Cooper Kupp (LA Rams):

• Cooper Kupp will be carrying the load this week against the Niners on SNF.
• Robert Woods will have Jason Verrett on him, Niners front 7 have been tough against TEs and RBs. 
• Kupp has seen an increase in targets after a slow start during the first two weeks (5.5-8.3).
• The Niners ‘ injured defense has been letting up 235 yards on average to QBs over the past two weeks. 

Kenny Golladay (DET Lions):

• Kenny Golladay hasn’t been what we expected him to be so far in the 2020 season. However, it is not entirely his fault after missing the first two weeks he has played against Patrick Peterson and Marshawn Lattimore. 
• Golladay has seen 7 and 8 targets in his matchups, respectively. 
• Jaguars have allowed the 10th most pass yards to opposing QBs.
• Jaguars have also allowed the 12th most TDs per game at 2.0. 

Justin Jefferson (MIN Vikings):

• Jefferson plays the Falcons this week who have allowed the second most pass yards per game at 446.
• Jefferson has finally emerged and caught the eye of Kirk Cousins. 
• After back to back 100 yards performances, Jefferson struggled to get going against a Seattle defense allowing the most pass yards per game. 
• Look to watch Jefferson bounce back this week against Atlanta.

Other plugs:

• Mecole Hardman (KC Chiefs), Marquise Brown (BAL Ravens), Christian Kirk (ARI Cardinals), Laviska Shenault (JAC Jaguars)

Sit em out

Deebo Samuel (SF 49ers):

• Jimmy Garoppolo has been having a tough time getting anything going behind his awful offensive line.
• Deebo is also up against standout corner, Jalen Ramsey.
• Rams have allowed the 4th least pass yards to opposing teams.
• I would stay away from the Niners offense this week in all honesty. 

Terry Mclaurin (WAS Football Team):

• James Bradberry has emerged to be one of the best shadow corners in the league and will be on Mclaurin this week. 
• Giants have allowed a league low 0.4 passing TDs per game.
• Giants have also only allowed 1 passing TD in the last three matchups. 
• Kyle Allen is likely to get the start again who doesn’t have as much of a connection with Terry than Haskins. 

Tyler Boyd (CIN Bengals):

• Tyler Boyd is the most efficient slot WR in the league right now and has a great connection with Burrow. 
• He has struggled in tough matchups this year, 7pts against Chris Harris Jr. and 8 points against Marlon Humpheries. 
• Boyd will be up against Kenny Moore who has been amazing this year. Yet another tough matchup for the emerging star WR. 

Other sits:

• Darius Slayton (NY Giants), Amari Cooper (DAL Cowboys), DJ Moore (CAR Panthers)

Tight ends 

Plug em in

Evan Engram (NY Giants):

• Evan Engram hasn’t been what we expected this year, having only one double digit fantasy performance this year. 
• The targets however, have been there. He has seen 7,8,5,10,2 in the last 5 games. 
• Engram and Giants face Washington this week in a favorable matchup.
• While Washington’s front 7 can put pressure on QBs they have let TEs to have good games this year. Gerald Everett scored 13 fp last week, Andrews scored 20.70 fp 2 weeks ago, Dallas Goedert scored 24.10 fantasy points against WAS week 1. 

Irv Smith (Min Vikings):

• Irv Smith emerged for Cousins last week getting 5 targets from which he caught 4 for 64 yards.
• Smith saw a season high 68% snap rate.
• If Smith can keep pace from last week he should thrive in this week’s favorable matchup against the Falcons. 
• Falcons have allowed the second highest points to TEs so far in 2020. 

Other plugs:

• Ian Thomas (CAR Panthers)
• Mark Andrews (BAL Ravens)

Sit em out

Jimmy Graham (CHI Bears):

• Jimmy Graham emerged as a reliable TE this year for the Bears as they Bears continue to run their offense through a 2 TE set. 
• Currently TE6 in standard scoring.
• This week however, the Vetern TE plays a tough Panthers defense. The Panthers defense has allowed the fifth least points to TEs at an average of 33 yards and 0.2 TDs per game. 
• Graham is not someone to start this week.

Tyler Higbee (LA Rams):

• Even with all the injuries on the Niners defense they have remained tough against opposing TEs. 
• Mike Gesicki was the only exception last week due to one deep catch and the Niners getting down early.
• The 49ers have allowed the 10th least points to TEs. They have also only allowed an average of 39.8 yards and 0.2 TDs to opposing TEs. 
• Bench Higbee during SNF this week.

Other sits:

• Drew Sample (CIN Bengals)
• Logan Thomas (WAS Football Team)

D/ST

Plug em in

Must plugs:

• Dolphins D/ST 
• Patriots D/ST
• Ravens D/ST

Sleeper picks:

• Rams D/ST
• Steelers D/ST
• Washington Football Team D/ST

Must sits:

• 49ers D/ST
• Bears D/ST
• Titans D/ST

Week 3: Plug Em In/ Sit Em Out

Week 3 Plug Em In/ Sit Em Out:

Quarterbacks

Plug em in

• Aaron Rodgers (GB Packers): This week Aaron Rodgers faces the Saints on Sunday night football. Rodgers is coming off of scoring 30.8 and 18.76 fantasy points respectively in his first two performances. In week 2, his numbers dropped due to Davante Adams going out with a hamstring injury and Aaron Jones tearing up the Lions defense. During week 2’s matchup against the Raiders, the Saints secondary allowed Derek Carr to have a 120.7 passer rating. Expect Aaron Rodgers to have a big game during primetime football in week 3.

• Cam Newton (NE Patriots): Cam Newton. WOW. After the thrilling Sunday night game against the Seahawks, Newton has shut down all his doubters. Cam Newton has scored 2 rushing touchdowns in each of his first two games He also passed for 397 yards on during week 2. Cam Newton’s Dual threat ability makes him a steal in fantasy football allowing him to score 25.7 and 34.6 fantasy points respectively. This week the Patriots are up against the Las Vegas Raiders that has a defense that ranks in the bottom 15 allowing 30 points to the Panthers week 1 and and 24 points to the Saints in week 2. Expect Cam to eat up the Raiders young defense this Sunday.

• Ben Roethlisberger (PIT Steelers): Big Ben is back baby, and he has the Steelers looking like a real threat this season. In both of his games this season Roethlisberger has scored 22.1 and 18.2 fantasy points respectively. This week he is up against another weak defense in the Texans. Start Ben Roethisberger this week.
• Other plugs: Matthew Stafford (DET Lions), Justin Herbert (LA Chargers)

Sit em out

• Teddy Bridgewater (CAR Panthers): Teddy Bridgewater is up against a tough Chargers defense this week. The Chargers defense has allowed a 66.09 rating for Joe Burrow and 90.91 rating for the former MVP, Patrick Mahomes. Chargers has one of the best CB duos in Casey Hayward and Chris Harris, along with a top 5 defensive line. Expect Bridgewater and the Panthers to struggle this week.

• Baker Mayfield (CLE Browns): Who was that Thursday night against the Bengals, because it did not look like the Baker Mayfield that we have seen lately. Expect Mayfield to struggle this week against a ferocious Washington front seven. The Washington Football Team, though weak offensively, have made a statement defensively. They have yet to let up receiver get over 100 yards this season. Be cautious of having Mayfield in your lineup this week.

• Deshaun Watson (HOU Texans): Deshaun Watson has scored 20.82 and 14.7 fantasy points respectively with most of the points in the first game coming during garbage time. Watson had a tough matchup against the Ravens last week getting sacked 4 times. This week the Watson has to face one of the best defensive lines led by TJ Watt in the Steelers. The Texans offensive line has struggled to allow Watson time in the pocket and will have a tougher matchup this week. Avoid Watson this week.
• Other sits: Daniel Jones (NY Giants), Phillip Rivers (IND Colts)

Running Backs

Plug em in

• Jerrick McKinnon (SF Niners): Raheem Mostert and Tevin Coleman are likely to miss a couple weeks, with Coleman likely missing 3-4. The next running backs up are Jerrick McKinnon and Jeff Wilson Jr. I would predict a split in early down work and goal line carries, with pass down work going solely to McKinnon. In weeks 1 and 2 McKinnon was splitting work with Coleman and Mostert and he got 13.40 and 13.70 fantasy points respectively. Kyle Shanahan recently said “With those two being out (Mckinnon) should get more opportunities.” I would start McKinnon this week in what I expect to be a close game with Nick Mullens under center.

• Austin Ekeler (LA Chargers): Austin Ekeler has been a disappointment so far in 2020. In week 2 Ekeler and Josh Kelley nearly split the backfield work even though Ekeler averaged over 5 YPC while Kelley averaged 3 YPC so I would expect Ekeler to get an increase in carries. Also Tyrod Taylor is out for the season and Justin Herbert is likely to get the start. This is beneficial for Ekeler owners as Herbert (7 targets) passed to his running backs a lot more than Taylor did (1 target). The Chargers are up against the Panthers this week, whose defense has let up two top 5 running back performances (Josh Jacobs 35.90 fp and Leonard Fournette 27.60 fp). Start Austin Ekeler this week against the Panthers.

• Jonathan Taylor (IND Colts): I had to check the stat sheet twice during half time when I saw that Taylor had 18 carries at half! He went on to run for 101 yards and 1 TD from 26 carries. Even though he only averaged 3.9 YPC he was used as a true workhorse back. This week the Colts are up against the Jets. The Jets defense has been very bad this year allowing Bills to rush for 98 yards week 1 and Niners to rush for 182 yards week 2. This game also has a high chance of being a blowout by the Colts so look for the Colts to control the clock with their run game (bad news for Hines owners).
• Other Plugs: Deandre Swift (DET Lions), Chris Carson (SEA Seahawks)

Sit em out

• David Johnson (HOU Texans): David Johnson played an astounding 95% of snaps against the Ravens in week 2. However he had trouble anything going, he rushed for 34 yards from 11 carries. With Duke Johnson likely returning this week I expect the snap % to drop. The Texans are also against the Steelers this week who have arguably the best front 7 in the league. With Texans horrible offensive line and Steelers astounding front 7 I would bench David Johnson this week.

• Rams RBs (LA Rams): Rams backfield is a big mess as of now. There is no clear RB1 as Malcolm Brown led the backfield week 1 and Darrel Henderson led the backfield week 2. Cam Akers is likely out due to a rib injury so he will not play a factor this week. However, Brown or Henderson could lead this week and get goal line carries. To make matters worse for the Rams, they are up against a stellar Bills defense that hasn’t allowed a running back to rush for over 50 yards. I would be wary of starting either of these backs this week in this unpredictable backfield.

• Mike Davis (CAR Panthers): Mike Davis is next up for the Panthers this week after CMAC went down with an ankle injury. But expect Davis to have trouble this week against a Chargers defense that shut down Joe Mixon week 1 (69 rush yards on 19 carries) and Clyde Edwards-Helaire week 2 (38 rush yards on 10 carries). Mike Davis hasn’t gotten more than 5 carries since 2018 so he will likely have a slow going on his first start as well. I would be cautious starting Davis this week, at best he is a low end flex with some upside.
• Other sits: Todd Gurley (ATL Falcons), Giants RBs

Wide Receivers

Plug em in

• Marquise Brown (BAL Ravens): Marquise Brown had a great week 1 putting up 5/101/0, in week 2 he had a tougher going putting up 5/42/0. Both weeks he has 6 targets in two blowout games. This week against a Chiefs secondary that has allowed 253 pass yards week 1 and 311 pass yards week 2, expect Brown to play a bigger role. The Chiefs versus Ravens game will be a close high scoring game and Brown will get more than 6 targets. I am expecting a big week from Marquise Brown.

• CeeDee Lamb (DAL Cowboys): CeeDee Lamb has passed Michael Gallup as the WR2 for the Cowboys. Lamb had 6 and 9 targets in the first two games while Gallup had 5 both games. This week the Cowboys are against the Seahawks in another high scoring affair. Seahawks have let up two 395+ yard QBs in both their matchups. Dak Prescott will have a field day against the Seahawks defense this week allowing Amari Cooper, Dalton Shultz and CeeDee Lamb to eat.

• DK Metcalf (SEA Seahawks): DK Metcalf seems to be Russell Wilson’s favorite target this season getting 4/95/1 on 8 targets week 1 and 4/92/1 on 6 targets week 2 against the reigning DPOY. Russell Wilson is putting up MVP numbers so far in the season and has seem unstoppable. The Cowboys are up next against the Seahawks this week and are missing Byron Jones (Dolphins) and Leighton Bander-Esch on their defense. They Just allowed Matt Ryan to throw for 273 yards and 4 TDs. Russell Wilson and DK Metcalf will both have a big game this week against the Cowboys in this high scoring affair.
• Other plugs: Julian Edelman (NE Patriots), TY Hilton (IND Colts)

Sit em out

• DJ Chark (JAX Jaguars): DJ Chark is questionable this week and even if he does play he will be shadowed by standout corner, Xavien Howard in the Thursday night primetime matchup. DJ Chark hasn’t been the top 10 receiver we saw last year either getting only 11.50 and 12.40 fantasy points this year. Its sam\fe to say bench DJ Chark this week and look for Laviska Shenault Jr. to be a sneaky start.

• DJ Moore (CAR Panthers): DJ Moore is another player who was on my start list last week and put up 8/120/0 on 13 targets. This week though I would bench the third year receiver. Moore will likely face Casey Hayward, who is a top 5 CB in the NFL. Hayward held AJ Green to 51 yards week 1 yet allowed Tyreek Hill to get 99 yards on only 5 receptions from 13 targets (majority came on a 1 deep TD throw). I would expect DJ Moore to have trouble against this tough Chargers defense. Robby Anderson however, could be sneaky start as Curtis Samuel will be guarded by Chris Harris Jr. .

• Tyreek Hill (KC Chiefs): Tyreek Hill is tough to bench as he is too fast to be shut down completely. However, I would advise you to be wary of Hill in this tough matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. Since Ravens signed Marcus Peters they have yet to allow a receiver get over a 100 receiving yards. In the 2019 matchup against the Ravens, no Chiefs WR hit a 100 yards. The closest WR was Mecole Hardman who had one big play as he got 2 catches for 97 yards and 1 TD. Tyreek Hill is at best a TD dependent flex this week.
• Other sits: Golden Tate (NY Giants), Robert Woods (LA Rams)

Tight Ends

Plug em in

• Mark Andrews (BAL Ravens): Mark Andrews should have a big game this week against the Chiefs who rank in the bottom third against tight ends. Andrews has been Lamar Jackson’s favorite target since 2019. In the Ravens 2019 matchup against the Chiefs, Ravens TEs accounted for 87 yards on 9 receptions. This year so far, Mark Andrews, has scored 22.80 and 3.90 fantasy points respectively. The low points in week 2 are likely due to the game script as Lamar only threw for 204 yards on 18 completions. Expect Mark Andrews to play a big role in this weeks matchup.

• Logan Thomas (WAS Football Team): Logan Thomas has come to become one of Dwayne Haskins top targets. Week 1 he was targeted 8 times and in week 2 he was targeted 9 times, the volume is there and Thomas should produce. This week Thomas has another easy matchup against the Cleveland Browns. The Browns have allowed 2 top 10 TEs in their matchups (Mark Andrews 22.80 and CJ Uzomah 14.20). Logan Thomas should have a nice day especially if Haskins continues to look his way.
• Other plugs: Dalton Shultz (DAL Cowboys), Tyler Higbee (LA Rams), TJ Hockenson (DET Lions)

Sit em out

• Austin Hooper (CLE Browns): Austin Hooper has been a big disappointment so far in 2020. I was high on him before season started and now I don’t believe he is worth rostering. Baker Mayfield isn’t talented enough to support more than one fantasy viable candidate receiver per game. Mayfield has thrown for 300 or more yards only 6 times since he was drafted in 2018 and 10 times for less than 200 yards. This season so far he has thrown for 189 yards and 219 yards respectively. As long as Baker Mayfield continues to struggle, only OBJ is worth starting as a receiver for the Browns.

• Evan Engram (NY Giants): Evan Engram has had tough matchups against the Steelers and Bears to start the season. He has another tough matchup this week against the SF Niners. Even though Niners lost many defensive starters over the past two week, their linebacker core has stayed healthy. In 2019 the Niners were the 5th hardest team against TEs. With Kwon Alexander healthy this year (missed 10 games due to pec injury in 2019) they have an even better linebacker core. Evan Engram will continue to have trouble getting much going this week even with Sterling Shepherd out.
• Other sits: Be wary of Chris Herndon (NY Jets), Eric Ebron (PIT Steelers), Kyle Rudolph (MIN Vikings)

D/ST

Plug em in

• Buccaneers D/ST: The Buccaneers D/ST was the top scoring defense last week accumulating 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles and 2 interceptions against the Panthers. Week 1, the Bucs defense shut down Michael Thomas to less than 30 yards. The Bucs defense is legit and has another easy matchup this week against a Denver Broncos team that will be without Drew Lock, Courtland Sutton and Philip Lindsay this week. Bucs D/ST should have another bog day this week.
• Other plugs: Colts D/ST, Chargers D/ST

Sit em out

• Rams D/ST: Rams defense has so much talent in Jalen Ramsey and Aaron Donald, both top 3 at their positions. This week the Rams are against a Bills offense that has got over 400 total yards week 1 and over 500 total yards week 2. Josh Allen is quietly putting together a nice season as well. I expect the Rams defense to have trouble this week against the explosive Bills offensive.
• Other Sits: 49ers D/ST, Bills D/ST

week 10: PLUG EM IN/Sit em out

Quarterbacks

Plug em in 

• Tua Tagovailoa (LA Chargers): 
  • Tua took down the Cardinals last week posting a stat line of 20/28 248 yards and 2 Tds as well as 35 rush yards. 
  • Tua finds himself in another favorable matchup this week against the LA Chargers. 
  • The Chargers are allowing an average of 240 yards per game to opposing QBs. 
  • The Chargers are also allowing a top 10 ranked, 2.0 passing TDs per game as well.
  • This game is likely to be a shootout as well.  

Sleeper start

• Carson Wentz (PHI Eagles):
  • Wentz played the Giants week 7 and scored 28.76 fantasy points. 
  • This is a divisional game in a division where no team has stepped up yet.
  • This game will be a shootout and a close game. 
  • Over the past three games, the Giants have allowed 396.0 pass yards per game as well. 

Desperate start

• Nick Foles (CHI Bears):
  • Since week 3, Nick Foles has attempted at least 40 passes every game except one where he had 39. 
  • Foles has had tough matchups every game since he started and this will be the first time Foles will start in a favorable matchup versus Minnesota. 
  • This is also a must win game for the Bears as they are close to making the playoffs. 

Sit em out

• Joe Burrow (CIN Bengals):
  • Joe Burrow has been amazing this season, having only one game with single digit fantasy points.
  • This week however, Burrow has his toughest matchup against the Steelers.
  • The Steelers are holding opponents to 317 yards per game on average and only 1.8 passing TDs on average. 

Running backs

Plug em in 

• Antonio Gibson (WAS Football Team): 
  • The Washington Football Team plays Detroit this week in a must win situation for both teams.
  • Detroit is the third worst team against the run, allowing an average of 148 yards per game to opposing backs.
  • To make this better for Gibson, Alex Smith is likely to start and he loves throwing to his backs. 

Sleeper start

• Jonathan Taylor (IND Colts):
  • Rough games last two games, one due to an ankle injury and another due to an early fumble. 
  • But has a great matchup this week versus the Titans who are allowing 119.0 yards per game to opposing backs. 
  • JT has only 1 fumble all year. 
• JD McKissic (WAS Football Team):
  • I’ll keep this one short.
  • Alex Smith loves throwing to his running backs and last week he targeted Mckissic 14 times. 
  • Mckissic is a great dark horse option this week. 

Desperate start

• Joe Mixon (CIN Bengals):
  • Joe Mixon might be back this week but finds himself in a tough matchup against the Steelers. 
  • The Steelers are only allowing 102 yards per game to opposing backs which is the 9th least in the league. 
  • Coming back from an injury Mixon might be limited as well.
  • I would be wary of starting him if he plays. 

Sit em out

• Jerrick Mckinnon (SF 49ers):
  • The saints have allowed the second least yards per game to opposing backs at 80 per game.
  • The Niners will also be playing this game from behind.
  • Mckinnon is also in a split backfield with Hasty. 
  • I would bench Mckinnon this week in a tough matchup. 

Wide receivers

Plug em in 

• Cooper Kupp (LA Rams):
  • Kupp faces a Seattle defense allowing a league high 455.8 yards per game to opponents.
  • Jamaal Adams is likely to play a role in stopping Robert Woods and Chris Carson. 
  • Kupp should have a nice game.
  • Kupp also saw a season high 20 targets week 8 before the Rams bye.
• Jalen Reagor (PHI Eagles):
  • Jalen Reagor got his first start since week 2 and scored 13.70 fantasy points. 
  • Reagor has another favorable matchup this week versus the Giants who outside of James Bradberry have struggled in the secondary. 
  • Travis Fulgham should draw Bradberry. 
  • I expect Reagor to have a huge game in this divisional matchup. 

Sleeper start

• Curtis Samuel (CAR Panthers):
  • Curtis Samuel has had two back to back 20 fantasy point performances.
  • Samuel is in line for another great performance versus Tampa Bay in a divisional header. 
  • To make matters better for Samuel, CMC is out which means Samuel will likely see more running back work. 
  • Tamba Bay does well against opposing WRs but Smauel is the WR3 for the Panthers and shouldn’t draw as much attention. 

Desperate start

• Zach Pascal (IND Colts):
  • Zach Pascal has seen 7,6,7 targets respectively all in tough matchups. 
  • This week Pascal has a good matchup against the Titans on TNF. 
  • The Titans are allowing 394 yards on average to opposing offenses which is the seventh highest in the league. 
  • Pascal could finally have his break out this week. But he is a high risk high reward player. 

Sit em out

• Marquise Brown (BAL Ravens): 
  • Marquise Brown hasn’t had a good fantasy performance since week 5 against the Bengals. 
  • Brown has had tough matchups however, every week except week 8.
  • Brown finds himself in another tough matchup this week against the NE Patriots who are only allowing 221 pass yards per game on average. 
  • Brown will also draw coverage from standout CB, Stephon Gilmore. 

Tight ends

Plug em in 

• Eric Ebron (PIT Steelers): 
  • Eric Ebron has a great matchup this week against the Bengals.
  • The Bengals are allowing the second most points to opposing tight ends at 11.8 per game. 
  • Ebron has had back to back games with a touchdown.
  • Ebron has also seen 8,5 and 6 targets in the last three games. 

Sleeper start

• Jordan Reed (SF Niners): 
  • Reed was limited last week as it was his first week back.
  • I would expect Reed’s targets and snaps to go up in a favorable matchup against the Saints
  • Reed is the better receiving tight end on the team.
  • NO Saints are allowing 9.7 fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends.  
• Evan Engram (NY Giants):
  • Evan Engram has seen 9, 10 and 10 targets the last 3 games.
  • The last time Engram played the Eagles this year, he got 10.90 fantasy points. 
  • Engram has bounced back since his slump and should have another nice game this week. 

Desperate start

• Jimmy Graham (CHI Bears): 
  • Graham matched his season high in receptions last week (6) and scored 17 fantasy points.
  • This was a game however, that Foles had 52 attempts and even Mooney saw 11 targets. 
  • Graham should take a step back this week against Minnesota who are in the middle of the bunch against tight ends. 

Sit em out

• Jared Cook (NO Saints): 
  • Niners are one of the best teams against tight ends even with all the injuries. 
  • They are ranked top 5 and are only allowing 5 points per game to opposing tight ends. 
  • Avoid Jared Cook in this week’s matchup. 

D/ST

Plug em in 

• Eagles D/ST
• Saints D/ST

Sleeper start

• Packers D/ST
• Steelers D/ST

Desperate start

• Dolphins D/ST
• Browns D/ST

Sit em out

• Bills D/ST
• Rams D/ST

WEEK 9: plug em in/sit em out

Quarterback

Plug em in

• Cam Newton (NE Patriots): 
  • Jets are allowing an average of 20.5 fantasy points per game which is third most in the NFL. 
  • Divisional header, Jets are showing out with their offense, could be a close game requiring both QBs to throw. 
  • Cam bounced back last week versus the Bills scoring 17.36 fantasy points after a 2 point outing the week before. 
• Derrick Carr (LV Raiders): 
  • Divisional header with two playoff contenders in a must win game. 
  • Chargers are allowing 22.6 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. 
  • Justin Herbert will keep this game close. 
  • Carr only has two interceptions on the year. 
  • Last week versus Browns it was a run heavy game due to the weather so Carr only scored 11 fantasy points. 
• Drew Lock (DEN Broncos):
  • Drew Lock looked great last week versus the Chargers, scoring 20.82 fantasy points and 3 TDs. 
  • Lock has another great matchup this week versus the Atlanta Falcons.
  • The Falcons lead the league in fantasy points allowed to QBs at 25.6. 
  • The Falcons defense has struggled all year and I expect these struggles to carry into this week. 
• Other plugs: Josh Allen (BUF Bills), Ben Roethlisberger (PIT Steelers), Deshaun Watson (HOU Texans)

Sit em out

• Nick Mullens (SF 49ers):
  • The Niners season looks to be over as Jimmy Garoppolo is out for the year with a high ankle injury. 
  • Nick Mullens will look to step up against a Packers defense allowing the 9th least fantasy points to QBs. 
  • The Packers also have one of the best corners in the league in Jaire Alexander who will likely cover Brandon Aiyuk.
  • Deebo, Kittle and Bourne are likely to miss this game as well.
  • Mullens will have trouble on Thursday night against the Packers. 
• Lamar Jackson (BAL Ravens):
  • Jackson has not been playing as well as he was projected to, having only 3 games over 20 fantasy points. 
  • This week Lamar plays the Colts who have allowed a league low 13.2 fantasy points per game. 
  • Jackson has also struggled in the passing game making Marquise Brown’s breakout delayed. 
• Drew Brees (NO Saints): 
  • Drew Brees takes on Tom Brady and the Buccaneers once again this week. 
  • Week 1 versus the Bucs, Brees only scored 14 fantasy points.
  • Michael Thomas might be back this week but he played week 1 against the Bucs as well and was shut down. 
  • The Bucs defense has only allowed an average of 14 fantasy points per game to opposing QBs. (5th least)
• Other sits: Sam Darnold (NY Jets), Cowboys QB, Daniel Jones (NY Giants)

Running Backs

Plug em in 

• Chase Edmunds (ARI Cardinals):
  • Kenyan Drake might be out this week and this might be Edmunds chance to show out. 
  • Edmunds has been playing really well as a backup RB, scoring more than 10 points in 4/7 weeks as a backup.
  • To make matters better for Edmunds, the Cardinals play the Miami Dolphins. 
  • The Dolphins are allowing the 7th most fantasy points to running backs at 21.8 per game. 
  • Game script will also favor Edmunds. 
• JaMycal Hasty (SF Niners):
  • No Mostert. 
  • No Deebo. 
  • No Coleman. 
  • No Wilson Jr. 
  • No Kittle. 
  • No Bourne.
  • No Garoppolo. 
  • The Packers also lead the league in fantasy points allowed to running backs at 29.2 per game. 
  • Hasty’s only competition in this game is Jerrick Mckinnon. 
• Justin Jackson (LA Chargers):
  • Justin Jackson had a great game against one of the toughest run defenses in the Broncos last week, scoring 17.20 fantasy points.
  • Jackson finds himself in an easy matchup this week against the Raiders. 
  • The Raiders have allowed the fifth most points to running backs at 23.0 per game. 
  • Kelley is fading as well which is good for Jackson. 
• Other Plugs: LaMical Perine (NY Jets), Matt Breida (MIA Dolphins), David Johnson (HOU Texans)

Sit em out

• Jonathan Taylor/ Jordan Wilkins (IND Colts): 
  • Jonathan Taylor has been dealing with an ankle injury and last week Wilkins carried the ball more than Taylor. 
  • It’s unlikely Taylor misses time but even then I would be wary of starting either of these backs this week. 
  • The Colts take on the Ravens run defense this week. 
  • The Ravens have the second toughest rush defense in the league, allowing only 13.4 fantasy points per game. 
• JK Dobbins/ Mark Ingram (BAL Ravens): 
  • Just as the Ravens have the second toughest run defense, the Colts have the third toughest. 
  • Colts are allowing an average of 13.5 fantasy points to opposing backs. 
  • Mark Ingram might even return this week which will cause Dobbins’s carries to drop. 
  • This three headed backfield should be avoided in a tough matchup this week. 
• Todd Gurley (ATL Falcons):
  • The only reason Gurley has stayed fantasy relevant is because he has a nose for the endzone. 
  • Gurley has been averaging around 2 yards a carry over the past three weeks and only has one game over a 100 yards this season. 
  • This week Gurley faces his toughest challenge in the Broncos defense.
  • The Broncos are allowing the 4th least points at 14.8 per game. 
• Other sits: Tyler Ervin (GB Packers), Ezekiel Elliot (DAL Cowboys), Leonard Fournette (TB Buccaneers)

Wide receiver 

Plug em in

• John Brown (BUF Bills): 
  • Cole Beasley and Stefon Diggs are also must starts. 
  • The Bills play the Seahawks in a likely shootout this week. 
  • The Seahawks are allowing a league high 36.2 fantasy points per game to opposing WRs. 
  • John Brown should get back on track this week versus the Seahawks. 
• Dionte Johnson (PIT Steelers): 
  • Chase Claypool is a must start and JuJu is a good sleeper pick. 
  • The Steelers will take on the Cowboys this week in a game that’s likely to be a blowout. 
  • Everyone on the Steelers is a must start, even their D/ST. 
• Danny Amendola (DET Lions): 
  • Kenny Gollday is going to miss this week’s game versus the Vikings. 
  • This is a great matchup for WRs as the Vikings allow the second most fantasy points per game to opposing WRs at 32.2. 
  • Amendola, Jones Jr. and Hall should all step up and see lots of targets in this divisional header. 
  • Amendola is also the Lions slot WR and has continued to see targets throughout the season. 
• Other plugs: KJ Hamler (DEN Broncos), Jakobi Meyers (NE Patriots), Terry Mclaurin (WAS Football Team)

Sit em out 

• Denzel Mims (NY Jets): 
  • Jamison Crowder might return this week and he is the WR1 for the Jets. 
  • Denzel Mims has played well since he returned from his injury. 
  • Mims has a tough matchup against Stephon Gilmore and the Patriots.
  • The Patriots are allowing the second least fantasy points per game to opposing WRs.  
• Tyler Lockett (SEA Seahawks): 
  • Lockett was shut down by the Niners last week after his 53 point performance the week before. 
  • Lockett has another tough matchup against the Bills this week. 
  • The Bills are allowing a league low 19.5 fantasy points per game to opposing WRs. 
  • DK is matchup proof but Lockett gets shut down in tough matchups. 
• Michael Thomas (NO Saints): 
  • It’s tough to bench Thomas but be wary of starting him if he is active. 
  • Thomas is returning from a high ankle injury which is hard to recover from especially for a receiver. 
  • Week 1 the Bucs held Thomas to only 3 catches. 
  • Be wary of MT this week. 
• Other sits: Devante Parker (MIA Dolphins), Mike Williams (LA Chargers), Brandon Aiyuk (SF 49ers)

Tight ends 

Plug em in

• Noah Fant (DEN Broncos): 
  • Falcons are allowing the most fantasy points to tight ends in the whole league. 
  • With Lock healthy, Fant is once again thriving.
  • Should be a high scoring close game. 
• Rob Gronkowski (TB Buccaneers): 
  • Saints are allowing the 4th most points toTEs at 11 points per game. 
  • Should be a high scoring divisional header during SNF.
  • Gronk has also picked it up lately. 
• Other plugs: Jonnu Smith (TEN Titans), Greg Olsen (SEA Seahawks), Evan Engram (NY Giants)

Sit em out

• Robert Tonyan (GB Packers):
  • Niners are only allowing 5.0 points per game to opposing tight ends. 
  • It will be a tough matchup for Tonyan.
• Dalton Shultz (DAL Cowboys):
  • The Steelers are only allowing 4.9 points per game to opposing tight ends. 
• Other sits: Mark Andrews (BAL Ravens), Jordan Reed (SF 49ers), Chris Herndon (NY Jets)

D/ST

Plug em in:

• Steelers D/ST
• Patriots D/ST
• Washington D/ST

Sleeper pick:

• Texans D/ST
• Packers D/ST

Desperate start: 

• Titans D/ST
• Cardinals D/ST

Sit em out:

• Chargers D/ST
• Bills D/ST

DFS Week 8 Budget Picks

Quarterback:

Jimmy Garoppolo ($6,600)

With RBs Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson, and Tevin Coleman all injured, I expect the 49ers to lean on Garoppolo this week. Even though WR Deebo Samuel is out, Brandon Aiyuk, Kendrick Bourne, and George Kittle should be more than enough with the creativity of Kyle Shanahan. The Seattle Seahawks are allowing 370 passing yards per game and nearly 29 points per game. In what should be a competitive divisional shootout, Garoppolo should be able to connect with his receivers in the endzone a few times. Brandon Aiyuk ($5,900) is a must-stack at the receiver position if you choose to start Jimmy G.

Running Back:

Darrell Henderson ($6,100)

Given the concentration of fantasy-relevant running backs now, it’s essentially impossible to find a solid budget play. If you can afford Derrick Henry, I would 100% start him against a struggling Bengals defense. That being said, Darrell Henderson Jr ($6,100) presents an interesting option against a bottom-10 run defense in Miami. Admittedly, Henderson has had a rough go of things the past couple weeks, mainly due to a thigh injury he suffered two weeks ago. Henderson also played the 49ers and Bears, which are both top-5 run defenses. He’s still seeing double-digit carries and about 50% of the snaps, which could give him enough opportunity to score a touchdown or two against a porous run defense. 

Wide Receiver:

Tyler Boyd ($6,400) 

Tyler Boyd is going to be a cheap flex in most of my lineups this week. Last week, Boyd faced the worst defense against slot receivers in the league and scored nearly 30 fantasy points. This week, he faces another bottom-5 defense against the slot position and should see a healthy amount of volume in a game the Bengals are expected to lose by nearly a full touchdown. With no Joe Mixon and a possibly injured Tee Higgins, I expect the Bengals to lean on Tyler Boyd once more. 

Tight End:

Jimmy Graham ($5,400)

Similar to the running back position, it really is hard to find safe budget options. I would much rather go with a top-tier tight end like Travis Kelce or Darren Waller. That being said, Graham faces the New Orleans Saints this week and their 31st-ranked defense against opposing tight ends. Graham hasn’t been completely fantasy viable the past few weeks but has faced 3 top-10 tight end defenses in a row. He’s shown the potential for a big game like he did against the soft Atlanta Falcons defense a few weeks back. With Allen Robinson potentially unavailable, Nick Foles will be struggling to find open players. I think Graham becomes a safe play based purely off of volume, although he might be able to find his way to a touchdown (or maybe two). 

Plug Em In/Sit Them Out Week 5

Quarterbacks

Plug em in

• Jimmy Garoppolo (SF 49ers): The rumor in SF is that Jimmy Garoppolo will be able to suit up week 5 versus the Dolphins. If Garoppolo is able to go he is a must start in this week’s matchup against a Miami defense that has been allowing 409.8 yards a game to opposing offenses. Jimmy Garoppolo has also thrown for 2 TDs in both the games he played (second game left early due to ankle injury). This will also be the first time Jimmy Garoppolo will have all his offensive weapons in Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, George Kittle, Jerrick Mckinnon and possibly Raheem Mostert. Expect Garoppolo and the Niners to come out angry after last week’s loss and put up points. 
• Teddy Bridgewater (CAR Panthers): Teddy Bridgewater showed out last week by taking out Kyler Murray and the explosive Cardinals offense. This week Bridgewater has a really easy matchup against a Falcons defense that allows the second most yards per game (448.2) to opposing offenses. Also last week we saw Teddy Bridgewater finally unleashed his running game, when he rushed for a 26 yard touchdown while juking two defenders. Bridgewater should have a great game this week in a favorable matchup. 
• Other plugs: Gardner Minshew (JAC Jaguars), Ben Roethlisberger (PIT Steelers), Kyler Murray (ARI Cardinals)

Sit em out

• Derek Carr (LV Raiders): Derek Carr has had a good season so far, being one of only four QBs who have yet to throw an interception. This week however, Carr faces another tough secondary in the Kansas City Chiefs. Chiefs are one of three teams that allow less than 200 pass yards per average at 195.0 ypg (other two are Niners and Colts). The Raiders have also had trouble getting their receivers to stay healthy, mainly first round pick, Henry Ruggs III. To make matters worse for Carr, KC actually does well against tight ends and has been allowing a mere 42 yards to opposing TEs. This will limit Carr’s top choice, Darren Waller. It’s safe to say, you should sit Carr this week against KC. 
• Tom Brady (TB Buccaneers): Tom Brady has still got it! Believe it or not, Brady ranks as QB7 so far in fantasy this year. He has had only one game below 20 fantasy points and that was week 2 against the Panthers. However, steer clear of Brady this week who will be playing against the Chicago Bears on Thursday Night Football. The Bears rank in the bottom 10 in pass yards allowed per game at only 230.2. To make matters worse for Brady he is likely to be without Chris Godwin and OJ Howard (out for season) for another week. Scotty Miller and Mike Evans are also questionable for Thursday night. Bench Tom Brady this week in a game that is likely to be field goal by field goal. 
• Other sits: Ryan Fitzpatrick (MIA Dolphins), Carson Wentz (PHI Eagles), Be wary of Matt Ryan (ATL Falcons)

Running Backs

Plug em in

• Kenyan Drake (ARI Cardinals): Ahhh Kenyan Drake, what a waste of a pick you have been this year. This is the last time I am putting Drake here as he has his most favorable matchup yet this week against the Jets. The NY Jets on average have allowed 129.0 yards per game to opposing backs. Last week Melvin Gordon rushed for 107 yards against the Jets. Kenyan Drake has the ability to be a top tier back, we have seen it. Now Drake finds himself in a favorable matchup. The Cardinals HC has also stated that he will be changing up the offensive scheme. If Drake will ever turn heads, this is the week (which is also what we said last week). 
• David Johnson (HOU Texans): David Johnson has yet to rush for over a 100 yards this year. But this isn’t Johnson’s fault as he has been facing a few of the toughest run defenses in the past few weeks like Baltimore and Pittsburgh. David Johnson and the Texans find themselves in a favorable matchup for the first time in 2020 against the 1-3 Jaguars. The Jaguars have allowed an average of 138.5 yards to opposing backs. David Johnson has seen his carries go up, even with Duke Johnson in the mix. The Texans also have a new HC that is looking to make a statement by helping this suffering Texans offense. All the cards are in line for David Johnson to have his breakout week against the Jaguars. 
• Devin Singletarty/ Zack Moss (BUF Bills): Zack Moss has missed the last couple weeks with an injury, allowing Devin Singletary to score 16.10 and 18.60 fantasy points respectively. With Moss back in the mix this week I expect Singletary’s numbers to drop slightly as they shared the backfield prior to Moss’s injury. Nonetheless both are starters this week against a Tennessee defense that has struggled against the run allowing a whopping 166 rush yards per game. Moss and Singletary both have the ability to be fantasy worthy especially since the Titans secondary will make it hard on Josh Allen to get the ball to Stefon Diggs and John Brown. 
• Other plugs: James Robinson (JAC Jaguars), Clyde Edwards-Helaire (KC Chiefs), Josh Jacobs (LV Raiders)

Sit em out

• Myles Gaskin (MIA Dolphins): Myles Gaskin seems to have taken the role of being the lead back for the Miami Dolphins. Gaskins has also produced in his matchups getting between 9.20-14.50 fantasy points every game. This week however, bench Gaskins as he is up against a Niners defense that hasn’t allowed a back to get over 63 rush yards. The Niners are one of the toughest defenses for opposing backs even in checkdown pass situations. Myles Gaskin should be benched this week. 
• Melvin Gordon (DEN Broncos): Melvin Gordon had a huge game last week against the Jets, rushing over 100 yards and getting 25 fantasy points. This week Gordon faces a tough matchup against the Patriots who have allowed 10th fewest yards per game to opposing offenses. The Broncos are also likely to play from behind making the game script unfavorable for Gordon. To make matters more dire for Gordon, Phillip Lindsey is set to make his return to the Denver backfield. So we could see a split backfield in Denver. I would sit Melvin Gordon this week against the Patriots. 
• Chargers RBs: Austin Ekeler is likely to be out 4-6 weeks with a hamstring injury so Justin Jackson and Joshua Kelley will look to split the backfield until Ekeler is healthy. As fantasy owners we don’t know how this situation will play out, will it be a 50/50 split? Early down/ third down split? Who gets red zone work? All these questions should be answered in the next two week so until then I would be cautious starting either of these backs. Another reason to be wary of them is because they face a NO Saints defense that allows an average of only 97 rush yards a game. They even held Josh Jacobs to 88 yards. I would hold off another week before being confident in starting any of the Chargers Rbs.
• Other sits: Be wary of James Conner (PIT Steelers) and Derrick Henry (TEN Titans), Todd Gurley (ATL Falcons)

Wide Receivers 

Plug em in

• John Brown (BUF Bills): John Brown is one of the biggest steals of this draft and it’s all due to Josh Allen and his MVP run. This week the Bills are taking on the Titans defense that has allowed the fifth most yards to opposing offenses (422.3). This game could end up being a shootout as the Bills have a good run defense and Tannehill will have to air it out. Tannehill is also getting AJ Brown back this week most likely. John Brown could be the sneaky play this week. 
• DJ Moore (CAR Panthers): DJ Moore has slowly faded away this year with the addition Robby Anderson who is Bridgewater’s main receiver. Anderson is a must start this week along with DJ Moore and both WRs should have a nice day as the Panthers take on the Falcons. The Falcons secondary is horrible and has so many injuries that has led them to allow 341.5 pass yards a game. This game is also likely to be high scoring as the Falcons offense ranks top 10 in the league in points. I would start Moore in this high scoring game. 
• Justin Jefferson (MIN Vikings): Vikings have an easy matchup as well against a team that has allowed the most yards in 2020, the Seattle Seahawks. To make matters better for the Vikings, the Seahawks might be without star safety Jamaal Adams. The Seahawks have allowed 476.8 yards on average to opposing offenses and I am expecting the Vikings to feast. Adam Thielen and Dalvin Cook will get their yards but the third option, Justin Jefferson will look to continue his hot streak. Justin Jefferson has had back to back 100 yard games and will look to keep that up against the Seahawks. 
• Other plugs: TY Hilton (IND Colts), Cowboys WRs, Seahawks WRs, Adam Thielen (MIN Vikings)

Sit em out

• Jarvis Landry (CLE Browns): Jarvis Landry hasn’t had a great game as a receiver yet and he will have trouble getting going again. To make matters worse the Browns are up against the toughest defense in the league, the Indy Colts. The Colts have allowed the least yards to opposing offenses at 236.2 yards per game. Baker Mayfield has also had a slow year, relying on the run game in most of his wins. I would be cautious of all Browns WRs this week in a tough matchup. 
• Tyler Boyd (CIN Bengals): Tyler Boyd is the receiver to own for the Bengals. He is the clear favorite for Rookie QB, Joe Burrow, and has produced week in and week out. This week Tyler Boyd will be against standout slot CB, Marlon Humpheries. PFF has Marlon Humpheries ranked in the top 10 as corners and top 5 as slot corners with a grade of 76.3. Tyler Boyd is going to have a hard time getting much going even if he does get 13 targets once again. Be wary of Boyd this week as he is at best a lowend flex with low upside. 
• Mike Evans (TB Buccaneers): Mike Evans will be Tom Brady’s main threat on Thursday night with Chris Godwin out. Mike Evans though will have a tough time getting much going as he is up against Fuller and the Bears defense that allowed only 230 pass yards to opposing teams. To make matters worse for Evans, he is carrying an injury designation that might limit him as well. It also doesn’t help that with Goswin and Howard out, Bears will scheme to shut down Evans. 
• Other sits: Preston Williams (MIA Dolphins), Julio Jones (ATL Falcons), Greg Ward (PHI Eagles)

Tight Ends

Plug em in

• Hunter Henry (LA Chargers): Hunter Henry faces the Saints this week on Monday Night Football in a great matchup. The Saints have allowed the second most points to tight ends at an average of 15.2. Last time the Saints played on MNF they faced Darren Waller who completely tore up their defense scoring 28.50 fantasy points. Hunter Henry will also gain a bump now that Austin Ekeler is out for 4-6 weeks. That means more targets for Henry and Allen, I would plug in Henry into all lineups this week. 
• Eric Ebron (PIT Steelers): The last time Eric Ebron played he scored 16.20 fantasy points against Houston. With Dionte Johnson still questionable this week Ebron could see a lot more targets now having gained Big Ben’s trust. This week Eric Ebron faces a weak Titans defense that has allowed the sixth most yards to opposing TEs at 54 per game and 11.3 points per game. The Titans run defense is pretty good so James Conner could have trouble getting going which means more passes for Ebron and company. Ebron is another sneaky start for this week. 
• Other plugs: Chris Herndon (NY Jets), Ian Thomas (CAR Panthers), Tyler Hibgee (LA Rams)

Sit em out

• Mike Gesicki (MIA Dolphins): Mike Gesicki plays the Niners this week in his toughest matchup yet. The Niners have yet to allow a TE to score a TD against them. The Niners have also allowed only 2.0 points on average to opposing TE. They have shut down big names like Evan Engram and Zach Ertz in the past two weeks. Gesicki has also not been consistent with Fitzpatrick under center. Until Tua gets a start I would have a hard time trusting Mike Gesicki. 
• Austin Hooper (CLE Browns): Austin Hooper has to be the biggest disappointment of 2020 so far. I was big on hype before the season started but once I saw Baker Mayfield I knew this is a running offense and Hooper will have a limited role. To make matters worse for Hooper he is playing against the toughest team this week, the Colts.  The Colts have only allowed an average of 1.5 points per game to TEs. Expect Austin Hopper to ride the struggle bus once again this week. 
• Other sits: Kyle Rudolph (MIN Vikings), Drew Sample (CIN Bengals), Logan Thomas (WAS Football Team)

D/ST

Plug em in

• Plug of the week: Rams D/ST
• Other plugs: Bucs D/ST, NE D/ST, 49ers D/ST

Sit em out

• Sit of the week: Chargers D/ST
• Other sits: Panthers D/ST, Colts D/ST, Bears D/ST