It shouldn’t surprise any of us. In a game as violent as football, injuries are bound to happen. Top-5 pick Jamaal Charles is out for season. Miles Austin is out until October 16th. Let’s not even get started on Peyton Manning. Much like their professional counterparts, fantasy owners need to find ways to fill the void left by their injured players. Included in this week’s rankings, I’ll list some guys that could step in for your injured star this week.

Quarterbacks

Could Impress: Cam Newton. Last week I told you to wait and see how the rookie would fair against the usually strong Packers defense. Well, the returns are in, and apparently Newton is a legitimate fantasy quarterback. Look beyond the four turnovers or his team’s two losses. Newton is the #2 player in all of fantasy football. I did not think I’d ever type that sentence, but it’s true. He’s a rookie, and will make mistakes, but ride the wave while it’s high.

Could Disappoint: Eli Manning. Philadelphia has one of the best secondaries in the game, and Manning has thrown 16 interceptions against the Eagles in the last 14 games. With his receiving corps dinged up, Manning will press to make plays. That’s never a good thing.

Keep an eye on: Jason Campbell. With his best three receivers down, Campbell put up 323 yards and two scores against the Bills last week. He has a touch matchup with the Jets this week, but has weak defenses the four following weeks. Keep him stashed on your bench and reap the rewards if a spot start is needed.

Injury Replacement: Kevin Kolb. The Cardinals have to be happy with the early returns on Kolb thus far. He’s averaging 275 yards and two scores a game. Seattle’s defense doesn’t scare anyone. If you need a spot start this week, Kolb could be your guy.

 

QB Rankings

1. Tom Brady, NE (@ Buffalo)

2. Philip Rivers, SD (vs. Kansas City)

3. Drew Brees, NO (vs. Houston)

4. Aaron Rodgers, GB (vs. Chicago)

5. Matthew Stafford, DET (@ Minnesota)

6. Matt Schaub, HOU (@ New Orleans)

7. Michael Vick, PHI (vs. New York Giants)

8. Ryan Fitzpatrick, BUF (vs. New England)

9. Ben Roethlisberger, PIT (@ Indianapolis)

10. Cam Newton, CAR (vs. Jacksonville)

11. Josh Freeman, TB (vs. Atlanta)

12. Matt Ryan, ATL (@ Tampa Bay)

13. Tony Romo, DAL (vs. Washington)

14. Rex Grossman, WAS (@ Dallas)

15. Kevin Kolb, AZ (@ Seattle)

16. Joe Flacco, BAL (@ St. Louis)

17. Sam Bradford, STL (vs. Baltimore)

18. Jay Cutler, CHI (vs. Green Bay)

19. Eli Manning, NYG (@ Philadelphia)

20. Matt Hasselbeck, TEN (vs. Denver)

21. Kyle Orton, DEN (@ Tennessee)

22. Mark Sanchez, NYJ (@ Oakland)

23. Colt McCoy, CLE (vs. Miami)

24. Kerry Collins, IND (vs. Pittsburgh)

25. Blaine Gabbert, JAX (@ Carolina)

 

Running Backs

Could Impress: Ben Tate. Despite the return of Arian Foster, it was Tate who carried the bulk of the load against Miami last week. Foster’s hamstring injury flared up again last week and the Texans are likely to air on the side of caution. Tate has two straight games over 100 yards rushing, and should be a key part of the game plan against the Saints.

Could Disappoint: DeAngelo Williams. It’s not surprising that the rise of Cam Newton has coincided with the fall of DeAngelo Williams. In two games, he’s gotten just six fantasy points, and an abysmal 17 carries. Jonathan Stewart is a better fit for the pass-happy offense. At this point, Williams should be sitting on your bench.

Keep an eye on: Dexter McCluster. Thomas Jones is better suited to pick up the tough carries in KC, but McCluster has a skill set closer to Jamaal Charles. Expect the Chiefs to line up McCluster in many different spots (the backfield, slot, out wide). In a PPR league, he’s a great flex fit.

Injury Replacement: James Starks. Ryan Grant might be the starter, but Starks is the top rusher in Green Bay’s backfield. Coach Mike McCarthy said this week that the team needs to commit to the run.

 

RB Rankings

1. Adrian Peterson, MIN (vs. Detroit)

2. Ray Rice, BAL (@ St. Louis)

3. LeSean McCoy, PHI (vs. New York Giants)

4. Maurice Jones-Drew, JAX (@ Carolina)

5. Rashard Mendenhall, PIT (@ Indianapolis)

6. Frank Gore, SF (@ Cincinnati)

7. Chris Johnson, TEN (vs. Denver)

8. Darren McFadden, OAK (vs. New York Jets)

9. Matt Forte, CHI (vs. Green Bay)

10. Michael Turner, ATL (@ Tampa Bay)

11. Beanie Wells, AZ (@ Seattle)

12. Peyton Hillis, CLE (vs. Miami)

13. Ben Tate, HOU (@ New Orleans)

14. Ahmad Bradshaw, NYG (@ Philadelphia)

15. Jahvid Best, DET (@ Minnesota)

16. LeGarrette Blount, TB (vs. Atlanta)

17. Fred Jackson, BUF (vs. New England)

18. Ryan Mathews, SD (vs. Kansas City)

19. Tim Hightower, WAS (@ Dallas)

20. Steven Jackson, STL (vs. Baltimore)

21. James Starks, GB (@ Chicago)

22. Cedric Benson, CIN (vs. San Francisco)

23. Shonn Greene, NYJ (@ Oakland)

24. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, NE (@ Buffalo)

25. Daniel Thomas, MIA (@ Cleveland)

26. Mike Tolbert, SD (vs. Kansas City)

27. DeAngelo Williams, CAR (vs. Jacksonville)

28. Willis McGahee, DEN (@ Tennessee)

29. Thomas Jones, KC (@ San Diego)

30. Felix Jones, DAL (vs. Washington)

31. Mark Ingram, NO (vs. Houston)

32. Dexter McCluster, KC (@ San Diego)

33. Jonathan Stewart, CAR (vs. Jacksonville)

34. Pierre Thomas, NO (vs. Houston)

35. Brandon Jacobs, NYG (@ Philadelphia)

36. Reggie Bush, MIA (@ Cleveland)

37. Marshawn Lynch, SEA (vs. Arizona)

38. Danny Woodhead, NE (@ Buffalo)

39. Joseph Addai, IND (vs. Pittsburgh)

40. Ryan Grant, GB (@ Chicago)

41. Roy Helu, WAS (@ Dallas)

42. C.J. Spiller, BUF (vs. New England)

43. Knowshon Moreno, DEN (@ Tennessee)

44. Delone Carter, IND (vs. Pittsburgh)

45. Michael Bush, OAK (vs. New York Jets)

46. Cadillac Williams, STL (vs. Baltimore)

47. DeMarco Murray, DAL (vs. Washington)

48. LaDainian Tomlinson, NYJ (@ Oakland)

49. Montario Hardesty, CLE (vs. Miami)

50. Arian Foster, HOU (@ New Orleans)

 

Wide Receivers

Could Impress: Dwayne Bowe. With Charles out, Bowe is the last dangerous option left on Kansas City’s offense. The Chiefs will do everything possible to get Bowe the ball, as evidenced by his team high eight targets last week. KC will likely be playing from behind against the Chargers, meaning Matt Cassel and the offense will be forced to pass. Expect good things from Bowe.

Could Disappoint: Julio Jones. Matt Ryan is looking his way, but Jones gave Matty Ice little to work with against. Julio was targeted eight times, catching just two balls for 29 yards. At times, the rookie looked overmatched against the physical Philadelphia corners. Tampa Bay is 12th in the league in point allowed to wide receivers (just 19 a game), and Ronde Barber could give him fits.

Keep an eye on: Eric Decker. Brandon Lloyd could miss another week and we saw what Decker did filling in for Lloyd last week (5 catches, 113 yards, 2 TD). Even if Lloyd is able to go, the former Gopher has been making plays in the return game. He certainly should be owned in all fantasy leagues.

Injury Replacement: David Nelson. New England’s secondary has been torched the first two weeks, and the Bills’ pass game has been clicking. Nelson was targeted 13 times last week, catching 10 of those balls. He’s a quality option if you need a quick replacement for Brandon Lloyd or Miles Austin.

 

WR Rankings

1. Andre Johnson, HOU (@ New Orleans)

2. Vincent Jackson, SD (vs. Kansas City)

3. Mike Wallace, PIT (@ Indianapolis)

4. Calvin Johnson, DET (@ Minnesota)

5. Larry Fitzgerald, AZ (@ Seattle)

6. Kenny Britt, TEN (vs. Denver)

7. Greg Jennings, GB (@ Chicago)

8. Roddy White, ATL (@ Tampa Bay)

9. Dez Bryant, DAL (vs. Washington)

10. Brandon Marshall, MIA (@ Cleveland)

11. Steve Smith, CAR (vs. Jacksonville)

12. Stevie Johnson, BUF (vs. New England)

13. Hakeem Nicks, NYG (@ Philadelphia)

14. DeSean Jackson, PHI (vs. New York Giants)

15. Wes Welker, NE (@ Buffalo)

16. Jeremy Maclin, PHI (vs. New York Giants)

17. Reggie Wayne, IND (vs. Pittsburgh)

18. Santana Moss, WAS (@ Dallas)

19. Mike Williams, TB (vs. Atlanta)

20. Santonio Holmes, NYJ (@ Oakland)

21. Dwayne Bowe, KC (@ San Diego)

22. Percy Harvin, MIN (vs. .Detroit)

23. Anquan Boldin, BAL (@ St. Louis)

24. Deion Branch, NE (@ Buffalo)

25. Jordy Nelson, GB (@ Chicago)

26. Mike Thomas, JAX (@ Carolina)

27. Devery Henderson, NO (vs. Houston)

28. A.J. Green, CIN (vs. San Francisco)

29. Robert Meachem, NO (vs. Houston)

30. Nate Burleson, DET (@ Minnesota)

31. Julio Jones, ATL (@ Tampa Bay)

32. Brandon Lloyd, DEN (@ Tennessee)

33. Malcom Floyd, SD (vs. Kansas City)

34. Eric Decker, DEN (@ Tennessee)

35. Johnny Knox, CHI (vs. Green Bay)

36. Mario Manningham, NYG (@ Philadelphia)

37. David Nelson, BUF (vs. New England)

38. Plaxico Burress, NYJ (@ Oakland)

39. Chad Ochocinco, NE (@ Buffalo)

40. Mike Sims-Walker, STL (vs. Baltimore)

41. Denarius Moore, OAK (vs. New York Jets)

42. Davone Bess, MIA (@ Cleveland)

43. Hines Ward, PIT (@ Indianapolis)

44. Lance Moore, NO (vs. Houston)

45. Jerome Simpson, CIN (vs. San Francisco)

46. Mohamed Massaquoi, CLE (vs. Miami)

47. Nate Washington, TEN (vs. Denver)

48. Austin Collie, IND (vs. Pittsburgh)

49. Jabar Gaffney, WAS (@ Dallas)

50. James Jones, GB (@ Chicago)

 

Tight Ends

Could Impress: Rob Gronkowski. The Gronk was splitting time with Aaron Hernandez the last two weeks, but still was able to put up 10 catches, 172 yards and 3 TDs. Buffalo was the league’s worst team at defending tight ends last year, and the Gronk’s competition for catches, Hernandez, will likely be out for Sunday’s game.

Could Disappoint: Brandon Pettigrew. While the Lions offense is firing with a healthy Matthew Stafford, his propensity to fire deep is cutting into Pettigrew’s numbers. The Oklahoma State product has just five catches in the first two games, and put up a big goose egg last week.

Keep an eye on: Marcedes Lewis. Surprisingly, one of the top tight ends last year is on a number of waiver wires. Clearly his two catches in two games have a lot to do with that. Still, with the Jags inserting Blaine Gabbert at quarterback, expect Lewis’ numbers to rise. He could be a nice waiver wire pickup.

Injury Replacement: Evan Moore. He splits time with Benjamin Watson, but it’s Moore who gets the looks around the goal line. He’s scored in the first two weeks, and if you need someone to spot start, take a chance on his red zone upside.

 

TE Rankings

1. Jason Witten, DAL (vs. Washington)

2. Rob Gronkowski, NE (@ Buffalo)

3. Jermichael Finley, GB (@ Chicago)

4. Antonio Gates, SD (vs. Kansas City)

5. Vernon Davis, SF (@ Cincinnati)

6. Jimmy Graham, NO (vs. Houston)

7. Dallas Clark, IND (vs. Pittsburgh)

8. Fred Davis, WAS (@ Dallas)

9. Owen Daniels, HOU (@ New Orleans)

10. Kellen Winslow, TB (vs. Atlanta)

11. Dustin Keller, NYJ (@ Oakland)

12. Tony Gonzalez, ATL (vs. Tampa Bay)

13. Scott Chandler, BUF (vs. New England)

14. Greg Olsen, CAR (vs. Jacksonville)

15. Brandon Pettigrew, DET (@ Minnesota)

16. Jermaine Gresham, CIN (vs. San Francisco)

17. Evan Moore, CLE (vs. Miami)

18. Marcedes Lewis, JAX (@ Carolina)

19. Brent Celek, PHI (vs. New York Giants)

20. Ed Dickson, BAL (@ St. Louis)

21. Benjamin Watson, CLE (vs. Miami)

22. Jeremy Shockey, CAR (vs. Jacksonville)

23. Tony Scheffler, DET (@ Miami)

24. Jared Cook, TEN (vs. Denver)

25. Zach Miller, SEA (vs. Arizona)

 

Defense/Special Teams

Could Impress: Arizona Cardinals. Just keep this as a point of reference for the rest of the season: If a fantasy defense is playing Seattle, it’s a good bet they’ll have a good day.

Could Disappoint: Atlanta Falcons. The Dirty Bird Defense has been surprisingly porous the first two weeks, ranking in the bottom of the league in both pass and run defense. The Tampa Bay offense was really clicking in the second half against Minnesota, and always plays well against the NFC South. This could be a rough day for the Falcons.

Keep an eye on: Cincinnati Bengals. Cincy has good matchups three of the next four weeks, and has forced three turnovers in the first two games. They’re nothing more than a matchup play, but it’s worth keeping an eye on this young Bengals’ defense.

 

D/ST Rankings

1. Pittsburgh Steelers (@ Indianapolis)

2. Baltimore Ravens (@ St. Louis)

3. New York Jets (@ Oakland)

4. San Diego Chargers (vs. Kansas City)

5. Philadelphia Eagles (vs. New York Giants)

6. Detroit Lions (@ Minnesota)

7. Green Bay Packers (@ Chicago)

8. Atlanta Falcons (@ Tampa Bay)

9. Arizona Cardinals (@ Seattle)

10. Tennessee Titans (vs. Denver)

11. San Francisco 49ers (@ Cincinnati)

12. Chicago Bears (vs. Green Bay)

13. New England Patriots (@ Buffalo)

14. Washington Redskins (@ Dallas)

15. New Orleans (vs. Houston)

16. Cleveland Browns (vs. Miami)

17. Dallas Cowboys (vs. Washington)

18. Miami Dolphins (@ Cleveland)

19. Houston Texans (@ New Orleans)

20. New York Giants (@ Philadelphia)

21. Oakland Raiders (vs. New York Jets)

22. St. Louis Rams (vs. Baltimore)

23. Carolina Panthers (vs. Jacksonville)

24. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (vs. Atlanta)

25. Cincinnati Bengals (vs. San Francisco)

Posted under Uncategorized

If we learned one thing about the NFL in week one: the lockout certainly did not slow down the offensive numbers.  A ridiculous 14 quarterbacks had more than 300 yards, four of which went over 400. 13 receivers topped 100 yards, including seven double-digit touchdown performances. Needless to say, fantasy teams weren’t suffering. Now it’s time to build on that success and dominate week two of the fantasy season.

Quarterbacks

Could Impress: Matthew Stafford. I think so much of Stafford’s upside that he makes this list for the second straight week. KC’s defense made Ryan Fitzpatrick look like an elite quarterback. Stafford should be feasting on the defense all day. This could be a historically big week.

Could Disappoint: Cam Newton. All the credit in the world goes to Cam for his stellar week one performance, but he will not be following it up against the Packers defense this week. Green Bay will apply a ton of pressure, and Newton will look like the rookie he is. Don’t drink the Kool-Aid just yet.

Keep an eye on: Rex Grossman. Yes, that is the sound of your own laughter stops ringing in your ear. But hear me out. Grossman looked good last week, and he’s going against a Cardinals offense that made Cam Newton look like the second-coming of Peyton Manning. He’ll become Bad Rex again, but I think he’s got at least one more week until that happens.

 

QB Rankings

1. Aaron Rodgers, GB (@ Carolina)

2. Tom Brady, NE (vs. San Diego)

3. Michael Vick, PHI (@ Atlanta)

4. Drew Brees, NO (vs. Chicago)

5. Philip Rivers, SD (@ New England)

6. Matthew Stafford, DET (vs. Kansas City)

7. Matt Schaub, HOU (@ Miami)

8. Tony Romo, DAL (@ San Francisco)

9. Ben Roethlisberger, PIT (vs. Seattle)

10. Josh Freeman, TB (@ Minnesota)

11. Eli Manning, NYG (vs. St. Louis)

12. Joe Flacco, BAL (@ Tennessee)

13. Jay Cutler, CHI (@ New Orleans)

14. Matt Ryan, ATL (vs. Philadelphia)

15. Rex Grossman, WAS (vs. Arizona)

16. Ryan Fitzpatrick, BUF (vs. Oakland)

17. Kevin Kolb, AZ (@ Washington)

18. Sam Bradford, STL (@ New York Giants)

19. Mark Sanchez, NYJ (vs. Jacksonville)

20. Kyle Orton, DEN (vs. Cincinnati)

21. Chad Henne, MIA (vs. Houston)

22. Kerry Collins, IND (vs. Cleveland)

23. Cam Newton, CAR (vs. Green Bay)

24. Matt Cassel, KC (@ Detroit)

25. Colt McCoy, CLE (@ Indianapolis)

 

Running Backs

Could Impress: Tim Hightower. Hightower proved in week one that he has the confidence of Mike Shanahan, getting 25 carries and three catches for just under 100 yards and a touchdown. Fantasy owners have to love the work he’s getting in the offense and he should get into the end zone against Arizona.

Could Disappoint: Mike Tolbert. The converted fullback’s three touchdowns were impressive against the Vikings, but an argument can be made that Ryan Mathews was actually more effective. Mathews got the same number of carries, rushing for ten more yards. He also racked up 73 yards on just three catches. With the number of weapons at Philip Rivers’ disposal, it is unlikely Tolbert will match his big week.

Keep an eye on: Cadillac Williams. Steven Jackson is likely out this week (if he does play, he’ll be limited), and Williams did a nice job filling in last week. More importantly, he got involved in the running game (19 carries, 91 yards) and the passing game (5 catches, 49 yards). He looks like a strong flex play this week.

 

RB Rankings

1. Ray Rice, BAL (@ Tennessee)

2. Adrian Peterson, MIN (vs. Tampa Bay)

3. LeSean McCoy, PHI (@ Atlanta)

4. Darren McFadden, OAK (@ Buffalo)

5. Matt Forte, CHI (@ New Orleans)

6. Rashard Mendenhall, PIT (vs. Seattle)

7. Peyton Hillis, CLE (@ Indianapolis)

8. Jamaal Charles, KC (@ Detroit)

9. Michael Turner, ATL (vs. Philadelphia)

10. Chris Johnson, TEN (vs. Baltimore)

11. Ahmad Bradshaw, NYG (vs. St. Louis)

12. Maurice Jones-Drew, JAX (@ New York Jets)

13. Arian Foster, HOU (@ Miami)

14. Tim Hightower, WAS (vs. Arizona)

15. Frank Gore, SF (vs. Dallas)

16. Felix Jones, DAL (@ San Francisco)

17. DeAngelo Williams, CAR (vs. Green Bay)

18. Mike Tolbert, SD (@ New England)

19. Beanie Wells, AZ (@ Washington)

20. Cedric Benson, CIN (@ Denver)

21. Shonn Greene, NYJ (vs. Jacksonville)

22. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, NE (vs. San Diego)

23. James Starks, GB (vs. Carolina)

24. LeGarrette Blount, TB (@ Minnesota)

25. Fred Jackson, BUF (vs. Oakland)

26. Jahvid Best, DET (vs. Kansas City)

27. Reggie Bush, MIA (vs. Houston)

28. Mark Ingram, NO (vs. Chicago)

29. Cadillac Williams, STL (@ New York Giants)

30. Joseph Addai, IND (vs. Cleveland)

31. Ryan Mathews, SD (@ New England)

32. Ben Tate, HOU (@ Miami)

33. Ryan Grant, GB (@ Carolina)

34. Willis McGahee, DEN (vs. Cincinnati)

35. Marshawn Lynch, SEA (@ Pittsburgh)

36. Pierre Thomas, NO (vs. Chicago)

37. Jonathan Stewart, CAR (vs. Green Bay)

38. Darren Sproles, NO (vs. Chicago)

39. Brandon Jacobs, NYG (vs. St. Louis)

40. Danny Woodhead, NE (vs. San Diego)

41. Michael Bush, OAK (@ Buffalo)

42. Knowshon Moreno, DEN (vs. Cincinnati)

43. C.J. Spiller, BUF (vs. Oakland)

44. LaDainian Tomlinson, NYJ (vs. Jacksonville)

45. Ricky Williams, BAL (@ Tennessee)

46. Deji Karim, JAX (@ New York Jets)

47. Delone Carter, IND (vs. Cleveland)

48. Jerome Harrison, DET (vs. Kansas City)

49. Daniel Thomas, MIA (vs. Houston)

50. Jerious Norwood, STL (@ New York Giants)

 

 

Wide Receivers

Could Impress: Reggie Wayne. Yes, the Colts are in trouble. Yes, Kerry Collins does a terrible Peyton Manning impression. But in the week 1 loss, Wayne was thrown the ball 11 times, catching seven for 106 yards and a score. Even if this is a lost season, the Colts will try to give this soon-to-be free agent his touches. Feel confident that Wayne will get his.

Could Disappoint: Mike Thomas. As if losing his starting quarterback was not bad enough, Thomas has to match up with Darrelle Revis this week. Thomas caught eight balls against Tennessee, but averaged just seven yards per catch. He could be in for a rough week.

Keep an eye on: Jordy Nelson. The Packers showcased Nelson’s unique combination of size and speed early and often against the Saints. Jordy’s 6 catches for 77 yards and a score were good for fantasy owners, but here’s the telling stat: Nelson had just as many targets as Jennings (both had a team-high eight). If he’s locked down the number two spot, he’ll see a nice boost in his fantasy production.

 

WR Rankings

1. Calvin Johnson, DET (vs. Kansas City)

2. Andre Johnson, HOU (@ Miami)

3. Roddy White, ATL (vs. Philadelphia)

4. Greg Jennings, GB (@ Carolina)

5. Mike Wallace, PIT (vs. Seattle)

6. DeSean Jackson, PHI (@ Atlanta)

7. Larry Fitzgerald, AZ (@ Washington)

8. Hakeem Nicks, NYG (vs. St. Louis)

9. Miles Austin, DAL (@ San Francisco)

10. Vincent Jackson, SD (@ New England)

11. Reggie Wayne, IND (vs. Cleveland)

12. Brandon Marshall, MIA (vs. Houston)

13. Steve Johnson, BUF (vs. Oakland)

14. Mike Williams, TB (@ Minnesota)

15. Dez Bryan, DAL (@ San Francisco)

16. Wes Welker, NE (vs. San Diego)

17. Santonio Holmes, NYJ (vs. Jacksonville)

18. Kenny Britt, TEN (vs. Baltimore)

19. Steve Smith, CAR (vs. Green Bay)

20. Anquan Boldin, BAL (@ Tennessee)

21. Mario Manningham, NYG (vs. St. Louis)

22. Santana Moss, WAS (vs. Arizona)

23. Percy Harvin, MIN (vs. Tampa Bay)

24. Brandon Lloyd, DEN (vs. Cincinnati)

25. Dwayne Bowe, KC (@ Detroit)

26. Jeremy Maclin, PHI (@ Atlanta)

27. Jordy Nelson, GB (@ Carolina)

28. Robert Meachem, NO (vs. Chicago)

29. Julio Jones, ATL (vs. Philadelphia)

30. Plaxico Burress, NYJ (vs. Jacksonville)

31. Mike Thomas, JAX (@ New York Jets)

32. Hines Ward, PIT (vs. Seattle)

33. A.J. Green, CIN (@ Denver)

34. Malcom Floyd, SD (@ New England)

35. Mike Sims-Walker, STL (@ New York Giants)

36. Johnny Knox, CHI (@ New Orleans)

37. Deion Branch, NE (vs. San Diego)

38. Nate Burleson, DET (vs. Kansas City)

39. Chad Ochocinco, NE (vs. San Diego)

40. Lee Evans, BAL (@ Tennessee)

41. Braylon Edwards, SF (vs. Dallas)

42. Sidney Rice, SEA (@ Pittsburgh)

43. Lance Moore, NO (vs. Chicago)

44. Pierre Garcon, IND (vs. Cleveland)

45. Mohamed Massaquoi, CLE (@ Indianapolis)

46. Devery Henderson, NO (vs. Chicago)

47. Davone Bess, MIA (vs. Houston)

48. Mike Williams, SEA (@ Pittsburgh)

49. Austin Collie, IND (vs. Cleveland)

50. Brandon Gibson, STL (@ New York Giants)

 

Tight Ends

Could Impress: Aaron Hernandez. Tom Brady looked Hernandez’s way 10 times, with the tight end snagging seven balls for over 100 yards. The Patriots might not have a prototypical deep threat, but Hernandez is as close as it gets. Week 1 showed that he and Gronkowski can co-exist. Fantasy owners can feel comfortable playing both.

Could Disappoint: Chris Cooley. Backup Fred Davis got double the looks and five times the yards. Cooley owners should be concerned.

Keep an eye on: Scott Chandler.  Well, who saw that coming? Chandler exploded in week one, catching five balls for 63 yards and two scores. Starting TE David Nelson also had four catches in the game. Keep an eye on Buffalo splits up the time between the two tight ends. Chandler’s big week could be an aberration, but it’s worth keeping an eye on.

 

TE Rankings

1. Antonio Gates, SD (@ New England)

2. Jason Witten, DAL (@ San Francisco)

3. Jermichael Finley, GB (@ Carolina)

4. Jimmy Graham, NO (vs. Chicago)

5. Vernon Davis, SF (vs. Dallas)

6. Aaron Hernandez, NE (vs. San Diego)

7. Owen Daniels, HOU (@ Miami)

8. Kellen Winslow, TB (@ Minnesota)

9. Dallas Clark, IND (vs. Cleveland)

10. Brandon Pettigrew, DET (vs. Kansas City)

11. Greg Olsen, CAR (vs. Green Bay)

12. Rob Gronkowski, NE (vs. San Diego)

13. Tony Gonzalez, ATL (vs. Philadelphia)

14. Marcedes Lewis, JAX (@ New York Jets)

15. Dustin Keller, NYJ (vs. Jacksonville)

16. Fred Davis, WAS (vs. Arizona)

17. Jermaine Gresham, CIN (@ Denver)

18. Zach Miller, SEA (@ Pittsburgh)

19. Ed Dickson, BAL (@ Tennessee)

20. Lance Hendricks, STL (@ New York Giants)

21. Scott Chandler, BUF (vs. Oakland)

22. Chris Cooley, WAS (vs. Arizona)

23. Evan Moore, CLE (@ Indianapolis)

24. Benjamin Watson, CLE (@ Indianapolis)

25. Tony Scheffler, DET (vs. Kansas City)

 

Defense/Special Teams

Could Impress: Detroit. Kansas City’s offense has yet to look comfortable, as evidenced by the putrid 213 yards put up against Buffalo. That’s 2/5ths as many yards as Tom Brady. Ouch. Detroit looked solid against Tampa bay and could have another big week.

Could Disappoint: San Diego. The Chargers have a tough matchup with the Patriots, and the special teams struggled against Minnesota. You might want to consider sitting the Chargers this week.

Keep an eye on: San Francisco. The 49ers had the most fantasy points in week one, and Dallas’ offense didn’t exactly light it up against the Jets. If the special teams can continue to make big plays, the Niners could be a top-15 fantasy defense.

 

D/ST Rankings

1. New York Jets (vs. Jacksonville)

2. Green Bay Packers (@ Carolina)

3. Pittsburgh (vs. Seattle)

4. Baltimore Ravens (@ Tennessee)

5. Detroit Lions (vs. Kansas City)

6. Dallas Cowboys (@ San Francisco)

7. Philadelphia Eagles (@ Atlanta)

8. Chicago Bears (@ New Orleans)

9. Houston Texans (@ Miami)

10. New Orleans Saints (vs. Chicago)

11. Atlanta Falcons (vs. Philadelphia)

12. New England Patriots (vs. San Diego)

13. San Francisco 49ers (vs. Dallas)

14. Buffalo Bills (vs. Oakland)

15. New York Giants (vs. St. Louis)

16. Washington Redskins (vs. Arizona)

17. Oakland Raiders (@ Buffalo)

18. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@ Minnesota)

19. St. Louis Rams (@ New York Giants)

20. San Diego Chargers (@ New England)

21. Cleveland Browns (@ Indianapolis)

22. Denver Broncos (vs. Cincinnati)

23. Kansas City (@ Detroit)

24. Arizona Cardinals (@ Washington)

25. Cincinnati Bengals (vs. Denver)

Posted under Uncategorized

 

We endured an offseason consisting of men in suits walking in and out of buildings. We endured a three-month stretch when the work “lockout” might as well have been preceded by a four-letter word. But courtrooms, politics, and league lawyers are now a thing of the past. Because ladies and gentleman, we’re finally here! The start of the NFL season is here!

 

Quarterbacks

Could Impress: Call it a hunch, but I expect a big week out of Matthew Stafford. The Buccaneers defense is young at a number of positions, and the Lions clicked on all cylinders in the preseason. Stafford’s been itching to get back in a meaningful game, he’ll make the most of his opportunities.

Could Disappoint: Two of Joe Flacco’s worst performance s last year came against the Steelers. In fact, Flacco has struggled mightily against teams in the AFC North. Look for better options under center on Sunday.

Keep an eye on: Matt Hasselbeck chose Tennessee because he liked the system and thought they had the weapons to win. He struggled through injuries the past two seasons, but he’s a cerebral QB and could bounce back this season.

 

QB Rankings

1. Aaron Rodgers, GB (vs. New Orleans)

2. Michael Vick, PHI (@ St. Louis)

3. Philip Rivers, SD (vs. Minnesota)

4. Tom Brady, NE (@ Miami)

5. Josh Freeman, TB (vs. Detroit)

6. Drew Brees, NO (@ Green Bay)

7. Matt Schaub, HOU (vs. Indianapolis)

8. Eli Manning, NYG (@ Washington)

9. Tony Romo, DAL (@ New York Jets)

10. Matt Ryan, ATL (@ Chicago)

11. Matthew Stafford, DET (@ Tampa Bay)

12. Kevin Kolb, AZ (vs. Carolina)

13. Kyle Orton, DEN (vs. Oakland)

14. Sam Bradford, STL (vs. Philadelphia)

15. Jay Cutler, CHI (vs. Atlanta)

16. Joe Flacco, BAL (vs. Pittsburgh)

17. Matt Cassel, KC (vs. Buffalo)

18. Ryan Fitzpatrick, BUF (@ Kansas City)

19. Matt Hasselbeck, TEN (at Jacksonville)

20. Mark Sanchez, NYJ (vs. Dallas)

21. Rex Grossman, WAS (vs. New York Giants)

22. Colt McCoy, CLE (vs. Cincinnati)

23. Chad Henne, MIA (vs. New England)

24. Tavaris Jackson, SEA (@ San Francisco)

25. Kerry Collins, IND (@ Houston)

 

Running Backs

Could Impress: Felix Jones. We’ve seen glimpses of what Jones can do when he’s healthy. The Jets will test Jones and the Dallas offense, but if he is up to the task, we could be talking about a top-10 rusher this year.

Could Disappoint: Arian Foster. Foster is battling a hamstring injury, and with news that Peyton Manning will likely not play for Indy, there’s a real chance the coaches give Foster the week off and lean on Ben Tate and Derrick Ward. Definitely check your lineup before Sunday morning.

Keep an eye on: The New England backfield. Against a lesser opponent in Miami, the Patriots should be running the ball plenty in the second half. Fantasy owners should get a good idea of how Bill Belicheck plans on splitting carries between BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Danny Woodhead and Stevan Ridley.

 

RB Rankings

1. Adrian Peterson, MIN (@ San Diego)

2. Jamaal Charles, KC (vs. Buffalo)

3. Frank Gore, SF (vs. Seattle)

4. Maurice Jones-Drew, JAX (vs. Tennessee)

5. Darren McFadden, OAK (@ Denver)

6. Peyton Hillis, CLE (vs. Cincinnati)

7. Ahmad Bradshaw, NYG (@ Washington)

8. LeSean McCoy, PHI (@ St. Louis)

9. Chris Johnson, TEN (@ Jacksonville)

10. Felix Jones, DAL (@ New York Jets)

11. Steven Jackson, STL (vs. Philadelphia)

12. Arian Foster, HOU (vs. Indianapolis)

13. Knowshon Moreno, DEN (vs. Oakland)

14. Matt Forte, CHI (vs. Atlanta)

15. Michael Turner, ATL (@ Chicago)

16. Rashard Mendenhall, PIT (@ Baltimore)

17. Ray Rice, BAL (vs. Pittsburgh)

18. Tim Hightower, WAS (vs. New York Giants)

19. DeAngelo Williams, CAR (@ Arizona)

20. Shonn Green, NYJ (vs. Dallas)

21. LeGarrette Blount, TB (vs. Detroit)

22. Jahvid Best, DET (@ Tampa Bay)

23. Pierre Thomas, NO (@ Green Bay)

24. Reggie Bush, MIA (vs. New England)

25. Beanie Wells, AZ (vs. Carolina)

26. Ryan Grant, GB (vs. New Orleans)

27. BenJarvus Green-Ellis, NE (@ Miami)

28. Ryan Mathews, SD (vs. Minnesota)

29. Marshawn Lynch, SEA (@ San Francisco)

30. Cedric Benson, CIN (@ Cleveland)

31. Fred Jackson, BUF (@ Kansas City)

32. Jonathan Stewart, CAR (@ Arizona)

33. Brandon Jacobs, NYG (@ Washington)

34. Joseph Addai, IND (@ Houston)

35. Danny Woodhead, NE (@ Miami)

36. LaDainian Tomlinson, NYJ (vs. Dallas)

37. Thomas Jones, KC (vs. Buffalo)

38. Michael Bush, OAK (@ Denver)

39. Mike Tolbert, SD (vs. Minnesota)

40. James Starks, GB (vs. New Orleans)

41. Willis McGahee, DEN (vs. Oakland)

42. C.J. Spiller, BUF (@ Kansas City)

43. Mark Ingram, NO (@ Green Bay)

44. Justin Forsett, SEA (@ San Francisco)

45. Cadillac Williams, STL (vs. Philadelphia)

46. Tashard Choice, DAL (@ New York Jets)

47. Darren Sproles, NO (@ Green Bay)

48. Ricky Williams, BAL (vs. Pittsburgh)

49. Jonathan Stewart, CAR (@ Arizona)

50. Ronnie Brown, PHI (@ St. Louis)

 

 

Wide Receivers

Could Impress: Chad Ochocinco. It’s been a rough preseason for Chad, who is struggling to find his rhythm with Tom Brady. But both Brady and #85 are gamers, and I expect him to have a surprisingly good game on Monday.

Could Disappoint: Reggie Wayne. It’s been a long time since Wayne had to catch balls from a quarterback other than Peyton Manning. Much of the Colts offense was predicated on the timing between the receivers and Manning. With Kerry Collins or Curtis Painter likely under center on Sunday, expect a dip in Wayne’s numbers.

Keep an eye on: Mike Thomas. A midseason change at quarterback is tough enough, but throwing a new starter just a few days before the season begins? That’s cold. Thomas and the Jags receivers could talk awhile to warm up. Meanwhile, you might want to look for other options.

WR Rankings

1. Andre Johnson, HOU (vs. Indianapolis)

2. Calvin Johnson, DET (@ Tampa Bay)

3. Roddy White, ATL (@ Chicago)

4. Greg Jennings, GB (vs. New Orleans)

5. Hakeem Nicks, NYG (@ Washington)

6. Larry Fitzgerald, AZ (vs. Carolina)

7. Vincent Jackson, SD (vs. Minnesota)

8. Mike Wallace, PIT (@ Baltimore)

9. DeSean Jackson, PHI (@ St. Louis)

10. Dwayne Bowe, KC (vs. Buffalo)

11. Brandon Lloyd, DEN (vs. Oakland)

12. Marques Colston, NO (vs. Green Bay)

13. Anquan Boldin, BAL (vs. Pittsburgh)

14. Steve Johnson, BUF (@ Kansas City)

15. Kenny Britt, TEN (@ Jacksonville)

16. Percy Harvin, MIN (@ San Diego)

17. Wes Welker, NE (@ Miami)

18. Santonio Holmes, NYJ (vs. Dallas)

19. Miles Austin, DAL (@ New York Jets)

20. Brandon Marshall, MIA (vs. New England)

21. Reggie Wayne, IND (@ Houston)

22. Santana Moss, WAS (vs. New York Giants)

23. Mike Williams, TB (vs. Detroit)

24. Mario Manningham, NYG (@ Washington)

25. Dez Bryant, DAL (@ New York Jets)

26. Hines Ward, PIT (@ Baltimore)

27. Sidney Rice, SEA (@ San Francisco)

28. Chad Ochocinco, NE (@ Miami)

29. Roy Williams, CHI (vs. Atlanta)

30. Mike Thomas, JAX (vs. Tennessee)

31. Deion Branch, NE (@ Miami)

32. Eddie Royal, DEN (vs. Oakland)

33. Steve Smith, CAR (@ Arizona)

34. Derrick Mason, NYJ (vs. Dallas)

35. Lee Evans, BAL (vs. Pittsburgh)

36. Lance Moore, NO (@ Green Bay)

37. Braylon Edwards, SF (vs. Seattle)

38. Mike Sims-Walker, STL (vs. Philadelphia)

39. AJ Green, CIN (@ Cleveland)

40. Plaxico Burress, NYJ (vs. Dallas)

41. Pierre Garcon, IND (at Houston)

42. Julio Jones, ATL (@ Chicago)

43. James Jones, GB (vs. New Orleans)

44. Greg Little, CLE (vs. Cincinnati)

45. Johnny Knox, CHI (vs. Atlanta)

46. Jeremy Maclin, PHI (@ St. Louis)

47. Davone Bess, MIA (vs. New England)

48. Nate Washington, TEN (@ Jacksonville)

49. Mike Williams, SEA (@ San Francisco)

50. Michael Crabtree, SF (vs. Seattle)

 

Tight Ends

Could Impress: Jermichael Finley. He’s extremely hungry after watching his team win the Super Bowl on the sideline. Finley is an extremely rare combination of size, speed and skill, and should be a favorite mismatch target for Rodgers against the Saints.

Could Disappoint: Zach Miller. Seattle would be smart to work Miller into the offense, but with Tavaris Jackson and a shoddy offensive line battling the likes of Patrick Willis, it could be tough.

Keep an eye on: Lance Kendricks. Will the extremely good preseason translate to the regular season? If so, the Ram could be a  top-10 fantasy tight end.

 

TE Rankings

1. Antonio Gates, SD (vs. Minnesota)

2. Jermichael Finley, GB (vs. New Orleans)

3. Jason Witten, DAL (@ New York Jets)

4. Vernon Davis, SF (vs. Seattle)

5. Owen Daniels, HOU (vs. Indianapolis)

6. Dallas Clark, IND (@ Houston)

7. Rob Gronkowski, NE (@ Miami)

8. Tony Gonzalez, ATL (@Chicago)

9. Marcedes Lewis, JAX (vs. Tennessee)

10. Kellen Winslow, TB (vs. Detroit)

11. Jimmy Graham, NO (@ Green Bay)

12. Brandon Pettigrew, DET (@ Tampa Bay)

13. Dustin Keller, NYJ (vs. Dallas)

14. Aaron Hernandez, NE (@ Miami)

15. Lance Kendricks, STL (vs. Philadelphia

16. Zach Miller, SEA (@ San Francisco)

17. Todd Heap, AZ (vs. Carolina)

18. Greg Olsen, CAR (@ Arizona)

19. Brent Celek, PHI (@ St. Louis)

20. Ben Watson, CLE (vs. Cincinnati)

21. Jared Cook, TEN (@ Jacksonville)

22. Visanthe Shiancoe, MIN (@ San Diego)

23. Jermaine Gresham, CIN (@ Cleveland)

24. Heath Miller, PIT (@ Balitmore)

25. Travis Beckum, NYG (@ Washington)

 

Defense/Special Teams

Could Impress: San Diego. The Charger added some nice pieces in the offseason and get a favorable matchup in week one.

Could Disappoint: Chicago. The Falcons offense is loaded, and the Bears don’t have the benefit of cold weather helping slow down Matt Ryan. The drama with Lance Briggs wanting out of Chitown certainly isn’t helping.

Keep an eye on: Detroit. It’s a young defense that figures to get better, but the Lions get a nice test against a good Tampa Bay offense to open the season.

 

D/ST Rankings

1. Pittsburgh (@ Baltimore)

2. San Diego (vs. Minnesota)

3. New England (@ Miami)

4. New York Jets (vs. Dallas)

5. Green Bay (vs. New Orleans)

6. San Francisco (vs. Seattle)

7. New York Giants (@ Washington)

8. Chicago (vs. Atlanta)

9. Atlanta (@ Chicago)

10. Dallas (@ New York Jets)

11. Philadelphia (@ St. Louis)

12. Detroit (@ Tampa Bay)

13. Tampa Bay (vs. Detroit)

14. Kansas City (vs. Buffalo)

15. Cleveland (vs. Cincinnati)

16. Oakland (@ Denver)

17. Arizona (vs. Carolina)

18. New Orleans (@ Green Bay)

19. Houston (vs. Indianapolis)

20. Seattle (@ San Francisco)

21. Tennesse (@ Jacksonville)

22. Washington (vs. New York Giants)

23. Miami (vs. New England)

24. St. Louis (vs. Philadelphia)

25. Carolina (@ Arizona)

 

You can follow Stephen on Twitter @stephen_wqow

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