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Welcome back, RotoBallers, to another start'em and sit'em piece as we look ahead to Week 2! After an unpredictable first week, we now have more data to help you make the right lineup decisions for your fantasy team. This Week 2 matchups analysis and Start 'Em, Sit 'Em article is the perfect tool to make sure fantasy managers aren't starting the wrong players.
The first week of the NFL season was one of the wilder ones we have seen in recent memory. Passing touchdowns were down across the board, and several star fantasy players busted in Week 1. However, in this article last week, wideouts like DJ Moore, Drake London, and Chris Olave were all players fantasy managers should have thought about sitting to open the season. All three players scored 10 PPR fantasy points or less.
So, let's dive into every Week 2 game (Sunday through Monday) and analyze the best starts and sits. This article will go through every player in every game in Week 2 to determine whether your fantasy player should be started on your roster or not.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 1:00 EDT Games
Las Vegas Raiders at Baltimore Ravens
Spread: Ravens -9.5
Implied Total: Raiders (16) vs. Ravens (25.5)
Matchups We Love:
Week 1 wasn't the best showing for Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry, as he rushed for 46 yards and one touchdown. But he now gets a Raiders defense in Week 2 that just allowed 176 rush yards to the Chargers to open the season. With the Ravens almost double-digit favorites in this game, look for Henry to see over 20 carries with a good chance to score a touchdown. A bounce-back fantasy week should be in store for him.
TE Brock Bowers
Coming off a multi-week foot injury, not many fantasy managers knew what to expect from tight end Brock Bowers in fantasy. However, Bowers was a strong TE1 option in Week 1, catching six passes for 58 yards. While the Ravens do have a top defense, they did allow over 800 receiving yards to the tight-end position last year. Given that Las Vegas will be trailing for most of this game, the rookie is a top-10 option this week.
Matchups We Hate:
After struggling against the Chargers secondary last week, Gardner Minshew II now gets a Ravens defense that allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks in 2023. Patrick Mahomes was also held to only 16.1 fantasy points in Week 1. As a result, Minshew is better left on waivers or your bench in Superflex formats this week.
RB Zamir White
With the Raiders entering the game as big underdogs, running back Zamir White is someone fantasy managers shouldn't be looking to start in Week 2. White only played 38% of the team's offensive snaps in Week 1 and that could be the case again against this stout Ravens defense. The 24-year-old might not see many rushing opportunities on Sunday.
Other Matchups:
If you have quarterback Lamar Jackson, you are starting him against the Raiders. Despite being on the injury report this week with some soreness, he should be good enough to go in Week 2. Last week, Jackson rushed for 122 yards while throwing for 273 yards and one touchdown. With Maxx Crosby and Christian Wilkins manning the defensive line for Las Vegas, the reigning MVP could have another strong rushing day.
WR Zay Flowers
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers established himself as the primary short target for Jackson in Week 1, catching six passes for 37 yards. His 10 targets to open the year also ranked second on the team. As a result, he'll come into this week as a low-end WR2 in a solid matchup against the Raiders. Las Vegas allowed 11.4 PPR fantasy points to slot wideouts last week, including a touchdown to rookie Ladd McConkey.
The good news for Davante Adams is that he still has it. He ranked seventh last week in target separation (2.83) and ninth in snap share (96.7%) among all wideouts. The bad news, though, is that opportunities could be limited for him once again this season. However, he should see plenty of targets in Week 2 with the Raiders likely trailing a lot. So, Adams could have a much better fantasy game this week. He's a strong WR2 option.
TE Mark Andrews
Don't panic just yet on Mark Andrews in fantasy. Week 1 was disappointing -- as he caught just two passes for 14 yards -- but he was double-teamed on most of his routes in that game. The biggest thing to take away from that contest was that he played more snaps and ran more routes than Isaiah Likely. Let's see another week of Andrews before totally panicking on him. I'm still starting him as a TE1 in Week 2.
TE Isaiah Likely
It's hard to sit Likely this week after seeing what he did in Week 1. The Ravens tight end caught nine passes for 111 yards and one touchdown against the Chiefs. With the Ravens running more 12 personnel this year, the 24-year-old should be on the field a lot. He ran a route on 64% of his snaps last week, so he should see enough targets every week to be a viable TE1.
Isaiah Likely in his last 7 regular season games ⭐️
▫️433 yards
▫️40 targets
▫️30 catches
▫️6 TDs
▫️14.4 yards per catch #RavensFlock pic.twitter.com/D7Q79NAdUU— 𝙕𝙖𝙘𝙝🦦® (@NewEraZach) September 11, 2024
Injuries:
None
Cleveland Browns at Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: Jaguars -3.5
Implied Total: Browns (19) vs. Jaguars (22.5)
Matchups We Love:
RB Jerome Ford
Cleveland Browns running back Jerome Ford put together a solid fantasy performance in Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys. He finished as the RB10 in PPR formats while scoring 18.9 fantasy points and playing 75% of the offensive snaps. He also secured six catches for 25 yards in the contest. Now, Ford gets a Jaguars defense that allowed nine catches to running backs in Week 1. That makes him a sneaky RB2 play this week.
Matchups We Hate:
The Browns were one of the best defenses last year at preventing fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks. Cleveland gave up only 12.3 fantasy points per game to the position last year. So, Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence will enter the week as a risky option in one-quarterback and Superflex formats. Lawrence threw for just 162 yards and one touchdown last week against the Miami Dolphins.
Some Travis Etienne owners are panicking about Tank Bigsby's involvement in Week 1, but this is still his backfield in Jacksonville. However, he has a tough matchup against the Browns front seven in Week 2. Cleveland allowed 103.2 rushing yards per game and only 29.9 receiving yards per game to running backs last year. Despite the matchup, though, you are likely still starting Etienne as your RB2 this week.
TE Evan Engram
It was a rough first week for Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Evan Engram, who was held to one catch for five yards against the Miami Dolphins. While much better fantasy days should be in store for Engram, Week 2 might be another subpar fantasy day for the 30-year-old tight end. The Browns allowed only 7.96 fantasy points to the position last year and held Jake Ferguson to three catches for 15 yards before his injury in Week 1.
Other Matchups:
Jaguars WRs
With Cleveland's defense not being the best matchup for Lawrence, his wideouts (Brian Thomas Jr., Gabe Davis, and Christian Kirk) could struggle to put up solid fantasy numbers in Week 2. Both Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome are Pro Bowl corners and that could mean inefficient days for Thomas/Davis on the outside and Kirk in the slot. All three wideouts are likely low-end flex plays this week.
After last week's performance, it's best to sit Deshaun Watson in almost all Superflex formats. Even though Jacksonville allowed 338 pass yards in Week 1 and gave up the eighth-most fantasy points to the quarterback position last year, Watson is too risky to start in fantasy this week. He completed just 53% of his passes and threw two interceptions in his season debut. So, he should only be started in deeper Superflex formats.
On paper, the matchup for both Amari Cooper and Jerry Jeudy is a great one in Week 2. Jacksonville allowed the 10th-most fantasy points to the position last season while giving up the fifth-most wide receiver touchdowns (18). If there ever was a week for Cooper to have a solid day, though, it's this week against a Jaguars defense that allowed over 100 receiving yards to both Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle in Week 1.
Injuries:
- David Njoku (ankle) Ruled out
New York Jets at Tennessee Titans
Spread: Jets -3.5
Implied Total: Jets (22) vs. Titans (18.5)
Matchups We Love:
There is a path for both Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears to be strong plays in Week 2 against the New York Jets. The Jets just allowed 180 rush yards in Week 1 (most of which came from Jordan Mason). While Mason only caught one pass for five yards, New York did allow the eighth-most receiving yards to the running back position in 2023.
As a result, both Titans running backs could be in for sneaky fantasy days. New York couldn't stop the run last week, and Pollard ran efficiently in Week 1 with 16 carries for 82 yards and one touchdown. That makes him a solid RB2 option in Week 2, while Spears is a potential flex play after a quiet first week.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Will Levis
The way the 49ers moved the ball against the Jets defense last week was by running the football. Brock Purdy threw for 231 yards and no touchdowns last week and finished as the QB25 in all formats. S0, following Will Levis' struggles to open the season against the Bears, he should not be started in most Superflex formats this week. Levis threw for just 127 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions in Week 1.
Titans WRs
The Jets have one of the best secondaries in the league, led by cornerback Sauce Gardner. It remains to be seen if Gardner will shadow Calvin Ridley or DeAndre Hopkins in this game. Whoever Gardner goes up against has a tough matchup, considering he ranked second in man success rate (81%) last year. D.J. Reed is also in the picture and finished with a 73.9% man success rate in 2023.
Hopkins had a 28.4% win rate versus man last year -- which ranked 97th amongst all wideouts -- while Ridley ranked 52nd with a 36.3% win rate versus man. That makes both Titans wideouts risky fantasy options this week.
New York Jets tight end Tyler Conklin also caught one pass for six yards in Week 1 and now faces a Titans defense that has had success against tight ends in recent years. In 2023, Tennessee allowed the eighth-fewest fantasy points per game to the position (9.7) and tied for the fourth-fewest receiving yards (729). So, it's best to leave Conklin out of your starting lineup this week.
Other Matchups:
The Titans held rookie quarterback Caleb Williams in check to start the season, holding him to just 93 passing yards. But veteran Aaron Rodgers should post better numbers than Williams in this game. Still, Rodgers isn't that strong of a quarterback option this week. He doesn't have that rushing upside like other quarterbacks have, and the Titans gave up only 15.4 fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks in 2023.
RB Breece Hall
The Titans have had a solid run defense over the past few years, which included giving up 107.7 rush yards per game last year. In Week 1, they held Chicago's offense to rush for just 84 yards. However, all that shouldn't matter to New York Jets running back Breece Hall this week. Hall saw 21 touches in the first game, including five catches for 39 yards through the air.
Wide receiver Garrett Wilson will have a tough matchup against L'Jarius Sneed in Week 2. Sneed held DJ Moore to just three catches for 28 yards when he was matched up with the Bears wideout last week. So, expectations might need to be tempered for Wilson this week. Still, you aren't sitting the Jets wideout solely because of this matchup. He's talented enough to still finish with a solid fantasy day this Sunday.
WR Allen Lazard
Wide receiver Allen Lazard was a popular waiver-wire add this week after catching two touchdown passes on Monday night. With Sneed likely shadowing Wilson in this game, more opportunities could come Lazard's way in Week 2. Nonetheless, we should see one more week of the 28-year-old in this offense with Rodgers before committing to him as a weekly flex play.
Injuries:
None
San Francisco 49ers at Minnesota Vikings
Spread: 49ers -6.5
Implied Total: 49ers (26) vs. Vikings (19.5)
Matchups We Love:
49ers RBs
Mason filled in for Christian McCaffrey (Achilles) last week and rushed for 147 yards and one touchdown. If McCaffrey -- who has a "long shot" to play against the Vikings -- can't go, Mason will be a strong RB1 option again this week. If the All-Pro running back does suit up, he is a must-start while Mason would be a low-end flex play since McCaffrey would likely be limited.
Update: McCaffrey has been ruled out. Mason is a must-start.
WRs Deebo Samuel Sr.
With McCaffrey out last week, Deebo Samuel took on a larger role out of the backfield. He rushed eight times for 23 yards and one touchdown while also catching five passes for 54 yards. His versatility to play both running back and wide receiver makes him a must-start every week moving forward. His fantasy value would slightly increase as well if McCaffrey couldn't go in Week 2.
It was a tough matchup for Brandon Aiyuk last week against Sauce Gardner, and he was on the "matchups we hate" section in Week 1. However, I expect a better day for Aiyuk against the Vikings. Minnesota allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts last season and gave up 3,014 yards to the position. With the 49ers wideout almost fully ramped up to game speed now, he should see more opportunities. He's a strong WR2.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Sam Darnold
Minnesota Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold showed a lot of great things in Week 1 against the New York Giants, throwing for 208 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. But let's see what he can do against the 49ers defense. San Francisco gave up the sixth-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in 2023 and just held Aaron Rodgers to 167 passing yards. So, Darnold is a risky QB2 in Superflex formats this week.
RB Aaron Jones
It was nice to see running back Aaron Jones pick up where he did late last season. In Week 1, Jones ran 14 times for 94 yards and one touchdown en route to an RB9 finish in PPR formats. However, he'll have a difficult matchup this weekend against a 49ers defense that allowed Hall to rush for only 3.38 yards per carry last week. As a result, he's a fringe RB2 option in a game that Minnesota should fall behind early.
Other Matchups:
QB Brock Purdy
After scoring only 10.5 fantasy points in Week 1, Purdy's fantasy value is certainly down from a week ago. Nevertheless, expect him to put up much better fantasy numbers in Week 2. Despite the Vikings secondary playing well last week against the Giants, Minnesota still has plenty of holes in its secondary, and Purdy should be able to exploit those. He's a low-end QB1 on Sunday.
Given where you drafted wide receiver Justin Jefferson in fantasy, you aren't sitting him regardless of the matchup. Even though Charvarius Ward is coming off a Pro Bowl season, Jefferson should still have his way in Week 2. Ward ranked outside the top 25 in several categories last season, including man success rate (70.4%), catch rate allowed (58.7%), and receptions allowed (64). So, Jefferson could be in for a strong game.
Tight end George Kittle has become a boom-or-bust option for fantasy managers over the years. To start off his 2024 campaign, Kittle reeled in four catches for 40 yards in Week 1 against the New York Jets. A better week, though, could be in store for the veteran. Last season, he only scored under 10 PPR fantasy points in consecutive games only once.
Injuries:
- Christian McCaffrey (Achilles/calf) On IR
- Jordan Addison (ankle) Ruled out
Los Angeles Chargers at Carolina Panthers
Spread: Chargers -6.5
Implied Total: Panthers (22.5) vs. Panthers (16)
Matchups We Love:
The Los Angeles Chargers want to run the ball a lot every week, which hurts quarterback Justin Herbert's fantasy value. However, if there were ever a week to start Herbert in fantasy, it would be in Week 2 against the Carolina Panthers. They just allowed Derek Carr to throw for 200 yards and three touchdowns in basically two quarters last week. That's why Herbert is a sneaky QB1 in 14-plus team leagues this week.
Chargers RBs
Both J.K. Dobbins and Gus Edwards could be solid fantasy options this week against a Panthers defense that has plenty of holes. They allowed 132 rush yards in Week 1 and just lost their top run-stopper in Derrick Brown (knee) for the season. After Dobbins' 135-yard performance last week, he should be in most lineups this week in a great matchup. As for Edwards, he has the touchdown upside to be a viable flex play in Week 2.
jk dobbins the man that u are
📺 | @nfloncbs pic.twitter.com/YZGjq4cXYm
— Los Angeles Chargers (@chargers) September 8, 2024
Matchups We Hate:
QB Bryce Young
Despite Carolina upgrading its offensive line and wide receiver corps this offseason, Bryce Young, unfortunately, looks like the same quarterback from his rookie season. In Week 1, he threw for 161 yards and two interceptions. With the Chargers having an elite pass rush with players like Joey Bosa and Khalil Mack, Young could struggle again in Week 2. Los Angeles also held Gardner Minshew II to less than 12 fantasy points last week.
Other Matchups:
Chargers WRs
Joshua Palmer and Ladd McConkey are both interesting cases heading into Week 2. McConkey is coming off a better game -- catching five passes for 39 yards and one touchdown -- while Palmer was held to just two catches for 15 yards. If Jaycee Horn sticks with Palmer for most of the game, the Chargers wideout could have another mediocre fantasy day. So, the rookie might be the better player in Week 2, especially in PPR formats.
Update: Palmer is listed as questionable.
It's hard to trust running backs on bad offenses because their teams will likely be trailing most of the time. That was certainly the case in Week 1, as Chuba Hubbard only logged six carries. As a result, he's too hard to rely on in your fantasy lineups this week. If the Panthers can keep this game close, though, Hubbard could have some sneaky flex value. The Chargers allowed the eighth-most fantasy points to running backs in 2023.
Panthers WRs
Until the Panthers show some life on offense, all three wide receivers (Diontae Johnson, Adam Thielen, and Xavier Legette) are likely not startable fantasy options. Johnson caught two passes for 19 yards last week, while Thielen had three catches for 49 yards, and Legette totaled four catches for 35 yards. It's best to stay away from this offense right now.
Injuries:
- Jonathon Brooks (knee)
Seattle Seahawks at New England Patriots
Spread: Seahawks -3.5
Implied Total: Seahawks (20.5) vs. Patriots (17)
Matchups We Love:
Rhamondre Stevenson was in the same section last week and totaled 21.6 PPR fantasy points against the Cincinnati Bengals. Well, the 26-year-old should have another strong fantasy game in Week 2. Even though Seattle held Denver's ground game in check last week, it allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing running backs last year and a whopping 19 touchdowns to the position. Make sure Stevenson is in your lineups.
Matchups We Hate:
Patriots WRs
Like the Panthers, until we see the Patriots' passing attack have a good game, it's best to avoid all the wideouts (Ja'Lynn Polk, Demario Douglas, and K.J. Osborn) in this offense. Last week, Polk, Douglas, and Osborn were held to a combined six catches against the Bengals. On top of that, those wideouts will face some elite corners in Week 2 with Devon Witherspoon and Riq Woolen on the other side.
WR DK Metcalf
It's only a limited sample size, but New England Patriots corner Christian Gonzalez has already established himself as a lockdown cornerback after just five career games. In Week 1, he shadowed Ja'Marr Chase on 77.4% of his defensive snaps. In those snaps, he held Chase to just four catches for 25 yards. So, Seattle Seahawks wide receiver DK Metcalf could be in for a disappointing fantasy day for the second straight week.
Other Matchups:
QB Geno Smith
Quarterback Geno Smith had his fantasy day saved in Week 1 following his 34-yard rushing touchdown. Outside of that run, though, he was under pressure all afternoon and struggled through the air. Now, he faces a Patriots defense that just held superstar quarterback Joe Burrow to under 175 pass yards. As a result, Smith will enter Week 2 as a low-end QB2 in Superflex formats.
Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett is likely only viable in Superflex formats this season. But it will be hard to start him this week against the Seahawks. Seattle allowed 16.1 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks last season, and Bo Nix only scored 11.02 fantasy points last week. So, he comes into Week 2 outside the top 30 at the position in fantasy.
Seahawks RBs
Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III left Sunday's game early after injuring his abdomen. So, it remains to be seen if he will play in Week 2 after not practicing on Wednesday. If he can't go, Zach Charbonnet is a strong RB2 play this week. In two starts last year, Charbonnet saw at least 18 touches in both contests. Whoever the RB1 for Seattle is this weekend should be in your fantasy lineups.
Update: Walker is doubtful for this week, making Charbonnet a high-end RB2 this week.
WRs Tyler Lockett/Jaxon Smith-Njigba
It appears Tyler Lockett is still the preferred WR2 option for Smith in the passing game. Lockett caught six passes for 77 yards in Week 1, while Jaxon Smith-Njigba had two catches for 19 yards. If there is any optimism for Smith-Njigba moving forward, he did play 79% of the offensive snaps in Week 1.
However, until we see more consistency from him in fantasy, Smith-Njigba should be left on your bench. As for Lockett, he could be a fine flex play against the Patriots, especially if Gonzalez takes Metcalf out of the game.
TE Noah Fant
Tight end Noah Fant hasn't been fantasy-relevant since he arrived in Seattle, and there's a strong chance that continues this year. Fant saw just four targets in Week 1 in what was supposed to be an excellent matchup for him against the Broncos. The Patriots are now a much tougher matchup for the young tight end in Week 2, as they allowed only 8.9 fantasy points per game to the position last year.
Injuries:
- Kenneth Walker III (oblique)
New Orleans Saints at Dallas Cowboys
Spread: Cowboys -6.5
Implied Total: Saints (20) vs. Cowboys (26.5)
Matchups We Love:
QB Dak Prescott
Dak Prescott will play in his first home game since being paid a record-breaking contract, and the potential is there for him to have a huge game. New Orleans allowed 22 passing touchdowns last season, which was in the top half of the league. Prescott also performs much better at home. He averaged 308.8 pass yards and 2.75 touchdowns in eight home games in 2023, so you should start him with confidence as your QB1 this week.
RB Alvin Kamara
The Cowboys' run defense has struggled at times over the years; however, that's not why Alvin Kamara finds himself on this list. It's because of his potential in the passing game. Given that the Saints are 6.5-point underdogs and how quickly Dallas' pass rush can get to the quarterback, Carr will have no choice but to drop it down to Kamara in the passing game. So, fantasy managers can expect at least six catches from him in the contest.
There's a chance that New Orleans decides to put Marshon Lattimore (assuming he plays) on CeeDee Lamb throughout the game. If that's the case, Brandin Cooks could have a nice fantasy day, as he would likely match up against Paulson Adebo. Adebo ranked 74th in receptions allowed and 83rd in receiving yards allowed last year. After finishing with 14.5 PPR fantasy points last week, another solid fantasy day could take place in Week 2.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Derek Carr
After a strong performance last week, Carr will have a tough time replicating that against the Cowboys in Week 2. Deshaun Watson scored just 10.7 fantasy points versus this defense in Week 1, and Dallas allowed the seventh-fewest fantasy points (14.2) to opposing quarterbacks last season. So, it's best not to count on the Saints quarterback in fantasy this week, given the matchup on the road.
Wide receiver Rashid Shaheed is the definition of boom-or-bust at the wide receiver position in fantasy. Last week, Shaheed had one of those boom weeks, as he caught a 59-yard touchdown against the Panthers. However, he's too hard to trust on a weekly basis. If the Saints wideout lines up opposite Trevon Diggs on Sunday, which might be the case considering Diggs only stays on one side, he could see very little production.
Other Matchups:
Cowboys RBs
Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle almost evenly split the backfield work in Week 1. Elliott played 51% of the team's offensive snaps while seeing 12 touches for 49 yards and one touchdown. As for Dowdle, he saw 44% of the offensive snaps while totaling nine touches for 32 yards. Both Cowboys running backs are low-end flex plays every week, but given the veteran's touchdown upside, he is a better play this weekend.
WR CeeDee Lamb
With the Cowboys up big last week, they didn't need to rely on Lamb for most of the second half. But the All-Pro wideout looked like his former self in Week 1, making some big-time sideline catches. Lamb is a must-start every week, and he should have a much bigger fantasy day in Week 2 at home against the Saints.
WR Chris Olave
It was a disappointing first week for Olave. He was held to only two catches for 11 yards. However, fantasy managers shouldn't be panicking just yet. With the Saints expected to be behind in this game, the young wideout is a solid WR2 in Week 2. He could also avoid Diggs on the outside, and instead draw rookie Caelen Carson. That would help him produce strong fantasy numbers this week.
TE Taysom Hill
The Saints definitely want to get Taysom Hill involved early and often, and we saw that in Week 1 against the Carolina Panthers. He carried the ball five times for 35 yards while also catching one of two targets in the passing game. That type of usage makes him a sneaky tight-end option every week. He's a risky play in Week 2, but the potential is always there for him to score multiple touchdowns.
TE Jake Ferguson
Ferguson suffered a knee injury in Week 1, but there's a chance he will be ready for Week 2. If he does suit up, he will likely be limited -- which does hurt his fantasy value. However, against a Saints defense that allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends last year, he is still worth a start as your TE1 this week.
Update: Ferguson is listed as doubtful for Week 2.
Injuries:
- Jake Ferguson (knee)
New York Giants at Washington Commanders
Spread: Commanders -1.5
Implied Total: Giants (21.5) vs. Commanders (23)
Matchups We Love:
QB Daniel Jones
If there were ever a week to start quarterback Daniel Jones in fantasy, it would be in Week 2 against the Washington Commanders. Washington just allowed Baker Mayfield to throw for 289 yards and four touchdowns in Week 1. While it would be a long shot to expect Jones to put up those passing numbers, he could still provide sneaky fantasy value this weekend. That makes him a QB2 option in Superflex formats.
One thing is evident when watching Jayden Daniels: he will run whenever he can. In Week 1, the rookie ran 16 times for 88 yards and two touchdowns en route to a 28.2 fantasy point day. Now, he gets a Giants secondary that had plenty of trouble stopping Sam Darnold a week ago. So, fantasy managers should continue to lock Daniels in as their QB1.
It wasn't the best matchup for Brian Robinson Jr. last week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He averaged a mere 3.33 yards per carry in that contest. However, he still winded up with 17.9 PPR fantasy points, thanks to a touchdown early in the game. Considering what Aaron Jones did to that Giants front seven last week -- averaging 6.71 yards per carry -- Robinson could be in for a strong fantasy day as your RB2.
WR Malik Nabers
In his first professional game, wide receiver Malik Nabers finished with five catches for 66 yards. It was a nice sign to see the rookie play all 71 snaps this past Sunday while seeing seven targets. With how bad Washington's secondary looked in Week 1, it wouldn't be a shock to see Nabers explode in Week 2. Wan'Dale Robinson is also a sneaky flex play in 12-plus team leagues with a great matchup as well in the slot.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
If the Giants can stay in this game, running back Devin Singletary should have a better fantasy game this week. The Commanders allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing running backs last season. Those woes also continued in Week 1, as Rachaad White and Bucky Irving combined for over 26 PPR fantasy points. With Singletary locked into a workhorse role in New York, he could be a solid RB2 option in Week 2.
Most of Austin Ekeler's production in Week 1 came in the fourth quarter when the team was trailing. In the first three quarters, Ekeler only had one carry and one reception. So, even in a plus matchup, fantasy managers shouldn't necessarily be plugging him into their lineups. If Washington gets out to a lead early at home, the team will likely lean on Robinson more. Therefore, it could be an unfavorable game script for the veteran.
Two catches for 17 yards is all wide receiver Terry McLaurin had in Week 1. As a result, fantasy managers might choose to stay away from him in Week 2 against the Giants. He saw only four targets, and Daniels didn't seem to look his way in the contest. This might be one of those situations where we wait to start McLaurin in fantasy again until he has a solid game with the rookie under center.
Injuries:
None
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions
Spread: Lions -7
Implied Total: Buccaneers (22.25) vs. Lions (29.25)
Matchups We Love:
QB Baker Mayfield
Mayfield tore apart Washington's secondary last week and now gets another great matchup against the Detroit Lions in Week 2. Detroit just allowed Matthew Stafford to throw for over 300 yards to open the season, and last year, the Lions secondary gave up the third-most fantasy points to the quarterback position. That makes the Buccaneers quarterback a low-end QB1 option this week in a game Tampa Bay could throw a lot.
QB Jared Goff
Jared Goff didn't have the best fantasy game last Sunday, only scoring 12.4 fantasy points. However, look for him to bounce back this week against a Buccaneers secondary that allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to quarterbacks last year. Goff totaled over 20 fantasy points in both games against Tampa Bay in 2023, and the Lions quarterback has scored at least 20 fantasy points in 16 of his last 22 home games. Start him with confidence.
Buccaneers WRs
Given Mayfield's great matchup, both Mike Evans and Chris Godwin should be in store for strong fantasy days as well. Evans is coming off a two-touchdown performance, while Godwin had eight catches for 83 yards and one touchdown last week against the Commanders. While Detroit's secondary is a bit better than the Commanders, Lions cornerbacks Carlton Davis III and Terrion Arnold allowed a combined 164 yards last week.
As a result, both Evans and Godwin should be in your lineups this week.
TE Sam LaPorta
The Buccaneers were one of the worst teams in the league at defending tight ends last year, as they allowed the second-most receiving yards (1,074) to the position. Tampa Bay also allowed the third-most fantasy points to tight ends in 2023. So, Lions playmaker Sam LaPorta could be in for a huge fantasy day in Week 2. In both games against them last year, LaPorta saw at least 11 targets. He's my overall TE1 this week.
Matchups We Hate:
RB Rachaad White
Somehow White always finishes with above 15 PPR fantasy points. However, it might be tough to rely on him for that many fantasy points this week. Last season, Detroit allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs while giving up just nine total touchdowns (zero receiving). In Week 6 last year against the Lions, White was held to just 6.8 PPR fantasy points. So, he's a tough start this weekend.
The Buccaneers are also a top run defense and just held Brian Robinson Jr. to 3.33 yards per carry in Week 1. That's on par with how most running backs have fared against them on the ground over the past couple of seasons. Last year, opposing running backs averaged only 3.8 yards per carry. With David Montgomery struggling in both games versus this Tampa front seven in 2023 -- carrying 16 times for 47 yards -- he is a risky RB2 option in Week 2.
Other Matchups:
RB Jahmyr Gibbs
While running back Jahmyr Gibbs doesn't have a strong matchup against the Buccaneers, his potential in the passing game allows him to avoid the sit'em section. Despite Tampa Bay allowing the third-fewest receiving yards (435) to opposing running backs last season, Gibbs did have his way against this Buccaneers defense in the playoffs. He rushed nine times for 74 yards and one touchdown while also catching four passes for 40 yards.
No, you aren't sitting wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown because he had a poor fantasy day last week. He is still a must-start every week, and fantasy managers should expect a bounce-back performance from the speedy playmaker in this game. The Buccaneers allowed the fourth-most receiving yards (3,036) to wideouts in 2023, and St. Brown feasted against this secondary in both games last season.
Wide receiver Jameson Williams is dealing with an ankle issue from Sunday's game, but that shouldn't jeopardize his status for Week 2. After catching five passes for 121 yards and one touchdown last week, Williams has fully emerged as a potential weekly flex play for fantasy managers. With how bad Tampa's secondary has been in recent years, the 23-year-old wideout could have another strong fantasy day on Sunday.
Update: Williams is listed as questionable but is expected to play on Sunday (per Jordan Schultz).
TE Cade Otton
At times last year, Buccaneers tight end Cade Otton was someone fantasy managers considered to stream. He had multiple top-15 finishes at the position and finished with a career-high 455 receiving yards in 2023. However, following his one-catch performance in Week 1, it's best to likely stay away from him in fantasy this week -- unless you are in a tight-end premium league.
Injuries:
- Jameson Williams (ankle)
Indianapolis Colts at Green Bay Packers
Spread: Colts -3.5
Implied Total: Colts (22) vs. Packers (18.5)
Matchups We Love:
The Packers defense played pretty well last week, forcing Jalen Hurts to throw two interceptions. While they limited him to only 33 rush yards, Green Bay did struggle to contain rushing quarterbacks in 2023. Justin Herbert (73), Tommy Devito (71), and Justin Fields (59) all rushed for big numbers against them in 2023. Now, quarterback Anthony Richardson faces this unit after he rushed for 56 yards and one touchdown in Week 1.
Fantasy managers might be a bit disappointed in running back Jonathan Taylor following his subpar Week 1 performance. He rushed for 48 yards and one touchdown to finish with a mere 10.8 PPR fantasy points. But after looking at what Saquon Barkley did against the Packers run defense last week -- rushing for 109 yards and two touchdowns -- Taylor should be in for a bounce-back week. He is a strong RB1 option this week in a plus matchup.
RB Josh Jacobs
Not only will the Packers lean on Josh Jacobs more than ever with Jordan Love (knee) likely out for this game, but the matchup against the Colts couldn't get any better. Joe Mixon just ran for 159 yards and one touchdown in Week 1 against that run defense while averaging 5.3 yards carry in the contest. So, if you have Jacobs on your roster, you are starting him this weekend in a game that he should see a ton of carries.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Malik Willis
Most fantasy managers who need a quarterback in fantasy this week are possibly looking at Malik Willis due to his rushing upside. However, it's best to look elsewhere in Week 2. Willis is only averaging 7.3 fantasy points in his three career starts and Indianapolis only allowed 290 rush yards to opposing quarterbacks in 2023. As a result, he shouldn't be an option in most Superflex formats this week.
Update: Jordan Love has been downgraded to doubtful for Sunday, unlikely to play.
Packers WRs
No Love in this game likely means that Jayden Reed, Christian Watson, and Romeo Doubs are all risky flex plays on Sunday. Willis simply doesn't have the arm to support those wide receivers in fantasy this week, as the young quarterback has thrown for under 100 pass yards in each of his three career starts. Therefore, it's best to sit all three Packers wideout this weekend.
Update: Jayden Reed is questionable for Sunday.
Michael Pittman Jr. saw a commanding 42.1% target share in Week 1, as Anthony Richardson targeted him on eight of his 19 pass attempts in Week 1. However, if the Colts are only going to be throwing 18 to 22 times per game every week, Pittman will be a risky WR2 moving forward. The Colts playmaker could also be matched up against Jaire Alexander in this game, making him a player to consider leaving on the bench this week.
Other Matchups:
Colts WRs
With Josh Downs (ankle) nursing an ankle injury, it was the Alec Pierce show in Week 1. Pierce caught three passes for 125 yards and one touchdown, while rookie Adonai Mitchell only caught one pass for two yards. If Downs winds up suiting up in Week 2, though, Pierce will likely take a backseat this week. Until we know more about which Colts playmaker emerges as the WR2, you should probably stay away from this wide receiver room.
Update: Downs is listed as questionable for Sunday.
Injuries:
- Jordan Love (knee)
- Josh Downs (ankle)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Afternoon Games
Los Angeles Rams at Arizona Cardinals
Spread: Cardinals -1.5
Implied Total: Rams (24) vs. Cardinals (25.5)
Matchups We Love:
QB Matthew Stafford
Stafford threw a whopping 49 times in Week 1 against the Detroit Lions. Now, he gets a Cardinals defense that gave up a lot of fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks last year. Arizona allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to the position in 2023 and the third-most passing touchdowns (32). So, Stafford will come in as a low-end QB1 this week.
QB Kyler Murray
On the other side, quarterback Kyler Murray has a solid matchup against the Rams. Even though Los Angeles held Jared Goff in check last week, they could have a hard time containing Murray on Sunday. They gave up the fifth-most rush yards to quarterbacks last year while allowing over 18.8 fantasy points per game to the position. The last time the Cardinals signal-caller played against this defense, he scored 20.4 fantasy points.
The whole punt thing didn't seem to affect Kyren Williams' workload in Week 1. He played 91% of the offensive snaps and totaled 21 touches on offense. The efficiency wasn't there for him to start the season in a tough matchup against Detroit, but a much more efficient day should be in store in Week 2 against the Cardinals. Arizona gave up the most fantasy points and rush yards (2,027) to running backs in 2023.
WR Cooper Kupp
With wide receiver Puka Nacua (knee) placed on injured reserve, Cooper Kupp should only see more opportunities in the passing game. Last week, Kupp saw a whopping 21 targets and caught 14 of those for 110 yards and one touchdown. If things could get any better for him, he now has a matchup against a weak Cardinals secondary. Another 30-point fantasy day is certainly possible for the veteran wideout.
Fantasy managers are already upset with Marvin Harrison Jr. After a one-catch performance, most managers are likely sitting him on their bench this week. However, think twice about doing that, because Harrison's matchup on the outside against Tre'Davious White is better than people think. White gave up 107 receiving yards to Jameson Williams last week, and Murray will no doubt look at Harrison's way more this game.
TE Trey McBride
The tight-end position as a whole was disappointing in Week 1, but there are reasons to be optimistic about Trey McBride moving forward. For starters, he saw a team-high nine targets in the first week. If that high target share continues, McBride has a chance to be the overall TE1 in fantasy this year. In Week 2, a better fantasy day should be in store, as the Rams allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing tight ends in 2023.
Trey McBride could have had a much bigger Fantasy day in Week 1. You can watch every target ⬇️
Only expecting improvement from this Arizona Cardinals offense moving forward. pic.twitter.com/4hem7ptfb9
— Jacob Gibbs (@jagibbs_23) September 12, 2024
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
RB James Conner
Cardinals running back James Conner is the team's lead back. He totaled 19 touches for 83 yards and one touchdown in Week 1, while playing 67% of the offensive snaps. Despite the Rams being one of the best teams against the run last year, losing Aaron Donald up front is a big loss. Los Angeles allowed Detroit to rush for 131 yards and two touchdowns in Week 1, so Conner should be locked into your lineup this week.
WRs Demarcus Robinson/Tyler Johnson
Nacua's extended absence means Demarcus Robinson and/or Tyler Johnson will see more opportunities in the passing game. Last week, both Robinson and Johnson saw seven targets. While we don't know which wideout will emerge as the second option for Stafford, both Rams playmakers should see enough targets each week to be viable flex plays in 12-plus team leagues.
Tight end Colby Parkinson was a popular waiver-wire add this week following a four-catch, 47-yard day in Week 1. While that seems like a subpar performance, his 8.7 PPR fantasy points ranked as the TE7 on the week. Parkinson won't have much of a high fantasy ceiling each week, but in this game with Stafford expected to throw a lot, he's a low-end TE1.
Injuries:
- Puka Nacua (knee)
Pittsburgh Steelers at Denver Broncos
Spread: Steelers -3
Implied Total: Steelers (19.75) vs. Seahawks (16.75)
Matchups We Love:
RB Najee Harris
Steelers running back Najee Harris was the clear RB1 last week against the Falcons, totaling 20 carries for 70 yards. As a result, that should give fantasy managers the confidence to start him in Week 2 against the Broncos. Denver allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing running backs last year, and Kenneth Walker III ran for over 100 yards and one touchdown last week. Harris is a great play this week as your RB2.
The Broncos were the worst team against fantasy tight ends last year, allowing 99 catches for 1,088 yards and a league-leading 10 touchdowns. That makes Pat Freiermuth a sneaky TE1 this week. Justin Fields as his quarterback likely isn't the best news for fantasy value, but it was a nice sign to see him play 74% of the offensive snaps in Week 1. In a great matchup, Freiermuth is a solid start in fantasy in Week 2.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Bo Nix
Nix did not look like the same quarterback we saw in the preseason last week. Nix struggled to get much going through the air, throwing for only 138 yards and two interceptions against the Seahawks. The bad news for him is that the Steelers now come to town and that Pittsburgh defense made life difficult for Kirk Cousins last week. So, the rookie is a low-end QB2 in fantasy this week.
Steelers wideout George Pickens had a nice first week against the Falcons, catching six passes for 85 yards. However, Pickens is a sit for me in Week 2 with Patrick Surtain II likely shadowing him in the contest. Surtain held Metcalf to just five catches for 37 yards when he was in coverage last week, and the Broncos corner ranked 13th in man success rate (74.9%) in 2023. So, the Steelers wideout might not put up solid fantasy numbers on Sunday.
The good is that wide receiver Courtland Sutton saw a team-high 12 targets in Week 1. The bad, though, is that Sutton could have another poor fantasy day in Week 2 against the Steelers. Joey Porter Jr. will likely shadow him throughout the contest, and last year, Porter ranked seventh in target separation (1.2). The Broncos playmaker finished 68th in that same category in 2023, so he's a player I'm looking to sit this week in fantasy.
Other Matchups:
QB Justin Fields
As a passer, Fields didn't look too great in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons. He completed only 17 passes for 156 yards. But his rushing upside makes him a weekly QB1 as long as Russell Wilson (calf) is out. Fields ran 14 times for 57 yards last week, and that rushing potential makes him a strong QB1 option in Week 2.
Update: Wilson is not expected to be active for Week 2.
Broncos RBs
Javonte Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin will see most of the running back touches in this game, especially with Audric Estime (ankle) placed on injured reserve. Still, it might be too hard to trust either at this point in the season. Williams only rushed eight times for 23 yards in Week 1, while McLaughlin had 15 touches but only 5.8 PPR fantasy points. So, it's best to sit both this week against a tough Steelers defense.
Injuries:
- Russell Wilson (calf)
Cincinnati Bengals at Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Chiefs -5.5
Implied Total: Bengals (21) vs. Chiefs (26.5)
Matchups We Love:
When you look at what Rhamondre Stevenson did against the Bengals' run defense last week, it should give fantasy managers confidence about Isiah Pacheco in fantasy this week. Stevenson ran the ball 25 times for 120 yards and one touchdown against them last week. So, expect Pacheco to have his day on the ground versus a Cincinnati run defense that lost D.J. Reader this offseason. The Chiefs running back is a top-10 play in fantasy in Week 2.
WR Ja'Marr Chase
Fantasy managers shouldn't be worried about Chase in fantasy heading into Week 2. Of course, he saw just six targets in Week 1 and seemed visibly upset when talking to reporters after the game. Usually, when your star wideout is that upset, he will get force-fed with targets the next week. With Tee Higgins (hamstring) still not practicing and L'Jarius Sneed not with the Chiefs anymore, Chase has every opportunity to put up a big stat line.
TE Travis Kelce
Like most tight ends in Week 1, Travis Kelce didn't have a strong fantasy day. He scored just 6.4 PPR fantasy points behind a three-catch, 34-yard performance. However, Kelce's matchup against the Bengals this week is something fantasy managers should love. Cincinnati gave up the second-most fantasy points to tight ends in 2023 and the most catches (105) to the position. There's no reason to panic on the veteran in fantasy quite yet.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Joe Burrow
Burrow did not look great in Week 1, throwing for only 164 yards against the Patriots. Whether his wrist is still bothering him or he just had an off week to start the season, Burrow is someone you might want to stay away from in fantasy this week. For starters, the Chiefs allowed a mere 14.5 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks last season, and given that Higgins could be out for this game as well, he is a lower-end QB1 on Sunday.
Bengals RBs
Zack Moss was the clear RB1 for Cincinnati this past week, playing 65% of the offensive snaps and scoring a touchdown in the third quarter. However, fantasy managers should stay from both Moss and Chase Brown in Week 2. Kansas City gave up the ninth-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs last year and just held Derrick Henry to 3.5 yards per carry in Week 1.
Other Matchups:
QB Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes only scored 16.1 fantasy points in Week 1, which was disappointing for most fantasy managers. You are likely starting him regardless of matchup moving forward because of his upside at the position. However, Mahomes hasn't put up big fantasy numbers against the Bengals in recent years, only averaging 19.1 fantasy points over his last five meetings against Cincinnati. Still, you are starting him in Week 2.
WR Rashee Rice
Rashee Rice has emerged as the top wideout for Mahomes in the passing game, and that was evident in Week 1 against the Ravens. Rice caught seven of nine targets for 103 yards to open the season. With Marquise Brown (shoulder) still not practicing, the 24-year-old wide receiver should continue to have a high target share in the slot for Kansas City. He is a strong WR2 this week.
What a debut it was for rookie Xavier Worthy. Despite only totaling three touches in Week 1, two of those went for a touchdown. One was a 21-yard rushing touchdown early in the game, and the other was a 35-yard receiving touchdown in the fourth quarter. Worthy's upside in this Chiefs offense will make him a weekly flex play, but be patient because some poor fantasy weeks will come along the way.
Injuries:
- Tee Higgins (hamstring) Doubtful for Week 2
- Marquise Brown (shoulder) On IR
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Chicago Bears at Houston Texans
Spread: Texans -6.5
Implied Total: Bears (19.5) vs. Texans (26)
Matchups We Love:
RB Joe Mixon
The Bears defense has improved since the beginning of the last year. But that unit still has some weaknesses along the defensive line. Last week, Tony Pollard averaged 5.13 yards per carry while rushing for 82 yards and one touchdown. After seeing the way Joe Mixon was running last week against the Colts, this is a favorable matchup for him in Week 2.
WR DJ Moore
Moore was on the "matchups we hate" list last week due to his matchup against L'Jarius Sneed on the outside. But, this is a more favorable matchup for the Bears wideout in Week 2. Houston allowed multiple deep passes last week, including a 60-yard touchdown pass to Alec Pierce. With Rome Odunze (knee) and Keenan Allen (heel) both nursing injuries, this could be one of those big games from the Pro Bowl wideout.
Matchups We Hate:
It wasn't a pretty showing from D'Andre Swift in Week 1. He saw just 10 carries and was only targeted once in the passing game. Given how much trouble the Texans defensive line gave to Jonathan Taylor last week, Swift could be in for another subpar fantasy day. Houston allowed the second-fewest yards per carry last season (3.6), and with Chicago possibly trailing in this game, the Bears running back is not a strong play this weekend.
WR Nico Collins
I'm not necessarily sitting wide receiver Nico Collins because of his Week 2 matchup against Jaylon Johnson. It is something to keep an eye on, though, as you make your start and sit decisions. Johnson didn't exclusively shadow Calvin Ridley last week, as he matched up opposite him on only 42.9% of snaps. But in those snaps, Ridley caught zero passes. So, the Bears corner could give Collins some trouble in Week 2.
Other Matchups:
QB C.J. Stroud
The Bears defense did a nice job against Will Levis last week, forcing him to throw two interceptions (including one for a pick-six). However, C.J. Stroud is a much better quarterback, and Chicago's defense gave up the 11th-most fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks in 2023. It also allowed the fourth-most passing touchdowns (30). In what should be a high-scoring affair, Stroud is a strong QB1 option in Week 2.
QB Caleb Williams
If you started Williams in fantasy last week, you were likely frustrated with his 7.22 fantasy points. Williams looked like a rookie quarterback on the field in Week 1, completing just 14-of-29 passes for 93 yards. While the Texans defense did give up over 17 fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks last season, it's probably best to see the young quarterback put together a strong game before putting him in your fantasy lineup again.
WRs Keenan Allen/Rome Odunze
Both Allen (heel) and Odunze (knee) are dealing with injuries heading into Week 2. It remains to be seen if either will be able to suit up against the Texans, but there is optimism for both of them in fantasy moving forward. Allen saw 11 targets in Week 1, so if he plays, he is likely a solid WR2/WR3 for your fantasy team this week. As for Odunze, he is likely only a flex play this week if the veteran wideout misses.
Update: Both haven't practiced all week, both are game-time decisions for Week 2.
From Week 1, it's pretty obvious that Stefon Diggs will be the Texans' short-yardage option while Tank Dell will be the deep-threat option. Diggs totaled nine air yards last week, and Dell had 105 air yards. It's still somewhat of a risk to start either Houston wide receiver in fantasy this week because there just aren't enough targets to go around in this offense. So, both Houston wideouts are low-end WR2s this week.
Tight end Dalton Schultz (ankle) is dealing with an ankle injury and has yet to practice this week. As a result, there's a chance that Schultz will not suit up in Week 2 against the Bears. Even if he does, though, he is too risky to start as your TE1. He only scored 4.6 PPR fantasy points last week behind a three-catch, 16-yard performance.
Update: Schultz will play on Sunday night.
Injuries:
- Rome Odunze (knee)
- Keenan Allen (heel)
- Dalton Schultz (ankle)
Matchups Analysis - Monday Night Football
Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: Eagles -6.5
Implied Total: Falcons (20.5) vs. Eagles (27)
Matchups We Love:
QB Jalen Hurts
Hurts made some poor throws in Week 1 and only rushed for 33 rush yards in the season opener. However, the Eagles signal-caller should have a much better fantasy day this week against the Falcons. Atlanta allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks last year and tied for the second-most rushing touchdowns to the position (six). Lock him into your QB1 slot in Week 2.
If you lost David Njoku (ankle) for this week or are looking for a tight end, Eagles playmaker Dallas Goedert could be a strong start in Week 2. The Falcons gave up the fourth-most receiving yards (1,029) and the fifth-most catches (98) to the tight-end position last year. Goedert won't have a high fantasy ceiling -- given the other weapons in Philadelphia's offense -- but his high floor makes him a low-end TE1 on Monday.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Kirk Cousins
Cousins looked awful in Week 1 against the Pittsburgh Steelers and scored just 8.2 fantasy points. Even though Philadelphia allowed the most fantasy points to the quarterback position in 2023, it's too risky to start the Falcons quarterback in Superflex formats this week.
Other Matchups:
RB Saquon Barkley
Barkley showed in Week 1 why he deserved his multiyear contract from the Eagles this offseason. He rushed 24 times for 109 yards and two touchdowns while also catching two passes for 23 yards and one touchdown. The 27-year-old running back finished as the overall RB1 last week, and he has another strong chance to finish that high again in Week 2.
If you have running back Bijan Robinson in fantasy, you are starting him as your RB1 100%. He should also be in store for a strong fantasy day against an Eagles defense that struggled to contain Jacobs in the second half. The Packers running back averaged 5.25 yards per carry in Week 1, and Robinson's involvement in both the running and passing game makes him an RB1 heading into Monday night.
There should be no worries about starting either A.J. Brown or DeVonta Smith in your fantasy lineup this week. Both scored over 15 PPR fantasy points last week. Brown reeled in five catches for 119 yards and one touchdown, while Smith totaled seven catches for 84 yards. If Brown or Smith is shadowed by A.J. Terrell in this contest, they could have lower fantasy ceilings in Week 2. But you're still starting both Eagles wideouts on Monday.
Update: Brown is officially ruled out for Monday. Jahan Dotson becomes an interesting flex play in his absence.
WR Drake London
A poor Week 1 performance makes fantasy managers weary about starting London in fantasy. He only caught two passes for 15 yards. The only good thing that came out of last week's poor fantasy day was that London did play 100% of the offensive snaps. Better days should be ahead for the talented wideout, but until we see Cousins play better, the Falcons playmaker is a risky play. He's more of a WR2 this week.
TE Kyle Pitts
Tight end Kyle Pitts got into the end zone last week and finished as the TE4 in PPR formats. It was a nice sign to see him play 96% of the team's offensive snaps in Week 1 -- even after coming off a hamstring injury he suffered last week. With Cousins hopefully improving as a passer in Week 2, Pitts should be started in all formats this week.
Injuries:
- A.J. Brown (hamstring)
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