🖥 CYBER MONDAY - TAP TO SAVE 50% WITH CODE CYBER
X
Lost password?

Don't have an account?
Gain Access Now

X

Receive free daily analysis

NFL
NBA
NHL
NASCAR
CFB
MLB
MMA
PGA
ESPORTS
BETTING

Already have an account? Log In

X

Forgot Password


POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Import Your Leagues
Weekly Rankings
Compare Any Players
Projections
Articles & Tools
Weekly Planner
24x7 News and Alerts

Fantasy Football: Week 7 NFL Matchups & Sit/Start Advice (Part 2)

Welcome to the second part of our weekly matchup and sit/start analysis. Check out Part 1 here. Before we continue with our Sunday matchups, lets talk about our suicide pick of the week.

 

Suicide Pick of The Week: Record: 4-2

Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2025:

Last week we went with the safest pick ever when we took the Broncos over the Jaguars. This week, we are going with an upset. The New York Giants have been a huge disappointment so far this season and are off to a disastrous 0-6 start. The Giants are bad, really bad. The have no rushing attack, the defense is being exposed now that they can't get to the QB, and Eli Manning has turned into a turnover factory. That's not stopping us from taking them this week against the Vikings. As bad as the Giants are, they're not 0-16 bad, meaning they have to win sometime. Also, if it weren't for the Giants, Minnesota would be up there with the most disappointing teams in the NFC. Finally, the one thing the Giants do well is throw the ball, and they get to face a very suspect Minnesota secondary. Giants will win their first game this Monday night!

 

Week 7 NFL Matchups: Fantasy Football Analysis & Sit/Start Advice

Chicago Bears @ Washington Redskins, Sunday 10/20, 1PM

Jay Cutler Bears vs 49ersMatchup We Love: Jay Cutler, QB

Did you know that Jay Cutler is the seventh ranked fantasy QB in terms of total points so far this year? Did you also know that the Redskins defense is ranked 24th in the NFL against the past, and they have given up an average of more than 21 fantasy points per week to opposing quarterbacks?

Analysis: Jay Cutler is a must start in this matchup against the Redskins poor pass defense.

Matchup We Hate: Robert Griffin III, QB

I'm not sure what is going on in Washington, but it's not good. After watching RG3 look terrible against a Dallas pass defense that a week early had 50 hung on them, and was missing their best player, it's clear to me that the Washington signal caller is nothing more than a matchup play right now. Nobody wants to bench a QB with the running skills of Griffin, but I can's see any reason to start a guy against the Bears stout defense who struggled against Dallas. Eli Manning threw three picks against the same defense (when they still had DeMarcus Ware), and more than doubled his fantasy score.

Analysis: I'd sit RG3 this week. There has to be a better matchup out there.

Key Injuries: Charles Tillman CB, CHI (questionable), Martellus Bennett TE, CHI (questionable), Fred Davis TE, WAS (probable)

Start 'Em: Jay Cutler, Brandon MArshall, Matt Forte, Alshon Jeffrey, Martellus Bennett, Bears DEF, Robert Griffin III, Fred Davis, Santana Moss, Pierre Garcon

 

San Francisco 49ers @ Tennessee Titans, Sunday 10/20 4PM

Matchup We Love: Frank Gore, RB

After a slow start, Frank Gore is rolling,as the Niners have returned to focusing on the ground attack. The titans have a very good defense, so the Niners are going to rely heavily on the run yet again. That may not be a bad thing, as last week Marshawn Lynch, a similar style rusher to Gore, was able to find the end zone twice against them. Not to mention, both of Frank Gore's 100-yard games this season were also the two times we selected him as a matchup we loved. That can't be a coincidence.

Analysis: Frank Gore is a top RB2, and we like him as a must start this week.

Matchup We Hate: Chris Johnson, RB

Ok, now I'm starting to feel like I'm picking on the guy, as it seems like almost every week I'm picking against Chris Johnson. I make no bones about it, the former CJ2K is one of my least favorite fantasy players. I avoided him everywhere in all my drafts, but if you own him then I probably don't have to tell you that outside of his matchup against the Chiefs in Week 5, Johnson has failed to score more than 10 fantasy points in a game. That's borderline disastrous from a guy who most people selected in the second round, and some owners were relying on to be their top back. He's a forgotten man in the passing game and goal line situations, and has a matchup against a tough San Fran D this week. Not much to like here.

Analysis: Start Johnson if you absolutely must, but for those of you with running back depth, I'd look elsewhere.

Key Injuries: Colin Kaepernick QB, SF (probable), Vernon Davis TE, SF (probable), Jake Locker QB, TEN (questionable)

Start 'Em: Colin Kaepernick, Vernon Davis, Frank Gore, Anquan Boldin, 49ers DEF, Chris Johnson, Nate Washington, Titans DEF

 

Buffalo Bills @ Miami Dolphins, Sunday 10/20, 1PM

Matchup We Love: Fred Jackson, RB

Fred Jackson has been one of the most pleasant surprises for fantasy owners this year. An after thought in most drafts due to CJ Spiller's breakout year last season, Jackson has not only greatly outperformed his backfield mate this year, he's scored the tenth most fantasy points at his position. He makes for a great start this week with Spiller still nursing a sore ankle, and a matchup against a Miami defense that has struggled against the run, especially on their home turf.

Analysis: Despite the injury, CJ Spiller is likely to play, but that hasn't hurt Jackson value one bit this year. He's a must start this week.

Matchup We Hate: Stevie Johnson, WR

There is an all star list of receivers out this week due to bye weeks or injuries, so it may be tempting to use a solid guy like Steve Johnson, especially in a PPR, as a replacement. I like Johnson, but his QB situation is a mess, and I don't think Matt Flynn brings an ounce of stability to the position. The Dolphins have been tough against the pass at home, and with Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller, there is no reason for the Bills not to rely heavily on the run.

Analysis: Sit Johnson this week, and look for a replacement receiver elsewhere.

Key Injuries: CJ Spiller RB, BUF (probable), Mario Williams DE, BUF (probable), Steve Johnson WR, BUF (probable), Cameron Wake DE, MIA (probable), Chris Clemons S, MIA (probable)

Start 'Em: Lamar Miller, Mike Wallace, Brian Hartline, Dolphins DEF, CJ Spiller, Fred Jackson, Bills DEF

 

Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers, Sunday 10/20, 4:25PM

Matchup We Love: Ravens DEF

The Steelers offense woke up against the Jets last week as they finally got a win. Still, the Pittsburgh offense stinks, and after a slow start, the Ravens defense has been very good. Combine that with the fact that defenses facing the Steelers have averaged the fifth most fantasy points over the past four weeks, and it could be a big day for the Ravens defensive unit.

Analysis: The Ravens have a great matchup this week in the Steel city. Consider them a must start.

Matchup We Hate: Le'Veon Bell, RB

After an injury delayed his debut, Bell has played really well, and has offered a huge boost to a pretty poor Pittsburgh offense. Bell didn't fare so well last week against the Jets' defensive front, however, and I'm afraid it could be two subpar weeks in a row for the rookie. Since week three, the Ravens have shut opposing rushers down, and I think trusting a rookie to break that trend is asking a bit much.

Analysis: Bell could be in for his second consecutive single digit fantasy point total this week. He's a must sit against a tough Ravens D.

Key Injuries: Brandon Stokley WR, BAL (doubtful), Jarvis Jones LB, PIT (questionable)

Start 'Em: Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown, Emmanuel Sanders, Steelers DEF, Ray Rice, Torrey Smith, Joe Flacco, Ravens DEF

 

Houston Texans @ Kansas City Chiefs, Sunday 10/20, 1PM

Matchup We Love: Chiefs DEF

It's hard not to love the top defense in fantasy football so far this year against an offense that has turned into a turnover-prone train wreck. Five straight weeks giving up a pick six, a trend that was extended even after Matt Schaub left the game due to injury. It looks like they'll be without him this week and will roll with Case Keenum. I have a feeling the Chiefs D is going to have a turnover feast today, and will likely put up a monster fantasy total.

Analysis: The Chiefs defense is going to have a monster day. Start them with confidence.

Matchup We Hate: Andre Johnson, WR

It's really tough to bench Andre Johnson, but if there is anytime to do so, it may be today. Everything I said above about the Chiefs defense applies here to Johnson. His team's quarterback situation is a mess, and starting him mean you think rookie back-up Case Keenum is going to be able to get him the ball enough to be productive...against the best defense in football right now. If Johnson was an RB, you'd probably have to take your chances starting him, but at the very deep position of WR, you can probably find a much better matchup on your bench or on waivers.

Analysis: Start Johnson if you absolutely must, but I'd look around and give serious thought to sitting him this week.

Key Injuries: Brandon Flowers CB, KC (probable), Anthony Fasano TE, KC (probable), Andre Johnson WR, HOU (probable)

Start 'Em: Alex Smith, Jamaal Charles, Dwayne Bowe, Chiefs DEF, Arian Foster, Ben Tate, Andre Johnson, Owen Daniels, Texans DEF

 

Denver Broncos @ Indianapolis Colts, Sunday 10/20, 8:30PM

Matchup We Love: Andrew Luck, QB

Andrew Luck is rapidly developing into a superstar, and despite being a disappointment in what looked to be a very favorable matchup last week against San Diego, we love him again this week against the undefeated Denver Broncos. Opposing QB's have faired very well in terms of fantasy points this season against Denver, as their high scoring offense has put teams in a position where they need to throw it a ton just to keep up. With Peyton Manning returning to Indy for the first time, I think Luck is going to play with something to prove, and I think that even if he doesn't pull out the win, he'll have a good game.

Analysis: Andrew Luck is a must start QB option this week.

Matchup We Hate: Broncos DEF

The Broncos defense is solid, but after a fast start, they've regressed a bit in the past few weeks. After beating Seattle earlier this year, the Colts proved that they are a legit team, and I think the Colts offense has a big day in what could end up being a shoot-out. This is more of a gut feeling than anything, so if you want to go the other way here, I'm fine with that.

Analysis: I'd sit the Broncos defense. I think the Colts give the Broncos a run for their money this week.

Key Injuries: Wesley Woodyard LB, DEN (questionable), Darius Butler CB, IND (questionable), LaRon Landry S, IND (probable)

Start 'Em: Peyton Manning, Eric Decker, Demaryius Thomas, Julius Thomas, Wes Welker, Knowshon Moreno, Ronnie Hillman, Andrew Luck, Trent Richardson, TY Hilton, Reggie Wayne, Coby Fleener

 

============
Need Rankings? Check out our Week 7 Rankings to see how we value all players for Week 7. 

Be sure to check back for our remaining Sunday matchups. And as always, for advice on demand, check out the RotoBaller.com chat room. Good luck in Week Seven!




POPULAR FANTASY TOOLS

Expert Advice
Import Your Leagues
Weekly Rankings
Compare Any Players
Projections
Articles & Tools
Weekly Planner
24x7 News and Alerts

REAL-TIME FANTASY NEWS

Logan Cooley

a Game-Time Decision Monday
Josh Norris

Available Monday
Neal Pionk

Remains Out Monday
Lonzo Ball

Ruled Out on Monday
Jimmy Snuggerud

to Miss Six Weeks After Wrist Surgery
Justin Herbert

Having Hand Surgery on Monday
Steven Adams

Out Against Jazz
Kyler Murray

Cardinals Won't Open Kyler Murray's Practice Window This Week
Darius Garland

Unavailable Monday
Sauce Gardner

Not a Candidate to Go on Injured Reserve
Kristaps Porzingis

Out of Action Versus Pistons
Jayden Daniels

Not Cleared for Contact, Decision on Week 14 Status Delayed
Daniel Gafford

Sidelined Again on Monday
CFB

Josh Heupel Says He's Not a Candidate for Penn State Head Coach Job
Trey Hendrickson

Doubtful to Return in Week 14
Tee Higgins

Still in the Concussion Protocol
Drake London

"has a Chance" to Play in Week 14
J.J. McCarthy

in Line to Start in Week 14?
Aaron Jones Sr.

Not Dealing With Serious Shoulder Injury, Likely Day-to-Day
Sam Darnold

Dealing With Ankle Injury, "Should be Good" for Week 14
CFB

Will Stein, Brian Hartline the Top Candidates for Kentucky Job?
CFB

Nebraska Fires Defensive Coordinator John Butler After One Season
CFB

UCLA Expected to Hire Bob Chesney as Next Head Coach
Sauce Gardner

Officially Week-to-Week with Strained Calf
CFB

Lane Kiffin to Make $13 Million Salary, Ties Kirby Smart
CFB

Buster Faulkner, Joey Halzle Candidates for Florida Offensive Coordinator Job?
CFB

Kentucky Officially Fires Mark Stoops
Justin Herbert

Has Metacarpal Fracture in Left Hand
Amon-Ra St. Brown

Week 14 Availability Up in the Air
VEG

Carter Hart Expected to Make Golden Knights Debut Tuesday
Andre Drummond

Leaves Early, Status Now in Question
Pyotr Kochetkov

Remains Without Timeline For Return
Boone Jenner

Close to Returning
Tre Mann

Uncertain for Monday's Game Against Nets
Lian Bichsel

Exits With Injury Sunday
Deandre Ayton

Leaves Game With Knee Soreness
Petr Mrazek

Injured in Sunday's Loss
Adam Fox

Placed on Long-Term Injured Reserve
Brandon Williams

Questionable With Adductor Issue
P.J. Washington

Uncertain For Monday's Contest
Daniel Gafford

Expected To Miss Second Straight Game
Zach Ertz

Leads Washington in Receiving in Overtime Loss
James Cook

Handles Career-High 32 Carries for 144 Yards in Win
Egor Demin

Available Against Hornets
Justin Herbert

Planning to Play Through Broken Bone in Left Hand in Week 14
Terance Mann

in Danger of Missing Monday's Game
Sauce Gardner

Likely to Miss a "Couple of Weeks" With Calf Strain
Noah Clowney

Considered Probable for Monday
Michael Porter Jr.

Listed as Probable for Monday's Matchup
Caris LeVert

Expected Back Monday
Duncan Robinson

Questionable to Face Hawks
Jalen Duren

Likely to Return Against Hawks Monday
Brock Bowers

Records Two Touchdown Grabs in Week 13
Alexandre Sarr

Iffy for Monday
Mark Williams

Available Against Lakers Monday
Ryan Dunn

on Track to Return Monday
Justin Herbert

Suffers Fractured Hand in Week 13, Will Have Surgery
Kimani Vidal

has Season-High in Rushing Yards in Win Over Raiders
De'Von Achane

Looks Unstoppable on the Ground in Week 13
CFB

Lane Kiffin to be Introduced as LSU's Next Head Coach on Monday
CFB

Florida Poised to Land Jon Sumrall as Next Head Coach
CFB

Alex Golesh Taking Over Auburn Head-Coaching Job
CFB

Arkansas Expected to Hire Ryan Silverfield as Next Head Coach
Joel Hofer

Shuts Out Mammoth
Owen Tippett

Amasses Three Points in Saturday's Win
Stuart Skinner

Bounces Back With Shutout
Brock Nelson

Notches Four Points in Big Win
Oliver Ekman-Larsson

Sustains Upper-Body Injury
Logan Cooley

Hurt in Saturday's Loss
Warren Foegele

Not Ready to Return Saturday
Simon Benoit

Won't Play Saturday
Henri Jokiharju

Lands on Injured Reserve
Zack Wheeler

Likely to Return in May
Pavel Zacha

a Game-Time Call Saturday
Ryan Helsley

Agrees to Two-Year Deal With Orioles
David Pastrnak

Out for Second Consecutive Game
Dylan Cease

Agrees With Blue Jays on Seven-Year, $210 Million Deal
Anthony Rendon

Angels Could Buy Out Final Year of Anthony Rendon's Contract
Josh Hader

Says his Shoulder is "Back to Normal"
Ketel Marte

Diamondbacks "Actively Listening" on Ketel Marte

RANKINGS

QB
RB
WR
TE
K
DEF
RANKINGS
C
1B
2B
3B
SS
OF
SP
RP