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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!




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