Week 2 Fantasy Football Cheat Sheet
Which players who stunk in Week 1 will bounce back in Week 2? Dave Richard's Cheat Sheet will hardwire you into everyone worth starting.
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Each week, the Fantasy Cheat Sheet will combine Fantasy analysis and game predictions with a confidence scale to help owners get a definitive answer on who to start in their leagues.
What do the numbers mean? That's our confidence scale. It slides from 10.0 for a supreme rating to 5.0 for an average rating to a 1.0 for a help-I-need-someone-else rating.
Is the confidence scale based on a specific scoring system? It is based on standard leagues but is (mostly) applicable to PPR leagues. You should probably consult our PPR-specific rankings for more detail.
Who is listed below? Everyone who matters, but anyone already starting in 90 percent or more of CBSSports.com leagues is considered an obvious must-start. We're not going to waste your time trying to convince you to start Julio Jones.
What if someone isn't listed below? If someone's missing, it's not an accident. Anyone missing is a definitive must sit, if not a must-cut player. Or they're on bye.
What's the best way to find a specific player on this page? Use your personal search function -- CTRL-F on PCs and Command-F on MACs. If neither of those are options, or if you're on a mobile device, you can search by game. Games are listed by starting times.
What if I am still unsure who to start or sit after reading this? Ask me! Shoot me a note on Twitter (@daverichard) (use #CBSFCS) or drop me an email here. You can always consult our rankings, too.
And begin.
Broncos at Chiefs, Thu., 8:25 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Peyton Manning (6.8): His track record against the Chiefs is great. But his last trip to Arrowhead was challenging, and this one will be on a short week with an offensive line that will have a hard time keeping the Chiefs pass rush out of Manning's face. I'm nervous about him throwing touchdowns from outside the 10-yard line.
Alex Smith (5.8): Smith has struggled in two career games against Wade Phillips-coached defenses and will probably have to be more varied with his targets given the matchup this week.
Running backs
C.J. Anderson (8.0): Obvious must-start. He's expected to play.
Ronnie Hillman (5.8): Wouldn't be a surprise to see Hillman get another 10 touches or so and potentially find 50 total yards.
Jamaal Charles (9.2): Obvious must-start.
Wide receivers
Demaryius Thomas (8.1): Even with Manning iffy, Thomas has the track record and a decent matchup to find numbers.
Emmanuel Sanders (7.2): Sanders nearly hauled in deep passes from Manning last week but their timing seemed off. Can they fix it in three days time?
Jeremy Maclin (6.1): Nine targets in Week 1? Nice. Catching only one of three deep passes and getting targeted in the end zone once? Not nice. Tough matchup for him too.
Tight ends
Owen Daniels (5.3): Peyton connected with tight ends twice in two games against the Chiefs last year. Only two targets last week for Daniels, but he's the kind of fit the Broncos can use to slow down the Chiefs pass rush.
Travis Kelce (8.1): He might have to help block a decent amount, but aside from that, what else do you need to see from Kelce after last week's monster stat line?!
Defense/Special Teams
Broncos (7.7): They'll get to Alex Smith a bunch. They should pick him off at least once. They're a good starting option.
Chiefs (7.9): The entire key to this game is how the Chiefs pass rush does and if their back-end defense can tackle. If they can, they'll hold the Broncos to under 21 points.
Lions at Vikings, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Matthew Stafford (7.2): The Vikings had Stafford's number last year, holding him to one touchdown in each of two meetings. Calvin Johnson played and was considered healthy for one of those meetings and Stafford still struggled.
Teddy Bridgewater (5.6): The Minnesota offensive line didn't help Bridgewater in Week 1 and probably will get tested again in Week 2. It doesn't help he struggled against the Lions last season. Running backs
Ameer Abdullah (8.1): He's the real deal. I'd be shocked if the Lions didn't feed him the ball at least twice as much as they did last week.
Joique Bell (6.3): He seemed slow in his first game action since last year. Might morph into a touchdown-dependent Fantasy option. I wouldn't want to use him.
Adrian Peterson (8.9): Obvious must-start. Yes, even after Monday night.
Wide receivers
Calvin Johnson (8.2): Double-teams hurt Johnson's targets last week. There's no doubt he can still use his size and speed to create mismatches ... which is why defenses (including the Vikings) will continue to focus on him. Until other Lions step up, his numbers might not be so hot. But, you still should start him.
Golden Tate (6.5): Tate led the Lions with eight targets last week but came up with just 24 yards. You have to think he'll have the chance to take advantage of light coverage, just as he did late last season when he finished with a 7-38-1 stat line.
Charles Johnson (6.3): If the Vikings are smart they'll go with shorter routes this week and let Johnson try to make plays after the catch. The Chargers ate up the Lions doing that last week.
Mike Wallace (5.9): Don't expect a lot of deep passes for Wallace, but he's got a shot to be helpful after tying for the team lead in targets last week.
Tight ends
Eric Ebron (4.7): His touchdown came on a total coverage breakdown last week -- earlier in the game he had a bad drop. Speculate on him if you'd like, but starting him isn't a great idea.
Kyle Rudolph (6.3): Rudolph should work the middle of the field a bunch for the Vikings, giving him a shot to be productive. He'll at least serve as a safety valve in case Bridgewater's protection fails him again.
Defense/Special Teams
Lions (5.5): It's been a while since the Lions have taken on Adrian Peterson. After knocking off some rust last week, they could be overwhelmed. Remember, the Lions gave up two rushing touchdowns to Danny Woodhead in Week 1.
Vikings (5.7): Mike Zimmer did a great job limiting the Lions in two games last year (16.5 points per game). Even on a short week, expect the Vikings defense to defend the run a little better and bring heat on passing downs.
Cardinals at Bears, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Carson Palmer (8.9): After Aaron Rodgers torched the Bears for three touchdowns in Week 1, Palmer should have plenty to dissect when he takes them on in Week 2.
Jay Cutler (3.8): The Cardinals are fresh off a game where they held Drew Brees to one touchdown. Would you seriously start Cutler? Why?
Running backs
Chris Johnson (7.0): Weird stat: Arians' lead back has either scored or totaled over 100 yards in three straight against John Fox's defense. If that's not enough to make you trust Johnson, then maybe the pathetic Bears run defense from last week is.
David Johnson (5.0): This week you've got to figure the Cardinals will trust CJ0k more as the lead back. But down the line, don't be surprised to see the rookie pick up more work.
Matt Forte (9.4): Obvious must-start.
Wide receivers
John Brown (7.9): We liked Brown's speed as a difference-maker against the Saints and we like it again this week against the Bears. Consider him a fine No. 2 Fantasy option.
Larry Fitzgerald (7.7): Fitzgerald led the Cardinals in targets, catches and yards. It's not an accident that Palmer likes throwing to him a bunch. It'll continue.
Michael Floyd (3.75): Floyd played nine snaps last week. Give him more time.
Alshon Jeffery (8.0): Drawing Patrick Peterson as a cover corner isn't good news. But he's still going to get a lot of looks from Cutler.
Eddie Royal (3.65): It would make sense for the Bears to give Royal more opportunities. Expect it a bit more this week, though not enough to make you want to start him.
Tight ends
Darren Fells (3.5): It's beginning to feel like the Cardinals are blending in the tight end more this year. Fells played 84 percent of the snaps and had five targets. Five is high for a Bruce Arians tight end. Take note if he's as involved again.
Martellus Bennett (7.3): Bennett added another September touchdown to his career in Week 1. He'll have a real good chance to have a good game in Week 2.
Defense/Special Teams
Cardinals (7.5): Any defense going up against Jay Cutler has a chance at some nice sack and turnover totals.
Bears (2.7): Different coaches, same putrid defense in Week 1. It would be a shock if they held the Cardinals under 21 points.
Titans at Browns, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Marcus Mariota (6.0): One reason for his four-score game was because the Bucs secondary couldn't tackle. But another is because Mariota really is a smooth, accurate quarterback running a scheme he's a great fit for. Normally I'd be hesitant to go with a rookie after such a good game, but Ryan Fitzpatrick just shelled the Browns for 179 yards and two touchdowns. You've got to figure Mariota will be good for at least that much.
Johnny Manziel (2.0): A great start if you get points for turnovers in your league. Can't trust him.
Running backs
Bishop Sankey (6.8): It's so hard to buy into Sankey, but the Browns just let the Jets running backs pound on them for 155 rush yards and two scores. If there's a part of the Browns defense to expect improvement from in Week 2, this is it.
Isaiah Crowell (6.4): Before Manziel came in, Crowell had 14 yards on five carries. After? Six yards on seven carries. No doubt the Browns will try to run the ball more, and the matchup is better, but the Titans should be ready.
Duke Johnson (2.9): Still not ready for Fantasy lineups, but seven carries in Week 1 tells you he's not quite an afterthought.
Wide receivers
Kendall Wright (7.1): His matchup against Joe Haden figures to be interesting. Haden was burned last week but is still a good defender, but a quality quarterback can change the game. Wright is solid as a No. 3 receiver.
Justin Hunter (2.8): Big-time sleeper for the week. Browns let guys get open deep last week and the Titans could copycat.
Defense/Special Teams
Titans (6.1): This is a great matchup, and the coaching staff for the Titans is very familiar with the Browns personnel. Void of quality defenders, it would be gutsy to trust them in Week 2.
Browns (4.9): A week ago, this looked like a terrific matchup. But after dissecting the Bucs, and after the Jets hung 31 on them in Week 1, it doesn't look so hot. The Titans and Saints look better.
Patriots at Bills, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Tom Brady (8.0): Brady typically owns the Bills but has posted mixed results against Rex Ryan-coached defenses. There's no way you should sit him, but don't expect four touchdowns.
Tyrod Taylor (4.8): The Patriots are typically buttoned up against running quarterbacks, and the Bills might not call for much passing early on since effective rushing keeps the offense on the field. Taylor's fun to watch but isn't a great Fantasy option.
Running backs
Dion Lewis (6.2): With the Patriots figured to throw more than run, Lewis seems like the best Pats running back for Fantasy. Not that you should be jazzed to start him given the matchup.
LeGarrette Blount (5.5): No Patriots running back had more than 10 carries against the Bills last season -- and none had more than 11 against Rex's Jets either. The Bills run defense is for real and will be better in Week 2 with Marcel Dareus back.
LeSean McCoy (8.3): Obvious must-start.
Wide receivers
Julian Edelman (7.0): Just once in his last five games against Ryan has Edelman done better than seven Fantasy points (standard). The Bills will be aware of Edelman, and plans will be made to limit him.
Danny Amendola (4.05): It's a hunch, but with Edelman and Gronkowski drawing lots of attention, Amendola figures to be a potential contributor for the Pats and a Fantasy sleeper.
Sammy Watkins (5.4): New England did a great job taking Watkins away last season, but they had Darrelle Revis helping out. Expect another tough week for Watkins since Belichick will devise something to try and take away Watkins.
Percy Harvin (4.5): Harvin's 51-yard touchdown last week was just his second deep score since October, 2012. That also happened to be the last time he scored in back-to-back games. Buyer beware.
Tight ends
Rob Gronkowski (9.9): Gronk!
Scott Chandler (3.1): He has a shot at another goal-line score just as he did last week, but he might be asked to help block his ex-teammates rather than score on them.
Charles Clay (3.9): For whatever reason, the Patriots have always taken a tough approach with covering Clay; he's never had more than 59 yards in a game against them.
Defense/Special Teams
Patriots (5.1): It's not that the Bills offense is so scary, it's that the Patriots defense is so iffy.
Bills (6.4): The run defense will do its job, no doubt. But can they contain Brady and Gronk? Use them if you don't want to go through the hassle of carrying two DSTs but there are more appealing choices.
Texans at Panthers, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Ryan Mallett (3.9): Mallett isn't start-worthy but at least he has the arm to help Hopkins.
Cam Newton (6.6): We'd call him a must-start if Ted Ginn caught his deep ball or if Greg Olsen wasn't flagged for a ticky-tack penalty last week. He'll have some opportunities to put up some good numbers.
Running backs
Alfred Blue (5.6): Tough matchup + limited carries = unhelpful for Fantasy owners. He does play the Bucs next week, though.
Jonathan Grimes (3.6): Running backs totaled six catches for 46 yards against the Panthers last week. Grimes didn't do much as a receiver but he's the Texans passing downs back. He's a desperation flier in PPR leagues.
Jonathan Stewart (7.6): J-Stew got 22 total touches last week ... but only 81 total yards. Not sure his matchup this week is any easier than last week. He's a No. 2 running back by default.
Wide receivers
DeAndre Hopkins (9.0): You shouldn't need much convincing after last week's 13 targets, nine catches and a pair of short touchdowns. He might not have a real challenge until Week 7 at Miami.
Jerricho Cotchery (3.2): He's the Panthers' most reliable receiver, even if he's slow. The slot matchup against the Texans is a winner for him, but you'd have to be desperate to start him.
Tight ends
Greg Olsen (7.1): Obvious must-start. Yes, even after last week. Didya see what Travis Kelce just did to the Texans defense?!
Defense/Special Teams
Texans (8.0): A sprinkling of sacks wouldn't be a surprise, nor would an interception. Expect the Texans defense to give up fewer total yards and points than in Week 1.
Panthers (8.3): The second favorable matchup in a row for the Panthers. if Luke Kuechly doesn't play then the unit isn't quite as fearsome but should still be able to handle the Texans.
49ers at Steelers, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Colin Kaepernick (5.2): Kaepernick didn't have to do much on Monday night -- no pass was good for more than 20 yards. Expect him to take more shots this week, though starting him seems unnecessarily risky. Might be a good sleeper for FanDuel.
Ben Roethlisberger (9.1): The Niners took advantage of a poor O-line to record five sacks last week. Roethlisberger has a better line and should take advantage of a Niners secondary that still seems suspect.
Running backs
Carlos Hyde (8.5): There's no reason to believe Hyde will come to a standstill against the Steelers, even if he's pegged for running to the left side of his offensive line. The Steelers had a hard time containing Dion Lewis last week no matter where he ran. Bank on fewer carries though.
DeAngelo Williams (7.2): Williams proved to be serviceable last week, though he wore down as the game went on. If you expect around 80 total yards you shouldn't be too disappointed.
Wide receivers
Anquan Boldin (5.8): Boldin didn't have to do much last week. This week, he'll probably be more involved because the Niners will throw more and run less.
Torrey Smith (5.5): The familiarity of playing against the Steelers might pay off for Smith. He's got at least 63 receiving yards in three of his last four against them with a touchdown in two of his last three. He's on a different team but still got a deep target in his debut.
Antonio Brown (9.5): Obvious must-start.
Markus Wheaton (4.6): By now you should know what to expect from him. There's no evidence that suggests a big game.
Tight ends
Vernon Davis (6.1): The Niners would be nuts to not involve Davis after the Patriots scored four touchdowns with tight ends a week ago. Davis had a team-high six targets in Week 1 with some deep catch opportunities. He's a Top 12 tight end this week.
Heath Miller (5.7): As long as Martavis Bryant and Le'Veon Bell are out, Miller will play a big role like he did last week. He's useful for Fantasy.
Defense/Special Teams
49ers (4.3): They did a number on the Vikings but will find it tougher to go up against the Steelers on a shorter week. Expect the secondary to especially get tested.
Steelers (3.9): This feels like a bounce-back game for the Pittsburgh defense but specifics on their run defense and secondary keep them from being a trustworthy Fantasy option.
Chargers at Bengals, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Philip Rivers (6.5): Rivers has not posted big numbers in four straight against the Bengals (including the playoffs), averaging 229.0 yards per game with one touchdown or less in each. Expect the Bengals secondary to do a good job to extend that skid.
Andy Dalton (7.3): Dalton has a poor track record against the Chargers (including the playoffs), and San Diego is coming off a game where they held the Lions offense in significant check, complete with two interceptions. The Chargers didn't have too many breakdowns and won't be overpowered here. Dalton seems risky, but good enough to start if need be.
Running backs
Danny Woodhead (7.4): Woodhead's versatility and use in the red zone give him an edge over a bunch of running backs including his own teammate. He's clearly better in PPR leagues.
Melvin Gordon (6.0): Gordon had some nice runs last week but that fumble stunk. Tougher matchup for him at Cincy.
Jeremy Hill (9.3): Obvious must-start
Giovani Bernard (6.9): Could be more involved this week as a receiver. Had 14 touches last week including six catches. The Chargers had trouble with running backs in Week 1. He's a good FanDuel option too.
Wide receivers
Keenan Allen (6.9): Allen's targets were nice but the Bengals figure to be tougher with Allen and potentially sniff out the predictable routes he runs after what he put on film last week. He's more of a low-end No. 2 receiver with high-catch potential.
Steve Johnson (6.7): It should be a fun matchup between Stevie and slot cornerback Leon Hall, and it might even be one Johnson has some success with. Think of him as a third receiver.
A.J. Green (9.1): Obvious must-start. Last week's blowout sabotaged his stats.
Tight ends
Ladarius Green (4.1): Consistency has long been a problem for Green, and this isn't considered a favorable matchup. Even if he was a key in the Chargers second-half rally last week, he's not a safe play in Week 2.
Tyler Eifert (7.7): You'll start him because you don't want to lose out on his potential after a big Week 1, but the Chargers typically defend tight ends well -- Eric Ebron's touchdown last week came on a total breakdown.
Defense/Special Teams
Chargers (4.1): The Bolts proved they're better than initially believed but they'll be hard pressed to sack Dalton a bunch. Their best bet for Fantasy is a low-scoring game, which is certainly no lock. They might get run over.
Bengals (7.1): I know the Chargers offense just took the Lions to school, but the Bengals defense is better and should be in line to get to Rivers more than the two times the Lions did.
Rams at Redskins, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Nick Foles (5.0): A much-improved Foles was spotted in Week 1, taking (and hitting) deep shots despite pressure and a pair of turnovers. I just might buy into Foles as a FanDuel sleeper at Washington but can't find the guts to start him in a traditional Fantasy setting.
Kirk Cousins (1.7): The pressure of the Rams D-line combined with his sagging receiving corps make Cousins a stranger for Fantasy owners.
Running backs
Benny Cunningham (6.7): Cunningham proved us wrong last week with over 120 total yards vs. Seattle. The Redskins run defense is pretty solid but until Todd Gurley or Tre Mason get cleared, Cunningham is going to get a big dose of work. He's a sleeper in every kind of league.
Alfred Morris (6.5): Kind of hard to count out Morris after he stunned with 121 rush yards against the Dolphins. Thing is, he got it on 25 carries, the most for him since November of 2013. He struggled mightily against the Rams in a 2014 home game. I'd be cautious.
Wide receivers
Kenny Britt, Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey (3.8 avg.): It's pure speculation to say anything about any of these guys, especially since they combined for 12 targets, seven catches and 93 yards. It's worth remembering that Austin had the most snaps (80 percent) with Britt just behind him (77 percent). But the tight ends made plays last week. They're all risky.
Pierre Garcon (4.2): Eight targets are nice, but six grabs for 74 yards is right about the average for Garcon. He might have a hard time breaking for a big play.
Tight ends
Jared Cook (3.7): I am always leery of using Cook in Fantasy but I'll give credit where it's due -- he looked good last week and came up with two deep catches. He played more, had more targets and had better stats than any of the Rams' receivers. He might be worth the stash, if only for a week, in deeper PPR leagues.
Jordan Reed (4.3): Reed will get plenty of attention from Cousins and the Rams alike. We'll see if the St. Louis defense is suddenly giving to tight ends or just had a tough time against Jimmy Graham last week. Reed is a risky standard-league start.
Defense/Special Teams
Rams (9.0): Who's starting for Washington again? And who's catching passes? Yep, I'm in.
Redskins (3.3): This was a good matchup before the season, especially with all the Rams' running back woes. Now it suddenly looks a little scary.
Falcons at Giants, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Matt Ryan (8.6): Ryan threw for 316 yards and a touchdown last year against the Giants and hosed them for 270 yards and three scores in 2013. Pretty hard to sit Ryan after Romo found a way to score three touchdowns on New York last week.
Eli Manning (6.2): This is the second opponent in a row Falcons coach Dan Quinn knows well. Last week he kept the Eagles from taking off, and this week should keep Eli Manning in check. Eli couldn't get anything going deep at Dallas last week. Consider other options.
Running backs
Tevin Coleman (7.8): Coleman's 20 carries last week were encouraging. He proved he could handle the zone-blocking scheme and is easily the Falcons' top choice near the goal-line. He's worth a shot against the Giants' still-suspect run defense.
Devonta Freeman (5.2): Freeman proved to be a worthy passing downs back last week for the Falcons, a role he should embrace since he had a hard time finding room to run on 10 carries. He's a PPR consideration only.
Rashad Jennings (7.7): The Giants should opt to stick with their running backs. It's what kept their hopes alive last week and should remain the case here.
Shane Vereen (5.3): If there's one thing the Eagles taught the Giants last week it's that they can exploit the Falcons defense with running backs catching passes. Philly's running backs caught 14 passes for 111 yards and a touchdown. Vereen is a pretty darn good PPR choice.
Wide receivers
Julio Jones (9.7): Obvious must-start.
Roddy White (7.3): He's still a big part of Atlanta's offense and could easily match the four catches for 84 yards he had last week.
Odell Beckham (8.6): Until someone steps up, defenses will continue to shift coverage heavily toward Beckham. All of his grabs last week were from short range but they all came on varying routes. No one's sitting Odell, but there's no promise of a monster week until those targets grow.
Rueben Randle (4.1): Anyone who risked starting him last week will be scared to do so this week, and justifiably so.
Defense/Special Teams
Falcons (3.7): The Falcons impressed last week, though it was a tale of two halves. I might expect the Falcons scheme to hamper Eli and the Giants passing attack. They're an interesting sleeper. Dan Quinn's experience is definitely in play.
Giants (3.1): After getting plastered by the Cowboys in the fourth quarter, it's tough to envision them shutting down the Falcons, who scored an average of 27 points per game in each of the last two years against New York.
Buccaneers at Saints, Sun., 1 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Jameis Winston (4.0): Clearly, there will be growing pains for Winston to go through, but if he has his full receiving corps there is a shot for him to have a big game statistically whilst chasing points. A crazy, high-upside FanDuel sleeper.
Drew Brees (9.8): Obvious must-start, even if the Bucs have picked off Brees three times in each of their last two meetings.
Running backs
Doug Martin (7.9): Ride with Martin again -- he looked good enough in Week 1 and just needs more work. The lack of receptions against the Titans was alarming.
Mark Ingram (8.8): Ingram has had at least nine carries in three of six career games against the Bucs. He's scored in each with good yardage to boot. He's a big part of what the Saints are doing (eight catches last week!) and should be considered a great option.
Khiry Robinson (5.9): Robinson had nearly as many touches as Ingram last week, he just wasn't as effective. The good news is he played way less than Ingram. He's a sneaky PPR play in deeper leagues.
Wide receivers
Mike Evans (7.85 if he plays): Evans scored in his only game against the Saints last year and matches up extremely well with their slowish secondary. If he practices all week and is active come Sunday, start him.
Vincent Jackson (6.4 if Evans plays): Jackson had 11 targets in Week 1, a number that will come down in Week 2. Not that it did him much good anyway (four catches). He's a risky third receiver.
Brandin Cooks (8.5): The Titans receivers zig-zagged all over the field at Tampa Bay last week. Indoors on a fast surface should deliver optimal results for Cooks.
Brandon Coleman (5.2): His touchdown last week was what his coaches (and all of us) have been waiting to see. He also had seven targets (four grabs) and played over 75 percent of snaps. More like that could turn him into a legitimate part of the Saints offense. He's still available in 60 percent of leagues, by the way.
Marques Colston (4.8): Colston is a red-zone threat out of the slot. Maybe they throw the ol' dog a bone here against the Bucs' weak interior corners. He has 60 yards and/or a touchdown in six straight against Tampa Bay. That's about what you should expect.
Tight ends
Austin Seferian-Jenkins (6.5): ASJ has never been consistent, but he matches up incredibly well against a Saints secondary already dealing with some injuries.
Benjamin Watson (4.8): He whiffed last week but still played 92 percent of the snaps. The Bucs defense typically yields numbers to tight ends, so there's a chance Watson gets involved this week ... but where have I read that before?
Defense/Special Teams
Buccaneers (2.5): If you like trends, you'll see the Bucs have picked off Brees three times in each of their last two meetings. If you like reality, you'll see the Buccaneers as candidates to give up a ton of yards and points.
Saints (5.3): Many believe the Saints are worth starting because Jameis Winston has played sloppy football. But I don't like starting bad defenses, especially in divisional matchups. New Orleans will deliver good numbers but still might not finish in the Top 12.
Ravens at Raiders, Sun., 4:05 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Joe Flacco (7.0): I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if Flacco had a big bounce-back game. The Raiders secondary was already a mess to begin with but now they're shuffling safeties. And Flacco has a great track record against Jack Del Rio coached defenses -- at least 250 yards and two touchdowns in each of his last three.
Derek Carr (2.5): Lucky break for Carr -- his hand is good to go and he's the first to play the Ravens without Terrell Suggs. Does it make him start-worthy? Nah.
Running backs
Justin Forsett (8.2): Like everyone else on the Ravens, Forsett figures to have an easier time doing his job against the Raiders. Oakland allowed 4.7 yards per carry and 7.0 yards per catch last week.
Latavius Murray (7.3): Murray had a good enough 4.0 rushing average and had a surprising seven catches. So long as he keeps getting close to 20 touches per week he'll be worth starting.
Wide receivers
Steve Smith (7.5): Flacco tried to get Smith going last week but the matchup was too tough. This one isn't. Expect a nice game from Smitty.
Amari Cooper (6.0): Cooper had no room to make plays against the Bengals in Week 1. Now he'll see a bunch of Jimmy Smith, which isn't a death sentence for stats but it will be tough. The abundance of targets always will give Cooper a chance as at least a third receiver.
Michael Crabtree (3.5): Crab's good for five catches but if he doesn't score he's a waste of space in your lineup.
Tight ends
Crockett Gillmore (5.5): Gillmore has a puncher's chance against a Raiders defense that just let Tyler Eifert torch them. Gillmore also was the intended end zone target on the Ravens' final play last week. I'm telling you, he's involved in the offense. He's a sneaky sleeper.
Defense/Special Teams
Ravens (7.3): No Suggs makes this DST a risk, but they should be up for limiting the Raiders points with some turnovers along the way.
Raiders (3.5): The Ravens offense looked putrid because they were challenged by the Broncos. The Raiders are not the Broncos, even if Del Rio wants them to be.
Dolphins at Jaguars, Sun., 4:05 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Ryan Tannehill (8.1): Before you freak out over Tannehill's Week 1, know that Miami had the ball for just over 22 minutes. It's hard to run plays when you don't have the ball! Jacksonville's secondary isn't as good as the numbers it allowed in Week 1 suggest.
Blake Bortles (1.8): The Dolphins pass rush will get in his face, and frankly Bortles hasn't progressed enough to overcome it.
Running backs
Lamar Miller (8.4): Miller had 10 second-half carries for 51 yards last week and had but one target. In a game that could be a blowout, we should see much more from Miller. No other skill-position player had more than one carry.
T.J. Yeldon (6.6): Poor T.J. ... first the Panthers, now the Dolphins. There were signs of him being good -- a solid rushing average and three catches -- but he shouldn't be trusted if you can help it.
Wide receivers
Jarvis Landry (7.6): Landry is going to get open a bunch against the Jaguars' slot cornerbacks. If only his receiving average could spike ...
DeVante Parker (3.7): Whenever Parker breaks out will be a surprise. Maybe in a few weeks. He should remain benched on Fantasy rosters until we see signs of a breakout.
Allen Robinson (5.3): Robinson's Week 1 stunk -- six targets, one (nice) catch. More is expected but it's going to be hard against this Miami secondary, especially with his quarterback under siege.
Allen Hurns (4.4): Don't expect many, if any, deep looks from Bortles to Hurns. That means Hurns will have to get it done on short-range stuff. He could end up with numbers like he had last week.
Tight ends
Jordan Cameron (7.8): The Jaguars nearly allowed a touchdown to Greg Olsen last week and Cameron had several deep targets and red zone targets in Week 1. This is the week he breaks through.
Marcedes Lewis (3.0): Lewis might get attention given how Jordan Reed ripped apart the Dolphins in Week 1, but he's not nearly as explosive as Reed and might only come into play in the red zone.
Defense/Special Teams
Dolphins (9.5): Bortles is a turnover machine and the Jaguars offensive line isn't up to speed. This should be a productive game for the DST.
Jaguars (2.9): Even with Sen'Derrick Marks back, the unit isn't expected to put up numbers.
Cowboys at Eagles, Sun., 4:25 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Tony Romo (7.6): This will be Romo's first game without Dez Bryant since 2011 and his second ever. Sure, in 2011 he had a monster game without him, but without a dominant threat downfield it's going to be much harder. It's harder to expect Romo to throw for over 300 yards and two scores without Bryant around.
Sam Bradford (8.4): Eagles quarterbacks have a weird track record against Dallas, falling short of 275 yards in each of four tries under Chip Kelly with two total touchdowns in just two of four games. Injured quarterbacks came into play in two of those games. Bradford is fine and should have plenty of opportunities downfield.
Running backs
Joseph Randle (7.5): After topping 100 total yards on 19 total touches, ride Randle as a No. 2 running back until further notice.
Lance Dunbar (5.4): Passing downs/hurry-up offense back Dunbar has appeal as a PPR sleeper.
DeMarco Murray (9.0): Obvious must-start
Darren Sproles (6.1): He's the Eagles second-most used back (based on last week). His track record against Dallas is a major red flag but his potential on a dozen touches keeps him in the flex conversation.
Ryan Mathews (5.7): It's clear he's the carbon copy of Murray, but that means limited snaps unless something happens to Murray. If you start him, you're hoping for like 20 yards and a touchdown.
Wide receivers
Terrance Williams (7.4): Worked all offseason as the Cowboys No. 1 receiver until Dez showed up. We'll see if that pays off. Had seven games last year with five-plus targets but only delivered 10-plus Fantasy points in three. It's a whole new world for him with Dez absent.
Cole Beasley (5.0): A trusty short-area weapon of Romo's, he should get a bunch of targets in three-receiver sets. Not a bad PPR sleeper.
Jordan Matthews (8.4): Obvious must-start.
Nelson Agholor (6.2): The bad news: he had only two targets and one catch last week. The good news: he played 80 percent of the Eagles snaps. It's just a matter of time before he starts to contribute more and the matchup is better this week than last.
Tight ends
Jason Witten (6.7): Expect Witten to become an every-week fixture in Fantasy lineups with Dez out. That's because he's been Romo's security blankie for as long as they've been playing together. Need to know: Witten hasn't scored on the Eagles since 2010! I'd still roll with him.
Zach Ertz (5.1): It was good to see Ertz on the field for Week 1, and even better to see him play 70 percent of the snaps and get eight targets. But just three catches for 46 yards left an unsatisfying feeling. He shouldn't be cut, but he shouldn't start either.
Defense/Special Teams
Cowboys (4.5): Not this week, not against the high powered Eagles. They'll probably give up way over 300 yards.
Eagles (6.3): Kind of a gutsy, risky choice given the lack of firepower in the Cowboys offense. Not sure how often they'll sack Romo, but they should pick him off once or twice.
Seahawks at Packers, Sun., 8:30 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Russell Wilson (8.2): Wilson has scored twice in each of three career meetings with the Packers. He's also never thrown more than 29 passes in any of their matchups. He'll throw more this time and should have a better stat line than what we saw against St. Louis.
Aaron Rodgers (9.6): Obvious must-start. Don't be surprised if he smashes the Seahawks.
Running backs
Marshawn Lynch (9.1): Obvious must-start.
Eddie Lacy (8.7): Obvious must-start.
Wide receivers
Jermaine Kearse (5.1): Ten targets, eight catches, 76 yards last week. The Seahawks figure to throw a bunch at Green Bay, so Kearse should be involved. There's a sleeper element here.
Tyler Lockett (4.9): Pure high-upside play in leagues that don't count special-teams yardage. Obviously he's a must in leagues that do.
Doug Baldwin (3.3): Seems more like a PPR option based on last week's seven grabs for 35 yards. Lockett has more upside.
Randall Cobb (8.3): Obvious must-start.
Davante Adams (5.6): Worried about how many targets he'll get if Richard Sherman winds up lining across from him.
James Jones (4.7): He'll only help you if he scores. Hard to assume he'll score given the matchup.
Tight ends
Jimmy Graham (9.1): Obvious must-start.
Defense/Special Teams
Seahawks (6.7): It feels like they're going to give up a ton of points, but unless you're up for carrying two DSTs you might as well take your lumps. Much better matchups ahead for the Seahawks.
Packers (5.9): Not the safest option given the firepower the Seahawks have and should be able to produce. It's up to you whether or not you want to carry two DSTs.
Jets at Colts, Mon., 8:30 p.m. ET
Quarterbacks
Ryan Fitzpatrick (5.4): Typical Fitzpatrick -- willing to sling it into tight spaces and take chances with the ball. It worked out for him last week, and with the Colts pass rush iffy at best, he might be decent again. You just won't trust him for your team because there are far too many other quarterbacks without as much risk.
Andrew Luck (8.7): Obvious must-start? Playing at home helps but with no T.Y. Hilton, with Darrelle Revis patrolling half of the defensive secondary and with Todd Bowles previously demonstrating success against Luck, he's far from a must-start.
Running backs
Chris Ivory (8.6): The Colts allowed a pair of rushing touchdowns and nearly 100 rush yards last week to Bills running backs. The Jets proved their commitment to Ivory last week (20 carries) and he will be a huge part of their plan in Week 2 if only to keep the Colts offense off the field.
Frank Gore (7.1): It's another brutal matchup for Gore, but it's one of his last. The Jets run defense flexed its muscle against the Browns and should be able to keep Gore in check, especially if he doesn't end up getting many targets like last week.
Wide receivers
Brandon Marshall (7.8): Last week Marshall scored on one of the best cornerbacks in football in Joe Haden. This week he goes up against Vontae Davis, who he scored against the last time they faced in 2012. The nine targets tells you all you need to know about Marshall's role and expectations in the Jets offense. Don't be scared to start him.
Eric Decker (5.7): The matchup is even better for Decker, who won't face Davis much. If the Jets are forced to throw late it opens the door for Decker to collect more catches.
Andre Johnson (6.8): It looks like Darrelle Revis will stick to one side of the field (to Andrew Luck's right) because of Antonio Cromartie's injury. Johnson should take some turns on the other side and try to make gains against the likes of Buster Skrine and Marcus Williams. Expect his targets to rise if Hilton is out.
Donte Moncrief (6.6): Moncrief offers speed that Johnson doesn't have and experience Dorsett doesn't have. There is no doubt the Colts will take some shots downfield with Moncrief when he isn't lined up against Revis.
Phillip Dorsett (4.3): When the Colts go to a three-receiver set, Dorsett will play. But his targets and playing time figure to be limited, especially after his case of fumblitis last week.
Tight ends
Dwayne Allen (5.9): If the run game can't get going, and if the Colts don't test Revis very often, Allen figures to get a small bump in targets. And he's always a candidate to score.
Coby Fleener (4.5): We could see Fleener get a big jump in playing time with Hilton sidelined. He's a tough mismatch for the Jets to handle and was a problem for Todd Bowles' defense back in 2012.
Defense/Special Teams
Jets (6.9): I'm not so sure this is a tough matchup for the Jets. Frank Gore's banged up and T.Y. Hilton is out. Maybe the Jets defense gets some turnovers and sacks after all.
Colts (4.7): Until the Colts can figure out how to slow down the run, this DST shouldn't be trusted.
















