It’s a given that the Atlanta
defense is a unit to target for any and all fantasy players, especially
quarterbacks. The Falcons have given up a league leading 13 touchdown
passes, and a mind warping 37.5 fantasy points per game to the
position. Teddy B looked spry last week as he enjoyed his best
game as a Panther, throwing for two scores and adding another
on the ground. The Panthers seem to be getting into a groove after
trying to adjust to a new coaching staff and several new offensive
parts. With Anderson and Moore out wide, Bridgewater has the weapons
to strike early and often, fire him up!
A few years ago this game would have been
a defensive slugfest, in 2020 it currently sports the highest
over/under of Week 5 at 57.5 points. After a drubbing against
Indy, the offense has found a bit of a groove, scoring 61 points
over the last two games. Both teams are going to have to pass
early and often to make up for a lack of defense. The Seahawks
have given up the most passing yards in the league (1,604), and
are dead last in total defense. The Vikings should be able to
move the ball, and should have multiple chances in the red zone.
Cousins hasn’t had a 300-yard passing game since Week 11
of last season, but that streak has a great chance of stopping
this week. Cousins is a solid bye week fill in, or DFS bargain.
From a fantasy perspective Murray has been
a gem this season, but it’s more about what he’s offering
as a runner rather than a passer. Murray passed for a paltry 133
yards last week, and has a 7-5 touchdown-to-interception ratio
on the season. He’s a sorry 27th in the NFL in yards per
attempt, and the offense as a whole is struggling to gain chunk
plays. Fortunately the Jets defensive unit is aggressive, but
undisciplined. They lack the talent to make up for missed assignments,
and won’t be able to put consistent pressure on Murray.
This offense desperately needs to establish a passing game threat
other than Hopkins. Look for Murray to hit a few big throws, and
find the endzone a few times.
The #1 overall pick has been as advertised,
becoming the first player in NFL history to throw for three-straight
300-yard games to start a career. Volume has been Burrow’s
friend, as he’s 2nd in the NFL in attempts with 177. In
a game the Bengals are double-digit underdogs, look for more high
flying antics from this offense. Unfortunately the quality of
those attempts are going to be in question, as the Ravens are
easily the toughest defensive unit he’s faced in his young
career.
Saying Foles is an upgrade over Trubisky
isn’t exactly a ringing endorsement, it’s more like
“no duh!” I’ve never been a believer in Foles,
and the fact he’s bounced around the league constantly is
all that needs to be said. He’s had a few hot streaks in
his career in the right systems surrounded by talent. He simply
doesn’t have the ability to elevate this Chicago offense
much at all. With Robinson the only viable passing game threat,
and an inconsistent running game, relying on Foles to win you
games is a losing strategy. Tampa blew a few coverages last week
against Herbert, but I don’t expect that to happen again
this week.
The reeling Cleveland ship has seemingly
been righted, but the league’s #1 defense comes to town
and should be able to lock up a Browns’ offense missing
one of its most important pieces, Nick Chubb. Cleveland has been
successful when it can grind opponents to a pulp with a 1-2 punch
of Chubb and Hunt, but Chubb’s knee injury puts a wrench
in those plans. Indy is giving up a measly 236 yards a game and
Mayfield is going to have to show a level of poise and confidence
he’s yet to display in 2020. He’s been under 200 yards
passing in 3 out of 4 this season and it’s clear this offense
is going to stay conservative as it gives the team the best chance
to win.
