Quarterback
MVP: Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
This Patrick Mahomes fella is pretty good. The reigning MVP celebrated his final visit to Oakland by carving up the Raiders for 443 YDS and 4 TD's in a pretty easy 28-10 win on Sunday afternoon. Mahomes will likely face a much stiffer test this week when the Chiefs return home to face a Ravens defense that has only surrendered 1 passing TD so far this season.
Honorable Mentions: Lamar Jackson (Ravens), Dak Prescott (Cowboys), Tom Brady (Patriots)
LVP: Deshaun Watson (Texans)
The electricity Watson displayed in New Orleans last Monday didn't make it on the plane back to Houston. Even with star corner A.J. Bouye sidelined, the Jags pass D did an excellent job containing Watson-as he finished the day with just 159 YDS and 0 TD's through the air. A 2 yard rushing TD in the 4th quarter was the only real highlight of the afternoon for the 3rd-year QB who was once again let down by porous offensive line play. A road showdown with the Chargers, who are in the middle of the pack in points allowed to quarterbacks, awaits Watson in Week 3.
Dishonorable Mentions: Cam Newton (Panthers), Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Jameis Winston (Buccaneers)
Running Back
MVP: Dalvin Cook (Vikings)
Mike Zimmer's reported desire to commit to the running game wasn't a joke. Despite going down 14-0 early against the Packers, the Vikings continued to feed Cook and he did everything he could to get them back in the game-registering 191 scrimmage YDS (154 rushing, 37 receiving) and a rushing TD on 23 touches. Cook will look to keep his staggering hot start going against a stouter than anticipated Raiders run D on Sunday.
Honorable Mentions: Aaron Jones (Packers), Saquon Barkley (Giants), Ezekiel Elliott (Cowboys)
LVP: Christian McCaffery (Panthers)
In a prime matchup against the Buccaneers, McCaffery ended up being an afterthought in the passing game (2 REC/16 YDS) and mustered next to nothing on the ground (37 YDS) despite getting close to his usual number of carries (16). If Cam Newton ends up missing Week 3 after reportedly reaggravating his foot injury in practice, his workload (and subsequent odds of putting together a bounceback) could be even higher when the Panthers square off against a vulnerable Cardinals defense.
Dishonorable Mentions: Alvin Kamara (Saints), Damien Williams (Chiefs), Joe Mixon (Bengals)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Julio Jones (Falcons)
In an ugly primetime showdown full of bad QB decisionmaking, inexcusable drops and more injures than the Running of the Bulls, Jones brought a welcome sense of competence to this gridiron dumpster fire. The Falcons star wideout made the most out of his modest reception total (5), picking up 106 YDS and 2 TD's including a beautiful 54 YD catch-and-run that clinched the win over the Eagles. Matt Ryan hasn't been particularly sharp to open the year and their schedule is looking pretty brutal at the moment, but Jones should remain a no doubt WR1 as long as he's healthy.
Honorable Mentions: Odell Beckham Jr. (Browns), Chris Godwin (Buccaneers), Emmanuel Sanders (Broncos)
LVP: Josh Gordon (Patriots)
Believe it or not, there was a member of the Patriots that didn't dominate in South Beach last weekend. Gordon mustered just 2 receptions for 19 YDS against the lowly Dolphins D on a day where the passing game ran through Julian Edelman and Antonio Brown. He'll look to get back on track against a Jets secondary that just got torched by Odell Beckham Jr.
Dishonorable Mentions: Robert Woods (Rams), Deandre Hopkins (Texans), Dede Westbrook (Jaguars)
Tight End
MVP: Mark Andrews (Ravens)
Lamar Jackson's favorite target had himself another great game in Week 2. The sophomore tight end led the Ravens in receiving-picking up 112 YDS and a TD on 8 receptions-in a nice victory over the Cardinals. Andrews has lived up to the preseason hype thus far and should be locked in as a weekly TE1.
Honorable Mentions: Travis Kelce (Chiefs), Vance McDonald (Steelers), Greg Olsen (Panthers)
LVP: O.J. Howard (Buccaneers)
What the hell is wrong with O.J. Howard? He was regularly out of position, getting silly penalties and worst of all, didn't even manage a TARGET in last Thursday's showdown with the Panthers. There's too much upside to give up on him after just 2 weeks, but he's going to have to make some dramatic strides in the next couple weeks in order to remain rosterable, let alone a starting option for the rest of 2019.
Dishonorable Mentions: T.J. Hockenson (Lions), Jared Cook (Saints), Jimmy Graham (Packers)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Patriots
It really is shocking how much destruction can occur when a juggernaut faces off against some hapless amateurs. The Patriots defense downright embarrassed the Dolphins JV team, picking up 7 sacks, 4 INT's, 2 TD's and holding them to a shutout on Sunday. A Week 3 showdown with the Luke Falk-led Jets makes another finish atop the fantasy leaderboards seem very likely.
Honorable Mentions: Browns, Texans, Chiefs
LVP: Broncos
Despite only allowing 16 points, the Broncos mustered 0 sacks or takeaways in a home game against the Bears anemic offense. Vic Fangio's presence has not provided the expected boost to this group and they might be worth considering dropping after back-to-back below average performances to start the season.
Dishonorable Mentions: Cowboys, Ravens, Seahawks
Showing posts with label week 2 fantasy football winners and losers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label week 2 fantasy football winners and losers. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 17, 2019
Tuesday, September 18, 2018
Week 2 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers (2018 Edition)
Quarterback
MVP: Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers)
Patrick Mahomes' 6-TD performance in a 42-37 Chiefs victory grabbed all the real-world headlines out of Pittsburgh on Sunday, but Roethlisberger edged out the promising young signalcaller for the honor of top fantasy QB of the week. Thanks to an early 21-0 deficit that forced the offense to air it out pretty much right away, Roethlisberger put up a monster statline (461 YDS, 4 total TD and a 2-point conversion) that was enough for the Steelers to make an impressive rally and turn this game into a true shootout before the Chiefs pulled away again late in the 4th quarter. Even against a decimated Buccaneers secondary that has allowed back-to-back 300+ yard passers, Big Ben will be a relatively risky start on the road in Week 3.
Honorable Mentions: Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs), Kirk Cousins (Vikings), Matt Ryan (Falcons)
LVP: Alex Smith (Redskins)
For better or worse, Smith posted a vintage statline in Week 2. The notoriously conservative veteran didn't turn the ball over and cleared 300 total YDS (292 passing, 14 rushing) on the day, but failed to throw a TD against the Colts questionable defense in his home debut as the Redskins QB. Mr. High Floor/Low Ceiling takes on the Packers mediocre secondary in Week 3.
Dishonorable Mentions: Andrew Luck (Colts), Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers), Russell Wilson (Seahawks)
Running Back
MVP: Todd Gurley (Rams)
Gurley is such a special player that he even delivers for his fantasy owners on his off-days. The Cardinals stout front kept him relatively in check (73 YDS from scrimmage on 22 touches), but Gurley still managed to score 3 TD's on the ground and cross the plain on a pair of 2-point conversions. If you had the opportunity to draft him at the top of 1st round, you're probably doing pretty alright right now.
Honorable Mentions: Melvin Gordon (Chargers), Matt Brieda (49ers), Ezekiel Elliott (Cowboys)
LVP: David Johnson (Cardinals)
This total rebuild the Cardinals are currently going through has not been kind to David Johnson. The star back was limited to just 14 touches for 51 YDS on Sunday in an ugly 34-0 loss against the Rams. As long as the brittle, bumbling jabroni otherwise known as Sam Bradford is under center, Johnson will be relegated to high-end RB2 status.
Dishonorable Mentions: Adrian Peterson (Redskins), Isaiah Crowell (Jets), Peyton Barber (Buccaneers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Stefon Diggs (Vikings)
September has proven to be primetime for Diggs. The 4th-year wideout posted a ridiculous 9 REC/128 TD/2 TD/1 2-PT CNV day against a largely young Packers secondary that struggled to slow down the Vikings passing attack for the majority of the game. He'll be in the mix for another MVP honor this week as the Vikings take on the helpless Bills at home.
Honorable Mentions: A.J. Green (Bengals), Adam Thielen (Vikings), Michael Thomas (Saints)
LVP: Robby Anderson (Jets)
2017's surprise fantasy darling underwhelming start to 2018 continued in Week 2. Anderson caught 3-of-5 targets for 27 YDS and lost a fumble in a surprisingly lopsided 20-12 Jets loss to the Dolphins. His lack of chemistry with Sam Darnold paired with strong early play from Quincy Enunwa, who missed all of last season with a neck injury, make Anderson a very shaky WR3 play until further notice.
MVP: Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers)
Patrick Mahomes' 6-TD performance in a 42-37 Chiefs victory grabbed all the real-world headlines out of Pittsburgh on Sunday, but Roethlisberger edged out the promising young signalcaller for the honor of top fantasy QB of the week. Thanks to an early 21-0 deficit that forced the offense to air it out pretty much right away, Roethlisberger put up a monster statline (461 YDS, 4 total TD and a 2-point conversion) that was enough for the Steelers to make an impressive rally and turn this game into a true shootout before the Chiefs pulled away again late in the 4th quarter. Even against a decimated Buccaneers secondary that has allowed back-to-back 300+ yard passers, Big Ben will be a relatively risky start on the road in Week 3.
Honorable Mentions: Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs), Kirk Cousins (Vikings), Matt Ryan (Falcons)
LVP: Alex Smith (Redskins)
For better or worse, Smith posted a vintage statline in Week 2. The notoriously conservative veteran didn't turn the ball over and cleared 300 total YDS (292 passing, 14 rushing) on the day, but failed to throw a TD against the Colts questionable defense in his home debut as the Redskins QB. Mr. High Floor/Low Ceiling takes on the Packers mediocre secondary in Week 3.
Dishonorable Mentions: Andrew Luck (Colts), Jimmy Garoppolo (49ers), Russell Wilson (Seahawks)
Running Back
MVP: Todd Gurley (Rams)
Gurley is such a special player that he even delivers for his fantasy owners on his off-days. The Cardinals stout front kept him relatively in check (73 YDS from scrimmage on 22 touches), but Gurley still managed to score 3 TD's on the ground and cross the plain on a pair of 2-point conversions. If you had the opportunity to draft him at the top of 1st round, you're probably doing pretty alright right now.
Honorable Mentions: Melvin Gordon (Chargers), Matt Brieda (49ers), Ezekiel Elliott (Cowboys)
LVP: David Johnson (Cardinals)
This total rebuild the Cardinals are currently going through has not been kind to David Johnson. The star back was limited to just 14 touches for 51 YDS on Sunday in an ugly 34-0 loss against the Rams. As long as the brittle, bumbling jabroni otherwise known as Sam Bradford is under center, Johnson will be relegated to high-end RB2 status.
Dishonorable Mentions: Adrian Peterson (Redskins), Isaiah Crowell (Jets), Peyton Barber (Buccaneers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Stefon Diggs (Vikings)
September has proven to be primetime for Diggs. The 4th-year wideout posted a ridiculous 9 REC/128 TD/2 TD/1 2-PT CNV day against a largely young Packers secondary that struggled to slow down the Vikings passing attack for the majority of the game. He'll be in the mix for another MVP honor this week as the Vikings take on the helpless Bills at home.
Honorable Mentions: A.J. Green (Bengals), Adam Thielen (Vikings), Michael Thomas (Saints)
LVP: Robby Anderson (Jets)
2017's surprise fantasy darling underwhelming start to 2018 continued in Week 2. Anderson caught 3-of-5 targets for 27 YDS and lost a fumble in a surprisingly lopsided 20-12 Jets loss to the Dolphins. His lack of chemistry with Sam Darnold paired with strong early play from Quincy Enunwa, who missed all of last season with a neck injury, make Anderson a very shaky WR3 play until further notice.
Dishonorable Mentions: Demaryius Thomas (Broncos), Jamison Crowder (Redskins), Kenny Stills (Dolphins)
Tight End
MVP: Travis Kelce (Chiefs)
Last week I said it that was only a matter of time before Kelce redeemed himself following his underwhelming 1 catch performance in the opener. Turns out that this week was that time. Kelce was the focal point of this lethal-looking Chiefs offense against the Steelers, posting 109 YDS and 2 TD's on 7 receptions. The spread-the-wealth offense Andy Reid runs will result in the occasional stinker, but Kelce remains locked in as one of the few truly elite fantasy options at the tight end position.
Last week I said it that was only a matter of time before Kelce redeemed himself following his underwhelming 1 catch performance in the opener. Turns out that this week was that time. Kelce was the focal point of this lethal-looking Chiefs offense against the Steelers, posting 109 YDS and 2 TD's on 7 receptions. The spread-the-wealth offense Andy Reid runs will result in the occasional stinker, but Kelce remains locked in as one of the few truly elite fantasy options at the tight end position.
Honorable Mentions: O.J. Howard (Buccaneers), Evan Engram (Giants), Jimmy Graham (Packers)
LVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
Gronk ended up playing a very minimal role (2 REC for 15 YDS on 4 TGTS) in a game where the Patriots primarily attacked the Jaguars excellent defense via the run and short-passes. Look for his workload to return to normal against a banged-up Lions defense that is run by former Belichick underling Matt Patricia.
Gronk ended up playing a very minimal role (2 REC for 15 YDS on 4 TGTS) in a game where the Patriots primarily attacked the Jaguars excellent defense via the run and short-passes. Look for his workload to return to normal against a banged-up Lions defense that is run by former Belichick underling Matt Patricia.
Dishonorable Mentions: George Kittle (49ers), Jack Doyle (Colts), David Njoku (Browns)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Bears
Are the Monsters of the Midway back? While it's clearly too early to definitively answer that question, the 2018 Bears are definitely off to a hell of a start on the defensive side of the ball. Vic Fangio's troops absolutely feasted on a suspect Seahawks offense, registering 6 sacks, a fumble recovery and game-clinching pick 6 in a 24-17 win over the former NFC powerhouse. Chicago will look to stay hot this week in a showdown with the Cardinals anemic albeit turnover-averse offense.
Are the Monsters of the Midway back? While it's clearly too early to definitively answer that question, the 2018 Bears are definitely off to a hell of a start on the defensive side of the ball. Vic Fangio's troops absolutely feasted on a suspect Seahawks offense, registering 6 sacks, a fumble recovery and game-clinching pick 6 in a 24-17 win over the former NFC powerhouse. Chicago will look to stay hot this week in a showdown with the Cardinals anemic albeit turnover-averse offense.
Honorable Mentions: Rams, Chargers, Jets
LVP: Ravens
A week after absolutely dominating the Bills, the Ravens put forth a truly sad effort in front of a national audience. Andy Dalton, who arguably has the worst track record in primetime games of any veteran starting QB in the league right now, dominated this group for 60 minutes (265 YDS, 4 TD, 0 sacks or giveaways) in route to a 34-23 win last Thursday night. This talented group will look to prove this performance was a fluke when they take on a Broncos offense that has struggled with turning the ball over in the early going (Case Keenum has already tossed 4 INT's, which is tied for most in the league) this Sunday afternoon.
A week after absolutely dominating the Bills, the Ravens put forth a truly sad effort in front of a national audience. Andy Dalton, who arguably has the worst track record in primetime games of any veteran starting QB in the league right now, dominated this group for 60 minutes (265 YDS, 4 TD, 0 sacks or giveaways) in route to a 34-23 win last Thursday night. This talented group will look to prove this performance was a fluke when they take on a Broncos offense that has struggled with turning the ball over in the early going (Case Keenum has already tossed 4 INT's, which is tied for most in the league) this Sunday afternoon.
Dishonorable Mentions: Texans, Broncos, Vikings
Tuesday, September 19, 2017
Week 2 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers
Quarterback
MVP: Tom Brady (Patriots)
In a shocking twist, Tom Brady followed up an underwhelming game with an unreal one. Brady effortlessly carved up the Saints horrid defense at the Superdome on Sunday, scooping up 447 YDS and 3 TD's in the Patriots 1st lopsided win of 2017. With the JV Patriots (aka the Texans) headed to Gillette Stadium in Week 3, Brady should once again put up big numbers.
Honorable Mentions: Carson Wentz (Eagles), Drew Brees (Saints), Derek Carr (Raiders)
MVP: Tom Brady (Patriots)
In a shocking twist, Tom Brady followed up an underwhelming game with an unreal one. Brady effortlessly carved up the Saints horrid defense at the Superdome on Sunday, scooping up 447 YDS and 3 TD's in the Patriots 1st lopsided win of 2017. With the JV Patriots (aka the Texans) headed to Gillette Stadium in Week 3, Brady should once again put up big numbers.
Honorable Mentions: Carson Wentz (Eagles), Drew Brees (Saints), Derek Carr (Raiders)
LVP: Jameis Winston (Buccaneers)
Jameis Winston's season debut didn't go exactly as planned from a fantasy standpoint. Thanks to the Bears 4 1st half turnovers, the Buccaneers ran a very conservative offense for the last 2 and a half quarters, which subsequently caused Winston to have a pretty quiet game (204 YDS, 1 TD). Winston will look to put up bigger numbers this week when he faces a Vikings defense that just surrendered 243 YDS and 2 TD's to Ben Roethlisberger.
Dishonorable Mentions: Kirk Cousins (Redskins), Cam Newton (Panthers), Matthew Stafford (Lions)
Running Back
MVP: C.J. Anderson (Broncos)
A running back took over the Broncos/Cowboys game on Sunday afternoon and it wasn't the one that people expected it to be. C.J. Anderson had one of the most impressive games of his career to-date as he shredded the Cowboys disorganized D for 154 total yards (118 rushing, 36 receiving) and 2 TD's on 28 touches. Anderson has looked pretty solid to start off 2017 and appears like he can be trusted as a weekly RB2.
Honorable Mentions: Todd Gurley (Rams), Ty Montgomery (Packers), Kareem Hunt (Chiefs)
LVP: Ezekiel Elliott (Cowboys)
The league's reigning rushing champion looked mortal for the 1st time in almost a full year. While gameflow certainly didn't help, Ezekiel Elliott got eviscerated by the Broncos front 7, finishing with a career-low 22 yards (8 rushing, 14 receiving) on 13 touches. Zeke will remain in the RB1 conversation when the Cowboys square off against the Cardinals next Monday night.
Dishonorable Mentions: Jordan Howard (Bears), DeMarco Murray (Titans), LeSean McCoy (Bills)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Michael Crabtree (Raiders)
The Raiders resident touchdown vulture repeatedly swooped in for the kill against the Jets on Sunday. Michael Crabtree's 3 TD grabs capped off another solid performance (6 REC, 80 YDS) for the veteran wideout, whose career has been revitalized since joined the Silver and Black back in 2015. With his constant involvement in the passing attack and uncontested monopoly on the Raiders redzone targets, Crabtree is locked in as a high-end WR2.
Honorable Mentions: Emmanuel Sanders (Broncos), Davante Adams (Packers), Martavis Bryant (Steelers)
LVP: Amari Cooper (Raiders)
Not everyone can feast in a dream matchup and Amari Cooper ended up being the Raider who was left starving this week. The Jets defense held Cooper to just 4 receptions and 33 YDS receiving on an afternoon where they allowed 45 points and 410 total yards to the Raiders high-powered offense. Cooper has been susceptible to putting up duds in excellent matchups since he entered the league in 2015, so there's no reason to be concerned about his productivity at this point in time.
Dishonorable Mentions: Odell Beckham Jr. (Giants), Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals), Brandin Cooks (Patriots)
Tight End
MVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
The Rob Gronkowski that fantasy owners know and love was out in full force in Week 2. Gronkowski feasted on the slew of different defenders the Saints deployed to cover him, posting 116 YDS and a TD in 6 receptions. Gronk did miss the last few series of the game after suffering a groin injury early in the 4th quarter, but he currently appears to be set to suit up against the Texans this Sunday.
Honorable Mentions: Travis Kelce (Chiefs), Jason Witten (Cowboys), Delanie Walker (Titans)
LVP: Jimmy Graham (Seahawks)
For a 2nd straight week, Jimmy Graham was the biggest victim of the Seahawks anemic passing attack. Graham reeled in a single pass for 1 yard as porous offensive line play once again forced Russell Wilson to run for the hills 90% of the time he dropped back to pass. Unless the Seahawks can suddenly start giving Wilson more than 0.3 seconds to throw, Graham won't be worth starting in any league.
Dishonorable Mentions: Austin Hooper (Falcons), Julius Thomas (Dolphins), Kyle Rudolph (Vikings)
Defense/Special Teams
MVP: Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens defense made life hell for the Browns young offense, picking 3 sacks and 5 takeaways (4 INT, 1 FUM REC) in a dominant 24-10 win at M&T Bank Stadium. This unit has a strong chance of continuing their strong start when they travel to Londontown to face the Blake Bortles-led Jaguars in Week 3.
Honorable Mentions: Denver Broncos, Kansas City Chiefs, Arizona Cardinals
LVP: Jacksonville Jaguars
R.I.P. Sacksonville September 10, 2017-September 17, 2017. The Jaguars D came crashing back to Earth in week 2 after an unreal performance in the season opener, mustering a sack and an INT in a disastrous 37-16 loss to the Titans. The Jags will likely find a happy medium between their performances in the first 2 weeks of the season when they make their annual trip to jolly ol' England this week to face the Ravens, who have surrendered 3 sacks and turned the ball over 3 times in their first 2 games of 2017.
Dishonorable Mentions: Los Angeles Rams, Minnesota Vikings, New England Patriots
Tuesday, September 20, 2016
Week 2 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers
Quarterback:
MVP: Cam Newton (Panthers)
After a so-so game against the Broncos in the season opener, Cam Newton came out and proved why he was the top-drafted quarterback in most leagues this year with a tremendous performance against the 49ers. Newton recovered from a pair of ugly 1st quarter turnovers (an INT and a lost fumble) and went onto torch the 49ers physically-drained defense for 390 total yards (353 passing, 37 rushing) and 4 TD. Newton faces a much stiffer challenge in Week 3 when the Vikings and their criminally underrated defense come to Bank of America Stadium, but is still worth playing of because dual-threat abilities and excellent career track record at home.
Honorable Mentions: Matt Ryan (Falcons), Tyrod Taylor (Bills), Derek Carr (Raiders)
LVP: Jameis Winston (Buccaneers)
Jameis Winston threw up one of his trademark massive stinkers against the Cardinals. A huge early deficit forced Winston to conjure up the bad habits (rushed throws, forcing passes into double/triple coverage, etc.) he had during his days at Florida State and the Cardinals defense made him pay for it, picking up 4 INT's and a lost fumble on the afternoon. Fearless quarterbacks with a gunslinger mentality are going to have games like this every once in a while, but Winston's tremendous upside and vital importance to the functionality of the Bucs offense makes him worth keeping as a low-end QB1/top-flight QB2.
Dishonorable Mentions: Andrew Luck (Colts), Russell Wilson (Seahawks), Eli Manning (Giants)
Running Back:
MVP: Matt Forte (Jets)
Matt Forte isn't a human being. The 30-year old running back once again looked like a fresh-legged 20-something as he ripped off a 109-yard (100 rushing, 9 receiving), 3 TD performance against the Bills last Thursday night. In a 2-week span that has been nothing short of catastrophic for the running back position, Forte has been one of only a handful of guys that have yielded impressive results for their owners.
Honorable Mentions: Isaiah Crowell (Browns), DeAngelo Williams (Steelers), LeGarrette Blount (Patriots)
LVP: Mark Ingram (Saints)
What the hell is going on with Mark Ingram? The Saints workhorse back mustered 47 total yards (30 rushing, 17 receiving) on just 13 touches in the Saints surprisingly low-scoring duel with the Giants this week. Ingram has been a bizarrely small part of the Saints offense through the first 2 weeks of the season and if this trend continues in Week 3 against the Falcons, it may be time to start getting very concerned about his status as a viable fantasy starter.
Dishonorable Mentions: Carlos Hyde (49ers) , Eddie Lacy (Packers), T.J. Yeldon (Jaguars)
Wide Receiver:
MVP: Stefon Diggs (Vikings)
Don't look now, but Stefon Diggs might be a legit fantasy stud in the making. The Vikings 2nd-year wideout was once again the focal point of the offense, picking up 182 yards and a touchdown on 9 receptions, in the Purple Norseman's upset victory over the Packers on Sunday night. With a league-high 285 receiving yards through 2 weeks, Diggs appears to be a legit breakout candidate for 2016.
Honorable Mentions: Travis Benjamin (Chargers), Kelvin Benjamin (Panthers), Corey Coleman (Browns)
LVP: Antonio Brown (Steelers)
The most consistently productive player in all of fantasy football proved his mortality this week. Despite being targeted a team-high 11 times, Brown finished Sunday's contest versus the Bengals with just 39 yards on 4 receptions. Brown's return to dominant form in Week 3 is all but assured as he is set to square off against an Eagles secondary that is currently dealing with a rash of injuries.
Dishonorable Mentions: Golden Tate (Lions), A.J. Green (Bengals), Allen Robinson (Jaguars)
Tight End
MVP: Greg Olsen (Panthers)
A week after the league's healthy star tight end's all put up middling numbers, Greg Olsen and his counterparts ensured things returned to normal in Week 2. Olsen narrowly won the position MVP award over Martellus Bennett and Delanie Walker with his terrific, team-anchoring 5 REC/122 YD/1 TD performance against the 49ers. Olsen remains the clear number 2 target in the Panthers passing game behind Kelvin Benjamin and should continue to be one of the best options at TE just about every week.
Honorable Mentions: Martellus Bennett (Patriots), Delanie Walker (Titans), Vance McDonald (49ers)
LVP: Coby Fleener (Saints)
Another week, another letdown for Coby Fleener. Facing a Giants defense that got straight-up torched by Jason Witten in Week 1, Fleener managed to get just 2 receptions for 29 yards on 8 targets-which was tied with Willie Snead for 2nd-most on the team. Fleener has been a huge dud so far, but given the Saints status as the NFL's most pass-happy offense, he's still worth hanging onto for the time being.
Dishonorable Mentions: Travis Kelce (Chiefs), Dwayne Allen (Colts), Gary Barnidge (Browns)
Defense
MVP: Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals followed up a lackluster showing against the Patriots with one of the most dominant defensive performances in recent memory against the Buccaneers this week. The Cardinals made life a living hell for Jameis Winston and co., picking up 4 INT, 3 sacks, a fumble recovery and a TD while only allowing 7 points. The Cardinals have yet another excellent matchup in Week 3 as they take on the dysfunctional offense of the Buffalo Bills, so repeating this absurd level of production isn't completely out of the question.
Honorable Mentions: Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers
LVP: Oakland Raiders
The optimism that I had for the Raiders defense going into 2016 has gone up in flames. The Silver and Black's defense once again couldn't stop a nosebleed, as they got torched for 35 points by the Falcons on Sunday while only mustering a single sack and interception to try and offset their inability to stop opposing offenses from scoring at will. I'd say it's safe to go ahead and drop this underwhelming group immediately.
Dishonorable Mentions: New York Jets, Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills
MVP: Cam Newton (Panthers)
After a so-so game against the Broncos in the season opener, Cam Newton came out and proved why he was the top-drafted quarterback in most leagues this year with a tremendous performance against the 49ers. Newton recovered from a pair of ugly 1st quarter turnovers (an INT and a lost fumble) and went onto torch the 49ers physically-drained defense for 390 total yards (353 passing, 37 rushing) and 4 TD. Newton faces a much stiffer challenge in Week 3 when the Vikings and their criminally underrated defense come to Bank of America Stadium, but is still worth playing of because dual-threat abilities and excellent career track record at home.
Honorable Mentions: Matt Ryan (Falcons), Tyrod Taylor (Bills), Derek Carr (Raiders)
LVP: Jameis Winston (Buccaneers)
Jameis Winston threw up one of his trademark massive stinkers against the Cardinals. A huge early deficit forced Winston to conjure up the bad habits (rushed throws, forcing passes into double/triple coverage, etc.) he had during his days at Florida State and the Cardinals defense made him pay for it, picking up 4 INT's and a lost fumble on the afternoon. Fearless quarterbacks with a gunslinger mentality are going to have games like this every once in a while, but Winston's tremendous upside and vital importance to the functionality of the Bucs offense makes him worth keeping as a low-end QB1/top-flight QB2.
Dishonorable Mentions: Andrew Luck (Colts), Russell Wilson (Seahawks), Eli Manning (Giants)
Running Back:
MVP: Matt Forte (Jets)
Matt Forte isn't a human being. The 30-year old running back once again looked like a fresh-legged 20-something as he ripped off a 109-yard (100 rushing, 9 receiving), 3 TD performance against the Bills last Thursday night. In a 2-week span that has been nothing short of catastrophic for the running back position, Forte has been one of only a handful of guys that have yielded impressive results for their owners.
Honorable Mentions: Isaiah Crowell (Browns), DeAngelo Williams (Steelers), LeGarrette Blount (Patriots)
LVP: Mark Ingram (Saints)
What the hell is going on with Mark Ingram? The Saints workhorse back mustered 47 total yards (30 rushing, 17 receiving) on just 13 touches in the Saints surprisingly low-scoring duel with the Giants this week. Ingram has been a bizarrely small part of the Saints offense through the first 2 weeks of the season and if this trend continues in Week 3 against the Falcons, it may be time to start getting very concerned about his status as a viable fantasy starter.
Dishonorable Mentions: Carlos Hyde (49ers) , Eddie Lacy (Packers), T.J. Yeldon (Jaguars)
Wide Receiver:
MVP: Stefon Diggs (Vikings)
Don't look now, but Stefon Diggs might be a legit fantasy stud in the making. The Vikings 2nd-year wideout was once again the focal point of the offense, picking up 182 yards and a touchdown on 9 receptions, in the Purple Norseman's upset victory over the Packers on Sunday night. With a league-high 285 receiving yards through 2 weeks, Diggs appears to be a legit breakout candidate for 2016.
Honorable Mentions: Travis Benjamin (Chargers), Kelvin Benjamin (Panthers), Corey Coleman (Browns)
LVP: Antonio Brown (Steelers)
The most consistently productive player in all of fantasy football proved his mortality this week. Despite being targeted a team-high 11 times, Brown finished Sunday's contest versus the Bengals with just 39 yards on 4 receptions. Brown's return to dominant form in Week 3 is all but assured as he is set to square off against an Eagles secondary that is currently dealing with a rash of injuries.
Dishonorable Mentions: Golden Tate (Lions), A.J. Green (Bengals), Allen Robinson (Jaguars)
Tight End
MVP: Greg Olsen (Panthers)
A week after the league's healthy star tight end's all put up middling numbers, Greg Olsen and his counterparts ensured things returned to normal in Week 2. Olsen narrowly won the position MVP award over Martellus Bennett and Delanie Walker with his terrific, team-anchoring 5 REC/122 YD/1 TD performance against the 49ers. Olsen remains the clear number 2 target in the Panthers passing game behind Kelvin Benjamin and should continue to be one of the best options at TE just about every week.
Honorable Mentions: Martellus Bennett (Patriots), Delanie Walker (Titans), Vance McDonald (49ers)
LVP: Coby Fleener (Saints)
Another week, another letdown for Coby Fleener. Facing a Giants defense that got straight-up torched by Jason Witten in Week 1, Fleener managed to get just 2 receptions for 29 yards on 8 targets-which was tied with Willie Snead for 2nd-most on the team. Fleener has been a huge dud so far, but given the Saints status as the NFL's most pass-happy offense, he's still worth hanging onto for the time being.
Dishonorable Mentions: Travis Kelce (Chiefs), Dwayne Allen (Colts), Gary Barnidge (Browns)
Defense
MVP: Arizona Cardinals
The Cardinals followed up a lackluster showing against the Patriots with one of the most dominant defensive performances in recent memory against the Buccaneers this week. The Cardinals made life a living hell for Jameis Winston and co., picking up 4 INT, 3 sacks, a fumble recovery and a TD while only allowing 7 points. The Cardinals have yet another excellent matchup in Week 3 as they take on the dysfunctional offense of the Buffalo Bills, so repeating this absurd level of production isn't completely out of the question.
Honorable Mentions: Denver Broncos, Houston Texans, Carolina Panthers
LVP: Oakland Raiders
The optimism that I had for the Raiders defense going into 2016 has gone up in flames. The Silver and Black's defense once again couldn't stop a nosebleed, as they got torched for 35 points by the Falcons on Sunday while only mustering a single sack and interception to try and offset their inability to stop opposing offenses from scoring at will. I'd say it's safe to go ahead and drop this underwhelming group immediately.
Dishonorable Mentions: New York Jets, Cincinnati Bengals, Buffalo Bills
Tuesday, September 22, 2015
2015 Week 2 Fantasy Football Winners and Losers
Quarterback
MVP: Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers):
Roethlisberger was able to put his middling week 1 performance behind him and put on a show for Steeler nation in their home opener against the 49ers on Sunday afternoon. Roethlisberger decimated the 49ers rebuilt defense, putting up 369 yards, 3 TD's and a pair of 2-point conversions before being benched in garbage time. The scariest part about this performance was that Roethlisberger is that he was able to shred through the 49ers D without star running back Le'Veon Bell and lethal young wide receiver Martavis Bryant (they're both currently serving marijuana-related suspensions) in the lineup. Once Roethlisberger gets Bell back next week and Bryant back in Week 5, he should be nearly unstoppable for the rest of the season.
Honorable Mentions: Tom Brady (Patriots), Cam Newton (Panthers), Colin Kaepernick (49ers)
LVP: Andrew Luck (Colts)
2015 has not been kind to the 2014 fantasy MVP so far. Luck followed up his stinker in Buffalo last week with an even-shakier performance (250 yards, 56.8 CMLP %, 1 TD, 3 INT and a lost fumble) against the Jets in primetime last night. The Colts terrible offensive line has given little-to-no-time to go through his progressions and facing the stout Bills and Jets defenses out of the gate is about as rough as it gets for a quarterback who is frequently under pressure, but Luck has to stop forcing balls into tight coverage and learn to take a sack or throw the ball away when pressure collapses the pocket. Luck has a good shot of redeeming himself in Week 3 when the Colts travel to Nashville to take on a Titans defense that has a below-average pass-rush and just got carved up by Johnny Manziel.
Dishonorable Mentions: Drew Brees (Saints), Sam Bradford (Eagles), Phillip Rivers (Chargers),
Running Back
MVP: DeAngelo Williams (Steelers)
Williams apparently drank from the fountain of youth before signing with the Steelers this offseason. The 32-year former Carolina Panther was able to replicate his success from Week 1, putting up 92 total yards (77 rushing, 15 receiving) and 3 TD's on 24 touches. Williams' workload will be scaled back when Le'Veon Bell returns from suspension in Week 3, but given the piss-poor depth at running back, his fantasy owners should retain him as a solid bench option who can be relied on to start if needed.
Honorable Mentions: Adrian Peterson (Vikings), Dion Lewis (Patriots), David Johnson (Cardinals)
LVP: Jeremy Hill (Bengals)
2nd-year back Jeremy Hill has been one of the most reliable fantasy backs since he took over as the Bengals starting back last November, so it was inevitable that he was going to throw up a stinker sooner or later. However, Hill didn't just throw up a typical stinker, his performance in Week 2 is one for the fantasy lowlight annals. Hill gained just 39 yards on 10 carries on a Chargers defense that got leveled in Week 1 against the Lions and was yanked in the 3rd quarter after fumbling twice. In most leagues, Hill's rough day netted his fantasy owners negative points. Despite backup Giovani Bernard's strong performance in relief of him on Sunday, Hill's starting job shouldn't be in danger and he should continue to be a rock-solid weekly RB1 option.
Dishonorable Mentions: Lamar Miller (Dolphins), Ameer Abdullah (Lions), Marshawn Lynch (Seahawks)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals)
After 2 straight middling seasons, Fitzgerald appears to be back in dominant form. Fitzgerald accounted for over half of the Cardinals receiving yards and total points, putting up a ridiculous 112 yards and 3 TD's on 8 receptions, in Sunday's contest against the Bears. The Cardinals may have a talented pair of young receivers in John Brown and Michael Floyd, but all signs point to Fitzgerald being the top wideout and best fantasy option on the team this season.
Honorable Mentions: Antonio Brown (Steelers), Allen Robinson (Jaguars), Julian Edelman (Patriots)
LVP: Keenan Allen (Chargers)
Oh the plight of Keenan Allen. A week after logging a 15-catch, 166-yard game, Allen put up a paltry 16 yards on 2 receptions and had a costly early fumble in the Chargers loss to the Bengals this past Sunday. Allen is the uncontested number 1 option in the Chargers passing game, but his erratic play makes him one of the biggest boom-or-bust fantasy plays around.
Dishonorable Mentions: Mike Evans (Buccaneers), Charles Johnson (Vikings), Rueben Randle (Giants)
Tight End
MVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
Another week, another freakish performance for Gronkowski. The centerpiece of the Patriots took advantage of every linebacker and defensive back the Bills trotted out to cover him and put up an even more impressive performance (7 receptions, 113 yards, 1 TD) than he did in his masterful week 1 outing against the Steelers. Gronkowski is one of the biggest matchup problems in the league and with the Jaguars soft defense coming to Foxboro in Week 3, there's no reason to believe that he can't put up even bigger numbers than he did the past 2 weeks.
Honorable Mentions: Tyler Eifert (Bengals), Heath Miller (Steelers), Kyle Rudolph (Vikings)
LVP: Jimmy Graham (Seahawks)
Graham's transition from the pass-happy offense of the Saints to the run-first offense of the Seahawks hasn't exactly been smooth so far. That transition hit a new low on Sunday night against the Packers as Graham was only targeted twice and made 1 grab for 11 yards. Given the makeup of the Seahawks offense, Graham just can't be expected to put up the numbers fantasy owners grew accustomed to when he was with the Saints.
Dishonorable Mentions: Zach Ertz (Eagles), Martellus Bennett (Bears), Ladrius Green (Chargers)
Defense
MVP: Denver Broncos
The Broncos defense come out and turned out a lot of head on Thursday night with their play against the Chiefs. The Broncos picked up 4 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 INT's and a touchdown against an offense that is widely regarded for how well they take care of the football. The Broncos defense has been nothing short of superb in the first 2 weeks of the season and with the talent they possess at every position group, they should be able to keep it up as long as they stay healthy.
Honorable Mentions: Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots, New York Jets
LVP: Baltimore Ravens
I don't know if it was because of the loss of Terrell Suggs or they just underestimated the Raiders offense, but the Ravens defense looked absolutely awful in Week 2. They mustered just 1 sack and 1 interception in their shocking upset loss in Oakland on Sunday afternoon. Until they prove they can be perform without Suggs in the lineup, they're a shaky fantasy play at best.
Dishonorable Mentions: Miami Dolphins, St. Louis Rams, Carolina Panthers
MVP: Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers):
Roethlisberger was able to put his middling week 1 performance behind him and put on a show for Steeler nation in their home opener against the 49ers on Sunday afternoon. Roethlisberger decimated the 49ers rebuilt defense, putting up 369 yards, 3 TD's and a pair of 2-point conversions before being benched in garbage time. The scariest part about this performance was that Roethlisberger is that he was able to shred through the 49ers D without star running back Le'Veon Bell and lethal young wide receiver Martavis Bryant (they're both currently serving marijuana-related suspensions) in the lineup. Once Roethlisberger gets Bell back next week and Bryant back in Week 5, he should be nearly unstoppable for the rest of the season.
Honorable Mentions: Tom Brady (Patriots), Cam Newton (Panthers), Colin Kaepernick (49ers)
LVP: Andrew Luck (Colts)
2015 has not been kind to the 2014 fantasy MVP so far. Luck followed up his stinker in Buffalo last week with an even-shakier performance (250 yards, 56.8 CMLP %, 1 TD, 3 INT and a lost fumble) against the Jets in primetime last night. The Colts terrible offensive line has given little-to-no-time to go through his progressions and facing the stout Bills and Jets defenses out of the gate is about as rough as it gets for a quarterback who is frequently under pressure, but Luck has to stop forcing balls into tight coverage and learn to take a sack or throw the ball away when pressure collapses the pocket. Luck has a good shot of redeeming himself in Week 3 when the Colts travel to Nashville to take on a Titans defense that has a below-average pass-rush and just got carved up by Johnny Manziel.
Dishonorable Mentions: Drew Brees (Saints), Sam Bradford (Eagles), Phillip Rivers (Chargers),
Running Back
MVP: DeAngelo Williams (Steelers)
Williams apparently drank from the fountain of youth before signing with the Steelers this offseason. The 32-year former Carolina Panther was able to replicate his success from Week 1, putting up 92 total yards (77 rushing, 15 receiving) and 3 TD's on 24 touches. Williams' workload will be scaled back when Le'Veon Bell returns from suspension in Week 3, but given the piss-poor depth at running back, his fantasy owners should retain him as a solid bench option who can be relied on to start if needed.
Honorable Mentions: Adrian Peterson (Vikings), Dion Lewis (Patriots), David Johnson (Cardinals)
LVP: Jeremy Hill (Bengals)
2nd-year back Jeremy Hill has been one of the most reliable fantasy backs since he took over as the Bengals starting back last November, so it was inevitable that he was going to throw up a stinker sooner or later. However, Hill didn't just throw up a typical stinker, his performance in Week 2 is one for the fantasy lowlight annals. Hill gained just 39 yards on 10 carries on a Chargers defense that got leveled in Week 1 against the Lions and was yanked in the 3rd quarter after fumbling twice. In most leagues, Hill's rough day netted his fantasy owners negative points. Despite backup Giovani Bernard's strong performance in relief of him on Sunday, Hill's starting job shouldn't be in danger and he should continue to be a rock-solid weekly RB1 option.
Dishonorable Mentions: Lamar Miller (Dolphins), Ameer Abdullah (Lions), Marshawn Lynch (Seahawks)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals)
After 2 straight middling seasons, Fitzgerald appears to be back in dominant form. Fitzgerald accounted for over half of the Cardinals receiving yards and total points, putting up a ridiculous 112 yards and 3 TD's on 8 receptions, in Sunday's contest against the Bears. The Cardinals may have a talented pair of young receivers in John Brown and Michael Floyd, but all signs point to Fitzgerald being the top wideout and best fantasy option on the team this season.
Honorable Mentions: Antonio Brown (Steelers), Allen Robinson (Jaguars), Julian Edelman (Patriots)
LVP: Keenan Allen (Chargers)
Oh the plight of Keenan Allen. A week after logging a 15-catch, 166-yard game, Allen put up a paltry 16 yards on 2 receptions and had a costly early fumble in the Chargers loss to the Bengals this past Sunday. Allen is the uncontested number 1 option in the Chargers passing game, but his erratic play makes him one of the biggest boom-or-bust fantasy plays around.
Dishonorable Mentions: Mike Evans (Buccaneers), Charles Johnson (Vikings), Rueben Randle (Giants)
Tight End
MVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
Another week, another freakish performance for Gronkowski. The centerpiece of the Patriots took advantage of every linebacker and defensive back the Bills trotted out to cover him and put up an even more impressive performance (7 receptions, 113 yards, 1 TD) than he did in his masterful week 1 outing against the Steelers. Gronkowski is one of the biggest matchup problems in the league and with the Jaguars soft defense coming to Foxboro in Week 3, there's no reason to believe that he can't put up even bigger numbers than he did the past 2 weeks.
Honorable Mentions: Tyler Eifert (Bengals), Heath Miller (Steelers), Kyle Rudolph (Vikings)
LVP: Jimmy Graham (Seahawks)
Graham's transition from the pass-happy offense of the Saints to the run-first offense of the Seahawks hasn't exactly been smooth so far. That transition hit a new low on Sunday night against the Packers as Graham was only targeted twice and made 1 grab for 11 yards. Given the makeup of the Seahawks offense, Graham just can't be expected to put up the numbers fantasy owners grew accustomed to when he was with the Saints.
Dishonorable Mentions: Zach Ertz (Eagles), Martellus Bennett (Bears), Ladrius Green (Chargers)
Defense
MVP: Denver Broncos
The Broncos defense come out and turned out a lot of head on Thursday night with their play against the Chiefs. The Broncos picked up 4 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, 2 INT's and a touchdown against an offense that is widely regarded for how well they take care of the football. The Broncos defense has been nothing short of superb in the first 2 weeks of the season and with the talent they possess at every position group, they should be able to keep it up as long as they stay healthy.
Honorable Mentions: Arizona Cardinals, New England Patriots, New York Jets
LVP: Baltimore Ravens
I don't know if it was because of the loss of Terrell Suggs or they just underestimated the Raiders offense, but the Ravens defense looked absolutely awful in Week 2. They mustered just 1 sack and 1 interception in their shocking upset loss in Oakland on Sunday afternoon. Until they prove they can be perform without Suggs in the lineup, they're a shaky fantasy play at best.
Dishonorable Mentions: Miami Dolphins, St. Louis Rams, Carolina Panthers
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
2014 Fantasy Football Week 2 Winners and Losers
Quarterback
MVP: Aaron Rodgers (Packers)
After getting suffocated by the Seahawks in Week 1, Aaron Rodgers returned to his typical dominance in Week 2 against the Jets. Rodgers got off to a rocky start, but ended up taking up over in the game late in the second quarter as the Packers rallied from an early 18-point deficit to defeat the Jets on Sunday afternoon. Rodgers 346- yard, 3 TD performance was pretty much par for the course for one of the most reliably dominant fantasy players in recent history. Expect similar domination in Week 3 as Rodgers faces the weak Lions secondary.
Honorable Mentions: Jay Cutler (Bears), Phillip Rivers (Chargers), Peyton Manning (Broncos)
LVP: Tom Brady (Patriots)
The Patriots may have crushed the Vikings on Sunday, but Tom Brady had very to little do with it. Brady only attempted 22 passes on the day and a vast majority of them were short dump-offs to Julian Edelman, Aaron Dobson and Shane Vereen. If Brady can't deliver against the lowly Raiders this week, he will firmly be out of the QB1 equation for the rest of 2014.
Dishonorable Mentions: Drew Brees (Saints), Matt Ryan (Falcons), Jake Locker (Titans)
Running Back
MVP: Giovani Bernard (Bengals)
Darren Sproles' dominance against the Colts on Monday night was the most impressive running back performance of the week, but since he wasn't started in a majority of fantasy leagues, Giovani Bernard was the most valuable running back from a fantasy perspective. Bernard showed his two-way capabilities all day long as he gauged the Falcons for 169 yards from scrimmage (90 rushing, 79 receiving) and a touchdown. Bernard is adapting nicely to his role as the workhorse back in Hue Jackson's run-first system and I'd be surprised if he didn't keep putting up solid numbers week in and week out.
Honorable Mentions: Darren Sproles (Eagles), DeMarco Murray (Cowboys), Arian Foster (Texans)
LVP: Matt Forte (Bears)
With Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery nursing injuries, it seemed like Matt Forte would be the focus of the Bears offense in Sunday night's contest with the 49ers. For whatever reason, that wasn't the case. Forte was a complete non-factor as he got stuffed every time he got the ball and finished with a mere 36 total yards (21 rushing, 15 receiving) on the night. The road doesn't get any easier for Forte as he's up against the top-ranked Jets run defense in Week 3.
Dishonorable Mentions: Toby Gerhart (Jaguars), Montee Ball (Broncos), Eddie Lacy (Packers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Jordy Nelson (Packers)
No one benefited more from Aaron Rodgers' explosive performance on Sunday than Jordy Nelson. Nelson-the longtime favorite target of Rodgers- finished with a career-high 209 yards and a touchdown on the day. Nelson is just a straight-up beast and as long as Rodgers is in the lineup, he'll be a perennial top 10 wideout in fantasy football.
Honorable Mentions: Brandon Marshall (Bears), Randall Cobb (Packers), Sammy Watkins (Bills)
LVP: Pierre Garcon (Redskins)
The Redskins went off for an offensive explosion against the Jaguars on Sunday. Oddly enough, top wideout Pierre Garcon was not invited to join in on the fun. Garcon finished with only a single catch for 12 yards on the afternoon. Even with number two wideout DeSean Jackson getting knocked out of the game in the first quarter with a shoulder injury, Garcon could just not produce. Garcon is still one of the focal points of the Redskins offense, so I'll chalk up this performance as nothing more than an off-week.
Dishonorable Mentions: Cordarelle Patterson (Vikings), Torrey Smith (Ravens), Marques Colston (Saints)
Tight End
MVP: Antonio Gates (Chargers)
Remember before the season when all the so-called experts said Antonio Gates' days in the NFL were numbered and Ladarius Green was going to severely cut into his playing time in 2014? Gates silenced any skeptics this week with a 96-yard, 3 TD performance against the revered Seahawks defense. Gates is showing no signs of slowing down and is a no-brainer weekly TE1 start moving forward.
Honorable Mention: Jimmy Graham (Saints), Delanie Walker (Titans), Julius Thomas (Broncos)
LVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
Rob Gronkowski is still blatantly hobbled by his torn ACL in 2013 and it's shown in his production thus far in 2014. Based on how sluggish he looked, he was fortunate to finish with 32 yards on 4 receptions in Sunday's contest with the Vikings. With his limited snap count and explosiveness at the moment, Gronkowski is borderline useless he gets in the endzone. Gronkowksi is a borderline TE1 with a relatively low ceiling until he's back at 100%.
Dishonorable Mentions: Jason Witten (Cowboys), Dennis Pitta (Ravens), Charles Clay (Dolphins)
Defense
MVP: New England Patriots
What a difference a week makes. After their Week 1 collapse against the Dolphins, the Patriots wreaked havoc on the Vikings in Week 2. The Pats D allowed a mere 7 points on the day and sweetened the pot with 6 sacks, 4 INT's, a blocked field goal and a defensive touchdown. This type of suffocating play is what people expected from the Patriots this year and with the amount of question marks they currently have on offense, this is the way the defense needs to play every week. I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if they duplicated this success again this Sunday in their home opener against the Raiders.
Honorable Mentions: Buffalo Bills, Arizona Cardinals, Baltimore Ravens
LVP: Seattle Seahawks
Even defenses that are dominant as the Seahawks have off-days. The Seahawks defense was on-the-field for an exorbitant amount of time on Sunday in 100+ degree heat against the Chargers and that level of fatigue played a major factor in the result of the game. The Seahawks allowed 30 points and finished with zero takeaways for the first time since Week 11 last year. The Seahawks will be returning to the friendly confines of CenturyLink Field this Sunday, so they should be able to return to form right away.
Dishonorable Mentions: Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers
MVP: Aaron Rodgers (Packers)
After getting suffocated by the Seahawks in Week 1, Aaron Rodgers returned to his typical dominance in Week 2 against the Jets. Rodgers got off to a rocky start, but ended up taking up over in the game late in the second quarter as the Packers rallied from an early 18-point deficit to defeat the Jets on Sunday afternoon. Rodgers 346- yard, 3 TD performance was pretty much par for the course for one of the most reliably dominant fantasy players in recent history. Expect similar domination in Week 3 as Rodgers faces the weak Lions secondary.
Honorable Mentions: Jay Cutler (Bears), Phillip Rivers (Chargers), Peyton Manning (Broncos)
LVP: Tom Brady (Patriots)
The Patriots may have crushed the Vikings on Sunday, but Tom Brady had very to little do with it. Brady only attempted 22 passes on the day and a vast majority of them were short dump-offs to Julian Edelman, Aaron Dobson and Shane Vereen. If Brady can't deliver against the lowly Raiders this week, he will firmly be out of the QB1 equation for the rest of 2014.
Dishonorable Mentions: Drew Brees (Saints), Matt Ryan (Falcons), Jake Locker (Titans)
Running Back
MVP: Giovani Bernard (Bengals)
Darren Sproles' dominance against the Colts on Monday night was the most impressive running back performance of the week, but since he wasn't started in a majority of fantasy leagues, Giovani Bernard was the most valuable running back from a fantasy perspective. Bernard showed his two-way capabilities all day long as he gauged the Falcons for 169 yards from scrimmage (90 rushing, 79 receiving) and a touchdown. Bernard is adapting nicely to his role as the workhorse back in Hue Jackson's run-first system and I'd be surprised if he didn't keep putting up solid numbers week in and week out.
Honorable Mentions: Darren Sproles (Eagles), DeMarco Murray (Cowboys), Arian Foster (Texans)
LVP: Matt Forte (Bears)
With Brandon Marshall and Alshon Jeffery nursing injuries, it seemed like Matt Forte would be the focus of the Bears offense in Sunday night's contest with the 49ers. For whatever reason, that wasn't the case. Forte was a complete non-factor as he got stuffed every time he got the ball and finished with a mere 36 total yards (21 rushing, 15 receiving) on the night. The road doesn't get any easier for Forte as he's up against the top-ranked Jets run defense in Week 3.
Dishonorable Mentions: Toby Gerhart (Jaguars), Montee Ball (Broncos), Eddie Lacy (Packers)
Wide Receiver
MVP: Jordy Nelson (Packers)
No one benefited more from Aaron Rodgers' explosive performance on Sunday than Jordy Nelson. Nelson-the longtime favorite target of Rodgers- finished with a career-high 209 yards and a touchdown on the day. Nelson is just a straight-up beast and as long as Rodgers is in the lineup, he'll be a perennial top 10 wideout in fantasy football.
Honorable Mentions: Brandon Marshall (Bears), Randall Cobb (Packers), Sammy Watkins (Bills)
LVP: Pierre Garcon (Redskins)
The Redskins went off for an offensive explosion against the Jaguars on Sunday. Oddly enough, top wideout Pierre Garcon was not invited to join in on the fun. Garcon finished with only a single catch for 12 yards on the afternoon. Even with number two wideout DeSean Jackson getting knocked out of the game in the first quarter with a shoulder injury, Garcon could just not produce. Garcon is still one of the focal points of the Redskins offense, so I'll chalk up this performance as nothing more than an off-week.
Dishonorable Mentions: Cordarelle Patterson (Vikings), Torrey Smith (Ravens), Marques Colston (Saints)
Tight End
MVP: Antonio Gates (Chargers)
Remember before the season when all the so-called experts said Antonio Gates' days in the NFL were numbered and Ladarius Green was going to severely cut into his playing time in 2014? Gates silenced any skeptics this week with a 96-yard, 3 TD performance against the revered Seahawks defense. Gates is showing no signs of slowing down and is a no-brainer weekly TE1 start moving forward.
Honorable Mention: Jimmy Graham (Saints), Delanie Walker (Titans), Julius Thomas (Broncos)
LVP: Rob Gronkowski (Patriots)
Rob Gronkowski is still blatantly hobbled by his torn ACL in 2013 and it's shown in his production thus far in 2014. Based on how sluggish he looked, he was fortunate to finish with 32 yards on 4 receptions in Sunday's contest with the Vikings. With his limited snap count and explosiveness at the moment, Gronkowski is borderline useless he gets in the endzone. Gronkowksi is a borderline TE1 with a relatively low ceiling until he's back at 100%.
Dishonorable Mentions: Jason Witten (Cowboys), Dennis Pitta (Ravens), Charles Clay (Dolphins)
Defense
MVP: New England Patriots
What a difference a week makes. After their Week 1 collapse against the Dolphins, the Patriots wreaked havoc on the Vikings in Week 2. The Pats D allowed a mere 7 points on the day and sweetened the pot with 6 sacks, 4 INT's, a blocked field goal and a defensive touchdown. This type of suffocating play is what people expected from the Patriots this year and with the amount of question marks they currently have on offense, this is the way the defense needs to play every week. I wouldn't be the least bit surprised if they duplicated this success again this Sunday in their home opener against the Raiders.
Honorable Mentions: Buffalo Bills, Arizona Cardinals, Baltimore Ravens
LVP: Seattle Seahawks
Even defenses that are dominant as the Seahawks have off-days. The Seahawks defense was on-the-field for an exorbitant amount of time on Sunday in 100+ degree heat against the Chargers and that level of fatigue played a major factor in the result of the game. The Seahawks allowed 30 points and finished with zero takeaways for the first time since Week 11 last year. The Seahawks will be returning to the friendly confines of CenturyLink Field this Sunday, so they should be able to return to form right away.
Dishonorable Mentions: Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Green Bay Packers
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