Hey guys! Welcome to week 2 of the NFL season, and that means it's time to dive into some crucial start 'em, sit 'em decisions for your fantasy football lineups. Last week might have been a rollercoaster, with unexpected heroes and disappointing duds. Don't sweat it – that's fantasy football! This week presents a fresh set of matchups and opportunities to optimize your roster for victory. We're going to break down players to confidently insert into your starting lineup and those who might be best left on your bench this week.
Quarterbacks: Who to Trust, Who to Bench
Let's kick things off with the quarterbacks. This position can make or break your week, so smart decisions are key. When considering who to start at quarterback, always look at the matchup. Some defenses are notoriously tough against the pass, while others are more vulnerable. Also, consider the quarterback's recent performance and his overall consistency. Is he a gunslinger who puts up big numbers but also throws a lot of interceptions, or is he a more steady, reliable option? Injuries also play a massive role; keep a close eye on injury reports leading up to game day. — TheMirandaAffect OnlyFans Leaks: Understanding The Risks And Implications
Start 'Em:
- Trevor Lawrence (JAX): Lawrence faces a Colts defense that struggled mightily against the pass last week. He’s got a great set of weapons, and I expect the Jaguars to lean heavily on the passing game. Look for Lawrence to bounce back in a big way after a somewhat slow start to the season. His ability to make plays with his legs adds another dimension to his fantasy value. The Colts' defense is undergoing changes, and Lawrence could exploit their vulnerabilities. Fire him up with confidence.
- Kirk Cousins (MIN): Cousins and the Vikings face the Eagles in what should be a high-scoring affair. The Eagles' defense is good, but Cousins has proven he can put up numbers against anyone. With Justin Jefferson as his primary target, Cousins has the potential for a monster game. The Vikings' offense is built around the passing game, and Cousins is the engine that drives it. Expect a lot of passing attempts and plenty of opportunities for Cousins to rack up fantasy points. He's a solid start in Week 2.
Sit 'Em:
- Russell Wilson (DEN): Wilson and the Broncos offense looked disjointed in Week 1. Until we see more consistency, it's hard to trust him in your starting lineup, especially against a Commanders defense that can generate pressure. Wilson's struggles with accuracy and decision-making have been concerning, and the Broncos' offensive line hasn't provided him with much protection. The Commanders' defensive front is fierce, and Wilson could be in for another tough outing. Keep him on the bench until he shows signs of improvement.
- Kenny Pickett (PIT): Pickett faces a tough Browns defense that is coming off a dominant performance. The Browns' pass rush is relentless, and Pickett could be under constant pressure. He's also still developing as a quarterback, and consistency is a major concern. The Steelers' offense is struggling to find its identity, and Pickett is unlikely to thrive in this challenging matchup. Avoid starting him in Week 2 if you can.
Running Backs: Finding the Right Matchups
The running back position is all about opportunity and matchups. A talented running back can be rendered ineffective if he's facing a stacked box or a defense that excels at stopping the run. Conversely, a less heralded back can explode for a big game if he's in a favorable matchup. Consider the offensive line play as well. A strong offensive line can create running lanes and open up opportunities for the running back to succeed. Also, pay attention to whether the running back is involved in the passing game, as receptions can significantly boost his fantasy score.
Start 'Em:
- Kyren Williams (LAR): After a surprising Week 1 performance, Williams should be in your lineup this week. He looks to have taken over the starting role for the Rams. The Rams' offense seems committed to running the ball. Trust Williams to deliver another solid performance. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield makes him even more valuable in PPR formats.
- James Conner (ARI): Conner is the clear lead back in Arizona and should see a heavy workload, even if the Cardinals are trailing. He's a reliable option for volume, and that's what you want in a starting running back. The Cardinals will likely lean on Conner to control the clock and keep their defense off the field. He's a safe play for a decent floor in Week 2. Target him for a solid game.
Sit 'Em:
- AJ Dillon (GB): Dillon is in a timeshare with Aaron Jones, and it's hard to predict which back will have the better game each week. Until we see more clarity in the Packers' backfield, it's best to keep Dillon on the bench. Jones' presence limits Dillon's upside, and the Packers' offense is still finding its rhythm. Avoid the headache and sit Dillon this week.
- Antonio Gibson (WAS): With Brian Robinson Jr. also in the mix, Gibson's role is uncertain. He's a talented player, but his touches are unpredictable. It's hard to rely on him for consistent production. The Commanders' backfield is crowded, and Gibson's value is diminished. Sit him until his role becomes clearer.
Wide Receivers: Identifying the Breakout Candidates
Wide receiver is arguably the deepest position in fantasy football, but that doesn't mean every receiver is a reliable starter. When evaluating wide receivers, look for those who are the primary targets in their offense. A receiver who gets a lot of targets has a higher chance of producing big numbers, even if he's not the most talented player. Also, consider the matchup. Some cornerbacks are lockdown defenders, while others are more susceptible to giving up big plays. Keep an eye on the quarterback situation as well. A receiver's value is directly tied to the quality of his quarterback. — James Cook Contract: Key Details & Analysis
Start 'Em:
- Brandon Aiyuk (SF): Aiyuk is emerging as the clear WR1 in San Francisco. He's got great chemistry with Brock Purdy, and he's a threat to score every week. Expect Aiyuk to continue his strong performance in Week 2. His route running is crisp, and he's got the speed to burn defenses deep. Start him with confidence.
- Courtland Sutton (DEN): Despite Wilson's struggles, Sutton remains the top receiver in Denver. He's got the size and skill to win contested catches, and he's a reliable target in the red zone. Look for Sutton to get plenty of opportunities in Week 2. He’s still worth starting.
Sit 'Em:
- Skyy Moore (KC): Moore is still developing in the Chiefs' offense, and his role is uncertain. With so many mouths to feed in Kansas City, it's hard to predict which receiver will have a big game each week. Moore's playing time is inconsistent, and his production is unreliable. Keep him on the bench for now.
- Allen Lazard (NYJ): Lazard's value takes a hit with Aaron Rodgers out for the season. Zach Wilson will be under center. It's hard to trust him in your starting lineup. Lazard's chemistry with Rodgers was a key factor in his success, and that's gone. Sit him until the Jets' offense proves it can function with Wilson.
Tight Ends: Navigating the Uncertainty
The tight end position is notoriously difficult to predict in fantasy football. Outside of a few elite options, most tight ends are highly inconsistent. When evaluating tight ends, look for those who are heavily involved in their team's passing game and who are targeted in the red zone. A tight end who can consistently get open and catch passes is a valuable asset. Matchups are also important, as some defenses struggle to cover tight ends.
Start 'Em:
- Hunter Henry (NE): Henry had a strong connection with Mac Jones in Week 1, and he could be a reliable target in the Patriots' offense. Tight ends can be a quarterback's best friend, especially in the red zone. With limited other options, I expect Henry to be the number one.
- Gerald Everett (LAC): Everett is a reliable target for Justin Herbert, and he should see a decent number of targets each week. The Chargers' offense is potent, and Everett can benefit from being a part of it. He's a solid starting option at a thin position.
Sit 'Em:
- Cole Kmet (CHI): The Bears' passing game is struggling, and Kmet is not getting enough targets to be a reliable fantasy option. The Bears' offense is a mess. There are better options out there.
- Tyler Higbee (LAR): Higbee's role in the Rams' offense is diminishing. His production is inconsistent. It's hard to rely on him for consistent production. Keep him on the bench.
Defense/Special Teams (DST): Finding the Right Stream
Streaming defenses can be a weekly game-changer in fantasy football. The key is to identify defenses that are in favorable matchups against struggling offenses or quarterbacks prone to turnovers. Look for defenses that are likely to generate sacks and interceptions, as these can lead to big fantasy scores. Also, consider the weather conditions, as a rainy or windy game can increase the chances of turnovers.
Start 'Em:
- New Orleans Saints (vs CAR): The Saints' defense is legit, and they are playing a rookie QB. This is a great matchup to exploit and potentially start them.
- Washington Commanders (vs DEN): The Commanders' defense has a strong pass rush, and they are facing a Broncos offense that looked out of sync in Week 1. Look for them to generate sacks and turnovers. They are at home.
Sit 'Em:
- Pittsburgh Steelers (vs CLE): The Steelers face a tough Browns offense, and it's hard to rely on them for consistent production. The Browns' running game is strong. It could be a tough game.
- Kansas City Chiefs (vs JAX): The Chiefs are playing a high powered offense, and it's hard to rely on them for consistent production. Their offense is too hard to manage and predict.
Alright guys, that wraps up my start 'em, sit 'em advice for Week 2 of the fantasy football season. Remember to stay informed about injuries and any late-breaking news that could affect your lineup decisions. Good luck this week, and I hope you crush your opponents! — New York Jets Depth Chart: Your Ultimate Guide