For those of you who missed parts of opening weekend, the following are my immediate reactions to the first Sunday of the football season. I’ve tried to control my emotions (I’m looking at you Cam), but there will be some obvious bias coming through a few places. Just ignore the hate and lament, or commiserate with me if that helps.
Cam Newton, QB Carolina
Let’s begin with the fantasy dumpster fire performance turned in by Cam Newton. Currently, QB 30 on ESPN with Brees, Watson, Carr, and Flacco still to play. His 5 points are looking up at the likes of Eli Manning (16pts), injured Nick Foles (9pts) and Foles rookie replacement Minshew (21pts). Ryan Fitzpatrick who just took a historic 59-10 loss more than doubled him up with 11 points. This was an epically bad start to what many have predicted to be a dominant season. In the post-game interview, Cam said it was rust and jitters. This is the likely cause, I definitely wouldn’t drop him. If the Cam owner in your league is jittery themselves you might ask about him. It’s unlikely they’ll part with him, but this is the most likely shot you will have this season.
A.J. Brown, WR Tennessee
Rookie wide receiver A.J. Brown had a pretty decent fantasy debut, recording 100 yards on 3 receptions. Two big plays showcased his size and illusiveness. He’s a big man much like his teammate at RB, Henry. Win or lose this year, the Titans are likely to lead the league with guys you don’t want falling on you. Wide receivers usually take a little bit to adjust to the NFL, but if today is any indication Brown is ready to go. Definitely a guy to put on your watch list in all formats. I’d wait in shallow leagues and only jump on him in deeper formats if you have a big need and some churn spots.
Gardner Minshew, QB Jacksonville
When Nick Foles went down I’m sure Jags fans and Foles owners both saw their seasons going up in flames. Then Minshew came in and appeared capable. The Jags still took the loss, but that was not the young QB’s fault. He’s got some zip on his passes and managed to fit them into a few tight spaces. A big help though was his offensive line. Several times he made highlight passes after having that extra moment NFL QB’s are rarely afforded. Keep an eye on him as a possible streaming option going forward.
Miami DST
If you started the Miami DST you must play in a 32 team league. Even so, you should look for something else. Ask your comish if you can take the Bears second-team D. Maybe there’s a way to figure out how Clemson or Bama would do against an NFL offense and you could run them. The Dolphins defense allowed 59 points, which is tied for the 21st biggest total since 1940 according to ProFootballRefence.com’s play index. It’s the most since 2011 when the Saints hung 62 on the Colts. Fans in Miami were already prepping for an MLB/NBA style rebuild, but if this is any indication, the record books ain’t ready for what’s coming.
Lamar Jackson, QB Baltimore
From the bottom of my heart, I’m sorry Mr. Jackson for doubting you and starting Cam instead. I should have known you were the better play. Please accept my apology and know that I will agonize over which of you to start next week as you play the Cards and Cam plays the Bucs. You make me want to play more superflex. I will say the fact that you threw for 326 yards and 5 TD’s and only ran for 6 and 0 gives me hope that you will not be forced to scramble every play this year when you face professional defenses.
LeSean McCoy, RB KC
Shady has forced to make a last-minute team change that really capped his week 1 potential (and then AB said, “Hold my mustache bleach”). He was able to put up a meh fantasy week though. 10 carries for 81 yards and a reception for 12 was a nice welcome to the team. A huge plus was that Damien Williams only had 3 more carries for 75 fewer yards. If it hadn’t been for Sammy Watkins reptile-esque domination he might have had more chances. If he’s available in your league I don’t see how you can not have him on your bench at the least.
Finally, I’d like to tell Kyler Murray and Baker Mayfield to switch seats in that Toyota. This week the rookie was definitely the more reliable leader of the two going 29 of 54 for 308 yards 2 TD’s and 1 INT to Bakers more accurate 25 of 34 for 285 and 1 TD… but 3 INT’s.
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