NFL Week 2: Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em’s-Who to Start in Fantasy Football
By Matt Bonini
Andrew Hawkins (16) gets tackled by Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis (52). Evan Habeeb-US PRESSWIRE
Week 1 of the NFL season brought us a multitude of surprises that no one had envisioned. Injuries have already softened your lineups (F-Jax owners, where you at?). Backfield time shares are starting to solidify. Injuries have plagued many a secondary (insert the Jets and Chargers). It’s time to utilize your bench and make some ballsy lineup moves. If you are a fantasy god and were one of the three fantasy managers in the country that started Kevin Ogletree last week, this help column doesn’t really apply to you. Either way, here are some Sit/Starts to consider for Week 2.
Start Em’
1.Andrew Hawkins
Opponent: vs. Cleveland
Hawkins is a feel goodish/practice squad story. He was completely irrelevant until last game where he was targeted 9 times by Andy Dalton and went off for 8/86. He creates a matchup nightmare in the slot with his speed and did the majority of his damage after the catch. He is a great flex option especially in a PPR league. The Haden-less Browns secondary doesn’t intimidate me in the least bit. Don’t be too upset if he doesn’t get you a TD splash. His 7-9 catches will suffice.
2. Colby Fleener
Opponent: vs. Minnesota
I hate to sound like everyone else, but you can’t argue with 10 targets. If Fleener has been Andrew Luck’s favorite target at Stanford over the past few years, why would he abandon his security blanket in the Big Boy League? Minnesota’s Swiss cheese defense will be no problem for Fleener. With Collie out and a depleted Colts receiver corps, I see Fleener putting on a show similar to last week and getting a solid workload over the middle.
September 9, 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Antonio Brown (84) runs with the ball after making a catch during the first quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-US PRESSWIRE
3. Antonio Brown
Opponent: vs New York Jets
Darelle Revis out. Kyle Wilson in. I don’t think I need to elaborate any more. It really is that simple.
4. Andrew Luck
Opponent: vs. Minnesota
Luck faced a tough test in Week 1 facing the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. We are talking about the same defensive unit that grounded Thee Aaron Rodgers on Thursday night. Is there a better bounce back opponent than one of the softest defenses in the league this week? After watching what the mediocre Blaine Gabbert did against the Vikings secondary last week, I see Luck having no trouble in attaining his breakout NFL game in Week 2.
Sit Em’
Sep 9, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions running back Kevin Smith (30) scores the game winning touchdown during the forth quarter against the St. Louis Rams at Ford Field. Lions won 27-23. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-US PRESSWIRE
1.Kevin Smith
Opponent: at San Francisco
While Smith’s monster 2 touchdown performance last week was enticing, let’s try to be logical. It was the St. Louis Rams. Smith sees the likes of Novvaro Bowman, Patrick Willis, and Aldon Smith on Sunday. The 49ers may not even let up two touchdowns all game, let alone to one player.
2. Denver Broncos D/ST
Opponent: at Atlanta
The way it’s looking right now, the Falcons offense may be dubbed the New Orleans Saints 2.0. The Falcons are in full flock with two formidable weapons at wide receiver, multiple looks at running back and Matt Ryan on a mission in trying to attain the media crazed “elite” tag. I would not want to be the Denver Broncos marching into the Georgia Dome; especially after the Falcons torched the Chiefs in Kansas City for 40 points last week. If you own the Broncos, it’s time to grab a matchup D off waivers.
3. Jeremy Maclin
Opponent: vs Baltimore
While Maclin will be active for Sunday’s game, I’m still not all-in. Hip injuries tend to be a nagging issue for receivers, especially when they’re fresh. It’s very possible that his workload will be limited. Not a very secure option at this point. Did I mention they’re playing the Ravens?
4. Beanie Wells
Opponent: at New England
Bad Offensive Line? Check. Hampered by injury? Check. Equally talented back-up? Check. Upgraded New England front line? Check. I rest my case.