5 fantasy football options to replace Carson Palmer

3. Andy Dalton, Cincinnati Bengals

There was a time when Dalton could be trusted. That time has come and gone, which is why he’s probably available. If so, take note of the fact that his value has risen dramatically since the Bengals made a switch at offensive coordinator.

After failing to score a single touchdown in their first two games, the Bengals fired play-caller Ken Zampese and replaced him with Bill Lazor. The offense immediately got back on track, and Dalton has found himself back in the mix of being a quality fantasy stand-in.

Yes, he struggled against Buffalo in Week 5 and Pittsburgh in Week 7 but managed to score in both outings. In fact, he’s found a way to stick the ball into the end zone, notching nine touchdowns in four games since the upgrade.

Dalton told Cincinnati’s WCPO in early October that comfort has been the key to the bounce back.

“I think guys are comfortable with what we’re doing,” Dalton said. “I think that’s what it comes down to and guys are playing with more confidence. We have to keep getting better.”

With a 64 percent completion rate to go with 1,360 yards and the nine scores, it’s hard to deny that while he’s guilty of playing ugly football from time-to-time, he’s a solid go to.

Knowing when to deploy Dalton is key. He has three matchup nightmares looming over the horizon in the Jaguars, Broncos and Minnesota Vikings.

With 10 games to go and the Bengals’ bye week in their rearview mirror, Dalton by the numbers is not a poor choice.

He’s a good a stand-in, as can be found when a roster is in dire straits.