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Fantasy football 2018, Week 1 rankings: Who to start and sit

CARSON, CA - AUGUST 18: Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers calls a play at the line of scrimmage during a presseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at StubHub Center on August 18, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
CARSON, CA - AUGUST 18: Philip Rivers #17 of the Los Angeles Chargers calls a play at the line of scrimmage during a presseason game against the Seattle Seahawks at StubHub Center on August 18, 2018 in Carson, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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PHILADELPHIA, PA – JANUARY 21: Kyle Rudolph #82 of the Minnesota Vikings scores a first quarter touchdown reception against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA – JANUARY 21: Kyle Rudolph #82 of the Minnesota Vikings scores a first quarter touchdown reception against the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 21, 2018 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)

Start: Kyle Rudolph, Minnesota Vikings

vs. San Francisco 49ers

Kirk Cousins has always utilized the tight end position which means good things for Kyle Rudolph. Cousins was the one throwing passes to Jordan Reed when he emerged as a major weapon. In fact, Vernon Davis even put up solid fantasy numbers with Cousins.

Rudolph is a big-time red zone threat who has a knack for finding open spaces in the defense. He uses his big frame and long arms to attack the ball at its highest point.

The presence Stefon Diggs and Adam Theilen draw attention away from Rudolph who routinely flies under the radar. San Francisco’s linebacker corps is young and inexperienced. They really don’t have anyone who’s ready to handle Rudolph.

Sit: Evan Engram, New York Giants

vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Engram is expected to play week one, but is recovering from a concussion. This is the type of injury that always brings uncertainty. The injury is only one reason why I’m moving away from Engram this week.

Jacksonville’s defense is the other reason to avoid Engram. The Jaguars have Telvin Smith and Myles Jack who both do a great job in coverage. They also won’t hesitate putting one of their cornerbacks on Engram if they feel he could be a problem.