Almost there…
We are just hours away from the official kickoff of the NFL season, which means it’s time for our first preview. Each week, I’ll highlight a few players to start and a few players to sit at each position. I’m a firm believer in starting your studs, so I won’t tell you about how Carson Palmer or Steven Jackson has a tough matchup – just go ahead and start them. I’ll focus on the borderline guys – players you’ll only start under the right circumstances. Right now, these matchups are based on last year’s defensive data, but it will be updated as we get deeper into the season. It’s important to note that depending on your roster and situation, you may not be able to follow these recommendations. For example, if I suggest you bench a solid starter like Vince Young, only do so if you have a clearly better option on your bench.
Let’s dive right in…
START ‘EM
QBs: Tony Romo (vs. NYG), Alex Smith (vs. ARI), Matt Hasselbeck (vs. TB) and Eli Manning (@ DAL)
RBs: Edgerrin James (@ SF), Tatum Bell (@ OAK) and LaMont Jordan (vs. DET)
WRs: Braylon Edwards (vs. PIT), Darrell Jackson (vs. ARI), Mark Clayton (@ CIN) and Joey Galloway (@ SEA)
SIT ‘EM
QBs: Chad Pennington (vs. NEP), Phillip Rivers (vs. CHI), Vince Young (@ JAC) and J.P. Losman (vs. DEN)
RBs: Jerious Norwood (@ MIN), Jamal Lewis (vs. PIT), Thomas Jones (vs. NEP), LenDale White (@ JAC) and Clinton Portis (vs. MIA)
WRs: Bernard Berrian (@ SD), Randy Moss (@ NYJ) and Isaac Bruce (vs. CAR)
SLEEPER OF THE WEEK
Patrick Crayton (vs. NYG)
With Terry Glenn hobbled, Patrick Crayton figures to step in and start opposite Terrell Owens against a suspect Giants’ defense. The Cowboys passing game was terrific in 2006, so they should light it up at home against New York on Sunday night.
If you have any questions, be sure to post them on our Fantasy Q&A.
I’m assuming you’re saying to not start Berrian this week because of San Diego’s stiff defense right? Or am I missing another reason not to play him?
I’ve got a developing delma in one of my leagues at wide receiver. I can start three guys, but I’ve got injury concerns all over the place:
Housh
Driver
Berrian
Glenn
Jenkins
Jarrett
Which 3 should I start? Or, should I start only 2 WR’s and go with McMichael, who I can play as a receiver in this league (I’ve already got Vernon Davis starting)?
Yeah, SD’s tough pass D makes Berrian a questionable play.
Given that group, I’d still start Housh, Driver and Berrian. The only other option is Glenn, who is iffy. If it looks like he’s going to play, you could roll the dice on the better matchup, but Berrian is the safer play. Keep an eye on Driver – he’s back at practice and should play. Housh has also missed some practice this week. Check on Friday or Saturday for an update.
I’d definitely go with 3 of those 4 WRs if you can find three healthy ones to start.
Thanks JP…
Housh not practicing today scares me, but if I remember correctly, the Bengals rested him earlier in the season last year too.
You said to start Mark Clayton, but do you think I should start him over Jerricho Cotchery, whos done really good vs the Patriots wen hes played them?
Cotch averaged 5.3 catches for 97 yards and a score against NE in three games last season, while Clayton went for a 6-51-0 average against the Bengals. I’d start Cotch.