By: Andrew Hedglen
Staff Writer
Philip Rivers (Chargers QB) – Rivers has the fourth-most fantasy points among quarterbacks after the first two weeks, and he’s only owned in 56 percent of leagues. Mike McCoy has seemingly revived the Philip Rivers of old who has thrown seven touchdowns in his first two games. If you’re in a deep league and are in serious need of a quarterback, Rivers is your guy.
James Starks (Packers RB) – While going up against Cincinnati’s great run defense, Starks is still a high end flex, low end RB2 this week. After exploding for 166 total yards and a touchdown last week with Eddie Lacy going down with a concussion, he’ll get the start again this week as Lacy recovers and goes through the mandatory protocols. Cincinnati will be most concerned with Green Bay’s lethal passing attack, which will open up the run game for Starks.
Fred Jackson (Bills RB) – Freddy or not, here he comes. Jackson, who was not too long ago considered the forgotten running back in Buffalo, is now splitting carries with the flashy C.J. Spiller and scored 10 and 11 fantasy points in weeks one and two respectively. While the Jets are tough against the run, Jackson is a touchdown vulture, pass catcher on third downs, and gets plenty of touches. He’s owned in 62 percent of leagues, so snag him if you can.
Julian Edelman (Patriots WR) – Edelman was targeted a ridiculous 18 times against the Jets last week, and will continue to put up numbers while Amendola misses time. Kenbrell Thompkins and Aaron Dobson continue to struggle in their chemistry with Tom Brady and reeling in passes, which only means good things for Edelman’s fantasy value. Don’t be afraid to start him as a strong WR2.
Robert Woods (Bills WR) – Rookie wideouts with rookie quarterbacks throwing to them normally don’t bode well, but Woods has been an exception, as has E.J. Manuel through their first two weeks in the NFL. Woods posted totals of seven and nine fantasy points through the first two weeks, and starts across from Stevie Johnson as the No. 2 receiver. The Jets have given up the 13th-most fantasy points to wide receivers, and stud corner Antonio Cromartie will cover the No. 1, Stevie Johnson. Manuel has shown poise as a passer and only continues to improve. If you’re in a deep league and most of the good receivers are owned, Woods is only owned in 11 percent of leagues.
Coby Fleener (Colts TE) – After a nonexistent week one, Fleener bounced back in week two to record four catches for 68 yards and a touchdown on eight targets. This is encouraging for Fleener and the Colts. Their other talented pass catching tight end, Dwayne Allen, is now out for the season with a hip injury, putting Fleener on the TE1 radar. Against a talent like the 49ers this week, the Colts will need to throw a lot to stay in the game. Darrius Heyward-Bey is banged up as well, so Fleener should see a ton of targets and a good fantasy week.
Andrew Hedglen can be reached at ahedglen@springfieldcollege.edu