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Welcome back to the Rookie Report! We’re at the quarter turn of the season (assuming the coronavirus doesn’t derail things), and the rookie picture is starting to come clearer. Each week we’ll have a better idea of what normal expectations will look like for the rookie crop.  We were treated to some dazzling rookie performances from the wide receivers in week 4, from CeeDee Lamb’s 2 touchdowns, to Brandon Aiyuk’s acrobatic hurdle, to Justin Jefferson’s second straight 100-yard game. There have been plenty of intriguing rookie wideouts this season. Many of them are listed as borderline options this week, so please keep in mind that all players under the same header at the same position are listed in the order that I would play them this week. I also want to mention that anywhere that you see fantasy points allowed referenced, it’s based on half-PPR scoring unless otherwise noted. Let’s dive into week 5…

Rookies to Start:

RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, KC (Wk. 5: vs. LV): If you drafted Edwards-Helaire in the first round of your fantasy draft, the last few weeks probably haven’t been what you were hoping for from him. After a breakout debut, CEH hasn’t found his way back to the end zone and has finished outside of the top-20 running backs in 2 out of 3 weeks. Do not despair. Edwards-Helaire has still averaged 20 touches per game in the last 3 weeks and seen a larger share of the running back touches each week. He’s also through the toughest part of his schedule and hasn’t finished lower than the RB26 in PPR scoring formats. This week he gets his easiest matchup to-date. The Raiders have allowed more fantasy points to the running back position than any team in the league and they rank 30^th in Football Outsiders’ run defense DVOA stat. This week will be a great opportunity for a big game out of CEH. He should be worth his price tag in DFS formats and has top-5 RB upside this week in a great matchup. If you can find an impatient fantasy player who is upset by Edwards-Helaire’s start, I would recommend sending a trade offer. His value is about to go up.

RB James Robinson, JAX (Wk. 5: @Hou.): Most people had no idea who James Robinson was before he took the starting gig in Jacksonville, but he has definitely taken the job and run with it. He’s the RB6 for the season and has posted an impressive 40 receiving yards per game. This week he gets to square off with a Texans’ defense allowing the 4^th-most RB points per game and ranking 29^th in run defense DVOA. The Texans actually haven’t given up much receiving production to opposing backs, allowing just 3.3 catches (T-2^nd fewest) and 25.5 receiving yards (6^th-fewest) to the position per game, but a lot of that can be explained by the fact that Houston has mostly played from behind and their opponents have been able to lean on the run game. Houston’s opponents have been trailing on the scoreboard for just 24% of their offensive plays. This week the Texans are actually favored by 6, so if they get ahead, I’d expect Robinson to eclipse those receiving averages that Houston has been allowing to RBs. They’re also a bad enough run defense that Robinson will make some hay on the ground as well. He’s a locked-in RB2 this week.

WR CeeDee Lamb, DAL (Wk. 5 vs. NYG): The Cowboys have been one of the most prolific passing offenses in the league so far, and Lamb has been the clear #2 receiver in the target pecking order. There has been an obvious effort to get the ball into Amari Cooper’s hands this season as he’s averaged nearly 13 targets per game (on pace for 200(!) targets), but Lamb has been seeing a healthy 7 targets per game himself. There’s bound to be a week at some point where Michael Gallup gets the squeaky wheel treatment and the team forces him some targets, but Dallas throws so much I don’t think that will have much impact on Lamb when it happens. This week Dallas faces the Giants, who have been allowing the 13^th-most points per game to WRs. The one functional part of their pass defense has been James Bradbury, who has limited Robert Woods and Allen Robinson each to less than 40 yards this season. This week Bradbury will be shadowing Amari Cooper. That should help get Lamb a little more work Sunday, and he should be a safe WR2/3 this week with Dallas’s implied total sitting at a robust 31.75 points.

WR Justin Jefferson, MIN (Wk. 5: @Sea.): Jefferson’s seems to have fully vanquished Bisi Johnson and taken over the #2 receiver role in Minnesota with his breakout performances over the last two weeks. Jefferson played mostly in the slot in college at LSU, so it seemed like early production wouldn’t be easy to come by in an offense that has 3+ receivers on the field for just 44% of their snaps, but over the last two weeks, Jefferson has made it clear he can thrive as a perimeter receiver. This passing game still runs through Adam Thielen, but this week the Vikings are going to have to be able to put up some points if they want to keep pace with the Seahawks explosive offense. Minnesota is a 7-point underdog this week, but still has an implied total of 25.25 points. I’d expect them to try to run the ball when they can to keep the ball out of Russell Wilson’s hands, and they may have some success there with box safety Jamal Adams sidelined, but there should be plenty of passing volume for Jefferson to be a safe WR3 with upside this week. No team has coughed up more fantasy points to opposing WRs than the Seahawks so far. He should be a bargain at his $5,500 DraftKings price tag.

Borderline Rookies:

QB Justin Herbert, LAC (Wk. 5: @NO): Herbert finally got the nod from the coach as the full-time starter with Tyrod Taylor recovered from his chest injury, and it would’ve been coaching malpractice if he hadn’t. Herbert has thrown for at least 290 yards every week and kept his team in every game he’s played. They’re 0-3 in Herbert’s starts, but are yet to lose by more than 1 score. New Orleans’ best cornerback Marshon Lattimore is questionable for this week, and this Saints’ defense has allowed multiple TD passes and at least 21 fantasy points to every QB they’ve faced so far. Herbert has shown himself to be a solid QB2 option, and he’ll have nice upside for more this week if the Saints are without Lattimore.  As a TD underdog, Herbert should again be throwing a fair amount.

QB Joe Burrow, CIN (Wk. 5: @Bal.): Burrow’s matchup this week sounds daunting on paper, but the Ravens haven’t been a death sentence for QBs so far this season. Baltimore has allowed 275+ passing yards in 3 straight games including more than 300 to Dwayne Haskins last weekend. Burrow has topped 300 yards in each of the last 3 weeks, and the Ravens secondary is a bit banged up with Marcus Peters and Jimmy Smith both missing some practice time this week. It’s still a talented secondary, and Burrow will have an uphill battle to go over 300 for the 4^th-straight week, but he’s not a bad QB2 option this week. The Bengals will likely have to throw often as a 13-point underdog.

RB Jonathan Taylor, IND (Wk. 5: @Cle.): Obviously most people with Taylor on their rosters are going to be starting him this week, but I wanted to single him out as someone who shouldn’t be a slam-dunk starer. We knew when Marlon Mack went down that Nyheim Hines was still going to be heavily involved in this offense, especially in any weeks where the Colts play from behind. What we didn’t know was how big a role Jordan Wilkins was going to play. Wilkins has had at least 9 carries in each of the last 3 games and has taken a chunk out of Taylor’s weekly ceiling. The rookie has still handled a sizable workload, but as we saw last week, if he doesn’t get in the end zone he’ll have a hard time finishing as a top-20 back for the week. Cleveland isn’t a great matchup for opposing backs. Ezekiel Elliott is the only back to reach 50 rushing yards against them. Several backs have had success catching the ball out of the backfield against the Browns, but Taylor has been targeted just 4 times in the last 3 weeks. You can’t count on passing game usage. I think Taylor projects as a flex option this week that needs to get in the end zone to return real value to your lineup.

RB Antonio Gibson, WAS (Wk. 5: vs. LAR): Gibson has been making the most of his opportunities each week, but at some point you’d like the see the Football Team give him more of them. Peyton Barber has been pushed to the bench, but JD McKissic continues to out-snap him each week. Gibson is averaging 16 PPR points per game over the last 3 weeks and has found the end zone in each game, but he’d have RB1 upside if he was unleashed in a workhorse role. The Rams have been a beatable run defense, ranking 28^th in run defense DVOA, but it’s hard to consider Gibson an auto-start while playing just half the snaps. He should be a safe flex play this week, and his price tag of $5,000 on DraftKings makes him an interesting bargain option this week.

RB Josh Kelley, LAC (Wk. 5: @NO): Austin Ekeler’s trip to the IR should be good news for Josh Kelley’s fantasy outlook, but he fumbled in a crucial spot in each of the last two games and it’s opened the door for the now healthy Justin Jackson to work his way into the mix. Kelley played 30 snaps to Jackson’s 21 last week, and I’d expect a similar split going forward unless Kelley can stop fumbling and can separate himself from Jackson on the field. New Orleans has been one of the tougher run defenses in the league, ranking 4^th in run defense DVOA, so Kelley will probably have to make things happen in the receiving game to have a strong week. The Saints have only allowed 31 receiving yards per game to opposing backs though. New Orleans is favored by a touchdown, so game script should keep the Chargers throwing a bit. I’d view Kelley as an upside RB3 this week despite a less than ideal matchup.

WR Laviska Shenault, JAX (Wk. 5: @Hou.): Shenault finally had the kind of week we’ve been looking for out of him last Sunday with 91 yards on 6 touches (5 receptions), and this week he faces a Houston defense that is fresh off of allowing Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson to combine for 12 catches and 217 yards. I’d like to see the Jaguars give Shenault more of a full-time role, and he still has a floor somewhere around 40-50 scrimmage yards and 8 or so PPR points, but I like his chances to post a ceiling week in this one. He should match up with the burnable Vernon Hargreaves for most of the game, and I love his upside as a WR3 this week.

WR Jerry Jeudy, DEN (Wk. 5: @NE): This doesn’t shape up as a great week for Jeudy, but volume alone could get him through to a nice fantasy week. Brett Rypien is likely to be under center again, and he won’t have much to work with outside of Jeudy. Noah Fant and KJ Hamler will be sidelined in this one, so that leaves Tim Patrick and probably DaeSean Hamilton as the other receiving options. It’s a little worrying that Jeudy was limited to just 4 targets in Rypien’s first start with the Broncos throwing 31 times (Jeudy averaged 8 targets per game in the first 3 weeks), but he did find the end zone and top 60 receiving yards. I’d expect Rypien to look his way more often in this one. Josh Jackson is a tough matchup in the slot where Jeudy plays 70% of his snaps, but the Pats have given up lines of 7-67-1 to Tyler Lockett and 6-84-1 to Hunter Renfrow this season. Jeudy should make for a nice WR3 in a week where there should be plenty of volume for him.

WR Brandon Aiyuk, SF (Wk. 5: vs. Mia.): Aiyuk could get Jimmy Garoppolo back this week at QB, and he faces a Miami defense that ranks just 28^th in pass defense DVOA and has allowed the 8^th-most WR points per game so far. On the surface, it looks like a great matchup, but he may have to tangle with the best part of the Dolphins’ secondary in Xavien Howard. The 49ers only target their WRs on a league-low 39% of their pass attempts, and with Garoppolo and Mostert back this could be a game where they get ahead and lean on the run game. Howard was torched by DK Metcalf last week, so there is some hope for Aiyuk, but the limited volume makes me hesitant to rank him higher than Jeudy or Shenault in week 5.

WR Tee Higgins, CIN (Wk. 5: @Bal.): As I mentioned under Burrow above, the Ravens’ secondary is banged up this week and they haven’t been as dominant as they were a year ago. Higgins is working as a full-time WR in this offense, playing ahead of AJ Green, and the Ravens have ranked a pretty average 14^th in pass defense DVOA. He isn’t a guy I would target in DFS lineups, but with the pass-happy game script the Bengals are likely to be dealing with, he should be a passable WR3 option. Baltimore has allowed the 20^th-most WR points per game so far.

WR Gabriel Davis, BUF (Wk. 5: @Ten.): This game is up in the air at the moment thanks to the Titans’ coronavirus outbreak, and that probably doesn’t help Davis if they do in fact play. He played a lot last week with Cole Beasley battling through a foot injury and being limited to just 18 snaps. John Brown has also been a bit hobbled at practice this week with a calf injury. Having the game on Monday or Tuesday would give those guys a little extra time to get right and would hurt Davis’s opportunity. The rookie has shown he can perform when called upon, and Tennessee isn’t a pass defense to fear, allowing the 12^th-most WR points per game. Buffalo is averaging over 330 passing yards per game, so Davis has some upside as a desperation WR3 even with everyone else healthy, but if Beasley or Brown will be limited or sit out, Davis should move up your rankings this week. If your league doesn’t allow you to designate replacement players ahead of time though, it’ll be tough to trust anyone in this game.

Rookies to Sit:

RB JK Dobbins, BAL (Wk. 5: vs. Cin.): Dobbins has been a victim of a crowded backfield so far this year, and I don’t see a lot of reasons why that will change in the immediate future. The Ravens have played in a few lopsided wins already, and still Dobbins has failed to top 43% of the snaps played or 7 touches in any game this season. The Bengals are another opponent that the Ravens should handle easily, and I know the RB pickings can be slim out there this week, but I’d stay away from Dobbins outside of the deepest of leagues this week. Cincy has allowed the 12^th-most RB points per game on the year, but that total is split 3 ways for Baltimore.

RB Cam Akers, LAR (Wk. 5: @Was.): Akers is practicing as of Thursday, but his status for Sunday’s game remains in doubt. If he plays, I think you have to wait a week to see how he is re-integrated into the backfield. The Rams look to be a true committee with no clear lead option, and that’s a situation you typically want to avoid in fantasy. Washington has allowed the 10^th-fewest RB fantasy points per game on the year, and Akers likely won’t see enough work to post a big week this Sunday. Like with Dobbins, those RB points are split three ways. I wouldn’t consider him outside of a desperation scenario.

RB Zack Moss, BUF (Wk. 5: @Ten.): It looks like Moss will be ready to return to action this week, assuming the Bills still have a game to play, but I would take a wait-and-see approach before putting him back in your lineup. If the Bills and Titans play at all, it won’t be until Monday or Tuesday, and that happens only if there are no more positive COVID tests for Tennessee. If your league doesn’t allow you to designate a replacement player prior to this week’s games, I wouldn’t even consider Moss. He may return to his red zone role and faces a defense that has allowed the 9^th-most RB points per game so far, but Devin Singletary performed well as the workhorse back over the last two weeks. There’s no guarantee that we go right back to the same workload split we were seeing before Moss’s injury, and Moss wasn’t exactly lighting up the fantasy box scores before he got hurt – he averaged 7.7 PPR points per game the first two weeks. I would like to see how it plays out before re-inserting Moss into any lineups, especially considering the COVID uncertainty surrounding this game.

RB Anthony McFarland, PIT (Wk. 5: vs. Phi.): McFarland saw his first real game action in week 3 and flashed the kind of speed that the Steelers coveted him for, tallying 42 yards on 6 carries and a 7-yard reception. That performance came against the Texans though, and they rank just 29^th in run defense DVOA. The Eagles rank a passable 15^th in that stat, but they were 3^rd in 2019 and only Darrell Henderson has made it to 60 scrimmage yards against Philly so far this season. I know it’s a dire week at running back but counting on McFarland to see more work than he did in week 3 is a fool’s errand. This is still James Conner’s backfield.

WR Henry Ruggs, LV (Wk. 5: @KC): Ruggs seems likely to return this week while Bryan Edwards likely will remain sidelined, but this is not a great spot for him to have a breakout game. The Chiefs have allowed the fewest WR points per game and rank 1^st in pass defense DVOA. Ruggs has the kind of obscene speed that can help him post a useful fantasy week in 1 play, but the Raiders don’t involve the receivers enough in their passing attack to make you feel good about starting Ruggs this week. The Raiders throw just 40.1% of their passing targets in the direction of their wideouts. Only the 49ers WRs have a lower target share.

WR John Hightower, PHI (Wk. 5: @Pit.): Hightower has led the Eagles in WR snaps each of the past two weeks with the rest of the position group banged up, but it’s led to just 4 catches and 41 yards. As of Thursday, Alshon Jeffrey isn’t practicing, DeSean Jackson was a limited participant, and JJ Arcega-Whiteside was practicing in full. Even if all 3 missed this game, I would tell you not to play Hightower against the Steelers. Pittsburgh ranks 8^th in pass defense DVOA. If D-Jax plays, Hightower would likely see a significant drop in snap share.

WR Chase Claypool, PIT (Wk. 5: vs. Phi.): With Diontae Johnson practicing in full ahead of this week’s game, Claypool may have missed his window to shine when the Tennessee game was pushed back. He is likely to go back to playing limited snaps sharing the WR3 role with James Washington on Sunday. The Steelers have tried to get him involved in the game-plan each week, and he did record an 80-yard touchdown in week 2 against Denver, but Philly has allowed just one pass play of 40+ yards so far this year. Claypool is no more than a low-volume TD dart throw against an opponent that has allowed just 2 receiving TDs to opposing WRs thus far.

WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, CLE (Wk. 5: vs. Ind.): With KhaDarel Hodge sidelined in week 4 due to a hamstring injury, it was Peoples-Jones who slid into the WR3 role for the Browns, playing 44% of the offensive snaps. He wasn’t targeted in the game, but you might chalk that up to the Browns playing with a large lead for much of the day (Cleveland led by multiple scores for all but one offensive play in the last 2 and half quarters of the game). Hodge was placed on injured reserve for at least the next few weeks, but I wouldn’t view DPJ as a guy to add even in deeper leagues right now. Hodge was targeted just 6 times in the first 3 weeks of the season in this same role, and no team plays a smaller share of their snaps with 3+ WRs on the field than the Browns (36%). Cleveland also just called up Taywan Taylor from their practice squad, and he may steal some snaps from DPJ as well. Taylor caught 37 passes for Tennessee just two seasons ago and was a favorite of fantasy twitter. Add in the fact that Cleveland’s opponent this week, the Colts, rank 2^nd in pass defense DVOA and it’s an easy call to leave Peoples-Jones on the waiver wire this week.

TE Harrison Bryant, CLE (Wk. 5: vs. Ind.): Bryant has continued to see his snap share and fantasy output increase each and every week this season, and as mentioned with Peoples-Jones, the Browns don’t have 3+ receivers on the field very often. This all bodes well for Bryant moving forward, but there are a couple of factors that don’t: the looming return of David Njoku and a matchup this week with the Colts. Njoku has been designated to return from injured reserve and could even be ready to suit up in week 5. Even if he doesn’t return this week, The Colts have allowed the fewest TE points per game in the league so far and have faced off with Chris Herndon, Kyle Rudolph, Jimmy Graham, and Tyler Eifert. Njoku’s return would probably at least cut Bryant’s snaps in half, and if Njoku is out one more week even 5 PPR points out of the rookie TE would be considered a successful week in this matchup.

TE Adam Trautman, NO (Wk. 5: vs. LAC): Trautman was a popular sleeper pick for last week as Jared Cook was sidelined by a groin injury, but things didn’t exactly work out in his favor against the Lions. Josh Hill served as the TE1, and Trautman wasn’t even targeted once. He was even out-snapped by another tight end, Garrett Griffin, who has one career reception that came in 2017. Even if Cook sits again this week, you can likely find more upside elsewhere. The Chargers have allowed the 10^th-most TE points per game on the season, but I wouldn’t be confident that Trautman can capitalize on the matchup.

Rookies on Byes in Week 5: RB D’Andre Swift, DET, RB AJ Dillon, GB, WR Quintez Cephus, DET

Deep League Sleepers, Stashes, and Cheap DFS Options:

RB Ke’Shawn Vaughn, TB (Wk. 5: @Chi.): Vaughn got his first real action of the season in week 4, and he made the most of it, scoring a late touchdown and finishing with 10.6 PPR points on just 19 snaps. The Bucs’ offense is very banged up heading into this week’s game in Chicago, and that should benefit Vaughn. LeSean McCoy has been ruled out, Leonard Fournette is doubtful, and a number of pass-catchers will be out as well for this game. Ronald Jones should handle the bulk of the rushing work, but he has been ineffective as a receiver out of the backfield. Jones has 12 catches out of 18 targets for just 57 yards (3.2 yards per target). The Bears haven’t given up a lot of receiving production to opposing backs thus far (4.5 receptions and 33.5 receiving yards per game), but with the limited weapons, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Vaughn log 5+ targets and a handful of carries. If you’re hamstrung at running back in a deep PPR league, he’s a viable fill-in this week, and he costs just $1,000 on DraftKings for the Thursday night showdown slate. A strong performance here could open up more opportunities for him in the weeks to come.

RB DeeJay Dallas, SEA (Wk. 5: vs. Min.): Dallas saw his first action of the season in week 4 with Carlos Hyde sidelined, and it looks like Hyde will be out again this week. Dallas split backup work with Travis Homer, but he did manage to put up 23 yards on 4 touches. He won’t be a worthwhile play in any formats this week, but he is worth monitoring and possibly even stashing in deeper dynasty formats. Chris Carson has been battling a number of injuries and Dallas would be forced into a bigger role if anything happens to Carson.

WR Darnell Mooney, CHI (Wk. 5: vs. TB): Mooney is listed as questionable for this game, but if he plays, he’s going to be an intriguing option in deep leagues and DFS formats. The changing of the guard at QB in Chicago looks like it will be a good thing for Mooney. He was targeted 8 times by Mitch Trubisky in 2+ games. He was targeted 9 times by Nick Foles in week 4. This week the Bears face a tough matchup against a Bucs’ defense that ranks 4^th in pass defense DVOA and has allowed the 12^th-fewest WR points per game, but their best corner Carlton Davis will likely be shadowing Allen Robinson. Davis has regularly been used to shadow big-bodied #1 WRs like Robinson and has had success, limiting Michael Thomas in week 1 (3 catches for 17 yards), and limiting De’Andre Hopkins late last year (5 for 23). Robinson is still going to command targets, but Mooney will have a much more favorable matchup and should see plenty of work himself. If Mooney doesn’t play, this would then apply to Anthony Miller. Mooney could be a passable WR3 in deeper leagues this week and is a sneaky DFS option as well if he plays.

WR Tyler Johnson, TB (Wk. 5: @Chi.): Johnson has quietly been on the field for over 30% of the Bucs snaps each of the last two weeks. It hasn’t led to any targets, but the Bucs are quickly running out of weapons ahead of the rookie. With Chris Godwin and Justin Watson already ruled out for this week, and Mike Evans a true game time-decision, Johnson seems likely to play a large number of snaps Thursday night. Brady is bound to look his way at least a few times in this one. If Evans is out, the group of weapons will consist of Scotty Miller, Gronk, Ronald Jones, Ke’Shawn Vaughn, Cameron Brate, and Johnson. The Bears’ defense has been solid against the pass (they allow the 3^rd-fewest WR points per game), but you could do worse than Johnson at his minuscule $200 price tag in the Thursday showdown slate on DraftKings.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Hopefully, it helps you with your toughest lineup decisions involving rookies. Keep a close eye on the injury report throughout the week and keep an eye out for updates on the Bills/Titans game. You don’t want to leave an inactive player in your lineup. Feel free to hit me up on twitter if you have any questions or want to yell at me about anything written above (@Shawn_Foss). As always: Good luck, trust your gut and have fun. It’s just a game.

Welcome back to the Rookie Report! Week 6 was another banner week for the rookie class. There were 4 rookie running backs that finished in the top 12 at the position, and 3 rookie receivers as well. Justin Jefferson, D’Andre Swift, and Clyde Edwards-Helaire had especially big days. For Jefferson, it was the second time he’s topped 160 yards this season, and Swift and CEH each set their season-high in rushing yards. CEH made an emphatic case to remain the lead back despite the signing of Le’Veon Bell. This week there aren’t as many automatic starters among the rookies, but there are plenty who could have big games in week 7. There are still plenty of byes and injuries to contend with, so you me be scouring the free agent pool a little deeper than usual, and there may be a rookie who can help. Keep in mind that any players listed under the same header at the same position are listed in the order that I would play them this week. Let’s dive into what to expect…

Rookies to Start:

QB Justin Herbert, LAC (Wk. 7: vs. Jax.): Herbert has consistently produced since taking the starting job, reaching at least 260 yards passing each week. He’s also thrown for 7 touchdowns in the last two weeks, and this week faces a Jacksonville defense that ranks dead last in Football Outsiders’ pass defense DVOA stat, and has allowed the 8^th-most QB points per game (all point totals and rankings based on half-PPR scoring unless otherwise noted). Herbert isn’t an auto-start in 1-QB leagues, but you should have 2 studs you’re playing instead if you’re sitting him in 2-QB formats. The Chargers don’t blow anyone out, so they shouldn’t get so far out in front that they stop throwing. Herbert should be a very safe bet for 250+ yards and at least 2 scores.

RB D’Andre Swift, DET (Wk. 7: @Atl.): Swift finally had the breakout game people who drafted him have been waiting for, rushing for 116 yards and 2 scores in a blowout win over the Jaguars. He still only played 38% of the offensive snaps, but he made the most of his opportunities against a terrible Jacksonville defense. This week’s matchup Isn’t quite as juicy for Swift, but his receiving prowess should be a factor in this one. Atlanta has allowed the 2^nd most receptions, 3^rd most receiving yards, and the most receiving TDs to opposing running backs per game. They’ve coughed up the 15^th-most RB points per game, so the receiving work is where a large portion of the scoring is coming from and Swift is the Detroit back best positioned to take advantage. There is some risk here since Detroit has been inconsistent with their running back usage, but I have faith that this matchup favors Swift, and that he’s going to finish as an RB2 or better in PPR and half-PPR formats.

RB James Robinson, JAX (Wk. 7: @LAC): Robinson has consistently seen his weekly upside limited by the Jaguars’ overall futility, but that may be changing this week. Chris Thompson was added to the team’s COVID reserve list, meaning Robinson is likely the best back on the roster to be used in passing situations, and he’s already been the main back on early downs. Devine Ozigbo was activated from IR this week, but I would still expect Robinson to operate as a bellcow against the Chargers. The Chargers do rank 13^th in run defense DVOA so this isn’t a cake matchup, but Robinson has at least 15 touches in every game this season and at least 4 catches in each of the last 4. He’ll be a high-floor RB2 in PPR leagues this week who could have a higher ceiling than usual without Thompson around to siphon passing-down work. He should be started in most formats.

WR Tee Higgins, CIN (Wk. 7: vs. Cle.): Higgins has developed a clear rapport with Joe Burrow, drawing an average of 8 targets per game over the past 4 contests, and leading the WR group in snaps played in 3 of those 4 games. He broke through for his first 100-yard receiving game last week, and this week gets to face off with a Cleveland defense that has allowed the 4th-most WR points per game in the league. Joe Burrow had his best game of the season against these Browns, and while Higgins is going to match up with the best corner the Browns have (Denzel Ward), his target share should be solid enough that he’ll be a safe WR3 this week.

Borderline Rookies:

QB Joe Burrow, CIN (Wk. 7: vs. Cle.): Burrow’s best game so far this season came in week 2 against the same Browns he faces this week, when he threw for 316 yards and 3 TDs. The concern I have is that he had to throw the ball 61 times to reach those numbers. He hasn’t had even 40 attempts in any other game this season. The Browns have been playing better defense against QBs in recent weeks, holding Philip Rivers to fewer than 8 points and Big Ben to fewer than 11, and Burrow has been held without a passing TD in 3 of his 6 starts. He’s had a rushing score in two of those games, but I wouldn’t count on him continuing to find rushing scores to bail out his worst fantasy days. Burrow isn’t likely to kill you if you play him as your QB2 this week considering he’s already had a huge game against this defense, but he’s by no means a guy you have to start in 2-QB leagues if you have options you like better. 

RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, KC (Wk. 7: @Den.): It seems likely that Le’Veon Bell will make his debut for the Chiefs this week, and that will immediately change CEH’s status as an every-week auto-start. Bell is going to be involved. That’s not to say that Edwards-Helaire can’t help your fantasy team going forward, but he’s going to lose touches which will cap his ceiling. This week’s matchup with Denver isn’t a great one on paper. The Chiefs are a heavy 9.5-point favorite, so they should be able to lean on the run game, but Denver has done a great job limiting opposing backs. The Broncos rank 5^th in run defense DVOA and have allowed the 2^nd-fewest running back fantasy points per game. CEH could supplement his numbers with some receiving work, but James White is the only back to record more than 3 catches in a game against the Broncos this year. When you factor in Bell taking some of Clyde’s touches, it’s not hard to envision CEH having a lackluster fantasy game. He still has top-10 upside in this one, but the floor is a bit lower this week.

RB Antonio Gibson, WAS (Wk. 7: vs. Dal.): Week 6 was the 5^th time in 6 games that JD McKissic played more snaps than Gibson, and that will continue to happen as long as the Washington Football Team continues to play from behind. This week’s game with the Dak-less Cowboys is a pick’em in Vegas, so there is a reasonable chance that the game script stays at least neutral for Washington this week. Dallas has been abysmal on the defensive side of the ball, ranking 29^th in run defense DVOA, and Gibson has been more active in the passing game in recent weeks with 4+ catches in three straight games. Antonio will probably continue to reside on the borderline until he sees his snap share go up, but he’s a decent RB2 option this week.

RB Josh Kelley, LAC (Wk. 7: vs. Jax.): At this point I am assuming that Justin Jackson, who is questionable with a knee injury, will play. That will limit Kelley to being a flex option this week, albeit one with plenty of upside. He’d be a sure-fire start if Jackson is out. The Jaguars have proven to be one of the worst defenses in the league, allowing the 6^th-most RB points per game and ranking 22^nd in run defense DVOA. Kelley has handled at least 10 touches in every game this season, even as he’s split playing time with Austin Ekeler and then Jackson. Against the Jaguars, the game script should favor the Chargers, so he should see more volume than usual, and those touches are gold against a defense like Jacksonville. Don’t be discouraged this week if you need Kelley as a fill-in. This should be his best fantasy game since week 2.

RB AJ Dillon, GB (Wk. 7: @Hou.): The expectation at this point is that Aaron Jones is going to sit out on Sunday nursing a calf injury. If that happens, Dillon is going to get his first real chance to make his mark. Tyler Ervin will be out as well, so the Green Bay backfield will be split between Dillon and Jamaal Williams. Houston has been one of the best matchups for running backs, ranking 28^th in run defense DVOA and giving up the 2^nd-most RB points per game. They’ve given up by far a league-worst 161 rushing yards per game to opposing backs. There is still some uncertainty to how the workload will be split between Dillon and Williams. Williams has played nearly 5 times as many snaps as Dillon for the year and has 43 touches to just 13 for Dillon. My best guess as to how the split will play out is that they will have a pretty even split on early downs, and that Williams will get almost all of the passing down work. In this plus matchup, even half the carries should give Dillon a strong shot at 60+ rushing yards. He’s in play as a flex option, and is a stronger play in non-PPR formats.

RB La’Mical Perine, NYJ (Wk. 7: vs. Buf.): In the Jets’ first game after releasing Le’Veon Bell, Perine stepped into the lead back role, playing 58% of the offensive snaps, but Frank Gore still handled 15 touches to Perine’s 9. Buffalo isn’t a bad matchup for running backs. They rank 24^th in run defense DVOA and have given up the 14^th-most RB points per game. Perine should continue to see his touches increase going forward, and that means double-digit touches are possible this week. Against Buffalo that puts him on the flex radar, but I would avoid playing him unless you are desperate. The Jets implied total for the week is just 16.5, so they are not an offense to target.

WR Chase Claypool, PIT (Wk. 7:  @Ten.): Claypool followed up his 4-touchdown breakout game with another top-10 WR finish in week 6, logging 81 scrimmage yards and a score. The matchup this week is a good one with the Titans allowing the 6^th-most WR points per game, but the concern I have for Claypool is the return of Diontae Johnson. Johnson was the clear WR1 in this offense when he was healthy, seeing 23 targets come his way in the first two weeks of the season (31.5% share). Claypool seemed to mostly assume Johnson’s role the last two weeks, but I would expect his workload to take a sizable hit with Johnson returning. We don’t have a clear picture of what the Steelers’ WR depth chart will look like with everyone healthy. I expect it’ll be James Washington who sees the biggest drop in playing time this week, but Claypool takes enough of a hit that I see him as an upside WR3 this week rather than an automatic start.

WR CeeDee Lamb, DAL (Wk. 7: @Was.): The Dallas offense looked like a shell of itself in week 6 with Dak Prescott out, but Lamb managed to put up a passable fantasy day on volume alone. He matched his season-high with 11 targets and finished with a 7-64 line. He should continue to be one of the top 2 options in the passing game along with Amari Cooper, but Dalton at QB certainly looks like it’s going to put a dent in his upside. The matchup this week is a tough one. Washington ranks 6^th in pass defense DVOA and has allowed the 2^nd-fewest WR points per game.  If you start Lamb this week, you probably shouldn’t expect much more than what he put up last week.

WR Gabriel Davis, BUF (Wk. 7: @NYJ): John Brown has been ruled out for week 7, and that bodes well for Davis. In the two games where Brown played less than 50% of the snaps, Davis posted 4-81 on 4 targets, and 5-51 on 9 targets. The Jets have one of the worst pass defenses in the league, ranking 31^st in pass defense DVOA, and Buffalo has an implied point total of 29.5 points. If Davis manages to get in the end zone, I expect this to easily be his highest scoring fantasy week of the year. Anything short of 10 PPR points in this one would be a disappointment.

WR Laviska Shenault, JAX (Wk. 7: @LAC): Shenault is coming off his worst game of the season in week 6, and week 7 should at least be a little bit better for him. The Chargers are just a middling pass defense, and although Shenault will draw a tough individual matchup with Casey Heyward for much of the game, he’s been targeted at least 6 times in each of the last 4 games. The best sign for optimism for Viska is that the Chargers allow the 6^th-most yards after catch per game and Shenault does a lot of his damage by getting the ball in space. He’s in play as a PPR WR3 with a little bit of upside in deeper leagues.

WR Jerry Jeudy, DEN (Wk. 7: vs. KC): Jeudy struggled to make a fantasy impact last Sunday in a tough matchup with the Patriots, but the more concerning result from that game is that for the second consecutive game he was significantly out-targeted by Tim Patrick, who may be operating as the Broncos’ WR1. I expected that the return of Drew Lock would result in more balls going to Jeudy, but that wasn’t the case at least for one game. This week Jeudy gets another tough matchup in the slot against Tyrann Mathieu. His volume could see a boost this week with Denver a 9.5-point underdog, but it remains to be seen if that will translate into more points against a defense that allows the 5^th-fewest WR points per game. He’s no more than a floor WR3 play this week in deeper leagues. 

Rookies to Sit:

RB Cam Akers, LAR (Wk. 7: vs. Chi.): Akers has been an afterthought in the Rams offense since returning from his injury, playing just 1 snap in week 6 and just 14 snaps total in the two games since he’s been back. There’s no question the Rams want to make an effort to get him more involved going forward, but it’s hard to be sure when it will happen. This week looked like a good opportunity with Darrell Henderson questionable due to a thigh injury, but he was removed from the injury report late in the week and should be good to go. The Bears rank 11^th in run defense DVOA and allow the 11^th fewest RB points per game, so there isn’t much reason to expect a useful fantasy day from Akers if he’s only going to see a handful of touches.

RB Ja’Mycal Hasty, SF (Wk. 7: @NE): Hasty looked good last week in relief of Raheem Mostert after Mostert left Sunday night’s game with injury, but the backfield outlook for the 49ers is a little murky going forward. Jeff Wilson Jr. is likely to be back this week, and he has served as a goal-line option when Mostert has been out previously. This has the makings of a 3-man committee with Hasty splitting early down work with Jerick McKinnon, McKinnon handling passing down work, and Wilson being the short yardage and goal-line option. That’s going to severely limit the fantasy upside for all 3 of them. If I had to choose one to play it would be McKinnon. This week’s opponent, the Patriots, have allowed the 5^th-fewest running back points per game.

RB Ke’Shawn Vaughn, TB (Wk. 7: @LV): Vaughn looked good in week 6 putting up 42 yards on just 5 carries, but his window for fantasy viability seems to have closed with LeSean McCoy returning last week and Leonard Fournette practicing in full ahead of this week’s game. It couldn’t have happened at a worse time for the rookie. The Bucs are about to square off with a defense that allows the 3^rd-most RB points per game. It’s unlikely he gets back to 5 carries this week unless it’s a blowout win again. Vaughn shouldn’t be near your fantasy lineups this week despite a plum matchup.

WR Brandon Aiyuk, SF (Wk. 7: @NE): Aiyuk saw his lowest target total since week 2 last Sunday night against the Rams. He managed to bail out his fantasy day with a touchdown, but he’s only reached 4+ catches and 60+ scrimmage yards once in the 5 games he’s played, and this was the second time in three games that he finished with fewer than 20 receiving yards. The Patriots have given up the 13^th-most WR points per game, but a lot of that is due to more than 200 yards and 4 TDs that they gave up to Seattle’s receivers in week 2. They’ve been better in their other contests. Aiyuk will need to find the end zone to be a worthwhile option in week 7, and the 49ers have an implied total of just 21 points. I’d search for better options this week.

WR Henry Ruggs, LV (Wk. 7: vs. TB): Ruggs posted the best game of his young career in week 6 with 118 receiving yards and a touchdown, but he got there with just 2 catches on 3 targets. It’s hard to imagine him duplicating those numbers if his targets don’t increase. The performance last week came against a stingy Chiefs’ pass defense, and he gets another stingy defense this week. Tampa Bay ranks 1^st in pass defense DVOA and has allowed the 6^th-fewest WR points per game. The Bucs have given up 3 pass plays of 40+ yards in 6 games, and it will probably take at least one deep ball for Ruggs to return value again. There is upside for Ruggs, but a low floor as well. You may need some antacids handy if you start Ruggs this week.

WR Darnell Mooney, CHI (Wk. 7: @LAR): I’ve been high on Mooney in past weeks, but he hasn’t managed to turn a solid target share into productive fantasy weeks. Mooney is averaging 6 targets per game over the past 4 weeks, but he’s only reached 40+ receiving yards once in that span, and he’s yet to catch a touchdown from Nick Foles. This week would seem like a good one for him to get a few extra targets with Jalen Ramsey likely to be following Allen Robinson around, but the Bears have shown they’re willing to keep throwing Robinson’s way in tough matchups and the Rams have allowed the fewest WR points per game in the league. Anything over 40 yards out of Mooney this week would be a success for him.

WR KJ Hamler, DEN (Wk. 7: vs. KC): Hamler is expected to return this week after missing the last two games, but he walks into a tough matchup against the Chiefs. He’s averaged 6 targets per game in the two games that he played in full this season, but Kansas City has allowed the 5^th-fewest WR points per game. Denver should be playing from behind and throwing a decent amount, but they’ve yet to throw for 250 yards in a game as a team and Hamler is yet to catch for 50. I’d look for a safer option this week.

WR Freddie Swain, SEA (Wk. 7: @Ari.): Swain has started to push David Moore for the WR3 role in Seattle in recent weeks, but he’s still not quite to the point that he’s fantasy relevant. DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett are the focal points of the passing game, so Swain will have to move fully ahead of Moore to be worth consideration. This isn’t a week to consider taking a shot on an ancillary Seattle receiver with Arizona allowing the 7^th-fewest WR points per game. Monitor Swain in dynasty leagues, but there’s no reason to play him this week.

WR Tyler Johnson, TB (Wk. 7: @LV): Johnson got in the end zone last weekend, but it was his only target of the game. He isn’t going to get much work as long as the rest of the WR group is healthy. He played just 17 snaps in week 6, and I don’t expect that number to be much higher in weeks where everyone else is healthy. This week’s matchup with the Raiders is a good one, but Johnson won’t be in a position to take advantage of it.

TE Cole Kmet, CHI (Wk. 7: @LAR): Kmet scored his first touchdown last week, but it wasn’t the result of increased playing time. He still played only 35% of the snaps and remains the number 3 tight end in this offense. There’s no reason to consider him as anything more than a TD dart throw. The Rams have given up 4 tight end scores this season, but that doesn’t make it likely Kmet scores the 5^th.

Rookies on byes in week 7: QB Tua Tagovailoa, MIA, RB Jonathan Taylor, IND, RB JK Dobbins, BAL, WR Justin Jefferson, MIN, WR Devin Duvernay, BAL

Deep League Sleepers, Stashes, and Cheap DFS Options:

RB Zack Moss, BUF (Wk. 7: @NYJ): Moss returned to the lineup last Monday against Kansas City, but he played just 25% of the offensive snaps and tallied 5 carries and 10 yards. The key to Moss’s value is going to come from red zone opportunities, but last Monday the Bills ran just two offensive plays in the red zone. Both were touchdown passes. There should be a LOT more opportunity in this game for both Moss and Singletary. The Bills are favored by 13 points and should have plenty of chances to run the ball in the second half. The Jets have allowed the 7^th-most RB points per game, and Moss has a very real chance to get double-digit touches against that defense if the game goes the way Vegas expects it to. Moss would be an interesting dart throw if you’re in a tough spot in a deeper league, and he costs barely more than the minimum on DraftKings.

WR Marquez Callaway, NO (Wk. 7: vs. Car.): Michael Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders will both be sidelined on Sunday, and while Tre’Quan Smith will be the biggest beneficiary, I’d expect Callaway to be an every-down player as well. Callaway played more snaps than Sanders back in week 5 and finished that game with 4 catches for 34 yards on 6 targets. The Panthers have done a pretty good job limiting opposing WRs, holding them to the 5^th-fewest points per game, so the Saints offense is going to run mostly through Kamara, Jared Cook, and Latavius Murray. There should still be enough work for the receivers for Callaway to see another 6 or 7 targets, and with an implied total just below 30 points for New Orleans there should be a chance at a TD as well. Callaway costs the minimum on DraftKings and can be a nice fill-in WR in deeper leagues if byes or injuries are an issue for you.

WR Denzel Mims, NYJ (Wk. 7: vs. Buf.): Mims finally makes his season debut this week after battling through a hamstring injury, and while it would take a brave fantasy player to put him in the lineup in week 7, he shouldn’t be languishing on the waiver wire in deeper leagues. There is very little stiff competition for targets on the Jets’ depth chart, so it shouldn’t take Mims long to find his way into a prominent role. Jamison Crowder is doubtful for week 7, so his 11.5 targets per game will have to go somewhere, but the most likely candidate to benefit this week would be Braxton Berrios. The Bills allow the 12^th-fewest WR points per game, so even if Mims does see a reasonable target share he’ll have limited upside this week. He’s a guy you should be stashing for now, and only considering as a minimum cost DFS option in week 7.

TE Harrison Bryant, CLE (Wk. 7: @Cin.): Bryant had been building toward being a usable weekly option in 2 tight end leagues, but that was before David Njoku returned to the lineup. In week 6, Njoku played more snaps than Bryant for the first time all season. That would’ve made Bryant droppable in all formats…but then Austin Hooper popped up with an injury that will keep him out this week. The Browns play with 2 tight ends on the field a lot, and the Bengals have allowed 4 tight end scores in the last two weeks. Bryant is worth considering as a TD dart throw in DFS and if you’re desperate in deep leagues. I would prefer David Njoku to Bryant, but both have upside in this one.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Hopefully it helps you with your toughest lineup decisions this week involving rookies. Keep a close eye on who winds up being inactive on game-day and make sure none of them are in your lineups. If you have any questions or want to yell at me about anything written above, feel free to hit me up on twitter and let me know (@Shawn_Foss). As always: Good luck, trust your gut, and have fun. It’s just a game.

Welcome back to the Rookie Report! Week 7 was another eventful one for the rookie crop. Chase Claypool and CeeDee Lamb each seemingly took the week off, but there were plenty of other big rookie performances to enjoy. Brandon Aiyuk, Antonio Gibson and James Robinson all reached 100 scrimmage yards in week 7, bringing the total of 100-yard days for the rookies to 23 divvied up between 12 different players. Justin Herbert finished the week as the QB1 and Joe Burrow as the QB4 in the best week of the season for either of them. Clyde Edwards-Helaire found the end zone of the first time since week 1, Harrison Bryant found it twice, and Albert Okwuegbunam became the first rookie tight end to reach 60 receiving yards in a game this year. The rookies certainly have more in store for us in week 8, so let’s dive in and look at what to expect…

(Note: All fantasy point totals and rankings are based on half-PPR scoring unless otherwise noted. All players under same header at same position are listed in order I would play them this week.)

Rookies to Start:

QB Joe Burrow, CIN (Wk. 8: vs. Ten.): Burrow has had the Browns’ number this season despite the Bengals getting swept by Cleveland for the year. Over the two meetings Burrow totaled over 700 yards and 6 scores through the air, and another 53 and a TD on the ground. Since week 2, Burrow has thrown for over 300 yards against every opponent he’s faced except the Ravens, and the Titans aren’t a daunting matchup. Tennessee has given up the 10^th-most QB points per game despite facing the 11^th-easiest QB schedule. They’ve allowed each of the last 5 QBs they’ve faced to throw for 250+ yards and multiple TDs, and I’d expect the Bengals’ QB to have a great chance to extend that streak to 6. Burrow is in-play for 1-QB leagues this week.

QB Justin Herbert, LAC (Wk. 8: @Den.): Herbert is coming off a monster game in week 7, his best fantasy game of the year, but the matchup this week isn’t quite as easy. I’d still view him as a low-end QB1 for week 8. He’s thrown for at least 260 yards each game this season and has accounted for 11 total TDs in the last 3 weeks. Denver has only allowed 2 QBs to throw for 250 yards against them, and has given up just 1 passing TD in the last 3 games combined, but they’ve proven to be vulnerable to QB runs. Sam Darnold ran for 84 yards and a score against them in week 4, and Cam Newton ran for 76 and a TD in week 6. Herbert showed what he can do running the ball last week with 66 yards and a TD on the ground against Jacksonville. That rushing ability should give him enough cushion to withstand it if he doesn’t have a ceiling passing game. View Herbert as a very strong QB2 or upside low-end QB1.

RB Jonathan Taylor, IND (Wk. 8: @Det.): Taylor benefitted in his last couple games from a banged up Jordan Wilkins, and while Wilkins may be healthier this week the matchup with Detroit is good enough for Taylor to be a locked-in RB2 even if he cedes some carries to the vet. Detroit allows the 5^th-most RB points per game, the Colts are favored by a field goal, and Taylor is coming off his most productive receiving game since week 1. Taylor is a safe bet to make a run at 100 scrimmage yards for the second game in a row, and given the Colts’ implied total of 26.5 he’s a pretty good bet to find the end zone as well.

RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire, KC (Wk. 8: vs. NYJ): I can’t say for sure if Edwards-Helaire has felt the pressure from the Chiefs’ signing of Le’Veon Bell, but his play over the last two weeks has looked like that of a man that doesn’t want to lose his job. In Bell’s debut, CEH had to split work with the veteran addition, and had to give way to DeAndre Washington in the 2^nd half with the game well in hand, but he still managed to finish as the RB15 for the week. This week’s matchup with the Jets has as lopsided of an NFL betting line as I’ve ever seen, with Kansas City favored by an absurd 19.5 points. It’s possible CEH and Bell are watching from the sideline down the stretch again, but you can’t sit Clyde in this game. The Jets have allowed the 8^th-most RB points per game, and CEH is the lead half of the RB committee in a game where the Chiefs implied total is 34 points. There is a great chance that Edwards-Helaire gets in the end zone in this one, and he should be locked into your lineup if you have him.

WR Justin Jefferson, MIN (Wk. 8: @GB): Over the last month or so Jefferson has made a clear case that his upside is just too much to leave on your bench. He’s topped 100 yards in 3 of his last 4 games, and 160 in two of them. He did square off with the Packers in week 1 without much success (2-26 on 3 targets), but that was with no preseason, and he had yet to unseat Bisi Johnson for the WR2 role. Adam Thielen is likely to draw shadow coverage from Jaire Alexander, which could be a boost for Jefferson. Alexander has struggled with Adam Thielen in past meetings, including coughing up 6-110-2 on 8 targets in week 1, but Jaire has been much better since then. The Vikings are a 6-point underdog, so game script should keep them throwing. Jefferson should be a solid WR2 this week.

WR Brandon Aiyuk, SF (Wk. 8: @Sea.): The 49ers just cannot keep their offensive weapons healthy this season. Last Sunday it was Deebo Samuel and Jeffrey Wilson who went down, and Aiyuk stands to benefit from it this week. The Seahawks have allowed the most WR points per game in the league, and rank 30^th in Football Outsiders’ pass defense DVOA stat. He’ll be the default WR1 in this game. The 49ers have a reputation of throwing most of their passes within 5 yards of the line of scrimmage, and Aiyuk can excel in that short passing game, but the average pass thrown to Aiyuk has been over 11 yards downfield. He’s not limited to just the short game. The 49ers will have to score to keep pace with Seattle, and that probably means 7+ targets for the rookie. He’s going to be a safe WR3 in all formats this week.

Borderline Rookies:

RB JaMycal Hasty, SF (Wk. 8: @Sea.): The 49ers should probably just start putting the words “next man up” on the back of their running back jerseys rather than a name. They’ve seen Raheem Mostert, Tevin Coleman, and now Jeffrey Wilson all go down with injuries this year, and every time someone goes down, they seem to have a dynamic back ready to step in and take over. It appears to be Hasty’s turn to be that back. He’s looked great on the opportunities he’s gotten in the last two weeks, totaling 94 yards on 18 carries. The Seahawks have been a solid run defense, ranking 8^th in run defense DVOA and allowing the 12^th-fewest points per game to the position, but they struggled to contain Dalvin Cook, Alexander Mattison, and Chase Edmonds in their last 2 games. The absence of run-stuffing safety Jamal Adams has started to be a problem. Adams’ status is still up in the air this week. If he plays it would be a slight downgrade for Hasty, but he should be in line for 15+ carries and a few targets as well. Jerick McKinnon will mix in a bit also, but look for Hasty to be the lead back. He should be a reasonable RB2 option this week depending on what your lineup looks like.

RB D’Andre Swift, DET (Wk. 8: vs. Ind.): Swift managed to find the end zone for the second straight week last Sunday, but the touchdown was the highlight of an otherwise pedestrian fantasy day. There were some positives to take away though. It was the second straight week where Swift led the backfield in snaps, and he’s seen almost as many carries as Adrian Peterson in those two weeks. He’s also now seen 4+ targets in 5 of 6 games for the season. He gets a tough matchup this week with the Colts, who allow the 5^th-fewest running back points per game, so you should temper expectations a little bit. I still think Swift has shown enough that he will continue to see the most snaps and touches in this backfield and is a viable flex option this week even in a difficult matchup.

RB Zack Moss, BUF (Wk. 8: vs. NE): Moss played in almost an even split of the backfield snaps with Devin Singletary in week 7, and if that timeshare continues he could be a sneaky upside option in week 8. The Patriots can be run on. They rank just 25^th in run defense DVOA and have allowed at least 1 running back in each of their last 5 games to reach 60+ rushing yards and 80+ scrimmage yards. Buffalo is a 3.5-point favorite in this game, so game script should remain at least neutral for them. I like Moss’s chances of getting 10+ carries, and I think he’s the more likely bet than Singletary if the Pats are going to extend their streak to 6 games of 60+ and 80+. I view him as an upside RB3/flex option.

RB JK Dobbins, BAL (Wk. 8: vs. Pit.): Mark Ingram left the Ravens’ week 6 game with an injury heading into the bye week, and he’s still not practicing this week as of Thursday. That means Dobbins and Gus Edwards are likely to split the backfield work on Sunday. The two saw an almost dead-even split of the snaps in week 6, with Dobbins handling 9 carries and 4 targets while Edwards handled 14 and 1. Dobbins had more rushing yards on his 9 attempts than Edwards had on 14. This week’s matchup with Pittsburgh is a difficult one. The Steelers rank 1^st in run defense DVOA and have allowed the 2^nd-fewest points to the position, so it could be a bit of an uphill fight to a strong fantasy day. If you had to choose one of the two to play this week, I would go with Dobbins. He’s clearly the more explosive back, and he’s posted 3 plays of 30+ yards on just 36 touches this season. I’d view him as a contrarian DFS play at $4,600 in DraftKings and a flex option in deeper leagues.

RB Joshua Kelley, LAC (Wk. 8: @Den.): Kelley seemed to move ahead of Justin Jackson in the Chargers’ backfield pecking order, but this will remain a fluid situation moving forward. Kelley out-snapped Jackson 38-to-31 and handled 17 touches to Jackson’s 10 against the Jaguars. The matchup this week is much tougher against a Denver defense that allows the 3^rd-fewest RB points per game. The Broncos have allowed just 2 backs to reach 10+ fantasy points in their last 4 games, and James White had to catch 8 passes to accomplish the feat. Given that the work will be split between Kelley and Jackson, I’d only be considering Kelley if you’re desperate here. There is some upside if he further takes over the early-down work and widens the playing time gap with Jackson, but it could just as easily go the other direction.

WR Tee Higgins, CIN (Wk. 8: vs. Ten.): I would lean towards playing Higgins if I have him, but the re-emergence of AJ Green has made him a bit more of a volatile play. Higgins saved his day with a 4^th-quarter touchdown last week, but the 5 targets he saw come his way were the fewest he’s seen since week 1. Tennessee has been carved up by opposing wide receivers, allowing the 4^th-most points per game to the position, but it’s Tyler Boyd who will have the easiest matchup in this one again slot corner Chris Jackson. Jackson is a 7^th-round rookie who has been forced into a starting role and has a 29.9 coverage grade (scale from 0-100) from Pro Football Focus. Higgins still has easy starter upside in a game that could be a shootout, but there is some downside if he doesn’t get in the end zone.

WR Henry Ruggs, LV (Wk. 8: @Cle.): If there was ever a week where Ruggs is going to look like a good option, it’s this one. He faces a Cleveland defense that has surrendered the 2^nd-most WR points per game and ranks 25^th in pass defense DVOA. The only thing holding him back is his lack of volume. Ruggs hasn’t seen more than 3 targets come his way in a game since week 1, but he didn’t let that stop him from going for 118 yards and a score against the Chiefs two weeks ago. At some point the Raiders have to give their number 1 receiver more opportunities. He’s a boom-or-bust WR3 this week, and the matchup makes me a little more inclined to take a chance on this being a boom week. He’s a very interesting option for DFS tournaments at $4,900 on DraftKings.

WR Darnell Mooney, CHI (Wk. 8: vs. NO): Allen Robinson is still sitting out of practice with a concussion as of Thursday, so Sunday’s game may be a big opportunity for Mooney. Mooney saw his highest snap share of the season in week 7, and he’s averaged 6.5 targets per game over the last 4 games. He almost posted a huge game in week 7, but Nick Foles just missed hitting him for a long TD to beat a Rams’ zero blitz on Monday. Robinson has averaged 10 targets per game this season, so if he misses this game Mooney will be in line for an obvious bump in volume. The Saints have a middling WR defense, allowing the 13^th-most WR points per game. Mooney should get serious consideration as a WR3 option this week if A-Rob doesn’t play. He would be a chalky play in DFS in that scenario at just $3,500 on DraftKings.

WR Marquez Callaway, NO (Wk. 8: @Chi.): If you’re considering Callaway, you’ll need to monitor the status of Michael Thomas ahead of this game. If Thomas plays, Callaway would move to the ‘Rookies to Sit’ portion of the column. If Thomas is out, Callaway becomes an intriguing PPR WR3 option with Emmanuel Sanders also still sidelined battling a symptomatic case of Covid-19. Thomas did return to practice on Thursday, but his status is still up in the air. Callaway has played more than 65% of the offensive snaps in each of the last two weeks, and in those games he has averaged 8 targets, 6 catches, and 54.5 yards. The Bears are a stingy defense against WRs, allowing the 4^th-fewest points per game to the position, but Drew Brees has a way of finding his guys. I think he would finish not too far off what he did last week if Thomas is out again.

WR Jerry Jeudy, DEN (Wk. 8: vs. LAC): When Courtland Sutton went down for the year, it was assumed it would be Jeudy who would step into a WR1 role for the Broncos, but that hasn’t been the case so far. Tim Patrick has cemented himself into that role instead with Jeudy serving as more of a secondary option. The rookie has just 13 targets over the last 3 games, and has turned them into 6 catches for 113 yards and a TD. This week’s opponent, the Chargers, allow the 10^th-fewest WR points per game. With Jeudy spending a lot of time in the slot, he should at least avoid the toughest Charger CB Casey Heyward. It’ll be Patrick who draws that matchup, but this game won’t be a picnic for Jeudy. He should still see a handful of targets, but he’s not an option you should be relying on unless forced to in a deeper league.

WR CeeDee Lamb, DAL (Wk. 8: @Phi.): Week 7 was a sobering reminder of just how low Lamb’s floor will be without Dak Prescott under center. This isn’t going to be the dynamic passing game it was early in the season, and Lamb will need volume to return productive games. Lamb gets the best matchup of the Dallas WRs, facing off with slot corner Cre’Von LeBlanc while Amari Cooper is likely to be shadowed by Darius Slay, but with Ben DiNucci under center you should be dropping expectations pretty low. Philly gives up the 12^th-most WR points per game, but Lamb is no more than a floor PPR flex play this week.

TE Harrison Bryant, CLE (Wk. 8: @LV): Bryant made the most of Austin Hooper’s appendectomy last weekend by getting into the end zone twice against the Bengals. He played 77% of the offensive snaps and looks like the #1 tight end as long as Hooper is out. The Raiders haven’t been especially giving to tight ends, allowing the 14^th-fewest TE points per game, but in the last 2 games they’ve allowed Travis Kelce to put up 8-108-1 and Gronk to put up 5-62-1. They also are pretty bad as a pass defense in general, ranking 29^th in pass defense DVOA. Bryant should be an enticing TE streaming option as the lead TE in an offense that likes to utilize the position and has an implied total of more than 28 points this week. Another top-10 TE finish wouldn’t be a surprise.

Rookies to Sit:

QB Tua Tagovailoa, MIA (Wk. 8: vs. LAR): Tua will make his first career start on Sunday, and it comes in a less than ideal matchup. The Rams have allowed the 6^th-fewest QB points per game, and any defense that boasts Aaron Donald and Jalen Ramsey isn’t a great one to make your first start against. There is some upside here. The Rams have allowed Jimmy Garoppolo and Josh Allen to each throw for 3+ TDs and 250+ yards against them, and Tua is in the same realm talent-wise as Burrow and Herbert.  There are easier matchups coming for Tua. I’d leave him sidelined this week unless you’re desperate in a 2-QB or Superflex league.

QB Ben DiNucci, DAL (Wk. 8: @Phi.): I’d avoid DiNucci unless he is the only available option for you. He had a sterling senior season at James Madison in 2019, but he was mediocre at Pitt before that. The NFL is a huge jump in competition level, and we’ve seen over the last couple weeks that the Dallas o-line is a mess right now. There are a couple positives for the rookie. He does have an arsenal of weapons at his disposal, he has the wheels to escape the inevitable heat he’ll feel in the pocket (he averaged over 500 yards rushing per season in 2 years at JMU), and Philly isn’t a fearsome QB defense. Philly has allowed the 16^th-most QB points per game despite facing the 2^nd-easiest QB schedule in the league so far. Despite all that, I expect DiNucci to look like a deer in the headlights at times and wouldn’t trust him in any fantasy formats this week. If Dallas had any way to avoid playing him, they would take it.

RB La’Mical Perine, NYJ (Wk. 8: @KC): Perine has been playing as the lead back for the Jets for two weeks now, out-snapping Frank Gore 81-to-41 over that span, but Gore is getting more of the opportunities. Gore has 22 carries and 4 targets in those games, and Perine has 18 carries and 6 targets. The Chiefs are as heavy a favorite as you’ll ever see in an NFL game, so the Jets may have to abandon the run pretty early on. There is a chance that Perine gets some receiving work in garbage time, but with the Jets implied total of 14.5, this is an offense to avoid for the most part (especially the running backs). You could roll Perine out there if you’re desperate, but you’ll be better off looking for a higher upside option.

RB DeeJay Dallas, SEA (Wk. 8: vs. SF): Dallas may be forced into a prominent role this week with Chris Carson likely out and Travis Homer banged up as well. If both sit this week, Carlos Hyde will serve as the early down back and Dallas will work as the third-down guy and receiving back. This isn’t the best matchup to roll out a guy who will serve mainly as a receiving back. The 49ers haven’t allowed any running back this year to get to 4 receptions, and only two backs have reached 20 receiving yards against them. Dallas played 12 snaps last week and handled zero rushing attempts. That won’t lead him to a productive fantasy game this week.

RB Cam Akers, LAR (Wk. 8: @Mia.): Until we see Akers start to play more, there’s no way to justify putting him in your lineup. He’s been on the field for just 4 snaps in the last two weeks. Akers would need an injury ahead of him or a blowout on the scoreboard to get into the game. The Dolphins do rank dead last in run defense DVOA, but they excel in pass defense and should at a minimum stay in the game.

RB AJ Dillon, GB (Wk. 8: vs. Min.): Aaron Jones probably returns this week, but even if he doesn’t Dillon touched the ball just 5 times last week with Jones out. Jamaal Williams worked as the clear lead back. It does seem silly that the Packers used a second-round pick on Dillon but are so unwilling to put him on the field. Minnesota is a middle-of-the-pack run defense, but even if this were a great matchup Dillon doesn’t play enough to be trusted.

WR Chase Claypool, PIT (Wk. 8: @Bal.): What a change a couple weeks have made for Claypool. Two weeks ago he was the talk of the league after a 4-touchdown breakout game. Last Sunday he saw just one target and finished the day with negative yards. He’s bound to be better than that this week. The Steelers won’t hold anything back against the Ravens, and Claypool has been one of the best playmakers on the team. I’m sure there will be a few shot plays drawn up for the rookie, but with Diontae Johnson back on the field Claypool basically functions as a part-time WR3. In his 3 healthy games, Johnson has averaged nearly 13 targets per game (31% target share). In those 3 games, Claypool has averaged 2 targets. You should steer clear unless you’re desperate this week. Diontae did get a little banged up at the end of the Titans’ game. It sounds like he should be fine, but if he is unexpectedly out Claypool becomes a high upside WR3.

WR Donovan Peoples-Jones, CLE (Wk. 8: vs. LV): Peoples-Jones made a spectacular game-winning TD catch last Sunday after Odell Beckham exited with what turned out to be a torn ACL. It was an exciting moment for the rookie, and may be the first truly big catch he’s made since high school or earlier. He’s always had tantalizing potential but was never a consistent performer at Michigan. Some people expect DPJ to assume a bigger role in the offense with Beckham out, but I would pump the brakes at least a little bit. Rashard Higgins is the guy who becomes an immediate starter, and Cleveland uses their 2-tight end set as a base formation. There will be more playing time for DPJ, but that will probably mean he’ll be playing 40-50% of the offensive snaps going forward. Vegas is a burnable pass defense, ranking 29^th in pass defense DVOA, but if I’m taking a shot on a Browns wide receiver this week Peoples-Jones is third in line behind Jarvis Landry and Higgins. Jones should be rostered in deeper leagues in case he does emerge though.

WR Gabriel Davis, BUF (Wk. 8: vs. NE): Davis was a full-time player in week 7 with John Brown out, playing 95% of the offensive snaps, but it didn’t translate into fantasy production. He posted just 1 catch for 11 yards on 3 targets. Brown is practicing in full this week as of Wednesday, and it’s hard to envision Davis being a better play when he goes back to playing less than 50% of the snaps against a talented New England secondary.

WR Devin Duvernay, BAL (Wk. 8: vs. Pit.): Duvernay’s snap share increased for 4 consecutive weeks heading into the team’s bye, but some of that can be attributed to Miles Boykin being banged up. Boykin should be back to full strength after a week off. Duvernay has averaged 7 PPR points per game in the last two games, but Pittsburgh ranks 8^th in pass defense DVOA and isn’t really a matchup to target for Duvernay.

Rookies on Byes in Week 8: RB James Robinson, JAX, RB Antonio Gibson, WAS, WR Laviska Shenault, JAX, WR Antonio Gandy-Golden, WAS

Deep League Sleepers, Stashes, and Cheap DFS Options:

RB Ke’Shawn Vaughn, TB (Wk. 8: @NYG): Tampa enters week 8 as a 10.5-point favorite, and for now it seems that Vaughn has moved into the RB3 spot on the depth chart behind Ronald Jones and Leonard Fournette. If this game stays close, Vaughn won’t play much. He didn’t play much in a blowout win a week ago against the Raiders, but Tampa led by just 4 with 8 minutes to go and pulled away down the stretch. If they get up earlier in this one, I’d expect Vaughn to get some extended run. The Giants allow the 10^th-most RB points per game. Vaughn is worth a look as a minimum priced option for DFS limited slate tournaments.

RB Jason Huntley, PHI (Wk. 8: vs. Dal.): With Dallas looking at Ben DiNucci starting at QB, the rout could be on for Philly. Since it became clear that DiNucci would start, the Vegas line has moved almost a touchdown in Philly’s favor. The Eagles are now a 9-point favorite. That could mean a lot of opportunity in the second half for Huntley and Corey Clement. Huntley has the burners to break a long touchdown, and Dallas is tied for the most 20+ yard runs (9) and 40+ yard runs (3) allowed this season. He’s no more than a dart throw for a limited slate DFS tournament or the deepest of leagues, but the opportunity is there for a strong game out of Huntley.

WR Denzel Mims, NYJ (Wk. 8: @KC): Mims walked into a much bigger role in his first game than I expected, turning 7 targets into 4-42. He was barely used at all in the 2^nd half of the game, but the entire Jets’ offense called it a day at halftime anyway. This week they have a VERY low projected total at just 14.5 points, and they should be throwing a ton in a very negative game script. Breshad Perriman looks like he’ll be out this week, and Jamison Crowder could be as well. Mims will be the de facto WR1 if both guys miss this game. The Chiefs are a tough WR matchup, allowing the 5^th-fewest points per game to the position, but the ball has to go somewhere. Mims costs little more than the minimum on DraftKings, and you could make a case for starting him if you need a fill-in in a deep league. It’s easy to envision him topping the production he put up in his debut, but I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for a TD in this one.

WR Tyler Johnson, TB (Wk. 8: @NYG): Tyler Johnson has had a nice stretch over the past 3 weeks, with 60 yards or a touchdown in each game, and he gets a fortuitous opportunity this week. Antonio Brown will be ready to go for week 9, so this may be the last chance he gets as a rookie to make his mark, and Chris Godwin will miss Sunday’s game with a broken finger. The last time Godwin missed a game, Johnson played 79% of the snaps and finished with 4 catches for 61 yards on 6 targets. The Giants have allowed the 11^th-most WR points per game and rank 27^th in pass defense DVOA. Mike Evans and Rob Gronkowski are certainly ahead of Johnson in the target pecking order this week, but Johnson might legitimately be #3. He’s a fill-in option in really deep leagues, and in-play for DFS tournaments at just $3,500 on DraftKings.

WR KJ Hamler, DEN (Wk. 8: vs. LAC): While Tim Patrick and Jerry Jeudy are dealing with Casey Heyward and Desmond King respectively, Hamler will get to face off with Michael Davis. Davis has allowed the highest QB rating against, and the most yards per target into his coverage of any of the Chargers starting corners. In the 3 games he’s played, Hamler has averaged 5 targets and 1 rushing attempt, and could see a couple extra opportunities come his way with the tougher individual matchups for Patrick and Jeudy. KJ has enough speed to break a long TD, and he may be worth a DFS dart throw at just $3,600 on DraftKings.

WR Jalen Reagor, PHI (Wk. 8: vs. Dal.): Reagor is back at practice this week and seems likely to be activated for week 8’s matchup with the Cowboys. I don’t think this is an ideal week to get him into your fantasy lineups, but if he’s available on the wire in a deeper league, he’s a guy you should target. The Eagles are light on offensive weapons right now outside of Travis Fulgham, and Reagor can be a game breaker. The matchup this week is a good one on paper, with Dallas allowing the 6^th-most WR points per game, but this one could be over by halftime with Dallas starting an unheralded rookie QB. If you want to wager that Jalen makes an impact while the game is still competitive, the best place to do that would be in a DFS tournament. Reagor costs just $3,600 on DraftKings this week.

TE Albert Okwuegbunam, DEN (Wk. 8: vs. LAC): Okwuegbunam didn’t play a single snap in the first 4 games of the season, but he’s announced his presence in a big way over the last two weeks. He’s an athletic weapon who clearly still has good chemistry with his college QB Drew Lock. Albert has played just 52 snaps in the last two weeks, and had the ball come his way on 13 of them. Noah Fant returned from injury last week, and the rookie still saw 7 targets and caught every one of them for 60 yards. This is a guy who shouldn’t be on your dynasty waiver wire, and would make for an intriguing dart throw this week in DFS tournaments at just $2,800 on DraftKings. The Chargers allow the 12^th-most TE points per game.

TE Cole Kmet, CHI (Wk. 8: vs. NO): Kmet has largely been an afterthought for fantasy players this season, serving as the Bears TE3 behind Jimmy Graham and Demetrius Harris. Kmet’s still not a guy you can trust in season-long lineups, but it appears he may have pulled even with Harris on the depth chart, playing more snaps than the veteran for the first time this season last Monday. In the first 4 games of the season, Kmet was targeted just 3 times and turned them into 1 catch for 12 yards. He finally broke through with a touchdown in week 6, but I chalked it up to a fluke. He followed that up with another 2 catches for 45 yards in week 7. I know those aren’t ‘startable’ fantasy numbers, but he is heading in the right direction and the Saints have allowed the 2^nd-most TE points per game this year. New Orleans has given up 30+ yard catches to little-used tight ends Foster Moreau and Jesse James this season, and let Marcedes Lewis in the end zone as well. Kmet will cost the minimum on DraftKings, and if there was any week to take a chance on Kmet having a surprisingly good game, this is the one to do it. The possible absence of Allen Robinson would free up some targets, and a couple of those could find their way to Cole.

That’s all I’ve got for this week. Hopefully it helps you with your toughest lineup decisions involving rookies. Keep a close eye on the injury report throughout the week and make sure you don’t start anyone who ends up inactive. Feel free to hit me up on twitter if you have any questions or want to yell at me about anything written above (@Shawn_Foss). As always: Good luck, trust your gut, and have fun. It’s just a game.

Welcome to Statistically (in)Significant, the place to find great stats that probably only matter at the water cooler (or bar). Each week I'll dig through the stats of the week gone by and deliver you some choice conversation starters. All fantasy stats are half PPR scoring unless otherwise noted.

38.1 Fantasy Points

Good things do indeed come in small packages, as proven last night by Kyler Murray. His 38.1-point performance last night vaulted him to the top of the overall points list for all fantasy players this year. His per-game average is still a few points behind Russell Wilson, who has already had his bye week, but Kyler defeated Russell last night, so let’s focus on him today. Kyler’s consistency is remarkable – his lowest scoring week this season is a healthy 23.12 points, which is a floor that not even Wilson can match. The Cardinals now have a 5-2 record in the toughest division in football. He has at least 2 TDs in every game, and in 5 games he has 3 TDs. He’s putting up some great rushing numbers as well, with 437 total rushing yards he has the 11^th most rushing yards in the entire league. Murray has made great progress since last season, and his future is very bright. As he gets better, his interception rate will drop, his completion percentage will go up, and he will be a frequent participant in the playoffs, both in fantasy football and real football.

51.4 Points in 2 Games

Yesterday was the Jeff Wilson show again for the San Francisco 49ers. Wilson found the end zone 3 times and is the RB1 on the week with 31 fantasy points. In 2 games, this season, Weeks 3 and 7, he has 51.4 points. In the other 3 games he appeared in this season, he has a whopping 5.4 points total. It’s enough to give you whiplash. This just kind of shows that the best RB on the 49ers in the last few years seems to be whoever the backup is. Another player who’s going to give your fantasy team whiplash, though not quite as badly, is Tyler Lockett. Yesterday he put up the biggest single-game total that we’ve seen in fantasy football this year. 15 receptions, 200 receiving yards, and 3 TDs for a grand total of 45.5 points is truly an amazing performance. Weeks 3 and 7 were also Lockett’s good weeks, where he put up a total of 78 points. His two games between those weeks combined for just 11.3 points. Lockett, unlike Wilson, is at least an every-week starter that has to stay in your lineup for his absolutely absurd ceiling.

1 NFL Victory

Rookie QB Justin Herbert has been quite remarkable since he was called in to start Week 2 with just a few minutes' heads up. Sunday, he finally notched his first win and Herbert led all QBs with 38.48 fantasy points. This year, Herbert has 3 games over 300 passing yards and has at least 3 passing TDs each of the last 3 weeks. He’s now averaging just a hair under 30 points in each of his last 3 games. His schedule going forward isn’t too bad through week 16, with only 2 opponents not in the bottom half giving up fantasy points to opposing QBs. It also seems like regardless of Tyrod Taylor’s status, Herbert will remain the starter going forward. As for Herbert’s opponent yesterday, it seems that Minshew Mania has dwindled down to a golf clap at best after his paltry 14 for 27 performance netting just 173 yards passing. The Jaguars 1-6 record is going to have them thinking long and hard about the future of the team through their upcoming bye week. The only bright spot on the team has been rookie UDFA James Robinson, who is the RB6 on the season.

5 Go Ahead 4^th Quarter TDs

Baker Mayfield and Joe Burrow combined for 5 go-ahead touchdowns in the 4^th quarter on Sunday, an NFL record. Both of the young QBs are playing very well this year for their respective teams. The two teams combined for 34 total points in the 4^th quarter, with a missed XP at the very end looming very large for the sports bettors out there. With his first 30+ point performance of his career, Joe Burrow moves up to the QB10 spot on the season. He broke the 400-yard mark for the first time, and also helped his own cause by scrambling for a TD to start the scoring on Sunday. Burrow also threw 3 TDs to 3 different players. On the other side, Baker Mayfield also cracked 30 fantasy points, but he sits as the QB21 on the year and is just an interesting streaming option for now. The Browns will continue to focus on running the ball first – they’re still 5^th in the league in rushing attempts. The impressive 5-2 Browns will host the Raiders next week, but will not have the services of resurgent WR Odell Beckham Jr, who is out for the season with an ACL tear.

24 Fantasy Points on Defense

For the second time this season, the Kansas City Chiefs have the top D/ST score in the league. A gaudy stat line of 1 kick return TD, 2 interceptions, 3 sacks, 2 fumbles recovered and 1 defensive TD contributed to their 24-point total on Sunday. This doubled up the 12 points that Patrick Mahomes put up this week. Not that Mahomes had a bad game, he just didn’t need to do much with his defense doing all the work. We also saw rookie RB Clyde Edwards-Helaire find the end zone for the first time since Week 1. He’s clearly seeing Le’Veon Bell filling his entire rearview mirror. Side note – isn’t it awesome to see football in the snow? I freaking love it and the chaos that can sometimes ensue in it during a football game. Finally, you can add Denver to the list of teams (that include the Jets, Giants, and …Team) to fade when streaming a D/ST.