Two weeks into the season and already this season has been filled with unpredictable moments and undrafted players with standout performances. Unfortunately, there has been very little consistency. Randall Cobb, for instance, caught 9 passes in week 1 against an impressive 49ers defense, but managed only one the following week against da Bears. Still, to give yourself the best chance to win every week, matchups have to be factored into the equation.
If a team can let a player like Asante Samuel go for a seventh round pick, you know they have to feel pretty comfortable with their cornerbacks. Such is the case with the Philadelphia Eagles. With Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and Nnamdi Asomugha covering both sides of the field, they present a tough matchup for any opponent; especially if that opponent has a relatively weak offense like the Arizona Cardinals. As the seconds WR off the board in most fantasy leagues, Larry Fitzgerald is about as talented as they come, but he’ll have his work cut out for him in week 3. Remember week 1 against The Seahawks? Fitzgerald led his team with only 4 catches for 63 yards. Expect another outing similar to that one this week. It’s hard to bench him as he is his team’s favorite red zone target, but if you’re stacked at receiver, it might be worth exploring other options.
Speaking of the Seahawks, their talented defense will have their hands full with The Packers in week 3. With seemingly countless weapons at their disposal, The Packers will still put up points, but Greg Jennings owners should look elsewhere. Coming off of a groin injury that sidelined him week 2, we won’t truly know how well he has recovered until he takes the field. Nelson and Finley might have busy days, but with Seattle’s best keeping their eyes on Jennings, there are too many question marks to trust him.
When the 49ers defense was the talk of the town last year, it was because of their rush defense, but their pass defense is also quite good. When they travel to Minnesota in week 3, Percy Harvin might not feel like home field has any advantage. He’s capable of breaking a big play, but don’t count your Vikings before they’ve pillaged. 4 catches for less than 60 yards seems in order.
The good news is there’s always a flip side to the matchups game. When The Jaguars play The Colts, you’ll see why. Both teams should have no problem putting the ball in the air. For starters, Reggie Wayne, who put up 135 yards on 9 receptions against The Bears will be active once again while Justin Blackmon owners will finally get a feel for the rookie’s talents. I wouldn’t be surprised to see both of them end the day with 15 fantasy points or more in standard scoring leagues.
Finally, even though Larry Fitzgerald may have a quiet day, DeSean Jackson sure won’t. Arizona will be the easiest defense Philadelphia has played so far and DeSean is capable of breaking a big play every down he’s on the field.
