Hot Or Not: Week 12

By: Sho

Back again with another edition of Hot Or Not. Hopefully you’re still fighting for a playoff spot at this point in the season. If you’re out of contention and looking towards next year, use these next couple weeks to play spoiler.

It’s the last week of byes and with only two teams not in action there are plenty of fantasy goods to go around.

My rankings will be also be updated for the stretch run towards the playoffs. Without further ado let’s get to it.

Week 12 –

Hot:

Quarterback

• Tony Romo (DAL) – Has a decent matchup with the Giants coming off a bye and, more importantly, time to rest and heal.  He threw for over 250 yards and 3 touchdowns in their first meeting and I can see him replicating that type of production here.
• Josh McCown (CHI) – McCown has put up two good games in a row and now gets a Chicago defense that has given up points lately. McCown makes his return to Chicago along with head coach Lovie Smith so there’s got to be a bit of motivation to play well against their former team.
• Colin Kaepernick (WAS) – Kaepernick is not a good NFL quarterback. But he should at least give a good fantasy performance against a terrible Redskins defense that allowed a 2-win Bucs team to blow them out. Kaep should get his fair share of deep shots in this game. It’s up to him to capitalize. Think he will for this game.

Running Back

• Denard Robinson (JAX) – The only good thing going to the Jaguars this season. “Shoelace” is running extremely well and will get a Colts defense that was destroyed by the Patriots and Jonas Gray. He won’t get 4 touchdowns but I can see Robinson getting at least one in this game before the Colts put the Jags away late.
• Jeremy Hill (CIN) – Has had one sub-par game sandwiched between two very good games in the absence of Giovanni Bernard. Hill runs with a lot of power and looks every bit the part of a lead back. Even with Bernard expected back I predict Hill will get a 70-30 split against the Texans.
• Isaiah Crowell (CLE) – Got the start last game but had yet another fumble lost. The Browns kept going to him though which is a good sign going forward. Ben Tate was released earlier this week which gives both Crowell and Terrance West more opportunities to produce. Don’t really know who the starter will be against Atlanta but both should have nice fantasy days against the Falcons’ porous run defense.

Wide Receiver

• T.Y Hilton (IND) – Hilton was kept in check against the Patriots but has been otherwise productive this season fantasy-wise. Think Luck will look to get his emerging WR1 going against the Jags. Keep rolling with T.Y.
• Alshon Jeffery (CHI) – Had a bit of a breakout game last week, going off for 135 yards on 11 catches with a touchdown. Cutler consistently looked his way, targeting Alshon 17 times. He gets another good matchup against Tampa Bay. Despite shutting Washington’s passing game, Tampa Bay is still one of the most generous defenses against wid receivers. I have Jeffery as a WR1.
• AJ Green (CIN) – Looking like his injury is behind him now, which bodes well for fantasy owners. He’s not quite the bona fide WR1 coming into the season but he’s still capable of getting back to that level. He should have no problem with the Texans defense that struggles against top tier wide outs.

Tight End

• Larry Donnell (NYG) – He’s played better the past few weeks after a bit of a quiet stretch. He’ll be going up against the Cowboys that have kept tight ends relatively quiet lately, albeit most of them being no-name TEs. He put up 90 yards in their first go-around but lost two fumbles. Donnell should be targeted heavily again and should be a solid TE1.
• Charles Clay (MIA) – Clay has been pretty mediocre this season to be honest. But with the TE position being as thin as it’s been you’ll take mediocre. He gets the Broncos this week and while I see Denver coming out firing, I think they can get beat down the middle and Clay should take advantage.
• Coby Fleener (IND) – Depending on the status of fellow tight end, Dwayne Allen, Fleener should step in and play and big role in the offense this weekend. Luck looks to him a lot and has great chemistry from their days together at Stanford. Fleener is a borderline TE1.

Not:
Quarterback

• Teddy Bridgewater (MIN) – After a promising start to his career, Bridgewater has really crashed back down to Earth. It won’t help going up against the Green Bay Packers whose defense is on an absolute roll right now. Would elsewhere even in a two-QB league.
• Robert Griffin III (WAS) – Safe to say RGIII is a terrible quarterback. Overthrowing receivers and he still can’t slide to save his life. His struggles will continue against the Niners in San Fran playing a team fighting for their playoff lives. It’ll be a long day for Griffin.
• Philip Rivers (SD) – Reports of Rivers playing through injury have surfaced in the past few days which could explain his consequent struggles. He’ll get no time to recuperate as the Rams come into town having shut down Peyton Manning last week. The Rams can get after the quarterback and I can see Rivers struggling in this one.

Running Back

• Lamar Miller (MIA) – He’s looking a lot healthier and moved well in their last game against Buffalo. He’ll face a tougher test against the Broncos who are coming off an embarrassing loss to the Rams. Denver still boast a top run defense and should give Miller very little room to operate.
• Bishop Sankey (TEN) – I’m not really sure what Ken Whisenhunt is thinking in handing Bishop Sankey. Sankey scored on an impressive 9 yard run in the first quarter against the Steelers and was essentially unheard from the rest of the game. Clearly their best runner, Whisenhunt has no idea how to maximize the potential of the offense and as long as he limits Sankey’s touches, he won’t be more than a low end RB2.
• Andre Ellington (ARI) – He’s sure to get a lot of volume with Stanton under center and Fitzgerald dealing with an injury. That being said I think the Seahawks, despite their defensive struggles, will find a way to keep Ellington under wraps and force the Cardinals to beat the through the air.

Wide Receiver

• Golden Tate (DET) – It’s been reported that the Patriots will look to use Darrelle Revis to shadow Tate in their upcoming matchup. If that’s the case Tate should struggle to get yardage. Revis has done a pretty good job this season shutting down top-tier receivers. Tate will be a WR3/borderline WR2.
• Michael Floyd (ARI) – Of course he goes out and scores twice after throwing up a couple goose-eggs and being dropped in multiple leagues. His two touchdowns though only came on two catches so I don’t see him suddenly going back to being a potential WR2/1. He won’t do much against Seattle.
• Mike Wallace (MIA) – His potential is being capped by Tannehill’s inability to accurately throw the deep ball and it’s hurting his value and his fantasy owners. Again, Denver will play better coming off a loss and I don’t see Wallace doing much damage.

Tight End

• Martellus Bennett (CHI) – Certainly been quiet in November, although has a pretty decent matchup against Tampa Bay. Still, Cutler has locked in with Marshall and Jeffery, Bennett will continue to struggle to put up numbers.
• Jermaine Gresham (CIN) – Scored twice on two catches and two targets. He’s not an integral part of the Bengals offense and not a guy worth starting in fantasy.
• Owen Daniels (BAL) – There’s really no way to predict when he’ll have a good game. He’s a big part of the Ravens’ offense but has been frustrating for fantasy owners. Regardless of the potential of a shootout, Daniels will be only a TE2.

Hot or Not: Week 10

By: Sho

Another week, another 6 teams on bye. Not as daunting as it was last week however. Although the absence of the likes of Gronk and Brady certainly doesn’t make much room for optimism. As it is with fantasy, you move forward with what you’ve got. Though, unlike Week 9, there are a lot of great matchups on paper this week that will yield plenty of fantasy production.

Before we get into it I just want to say, it is about time the Texans made a change a quarterback. Ryan Fitzpatrick is not a starting NFL quarterback. He’s a fantastic backup, no question; but entrusting him for 16 games in hopes of a playoff berth in asking for a lot. I’m excited to see what Ryan Mallett can do and I’m hoping it helps open things up for Andre Johnson.

Week 10 –

Hot:

Quarterback

• Matt Ryan (ATL) – Sooner or later things have got to go right for Matty Ice and the Falcons. It’s looking like the former as he’ll go up against a Buccaneers teams the Falcons embarrassed on Thursday night back in week 3. Both defenses have been bad this year and I look for Matt Ryan to get back on track and come out with a win. Like him as a borderline QB1.
• Russell Wilson (SEA) – Has struggled mightily the past two weeks against below-average defenses. Accuracy has been an issue, along with overall playcalling; Wilson hasn’t looked right. I think he regains his mojo against the New York Giants, a team that just recently lost corner, Prince Amukamara.
• Carson Palmer (ARI) – Since returning from injury, Palmer has put up QB1 numbers almost weekly, throwing at least 2 touchdowns each game. In comes St. Louis having shut down Colin Kaepernick and the the Niners, but the Cardinals are better than the Niners and Palmer should have his usual productive day. He likes to spread the wealth so predicting which WR will have a big game is an issue.

Running Back

• LeSean McCoy (PHI) – Working his way back to the LeSean of old, Shady has looked good the past couple of weeks. It helps to go up against a Panthers defense that has been gashed on the ground. I expect McCoy to be a big part of the game plan with Sanchez making his first start in 2 years.
• Jeremy Hill (CIN) – Broke out last week with a monster performance, albeit against weak Jags run defense; he took care of business. He gets an equally appealing matchup against the Browns that ranks in the top half in terms of points allowed to opposing running backs. He’s been a trending savior in the fantasy community and I can see him putting up another solid game.
• Ronnie Hillman (DEN) – Was kept in check on the ground in terms of rushing yards but did manage to punch in a touchdown against the Pats in the loss. The Broncos will be looking to come out swinging after their performance last week and I can see Hillman getting lots of work in both the run and pass games.

Wide Receiver

• Kelvin Benjamin (CAR) – Would have had a fairly decent game against the Saints if not for a few overthrown balls by Cam Newton. He is Carolina’s clear-cut No. 1 wideout and he’ll go up against a very beatable Philadelphia secondary.
• Alshon Jeffery/Brandon Marshall (CHI) – Both have struggled to live up to their WR1 billing coming into the season and, while injuries have certainly played a part, a lot has been on the play of Jay Cutler. They’ll be coming off their bye week, hopefully, having fixed whatever problems were present. I like both to get back to WR1 production in a pivotal divisional game against the Packers.
• Roddy White/Julio Jones (ATL) – Likewise with the Bears’ duo, the Falcons passing attack has been kept quiet as well, particularly Jones. White has been fairly productive in an otherwise down year for Atlanta. Again, going up against a terrible Tampa Bay defense should put Julio back in the upper tier of receivers.

Tight End

• Owen Daniels (BAL) – Surprised he came back so quickly after having his knee scoped but he played and put up decent numbers. Tennessee is pretty average against tight ends and I can see Flacco looking Daniels’ way a lot come game time. Tight end is really thin, and with Gronk out, there isn’t much to get excited about other than Graham and Olsen, but Daniels is a viable TE1 this week.
• Martellus Bennett (CHI) – It’s been a while since we’ve seen Bennett on the Hot list. He’s cooled down considerably after his torrid start to the season. He put up a solid game against the Packers in their first meeting and, though I don’t think he’ll get the yardage, I predict he’ll find the endzone at least once in this game.
• Clay Harbor (JAX) – Had what was a great matchup last week against the Bengals and put up an absolute dud. He gets another fantastic setup on paper against the Cowboys. This is more a hail-mary call for me but if the Jags and Bortles know better, they’ll look to Harbor.

Not:
Quarterback

• Eli Manning (NYG) – Aided by garbage time numbers Eli’s night looked better than it actually was. Now going on the road to Seattle, I don’t trust Manning any more than a QB2. Maybe he puts up garbage time stats again in this one but it’s hard to count on.
• Andy Dalton (CIN) – He hasn’t been terrible, to be clear. He just hasn’t been very good either. Cleveland is solid against quarterbacks and it’s a Thursday night game. With the exception of one or two players I generally stay away from Thursday gamers.
• Matthew Stafford (DET) – He finally gets his favorite weapon back in Megatron to go along with Golden Tate. I don’t know that I can trust him just yet however. His numbers have been salvaged by Tate’s exceptional play and he’s going up against a strong Miami defense. He’s a low-end QB1 for me.

Running Back

• Andre Williams (NYG) – Gets another start here and goes into Seattle. Williams clearly hasn’t been the answer and won’t be again this week so he gets another week on the Not list.
• Darren McFadden (OAK) – McFadden also spending another week on the Not list. I actually like most of the RBs going this week; I think it’ll be a pretty solid week across the board for rushers. McFadden though get the Broncos who do a great job at stopping the run. I don’t like his chances here.
• Frank Gore (SF) – Questionably has not been a focal point in the offense. Maybe it’s the play-call or maybe it’s gameflow; bottom line is he’s not been producing and he is definitely trending downwards for me. No better than a FLEX option.

Wide Receiver

• Dez Bryant (DAL) – Whoever is under center I think it’ll be a struggle for the passing offense. Obviously a better outlook for Dez if Romo plays but his mobility could limit the types of throws he makes. Have to start Dez though but I wouldn’t expect WR1 to be put up this week.
• Mike Wallace (MIA) – The Lions have been a top 3 defense in fantasy this season and have taken away the passing games of opposing offenses. Tannehill has been good as of late but Wallace hasn’t benefited from it. A quiet stretch from Wallace and a Lions defense sure to keep Tannehill under wraps spells disaster for Mike Wallace.
• Mike Evans/Vincent Jackson (TB) – Debated putting them in the Hot list as Atlanta’s defense is equally as bad as Tampa Bay’s has been. But with Josh McCown back as the starter I think it bumps down their value as viable starters. Until McCown proves he can be a serviceable starter I don’t think I can start either WR, maybe as a FLEX option.

Tight End

• Vernon Davis (SF) – Definitely has had a down year and don’t see it getting any better against the Saints who have shut down tight ends this season.
• Heath Miller (PIT) – Extremely inconsistent even amidst Big Ben’s historic two game stretch. I don’t trust him any more than a TE2.
• Travis Kelce (KC) – Going on the road to Buffalo it’ll be interesting to see how this game plays out. Kelce is coming on as an offensive threat in this offense. But despite Alex Smith’s ability in game management, I think the Bills’ defense will get the better of the matchup and keep Kelce quiet.

Hot or Not: Week 8

By: Sho

Halfway point of the season is upon us as Week 8 gets under way. Hopefully many of you are still in playoff contention; and if you’re near the bottom of the standings, keep fighting. There’s always a chance. Make the right moves and start the right players and you’re right back in it. Obviously easier said than done, but hopefully this list will give you a better idea of who to get into your lineup.

Hopefully last week’s Hot or Not was of help to some of you. We got some sleeper picks at the RB position this week.

As always we are on Twitter @firstdwnfantasy so check us out and send us your questions.

Week 8 –

Hot:

Quarterback

• Russell Wilson (SEA) – Here on my Hot list for another week. He absolutely lit up the Rams defense with 300+ passing and 100+ rushing yards. It’s looking as if the offense is slowly being geared towards Wilson as the focal point with their defense putting them in comeback mode for a lot of games this season. Against a sinking Carolina defense, Wilson should have another field day.
• Carson Palmer (ARI) – Although the passing game was slowed down for a lot of the second half, Palmer had very few problems moving the ball against the Raiders. He connected with Michael Floyd for the second consecutive game and having Palmer back has opened things up for the rest of the offense. I like his chances for a good game at home against an Eagles defense that gives up a ton of points via the pass.

Running Back

• Mark Ingram (NO) – He’s dealing with a shoulder issue but I don’t think it affects him much. Plus with Pierre Thomas now out for the next couple weeks, Ingram should be put into the every down role with Khiry Robinson as a change-of-pace. The Packers have been decent against the run lately but it is a defense that can be run on. A projected high scoring affair, Ingram will get plenty of opportunity to put up numbers.
• Darren McFadden (OAK) – Let’s get one thing clear, I don’t, nor have I ever at any point this season, liked Darren McFadden. But he has a seemingly great matchup against the Browns who are fresh off of giving up a career day to quarterback-turned-running back Denard Robinson. If you’re hurting at RB and he’s available McFadden is definitely worth a look this week. You could do worse.

Wide Receiver

• Alshon Jeffery (CHI) – Put up a dud this past week but I put the blame on the play of Jay Cutler more so the Jeffery’s. The Pats are stingy against the pass but they have given up big games to No. 1 wideouts. Marshall will get his but I think Jeffery bounces back with a couple scores in this one.
• Sammy Watkins (BUF) – Off of scoring the game winning touchdown, Watkins has emerged as an every week WR2 caliber starter. Having Kyle Orton under center has been a god send for the Buffalo offense. We know how bad the Jets secondary had been; you gotta roll with Watkins.

Tight End

• Greg Olsen (CAR) – Wasn’t extremely high on him last week against the Packers but he’s proven to be a matchup proof starter at a position that hasn’t seen great production this season. Look for him to continue to be Cam Newton’s favorite target.
• Julius Thomas (DEN) – On Manning’s historic night, Julius was relatively quiet. But no worries he is still a big part of this vaunted offense and, even though they’ll be playing on a short week, I think he’ll be pretty busy this game.

Not:
Quarterback

• Matt Stafford (DET) – Without Megatron, Stafford has struggled to get the ball downfield. He’s been bailed out on a number of occasions by Golden Tate. As bad the the Falcons D is, and has been this season, Stafford should be viewed more as a QB2, maybe a low-end QB1.
• Andy Dalton (CIN) – Another quarterback struggling without his top receiving threat, Andy Dalton struggled mightily against the Colts. He’s playing like “playoff Andy Dalton” throwing awful passes and making poor decisions. It doesn’t get any easier going up against the Baltimore Ravens.

Running Back

• Alfred Morris (WAS) – I thought he would have a good game against the Titans but he couldn’t get anything going. Hasn’t really done a great job of fighting for yards but a lot of the blame can be put on the play of the quarterbacks. Defenses have been able to stack the box and force the pass, Morris is going to struggle until RG3 comes back.
• Bishop Sankey (TEN) – He’s been given so many chances now to break away from the pack but still has yet to put together a complete game. I don’t have a lot of trust in his game right now.

Wide Receiver

• Mohamed Sanu (CIN) – As it goes the play of the Andy Dalton, so goes the production of Mohamed Sanu. Struggled to gain separation last game and should face similar problems this week as well.
• Andrew Hawkins (CLE) – After a quick start to the season he’s tailed off considerably. Of course it doesn’t help that Brian Hoyer has been atrocious the past couple games. He should only be considered in PPR leagues and even then he’s no more than a Flex/WR3/4.

Tight End

• Antonio Gates (SD) – Been playing lights out and in a groove with his QB but I think Denver will be able to keep him quiet this Thursday.
• Travis Kelce (KC) – Was expecting him to score last week and was left disappointed. In this conservative offense Kelce is going to struggle to consistently put up numbers. I like him long term, but for this week I would look elsewhere.

Hot or Not: Week 7

By: Sho

No Waiver Wire Pickups and/or Hot or Not from week 6. Had a couple things come up and needed to put those articles on the backburner. But we are here in week 7 with another edition of Hot or Not. By now, you probably have a good idea where your fantasy team stands and where you need to make improvements or stand pat. We’re closing in on the halfway point of the season; time flies doesn’t it?

Good luck! Let’s get to it.

Week 7 –

Hot:

Quarterback

• Russell Wilson (SEA) – After running train against the Redskins in week 5, Wilson and the Seahawks were shut down by the Dallas Cowboys, at home no less. Wilson only threw for 126 yards with a pick but did manage to save face with a rushing touchdown. Against the Rams that just gave up a 343 yard performance to Colin Kaepernick, I expect a bounce back game for Wilson and the Seahawks.
• Tony Romo (DAL) – The Giants’ secondary has actually been pretty decent this season, even if their defense as a whole hasn’t been. The Cowboys come in riding a 5 game win streak and show no signs of slowing down. Their O-line has been dominant and DeMarco Murray has made life for Tony Romo a lot easier this season. The strong run game should help set up big pass plays in this game and Romo should capitalize.

Running Back

• Arian Foster (HOU) – Against the Steelers’ now ‘soft’ defense, I can see Foster having another strong game so long as his hammy holds up, which I believe it will for this game.
• Justin Forsett (BAL) – Atlanta run defense is one of the worst is the league and was just demolished by Matt Forte. Forsett, coming off a 100+ yard game, should take full advantage as the leading back in the Ravens’ rushing attack.

Wide Receiver

• Alshon Jeffery (CHI) – Just missed a touchdown had he not stepped out of bounds but still managed over 100 yards against the Falcons. Brandon Marshall is almost back to full health and is bound to take some looks away from Jeffery, especially in the redzone; I still expect Jeffery to put up WR1 numbers in this game.
• Michael Floyd (ARI) – With Carson Palmer back under center Floyd scored his first TD of the season. He averages about 7 targets a game and, as long as Palmer is there, has potential for a big game against a beatable Oakland secondary.

Tight End

• Rob Gronkowski (NE) – Gronk is finally looking to be as close to 100% as he’s ever been since his injuries. It’s a Thursday game and I rarely recommend guys playing Thursday, but a matchup with the Jets is too good to pass up. Keeping with the theme of Thursday game blowouts, I predict the Patriots to have a field day at home.
• Jordan Cameron (CLE) – Was high on him going into the season but, certainly, an injury to his shoulder changed his outlook some. But he finally had a good game last week and this week, it the Jags who struggle to cover any position.

Not:
Quarterback

• Eli Manning (NYG) – Even with Cruz out, Manning still has a few weapons at his disposal. I just don’t trust that the Giants will be able to regroup after getting blown out by the Eagles; and the Cowboys’ defense has been surprisingly good lately.
• Matt Ryan (ATL) – Baltimore’s defense has improved week-to-week and the Falcons will be on the road in this one. Don’t think he’ll have a whole lot of time to throw and will make a few mistakes in this one.

Running Back

• Shane Vereen (NE) – Should, seemingly, be the lead back with Steven Ridley now on the IR. Could certainly give us a productive fantasy day off his receiving potential but see Brandon Bolden and James White working in some as well. We never know with Bill Belichick.
• Jamaal Charles (KC) – Nothing but a gut call here. You’re starting him for sure. I just think San Diego slow him down just enough.

Wide Receiver

• Percy Harvin (SEA) – Production tied to receptions and he hasn’t gotten any lately, even despite the 3 almost-touchdowns.
• Julio Jones (ATL) – Ryan’s struggles will trickle down to production of his WRs. I think Jones has a very quiet game.

Tight End

• Heath Miller (PIT) – Save for one good game, he hasn’t produced as the TE1 he was projected to. Steelers haven’t been able to move the ball and they’ve played the like of Jacksonville and Clevelan. I don’t trust that offense at all right now.
• Martellus Bennett (CHI) – Could the notion that Bennett’s fast starts are followed by steady decline be legitimate? So far it’s looking like it after a second consecutive quiet game. With Marshall now back to full health and with Jeffery and Forte to compete with, I think Bennett is the odd man out here.

Hot or Not: Week 5

By: Sho

Decided to go away from projected stats and recaps and we’ll just get straight into things.  Oakland and Miami are off this week, meaning you’re really only concerned about Tannehill/Miller replacements. Not much else anyone’s missing this week.

And again, we’re on Twitter; give us a follow @firstdwnfantasy and tweet us any sit/start questions!

Week 5 –

Hot:

Quarterback

• Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) – Would have had a bigger day last week if not for a brutal drop by Antonio Brown on a perfectly thrown flea flicker pass. He get the Jaguars next and they allow Philip Rivers to torched them for 377 yards and 3 TDs. I think Big Ben also has a chance here to top 300 yards and have a big day.
• Philip Rivers (SD) – After facing the aforementioned Jags, Rivers get another fantastic matchup against the New York Jets and their struggling secondary. Through 4 games they’ve already given up 9 touchdowns through the air. Playing at home, Philip Rivers should have no problem moving the football and getting the ball to his receivers.

Running Back

• Le’Veon Bell (PIT) – While he hasn’t been able to find the end zone, Le’Veon Bell continues to rack up yardage in both the run and the pass in producing RB1 numbers. The Jaguars have all kinds of issues on defense and Bell shouldn’t have too much of a problem cranking out yards.
• Rashad Jennings (NYG) – If any of you watched any part of the Minnesota/Atlanta you’d have seen that the Falcons’ run defense is atrocious. The Asiata/McKinnon duo ran all of them as did receiver Jarius Wright is the screen game. The Giants welcome the Falcons this week with Jennings looking at a big game after being rested for most of second half against the Redskins last week. Jennings has been a top-5 RB in fantasy and should continue his run this week against Atlanta.

Wide Receiver

• Keenan Allen (SD) – Finally rewarded fantasy owners last week. Allen worked with Eddie Royal and Malcolm Floyd as they wrecked Jacksonville’s secondary. Going up against the Jets I think Allen will emerge of the three as the top option this week. The Jets run defense is elite and, coupled with the Chargers struggling run game, should force Rivers to throw all game.
• Kelvin Benjamin (CAR) – Continues to be one of the Panthers’ best receiver alongside tight end, Greg Olsen. Someone that Cam Newton clearly trusts, Benjamin is in line for a big day going against a Bears’ defense that was just destroyed by the likes of Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb.

Tight End

• Martellus Bennett (CHI) – With slow starts to Marshall and Jeffery, Cutler has taken to looking Bennett’s way more often than not. Both receiver are coming back to full health, slowly but surely, however Bennett should continue to produce at a high level.
• Larry Donnell (NYG) – The way I see it, if the Giants are in the red zone and it’s not Jennings scoring, it’s got to be Donnell next in line. Eli Manning has targeted him early and often when in the red zone. I like his chances of scoring again this week.

Not:
Quarterback

• Colin Kaepernick (SF) – Had a decent game with 218 yards and 2 TDs, one of which was a circus throw opposite field to Frank Gore. As great as that play was, it was an ill-advised throw and he got bailed out. And that’s my problem with Kaepernick; his decision-making. As much value as he brings with his rushing ability I just can’t see him as a start this week.
• Joe Flacco (BAL) – Never been a believer in Flacco. Yes, he had himself a good game against the Panthers, but I think the Colts will force him into a couple interceptions this week.

Running Back

• Montee Ball (DEN) – Has struggled to open the season, though they’ve played tough defenses as well. But I haven’t seen anything that would suggest he’s on the verge of breaking out for a big game anything soon.
• Matt Asiata (MIN) – He’s coming off a 3 TD performance but he’ll be working on a short week going into tonight’s game with the Packers. Every Thursday game have been blowouts thus far and I don’t think it will be any different tonight. I think the Packers control this one and take the Vikings’ run game out of it.

Wide Receiver

• Andre Johnson (HOU) – With the emergence of DeAndre Hopkins, Johnson has seemed to have taken a back seat in the WR pecking order. He has not scored yet this year, and hasn’t for quite some time dating back to last season.  (5 Rec, 60 Yds, 0 TD)
• DeSean Jackson (WAS) – Cousins coming off a horrific 4 INT game and had a quiet game himself. It’s Seattle’s defense; as much as they’ve struggled lately, they’ll find a way to keeping Jackson bottled up.

Tight End

• Jordan Cameron (CLE) – Cameron is one guy who could go off this week. He seems to finally be getting healthy and the Browns are playing the Titans, a team that was absolutely man-handled by the Colts. Cleveland tends to struggle offensively, which leaves me skeptical about Cameron’s fantasy potential this week. But, again, could totally score this week.

Hot or Not: Week 4

By: Sho

With bye weeks among us, roster management become all the more important in fielding a winning team week in and week out. But first, a look back at week 3:

Week 3

There’s not a lot that I liked going into this week so bear with me. It’ll be a relatively short column this week.

Make sure to follow us on Twitter @firstdwnfantasy and tweet us sit/start questions.

Week 4 –

Hot: (Projected stats)

Quarterback

• Blake Bortles (JAX) –Yes, I have a rookie starting his first ever game on my Hot list. In one half, Bortles threw for 223 yards; in one half. The Jags are going to be down and Bortles will have to make some plays with his arm. (316 Yds, 3 TD, 2 INT)

Running Back

• Matt Forte (CHI) – He’s been kept under wraps the past couple week but he gets a Packers defense that is atrocious against the run. In the vaunted Bears’ offense, this game has shootout potential, lending Forte plenty of chances to put up numbers. (84 Yds, 1 TD ; 5 Rec, 44 Yds)

Wide Receiver

• Markus Wheaton (PIT) – Been high on him since preseason, though he’s yet to have that breakout game. I think it happens this weekend. (6 Rec, 70 Yds, 1 TD)

Tight End

• Zach Ertz (PHI) – Another game I think will possibly be high-scoring, Foles has a bounty of offensive weapons and Eartz will be a big beneficiary this upcoming week. (5 Rec, 60 Yds, 1 TD)

Not:
Quarterback

• Tom Brady (NE) – For fantasy purposes, he’s looked very pedestrian this season. He’s missed receivers and just hasn’t made the plays we’ve been accustomed to seeing him make. (240 Yds, 1 TD, 1 INT)

Running Back

• Doug Martin (TB) – There’s not much to this one. Purely a gut call here; an injury risk along with a questionable quarterback situation, it’s not a good spot to be in.  (50 Yds, 0 TD)

Wide Receiver

• Mike Wallace (MIA) – I don’t trust Tannehill’s ability to work successfully in Miami’s offense and get the ball in Wallace’s hands. He hasn’t thrown the deep ball well and Wallace has been known to stretch the defense for his ability to get deep. Something’s got to give.  (5 Rec, 62 Yds, 0 TD)

Tight End

• Rob Gronkowski (NE) – One of Brady’s primary targets, he hasn’t been top-3 material to start. The play of Brady’s play is partly to blame but he also had a drop of a sure-touchdown last week. He should eventually play his way into full time duty and I think he has a quiet game against the Chiefs. (4 Rec, 58 Yds, 0 TD)

Hot or Not: Week 2

By: Sho

Back with the weekly edition of Hot or Not. Thought I would start out by recapping week 1 predictions.

Week One Picks

Green – Close to projected.
Blue – Not quite up to par but not totally off.
Red – Missed. Can’t get ’em all

Not a bad start to all this. Pretty spot on with RGIII. Rivers fell two TDs short of projection; highly underestimated the Arizona secondary which looked extremely impressive taking away most of the deep passes. Kelce fell victim to Fasano vulturing a TD away but otherwise had himself a decent game.

Week 2 –

Hot: (Projected stats)

Quarterback

• Andrew Luck (IND) – Andrew Luck showed us Sunday night that he can be an elite quarterback. Leading the Colts to an impressive comeback that just fell short against the Broncos, Luck displayed (318 Yds, 3 TD, 1 INT)
• Andy Dalton (CIN) – I like Dalton to continue to air it out after throwing for 301 yards in week 1. With the Falcons’ less-than-stellar defense, who just played into a shootout with the Saints, it wouldn’t surprise me if this matchup turned out to be the same. The Bengals receiving corps outside of A.J Green, while not great, is serviceable enough to give Dalton a lot of option. Having Bernard as a pass-catching back helps as well.  (286 Yds, 2 TD, 0 INT)

Running Back

• Le’Veon Bell (PIT) – I don’t typically advise starting players with Thursday games; I try to avoid it if I have another option just a good or better. In this case though, I think Bell is as good as it gets this week. Steeler-Ravens have been known for grind-it-out, make-you-work-for-it type games and I don’t see LeGarrette Blount taking away many touches from Bell. (76 Yds, 1 TD)
• Adrian Peterson (MIN) – Despite the Rams’ emphasis on stopping Peterson, he still ended up with 75 yards on 21 carries. It didn’t help that Cordarrelle Patterson had the lone rushing TD for the Vikings. That said, Peterson is THE guy. The Patriots were just torched by the Knowshon Moreno/Lamar Miller tandem; AD will reward fantasy owners in week 2. (106 Yds, 2 TD)
• Arian Foster (HOU) – The Texans made it a focal point to get the ball to Foster. He looked good against the Redskins, finally looking like a guy at full strength. He should continue to get the bulk of the carries against the Raiders. (85 Yds, 1 TD)

Wide Receiver

• Reggie Wayne (IND) –  It didn’t take long for viewers to see the Reggie Wayne is still the Colts’ number one option. As I said with Andrew Luck, this game has shootout potential and Wayne could be a big beneficiary. (8 Rec, 87 Yds, 1 TD)
• Demaryius Thomas (DEN) – Had a pretty quiet game against the Colts but I’m not at all worried. Despite only 4 catches, he was targeted a whopping 11 times. He had a couple uncharacteristic drops but Manning will continue to look his way. Against the Chiefs in an early divisional game, Thomas will bring his A-game. (6 Rec, 106 Yds, 2 TD)

Tight End

• Delanie Walker (TEN) – Against the aforementioned Chiefs, Walker had a touchdown on 3 catches and 37 yards. Going up against a Cowboys defense that allowed two touchdowns to Vernon Davis in week 1, Walker has great chance to score in this one. (4 Rec, 42 Yds, 1 TD)
• Larry Donnell (NYG) – The Cardinals have historically been bad defending the tight end position.  The Giants have looked historically bad on offense. I expect plenty of checkdowns for Manning and Donnell to be to recipient. (5 Rec, 46 Yds, 1 TD)

Not:
Quarterback

• Alex Smith (KC) – He gets Dwayne Bowe back this week from suspension, which should help some. Smith, though, struggled against Tennessee’s defense and the Chiefs are going up against a Broncos secondary revamped with the like of TJ Ward and Aqib Talib. It’s going to be a long game of Smith and the Chiefs. (205 Yds, 1 TD, 2 INT)
• Tony Romo (DAL) – The back looked okay. The decision-making, though, was atrocious. He won’t repeat his 3-INT performance; however I think his struggles will continue against an up-and-coming Titans team. (225 Yds, 1 TD, 2 INT)
• Eli Manning (NYG) – I just really don’t like Eli Manning. Monday’s game just confirmed how little he can be trusted in fantasy. But if he’s your best option, I’m so sorry. And good luck. Not going to have a good time against the Cardinals. (186 Yds, 0 TD, 2 INT)

Running Back

• Eddie Lacy (GB) – Coming off a concussion, I think the Packers try to take it easy with their top back. The Jets completely shut down the run against the Raiders, albeit against washed up backs in MJD and Darren McFadden. Still, holding an opponent to only 25 rushing yards total is impressive. (70 Yds, 0 TD)
• Reggie Bush (DET)  – The Lions usage of Bush and Bell were pretty even against the Giants, with a little Theo Riddic sprinkled in. Bush did most of his damage is the passing game with Bell getting the touchdown on the ground. Both will face a tough challenge in the Panthers’ defense. I think Bell will be the better of the two this Sunday. (55 Yds, 0 TD)

Wide Receiver

• Victor Cruz (NYG) – Yes, Cruz is back on my Not list for the second week in a row. The Giants’ offense looked completely out of sync against Detroit. Things don’t get any easier as they now face the Cardinals’ secondary that kept Chargers WR Keenan Allen in check. (5 Rec, 47 Yds, 0 TD)
• Keenan Allen (SD) – Another receiver against Seattle’s Legion of Boom. They’ll be at home but I think the ‘Hawks keep him out of the endzone. (6 Rec, 71 Yds, 0 TD)

Tight End

• Martellus Bennett (CHI) – Niners defense still able to produce and kept Jason Witten relatively quiet last week.  Could have a decent game with Jeffery’s status unclear. If he’s your only TE, gotta roll with him but bench him if you have a better option. (6 Rec, 50 Yds, 0 TD)
• Vernon Davis (SF) – Think the 49ers will take advantage of the Bears’ awful run defense. Davis will get his but don’t think he scores in this one. (4 Rec, 42 Yds, 0 TD)

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Hot or Not: Week 1

By: Shohei Takano

I came up with this “Hot or Not” theme heavily based on the popular dating app. But unlike the app, there won’t be any swiping left or right; or any girls/boys for that matter. My apologies.

This isn’t necessarily a sit/start column, more so it’s who I’m high/low on based on certain match-ups, history and what have you. It’s very much like highly-acclaimed Matthew Berry’s Love/Hate; I’m a big fan of his and he’s a big part of me getting so into fantasy football. And he’s helped me win a few leagues, so there’s that too.

Having said that, these lists are entirely my own and any stats I’ve presented, I assure you I’ve done my research. So let’s get right into it. Week 1 is just around the corner, good luck to everyone this season!

Hot: (Projected stats)
Quarterback

• Philip Rivers (SD) – Facing a Cardinals without Darnell Dockett and, quite possibly, safety, Tyraan Mathieu, Rivers is definitely a “hot” option for me. In his last meeting with the Cardinals in 2010, he threw for 241 yards and 2 TDs. I can see him putting up similar, if not better, numbers having with him a better offense at his disposal. (280 Pass Yds, 3 TD, 1 Int)
• Ryan Tannehill (MIA) – He’s improved his game every year since he’s been in the league and in his last game against the Pats, he threw for over 300 yards and 3 scores. With Lamar Miller and, now, Knowshon Moreno in the backfield, I think it helps open things up for some play-action passes and open looks for the likes of Mike Wallace and Brian Hartline. (272 Pass Yds, 2 TD, 0 Int)

Running Back

• Frank Gore (SF) – So long as he legs are attached, Gore is going to be the focal point of the 49ers running game. And against the Dallas Cowboys, a team that lost DeMarcus Ware and, most recently, Sean Lee, their defense presents a few potential holes for Gore to run through. (78 Rush Yds, 1 TD)
• Giovani Bernard (CIN) – With the release of Benjarvus Green-Ellis the backfield duties will fall heavily on Bernard and, rookie, Jeremy Hill. I like Bernard’s pass-catching abilities to come through this week against Baltimore. (40 Rush Yds, 1 TD; 5 Rec, 32 Rec Yds, 1 TD)
• Zac Stacy (STL) – I’m a believer in Zac Stacy even with the strong preseason play of Benny Cunningham. Stacy is still the clear lead runner in the Rams offense and I think he’ll have a field day against the Vikings. I predict the Ram defense will give their offense, and Stacy, plenty of time to work on the field. (88 Rush Yds, 2 TD)

Wide Receiver

• Jordy Nelson (GB) –  As you’ll see later, I have Rodgers in the “Not” list and throwing for “only” 1 TD in their Thursday night game. That touchdown will go to Jordy Nelson. He’s a big-time, physical receiver and he’ll do enough to put up respectable fantasy numbers. (6 Rec, 58 Yds, 1 TD)
• Andre Johnson (HOU) – He’s coming off back-to-back 100+ reception seasons and at 33 years of age, accumulated a ton of mileage. Many have signaled fellow up-and-coming receiver, DeAndre Hopkins, as the guy to have in fantasy. I think Johnson’s still got some left in the tank and he’ll definitely have some for Week 1 against Washington. His hamstring injury doesn’t seem to be an issue going into the game and Fitzpatrick, not the first guy you’d want quarterbacking your offense, will find a way to get the ball to Johnson. (7 Rec, 104 Yds, 1 TD)

Tight End

• Martellus Bennett (CHI) – The Bears’ offense is ripe with fantasy greatness. Despite being 4th in line behind Marshall, Jeffery, and Forte, Bennett is an under-the-radar pick to break out in Week 1. He has a chance to improve on the 5 touchdowns he scored last season. (4 Rec, 50 Yds, 1 TD)
• Travis Kelce (KC) – Another guy that’s impressed in preseason. He’s still behind Anthony Fasano on the depth chart, but I think he’ll be featured as a playmaker, especially this week with Dwayne Bowe out with a suspension. (3 Rec, 36 Yds, 1 TD)

Not:
Quarterback

• Cam Newton (CAR) – Not too surprising that I have him here. Dealing with a rib injury and going against, I think, an underrated defense in the Tampa Bay Bucs, Newton could be in for a long day. (210 Pass Yds, 0 TD, 2 Int)
• Aaron Rodgers (GB) – Obviously you’re not going to bench him; he’s just not hot in Week 1. Of course, his “not hot” is still pretty damn good. I’m just going to temper expectations a bit as the Packers will be in Seattle facing the 12th Man and the Seahawks’ vaunted defense. (243 Pass Yds, 1 TD, 1 Int)
• RGIII (WAS) – Another guy with that’s an injury risk, RGIII is going against an improved Texans defense while working with an offense that didn’t look all that great during the preseason. (270 Pass Yds, 0 TD, 1 Int)

Running Back

• Toby Gerhart (JAX) – On the year I believe Gerhart will have a fine season as the workhorse for the Jaguars. Just a gut call here, but I think the Eagle’s D keeps Gerhart in check. (42 Rush Yds, 1 TD)
• Montee Ball (DEN) – Arguably with the number one offense in the NFL, I just think the Colts will the the run more then they’ll stop the pass in this one. (65 Rush Yds, 0 TD)

Wide Receiver

• Victor Cruz (NYG) – Giants’ offense looked atrocious in the preseason and I’ve never been a believer in Eli Manning being a good fantasy quarterback. Cruz is a special talent, no doubt, but I think he’ll be hindered some by the struggling offense. (4 Rec, 54 Yds, 0 TD)

Tight End

• Kyle Rudolph (MIN) – Rudolph may find some open looks so long as Peterson is in that offense and with Cordarrelle Patterson emerging as a legit offensive weapon for the Vikings. The Rams’ defense is just too good, in my opinion, and I think Rudolph has a relatively quiet game. (3 Rec, 35 Yds, 0 TD)

It’s only Week 1 so it hard to really predict anything at this point, but we’re getting the ball rolling here in preparation for the season opener; only 3 days away now!

Comment below if you agree/disagree with my picks.