This Week In The NFL.

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Arizona at Buffalo

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: New Era Field, Orchard Park, New York

While opening the season with back-to-back losses cost Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Greg Roman his job, another such loss result could bring down the heat on head coach Rex Ryan. With their playoff hopes already fading, the Bills look for their first win of the season when they host the Arizona Cardinals, who routed Tampa Bay 40-7 a week ago.
Sans Roman, Ryan pledged to ditch the ground-and-pound approach for an aerial attack this week, but the deposed coordinator seemed to be merely a scapegoat for the Bills' struggles as Buffalo piled up the points in a 37-31 loss to the New York Jets last week. For the past two seasons, Ryan's defense continues to be the biggest problem and it allowed 493 yards in last week's loss. Regarded as a Super Bowl contender, Arizona rebounded from its last-second loss against New England in its opener to dismantle Jameis Winston and the Bucs last week. The Cardinals picked off Winston four times, two of them by Marcus Cooper, and Carson Palmer threw three scoring passes despite sitting out most of the fourth quarter.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Cardinals -4. O/U: 47

ABOUT THE CARDINALS (1-1): Cooper, the NFC Defensive Player of the Week, was expected to split time with rookie Brandon William,s but he played the entire way after his dominant effort last week and seems to have won the job. That gives the Cardinals undoubtedly one of the deepest defensive backfields in the league with Cooper alongside such stars as Tyrann Mathieu and Patrick Peterson. Despite the 40 points last week, head coach Bruce Arians wasn't happy with his offense. "The score doesn't indicate, I don't think, how poorly we played offensively."

ABOUT THE BILLS (0-2): Quarterback Tyrod Taylor connected on touchdown passes of 84 and 71 yards in last Thursday's loss to the Jets but he still ranks in the middle of the pack in most other passing categories. His top threat, Sammy Watkins, has just six catches for 63 yards on the season while battling a foot injury. Running back LeSean McCoy has also been inconsistent in the backfield with 117 yards and one score over the first two weeks. The Bills rank 22nd in the league in total defense, which is supposed to be Ryan's strength, but are 3-0 all-time against the Cardinals at home.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Buffalo WR Marquise Goodwin, who torched Jets DB Darrelle Revis for an 84-yard TD last week, is probable (concussion), as is Watkins (foot).

2. Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald has 16 catches for 162 yards and tied for the NFL lead with three receiving TDs.

3. Cardinals DT Robert Nkemdiche will be a game-time decision with an ankle injury.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Minnesota at Carolina

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Bank of America Stadium, Charlotte, North Carolina

The Minnesota Vikings are undefeated in spite of one potentially devastating injury, but they might have a tougher time surviving the latest blows to their offense. The Vikings – minus star running back Adrian Peterson – put their unblemished record on the line when they travel to face the Carolina Panthers on Sunday.
Peterson will miss three-to-four months after needing surgery to repair a torn meniscus and tackle Matt Kalil was placed on injured reserve, further depleting a Vikings offense that already lost quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to a season-ending knee injury in the preseason. The key matchup, though, likely will be Minnesota’s stout defense against reigning MVP Cam Newton and Carolina’s potent offense. There was some speculation as to whether the game would be played in Charlotte in light of violent protests in the city that erupted on Tuesday night, but the NFL announced it plans to go forward with the game, a decision Panthers linebacker Thomas Davis supports. “This game absolutely should be played Sunday,” Davis told reporters. “I look at football as a way of bringing people together. This is a tough time right now in our community and our city, and we need something that’s going to bring people together with all that’s going on right now.”

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Panthers -7. O/U: 43

ABOUT THE VIKINGS (2-0): Quarterback Sam Bradford was excellent in his Vikings debut, completing 22-of-31 passes for 286 yards and two touchdowns in last week’s 17-14 win over Green Bay. The question is whether or not he will have the same success without Peterson, whose workload falls to Jerick McKinnon and Matt Asiata. The Vikings might have to lean even more on a defense that has forced three turnovers in each of the first two games and kept both opponents well under 100 yards rushing.

ABOUT THE PANTHERS (1-1): Carolina had some trouble putting away San Francisco in last week’s 46-27 victory, as the Panthers rolled up 529 yards but also committed four turnovers. Running back Jonathan Stewart is sidelined by a hamstring injury, meaning Fozzy Whittaker and Cameron Artis-Payne will pick up the slack for the league’s leading rushing attack. The defense has been excellent when it isn’t hurt by poor field position resulting from turnovers, as Carolina ranks seventh in total defense but 20th in scoring defense.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Carolina has won 14 straight home games.

2. Minnesota WR Stefon Diggs’ 285 receiving yards are the second-most through two games in Vikings history, trailing only Gene Washington’s 324 in 1969.

3. Newton has accounted for 20 touchdowns (17 passing, three rushing) in his last five home games.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Denver at Cincinnati

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Paul Brown Stadium, Cincinnati, Ohio

The reigning Super Bowl champion Denver Broncos look to remain among the NFL's unbeaten when they visit the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday. Denver enters Week 3 as one of eight teams to begin the season with two victories, but the number of undefeated clubs decreased by one as Houston fell to New England on Thursday night.
While Trevor Siemian hasn't made Broncos fans forget Peyton Manning in his first year under center, the team's defense has been stellar, yielding an average of 293 yards per game while tying Seattle for the first in the league with 4.4 allowed per play. Von Miller has been a major contributor to those numbers as he leads the NFL with four sacks, including three - and a forced fumble - in last week's victory over Indianapolis en route to being named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week. Cincinnati will be playing its first game at home after opening the season with a road victory over the New York Jets and a loss at Pittsburgh. The Bengals will be relying on their offense, which is averaging 396.5 yards per game, and Andy Dalton, who leads the league with 732 passing yards.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Bengals -3.5. O/U: 41

ABOUT THE BRONCOS (2-0): Denver's suffocating defense suffered a big loss as DeMarcus Ware will miss Sunday's contest after undergoing surgery to have plates inserted in the broken forearm he suffered against the Colts last week. The outside linebacker is expected to miss four-to-six weeks, but defensive coordinator Wade Phillips told reporters he hopes to have Ware back for the Broncos' game at Tampa Bay next week. Cornerback Aqib Talib has returned nine interceptions for touchdowns in his career, which has him tied for fourth place on the NFL's all-time list.

ABOUT THE BENGALS (1-1): Cincinnati will need to shore up against the run as it enters the contest last in the league with an average of 138 rushing yards allowed, although it has yet to surrender a touchdown on the ground. Giovani Bernard was Dalton's favorite target last week, making a career-high nine catches out of the backfield while recording his second 100-yard receiving performance in the NFL. Tight end Tyler Eifert, who has yet to play this season due to an ankle injury, participated in practice on a limited basis Wednesday but likely will miss the game against Denver.

EXTRA POINTS

1. The Broncos have won five of the last six meetings, including a 20-17 overtime victory at home on Dec. 28.

2. Cincinnati entered Week 3 leading the NFL with 13 passes of 20 or more yards.

3. Denver signed NT Kyle Peko to the practice squad and waived S Ryan Murphy.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Detroit at Green Bay

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Once upon a time, Aaron Rodgers recorded passer ratings of at least 100 more consistently than any quarterback in league history. That's no longer the case for Rodgers, who will look to end a 12-game streak of sub-100 passer ratings when the Green Bay Packers face the NFC North rival Detroit Lions on Sunday in their home opener.
Rodgers is the only quarterback to register a 100-plus passer rating in six consecutive seasons, but he has failed to hit triple digits in a game since Week 6 of 2015. One person not buying into the talk of Rodgers' demise is Lions coach Jim Caldwell. “I know often times that people like to criticize, but let me just tell you something: The guy is phenomenal," Caldwell said. "The guy has talent coming out of his ears. He can make every throw. He can run. He’s just a great leader. What are you talking about? He’s exceptional.” Quarterback Matt Stafford and Detroit's pass-happy offense will test a Green Bay defense that was singed in the air by the Vikings last week. The Lions ended a 24-year losing streak at Lambeau Field with an 18-16 win last November, but the Packers avenged that defeat with a 27-23 victory at Detroit 2 1/2 weeks later.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Packers -7.5. O/U: 47.5

ABOUT THE LIONS (1-1): While Detroit's offense has relied primarily on the passing game, Stafford will be facing a larger burden after starting running back Ameer Abdullah underwent foot surgery and was placed on injured reserve. Theo Riddick will get first crack at taking over as the lead back, although he has thrived in more of a pass-catching role, tying for the league lead among running backs in 2015 with 80 receptions. Free-agent signee Marvin Jones has been Stafford's top target through two games and hauled in eight catches for 118 yards in last week's 16-15 home loss to Tennessee. The defense is hurting with three linemen and three linebackers all sitting out practice Wednesday.

ABOUT THE PACKERS (1-1): The popular school of thought was that Rodgers would return to his MVP level with the return of top wide receiver Jordy Nelson after missing the entire 2015 season, but he has thrown for a combined 412 yards and has a completing percentage of 57.1 over the first two games. Nelson has a touchdown reception in each of the first two games, but he and fellow wideout Randall Cobb are each averaging under 10 yards on 11 catches apiece. Eddie Lacy is averaging 4.3 yards on 26 carries, but Green Bay's biggest concern is a pass defense that is surrendering 277 yards and is expected to be without starting cornerback Sam Shields on Sunday due to a concussion.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Rodgers is 11-3 against the Lions but has not thrown for 300 yards since the home loss to Detroit on Nov. 15.

2. Stafford has at least two touchdowns passes in the last three meetings versus Green Bay.

3. Lacy has rushed for 199 yards in the last two home matchups against Detroit.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Baltimore at Jacksonville

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: EverBank Field, Jacksonville, Florida

The Baltimore Ravens might want to thank the schedule-makers for their 2-0 start to the season with their victories coming against winless Buffalo and Cleveland. Things could a bit tougher this week when the Ravens play their second straight road game with a visit to the Jacksonville Jaguars, who are also winless on the season.
The Ravens spotted the Browns a 20-0 first-quarter lead before a blocked extra point that was returned for two points turned the tide in what became a 25-20 victory. Knocking out Cleveland starting quarterback Josh McCown also aided the comeback a week ago as Baltimore improved to 2-0 for the first time since the 2009 season. Jacksonville played well in its season-opening loss against Green Bay but then took a couple steps back last week in a blowout loss at San Diego. The Jaguars, seeking their first playoff berth since 2007, are just 12-38 in coach Gus Bradley's three-plus seasons with the team.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Ravens -1. O/U: 47.

ABOUT THE RAVENS (2-0): Almost an afterthought as an offseason acquisition, wide receiver Mike Wallace has scored all three of Baltimore's touchdowns in the first two weeks of the season. The Ravens, however, have received little from their running game (23rd in NFL) with Justin Forsett and Terrance West combining for 152 yards on 47 carries with no scores. "Everybody wants to be pretty, but maybe we’re just not that pretty," coach John Harbaugh said. "But we’re tough."

ABOUT THE JAGUARS (0-2): Quarterback Blake Bortles was one of the league's top passers last year but put up most of his gaudy numbers playing from behind. Last week was no different as Bortles had no touchdowns and three turnovers through three quarters as Jacksonville trailed 35-0. The Jaguars are tied for 28th in the league, allowing 32.5 points a game, and they could be missing cornerback Prince Amukamara (hamstring) and strong safety Johnathan Cyprien (knee/triceps). Running back Chris Ivory (medical issue) returned to practice this week for the first time since Sept. 9 and will be a big boost to the ground game if fit.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Jacksonville beat Baltimore last season when K Jason Myers connected on a 53-yard field goal on an un-timed play following a controversial penalty on the Ravens.

2. Jacksonville added starting C Brandon Linder (doubtful) to a long list of injuries that includes two of its starting three cornerbacks.

3. Ravens LB Elvis Dumervil (foot) expects to make his season debut on Sunday.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Cleveland at Miami

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida

The Cleveland Browns' starting quarterback carousel makes its fifth turn in as many contests and 26th in 17 years on Sunday as third-round rookie Cody Kessler gets the nod against the Miami Dolphins at renovated Hard Rock Stadium. Offseason acquisition Robert Griffin III suffered a season-ending injury in the opening loss to Philadelphia and Josh McCown also departed with a left shoulder ailment in Cleveland's 25-20 setback to Baltimore last week.
Kessler's task will be that much harder after promising rookie wide receiver Corey Coleman sustained a hand injury in practice on Wednesday. While the Browns saw an 18-point lead evaporate last week, the Dolphins nearly crawled back from a 28-point deficit in the second half before dropping a 31-24 decision to New England. "I don't know if momentum carries over," quarterback Ryan Tannehill said, "but that feeling we had, just the confidence that we gained throughout that second half of, 'This is how it's supposed to be, this is how we can play when things are clicking.'" Tannehill clicked in his last meeting with Cleveland, throwing for 272 yards and a touchdown in Miami's 23-10 victory on Sept. 8, 2011.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Dolphins -10. O/U: 42.5

ABOUT THE BROWNS (0-2): For all of the gloom and doom in Cleveland's offense, Isaiah Crowell has run roughshod over opponents with touchdowns in three straight games and five of six after his career-long 85-yard score last week versus the Ravens. The 23-year-old finished with 133 yards and looks to exploit the Dolphins' 30th-ranked defense that has surrendered 136.5 per game this season. Then again, Cleveland's 205.0 yards passing per game ranks 27th and the loss of Coleman (team-high 173 yards, two touchdowns) leaves converted quarterback Terrelle Pryor and slot receiver Andrew Hawkins as Kessler's primary threats while Josh Gordon continues to serve a four-game suspension.

ABOUT THE DOLPHINS (0-2): While Cleveland's ground game has excelled, Miami's 27th-ranked rushing attack has gone nowhere fast -- and offseason acquisition Arian Foster's groin injury certainly won't help matters. A combination of Jay Ajayi, rookie Kenyan Drake, Isaiah Pead and Damien Williams is expected to carry the mail for the Dolphins, whose leading rusher is actually Tannehill (52 yards). Top target Jarvis Landry had 10 receptions for 137 yards last week and leads the NFL with 17 catches, but former first-round wideout DeVante Parker (eight receptions, 106 yards in his season debut) has been limited in practice this week with an ailing hamstring.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Browns coach Hue Jackson had his scheduled interview cancelled with Miami in January as the Dolphins targeted Adam Gase, who turned down the opportunity to interview in Cleveland in 2013.

2. Pro Bowl TE Jordan Cameron, who scored a touchdown last week, will face his former team for the first time since departing the Browns in free agency last season.

3. Cleveland has lost 10 of its last 11 road games.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Washington at N.Y. Giants

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey

Pro Bowl selections Odell Beckham Jr. and Josh Norman weren't on their best behavior during their last encounter at MetLife Stadium, and the two continued their simmering feud in the summer with repeated pointed jabs over social media. With each star insisting they've moved on from the series of ugly incidents, Norman's intent shifts to getting his new team a much-needed win on Sunday when the Washington Redskins visit the New York Giants.
Five unnecessary roughness penalties, a $26,000 fine for Norman and a one-game suspension for Beckham served as lowlights stemming from Carolina's 38-35 win on Dec. 20, with the result often getting lost in the shuffle. When the 28-year-old Norman departed from the Panthers and signed a five-year, $75 million deal in the offseason, many were quick to circle this Week 3 battle against the NFC East-rival Giants. "I don't shy away from nobody," said Norman, who insisted this week that he wants to shadow Beckham. The emotional wideout, who was so rattled in last year's encounter that he dropped a sure-fire touchdown pass, is averaging 121.3 yards with five touchdowns in three career games vs. Washington.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Giants -4.5. O/U: 46.5

ABOUT THE REDSKINS (0-2): Pointing fingers and bickering behind the scenes is nothing new in the District of Columbia - it is an election year, after all - but those actions reportedly reared their ugly head in Washington's locker room following a 27-23 defeat versus Dallas. Making $19.95 million while playing under the franchise tag, Kirk Cousins is in the eye of the storm after missing key throws and tossing three interceptions -- although coach Jay Gruden said he has "total faith" in his quarterback. The 28-year-old Cousins started off slowly last year before throwing 23 touchdowns against three interceptions in his final 10 games of the season, including 302 yards and a score in the Redskins' 20-14 win over the Giants on Nov. 29.

ABOUT THE GIANTS (2-0): Mild-mannered quarterback Eli Manning isn't interested in the sideshow accompanying Sunday's showdown, as evidenced by his advice to Beckham to "just go play football." Manning has done precisely that by throwing for 368 yards in last week's 16-13 win over New Orleans and will look to eclipse the 300-yard plateau for the third straight game at home. Beckham reeled in eight catches for 86 yards versus the Saints, but has failed to reach the end zone this season despite being targeted a team-high 19 times.

EXTRA POINTS
1. New York CB Janoris Jenkins, who returned a blocked field goal 65 yards for a touchdown last week, slighted Washington WR DeSean Jackson by saying "he's just kind of fast."

2. Redskins RB Matt Jones, who rushed for a 14-yard score last week, is averaging 4.3 yards per carry this season after mustering just 3.4 in 2015.

3. New York's record may be perfect, but it has yet to force a turnover and is ranked 31st in the NFL with a minus-4 turnover differential.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Oakland at Tennessee

When: 1:00 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Nissan Stadium, Nashville, Tennessee

The Tennessee Titans will attempt to do something that they haven't achieved since 2013 - win back-to-back games - when they host the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. Tennessee bounced back from a season-opening home loss to Minnesota by edging the Lions 16-15 in Detroit last week, scoring a pair of touchdowns in the fourth quarter before making a big defensive stop in the final minute.
While the Titans have scored only 16 points in each of their first two games, their defense has done a stellar job keeping the opposition out of the end zone, joining Seattle as the only teams yet to allow two offensive touchdowns. Tennessee could be in for an offensive bonanza this week, however, as Oakland has allowed more than 1,000 yards over its first two contests. The Raiders followed a high-scoring victory at New Orleans in their opener with a 35-28 loss to Atlanta at home last week, a game in which they permitted Matt Ryan to throw for nearly 400 yards. Derek Carr has passed for 618 yards and four touchdowns in his first two contests while Amari Cooper has made 11 catches for 208 yards but has yet to find the end zone.

TV: 1 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Titans -2. O/U: 47

ABOUT THE RAIDERS (1-1): Carr has gotten off to a fine start this season as he entered Week 3 tied for the league lead with 58 completions without throwing an interception. Tight end Clive Walford was one of Carr's favorite targets last week, tying Latavius Murray for the team lead with a career-high six receptions - including one for a touchdown. Khalil Mack, who ranked second in the NFL last season with 15 sacks, remains in search of his first of 2016.

ABOUT THE TITANS (1-1): Considering Oakland's defensive woes, DeMarco Murray no doubt will be anxious to take the field Sunday as he rushed for a career-high three touchdowns in his last meeting with Oakland in 2013 while with Dallas. Marcus Mariota, who recorded one of his four career performances of three or more touchdown passes last season versus the Raiders, looks to build off his game-winning drive against Detroit on which he was 9-of-9 for 74 yards. Tennessee has won only two of its last 17 home games, with both victories coming against Jacksonville.

EXTRA POINTS
1. The Raiders ended a three-game losing streak in the all-time series by posting a 24-21 victory at Tennessee on Nov. 29.

2. Tennessee promoted DB Curtis Riley from the practice squad, placed Chance Warmack (finger) on injured reserve and signed fellow G Karim Barton to the practice squad.

3. Oakland S Reggie Nelson in the only active player to record 30 or more interceptions (30) and at least five sacks (6.5) since he entered the league in 2007.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: San Francisco at Seattle

When: 4:05 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: CenturyLink Field, Seattle, Washington

Only a last-minute touchdown in the season opener prevented an 0-2 start for the Seattle Seahawks, who will look to snap out of their offensive doldrums when they host Chip Kelly and the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. Seattle is coming off a lackluster 9-3 loss at Los Angeles, marking the first time it has failed to score a touchdown since quarterback Russell Wilson's 2012 rookie season.
The Seahawks were bottled up by the same Rams that looked completely overmatched in a 28-0 drubbing at San Francisco in Week 1 and have put up 15 points in their first two games. “Yeah, I’m real surprised about that," Seattle coach Pete Carroll said of the offensive rut. "I never would have anticipated that happening starting the season.” The 49ers ranked last in the NFL in scoring in 2015 but are coming off 28- and 27-point performances after reaching 27 only once last season. San Francisco has been unable to solve the Seahawks' defense, losing the last four meetings between the teams while scoring a total of 26 points.

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Seahawks -9.5. O/U: 40

ABOUT THE 49ERS (1-1): San Francisco's dominant win over Los Angeles in Week 1 looked a bit more impressive after the Rams upset Seattle, but its defense was gouged for 46 points and 529 yards by the Carolina Panthers in last week's 46-27 setback. Quarterback Blaine Gabbert was held to 17-of-36 for 243 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions by the Panthers while running back Carlos Hyde managed only 34 yards on 14 carries after churning out 88 yards in the season opener. Tight end Vance McDonald has scored in each of the first two games and had four catches for 65 yards and a touchdown in the second meeting against Seattle last season. San Francisco had three interceptions and two forced fumbles but only three sacks.

ABOUT THE SEAHAWKS (1-1): Seattle's defense is in a familiar perch, leading the NFL in total defense (248.5) and points allowed (9.5), but the offense has been shockingly ineffective with the one touchdown in 22 possessions. Running back Thomas Rawls is off to a slow start with 25 yards on 19 carries and left last week's game with an injury, while Christine Michael has been effective with an average of 5.0 yards per carry, but he committed a costly fumble that blunted a comeback against the Rams. Wide receivers Doug Baldwin and Tyler Lockett each sustained knee injuries in Los Angeles, but Carroll expects both to play against the 49ers. Seattle's run defense has been stout, giving up an average of 64.0 yards per game.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Wilson has registered a passer rating of at least 100 in five of his last six home games.

2. 49ers LB NaVorro Bowman, who led the league in tackles last season, has at least seven in seven straight games versus Seattle.

3. Rawls was kicked in the shin in last week's loss, but Carroll said he expected him to play.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Los Angeles at Tampa Bay

When: 4:05 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa, Florida

Jameis Winston and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers received a lot of positive press after looking strong in their Week 1 victory, but those raised expectations took a steep dive after a terrible performance in Week 2. Winston and the Buccaneers will try to bounce back when they host the offensively challenged Los Angeles Rams on Sunday.
Winston went from four touchdown passes and one interception in a 31-24 win at Atlanta in the season opener to one TD and four picks in a 40-7 loss at Arizona the following week. "We haven’t been tested yet this season in that department," Buccaneers first-year coach Dirk Koetter told reporters about the possibility of his team bouncing back, "but the fact that we’re coming into our own home stadium for our home opener, that’s definitely going to be what we’re working for.” The Rams are the only team in the league yet to score an offensive touchdown but were strong enough on defense to pull out a 9-3 win at home over Seattle last week after being shut out by the San Francisco 49ers in Week 1. "We need more production out of our offense," Los Angeles coach Jeff Fisher told reporters. "All things point to the quarterback position, but I'm expecting Case (Keenum) to continue to get better in this offense, and we're going to win games and score points."

TV: 4:05 p.m. ET, FOX. LINE: Buccaneers -5. O/U: 42

ABOUT THE RAMS (1-1): Los Angeles traded up to the No. 1 pick in the draft to get quarterback Jared Goff, but Fisher insists the team only will play him when he's ready. In the meantime, Keenum ranks last in the NFL among 33 qualifying passers with a 57.8 rating and a 53.8 completion percentage and is guiding an offense that's trying to avoid joining the 1976 Buccaneers as the only teams in the NFL to fail to score a touchdown in the first three games. The weakness in the passing game is not doing any favors for running back Todd Gurley, who is averaging 2.7 yards per carry against defenses stacked to stop him.

ABOUT THE BUCCANEERS (1-1): Tampa Bay lost leading rusher Doug Martin for the next three weeks to a hamstring injury and will lean on backup Charles Sims, with Jacquizz Rodgers as the backup. Sims managed 24 yards on nine carries last week at Arizona and has some experience with Winston in the passing game after hauling in 51 passes for 561 yards and four touchdowns last season. The Buccaneers' defense is struggling, allowing 64 points in the first two weeks, and has yet to force a turnover.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Buccaneers WR Vincent Jackson has caught just six passes and has yet to record a touchdown.

2. Los Angeles CB Lamarcus Joyner played through a broken toe in the first two games and was limited at practice this week.

3. Tampa Bay DE Robert Ayers (ankle) left last week's game early and is questionable.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Pittsburgh at Philadelphia

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Carson Wentz has a chance to become the second rookie quarterback since the NFL merger in 1970 to win his first three starts when he guides the Philadelphia Eagles into Sunday's matchup against the visiting Pittsburgh Steelers. Philadelphia is off to a 2-0 start behind the rookie sensation, but will face a step up in class against the undefeated Steelers in a matchup of Keystone State rivals.
Ironically, Wentz is drawing early comparisons to veteran Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, who came out of college displaying surprising mobility for a player his size as a first-round pick in the 2004 draft. "I think that’s one thing with Carson’s strength is he continues to have that vision down the field when things begin to break down," Philadelphia first-year coach Doug Pederson acknowledged. "So, yeah, there are a lot of similarities there." Roethlisberger is off to a fast start, leading the league with six touchdown passes despite the absence of star running back Le'Veon Bell, who is serving the final contest of a three-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy. While the Eagles have beaten a pair of winless opponents, Pittsburgh owns victories over Washington and Cincinnati -- two division winners from 2015.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Steelers -3.5. O/U: 46

ABOUT THE STEELERS (2-0): Much as he did a year ago when Bell's season ended prematurely due to injury, running back DeAngelo Williams is filling in spectacularly, piling up an NFL-high 237 yards and two touchdowns on the ground and adding another 10 catches and a score. Star wideout Antonio Brown, who reeled in 375 passes over the past three seasons, was limited to four receptions for 39 yards in last week's 24-16 win over Cincinnati but Roethlisberger completed passes to nine different receivers while connecting with Williams and both his tight ends, Jesse James and Xavier Grimble, on scoring strikes. Pittsburgh is yielding tons of yards through the air (347.5 ppg) but has permitted only 16 points in each of the first two games.

ABOUT THE EAGLES (2-0): Wentz continues to make Philadelphia's decision to trade up and take him with the No. 2 overall pick out of FCS North Dakota State -- not to mention trading away incumbent Sam Bradford -- look wise by becoming the first rookie since the merger to win his first two starts without tossing an interception. Jordan Matthews is the top target for Wentz with 13 receptions and a score through two games while Trey Burton filled in nicely for injured tight end Zach Ertz last week with five catches for 49 yards and a touchdown. Ryan Mathews has rushed for three touchdowns but is averaging only 3.5 yards per carry. The Eagles rank fifth against the pass but could again be without starting cornerback Leodis McKelvin (hamstring).

EXTRA POINTS
1. Brown has 106 catches and 13 TDs in his last 13 games against NFC opponents.

2. Eagles DT Fletcher Cox has 9.5 sacks in his last eight home games.

3. Roethlisberger has thrown for at least three touchdown passes in his last three games.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: San Diego at Indianapolis

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, Indiana

The Indianapolis Colts have allowed 73 points and were shredded by opposing passers in their first two games, but help could be on the way. The Colts hope to have several defensive starters back and aim to pick up their first victory when they host the San Diego Chargers on Sunday.
Indianapolis' secondary has allowed an average of 299 passing yards and yielded a combined 73.6 completion percentage to Matthew Stafford and Trevor Siemian in losses to Detroit and Denver over the first two weeks. Cornerbacks Vontae Davis (ankle) and Patrick Robinson (concussion), as well as safety T.J. Green (knee), all sat out last week but returned to practice on Wednesday and could play this weekend, while safety Clayton Geathers (shoulder) left the loss at Denver but could be back on Sunday. That ailing secondary will be going up against a Chargers offense that put up 38 points in a blowout of Jacksonville last week, led by Philip Rivers' four touchdown passes. San Diego is not without injury concerns, and Rivers will have to dig deep into his bag of weapons after losing Danny Woodhead and Keenan Allen to season-ending injuries.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Colts -2.5. O/U: 51.5

ABOUT THE CHARGERS (1-1): Melvin Gordon is stepping up in the absence of Woodhead and ran for 102 yards on a career-high 24 carries with a touchdown in the 38-14 win over the Jaguars. The second-year running back did not find the end zone in 14 games during his rookie campaign but already has scored three times in 2016 to take some pressure off of Rivers and the passing game. San Diego brought in six-year veteran running back Dexter McCluster this week to help fill Woodhead's versatile role in the passing game and on special teams.

ABOUT THE COLTS (0-2): Andrew Luck (shoulder) was the latest addition to Indianapolis' injury report, though he insists he'll be playing on Sunday. Luck threw four TD passes in Week 1 against the Lions and one at Denver last week but is having some trouble getting on the same page with top target T.Y. Hilton, who has 10 receptions on 23 targets and no touchdowns. The Colts' defense recorded only two sacks in the first two weeks but could be getting some help on the line in the form of tackle Henry Anderson, who torn his ACL last season but is a full participant in practice and is on the verge of making his season debut.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Chargers rookie DE Joey Bosa (hamstring) is practicing this week and is questionable to make his NFL debut.

2. Indianapolis WR Donte Moncrief (fractured scapula) will miss 4-to-6 weeks.

3. Luck struggled to 18-of-30 passing with no TDs and an interception in a 19-9 loss at San Diego in the last meeting in 2013.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: N.Y. Jets at Kansas City

When: 4:25 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, Missouri

The Kansas City Chiefs aim for their eighth consecutive home victory when they host the New York Jets on Sunday in a matchup of teams searching for consistency. Both squads are 1-1 and looking for a win that could prove pivotal to the playoff picture down the road.
The Jets bounced back from a crushing Week 1 defeat to beat former coach Rex Ryan and Buffalo 37-31 in Week 2, and they’ve had a few extra days of rest following that Thursday night victory to prepare for their next challenge. “The NFL is crazy in that we’re only as good as what we do this week,” Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick told reporters. “We’re not going to sit and celebrate last week, because we have to move on.” The Chiefs are eager to turn the page on last week’s 19-12 loss at Houston in which they managed just 291 total yards and committed three turnovers. The Jets have won three of the last four meetings, but Kansas City handed New York a 24-10 defeat in the most recent clash in 2014 and Chiefs as coach Andy Reid is 4-0 all-time against the Jets.

TV: 4:25 p.m. ET, CBS. LINE: Chiefs -3. O/U: 42

ABOUT THE JETS (1-1): New York, which is a couple of missed Nick Folk kicks away from being 2-0, possesses one of the league’s top offensive units thus far. Fitzgerald has a bevy of talented receivers in Brandon Marshall, Eric Decker and the emergent Quincy Enunwa, and the addition of running back Matt Forte has provided more balance. The defense has been tough on the run, but the secondary has been susceptible, allowing more than 300 passing yards in each game.

ABOUT THE CHIEFS (1-1): Kansas City has loads of weapons on offense, even with star running back Jamaal Charles having missed the first two games while recovering from last season's torn ACL. Spencer Ware has filled in admirably for Charles, while receiver Jeremy Maclin and tight end Travis Kelce give Alex Smith a pair of reliable targets. The defense has had a tough time stopping the run but has been stout with its back against the wall, as the Chiefs have allowed touchdowns on just 33.3 percent of opponents’ red-zone trips – fourth-best in the league.


EXTRA POINTS
1. The Chiefs have been outscored 34-6 in the first half over their first two games.

2. Marshall has caught a touchdown pass in each of his last five games against the Chiefs, with seven TD grabs over that span.

3. Reid has recorded 174 career wins, one behind his mentor Mike Holmgren for 13th on the NFL’s all-time list.

 

[Greenbacks]

Preview: Chicago at Dallas

When: 8:30 PM ET, Sunday, September 25, 2016
Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

The Chicago Bears lost their starting quarterback in Monday night's loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, but don't expect to garner much sympathy from their next opponent. Journeyman Brian Hoyer will step in for the injured Jay Cutler for the Bears, who attempt to avoid an 0-3 start when they visit the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.
With starter Tony Romo sidelined by a back injury, the Cowboys were forced to start the season with rookie Dak Prescott, who earned his first victory last week by guiding a late touchdown drive in a 27-23 win at Washington. "He exudes confidence," Dallas owner Jerry Jones said about Prescott, a fourth-round draft pick out of Mississippi State. "He's got a great supporting cast, but he's using it." Hoyer is with his fifth NFL team but has ample experience in pressure situations, starting nine games for Houston last season and 13 games for Cleveland in 2014. "Whether you're the starter or the backup or the third guy, you prepare every week like you're the starter," Hoyer said. "Just prepare like you're going to play and take it one day at a time and come Sunday, we'll see what happens."

TV: 8:30 p.m. ET, NBC. LINE: Cowboys -7. O/U: 44.5

ABOUT THE BEARS (0-2): Chicago not only flat-lined in the 29-14 home loss to the Eagles on Monday night, but came away with a slew of injuries on both sides of the ball. In addition to Cutler (thumb), leading wide receiver Alshon Jeffery (knee) did not practice Thursday while the defense is expected to be without nose tackle Eddie Goldman and linebackers Danny Trevathan and Lamarr Houston, who was placed on injured reserve with a torn ACL. Hoyer has a career 15-11 record as a starter but could use a boost from the running game after Jeremy Langford was held to 28 yards on 11 carries Monday. Chicago ranks ninth overall in total defense despite allowing 52 points in two games.

ABOUT THE COWBOYS (1-1): Prescott drew rave reviews during the preseason and has not looked out of place while subbing for Romo, setting an NFL record for the most passes without an interception (75) in a player's first two games. Prescott threw for 292 yards and ran for a touchdown while finding a steady connection with start wideout Dez Bryant, who had seven receptions for 102 yards against the Redskins after opening the season with one catch for eight yards. Rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott rushed for 83 yards and a touchdown last week, but found himself on the bench during crunch time after fumbling. The Cowboys' defense has been vulnerable to the pass, giving up an average of 276.5 yards.

EXTRA POINTS
1. Bryant needs one touchdown to become the fourth player in franchise history to score 60.

2. Jeffery has a touchdown catch in his of his two matchups with the Cowboys.

3. Cowboys WR Cole Beasley, who scored twice in Dallas' 41-28 win over Chicago in 2014, has 13 catches in the first two contests.

 

[Greenbacks]

Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 3: Tight ends.


Start 'Em




Start of the Week - Delanie Walker vs. Oakland Raiders

Walker rebounded from a mediocre Week 1 to finish with 83 yards, one touchdown and 14.3 fantasy points in a win over the Lions. He could put up a similiar stat line against the Raiders, who have surrendered the fourth-most fantasy points to tight ends this season. Walker is listed as questionable, but he should be active.





Dennis Pitta vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Pitta disappeared from the fantasy radar for two years due to injuries, but he's back at 100 percent and reminding fantasy fans of just how good he was (and can be). He saw 12 targets last weekend from Joe Flacco, who has long had a good rapport with the veteran tight end. A matchup against the Jaguars is favorable on paper, too.





Eric Ebron vs. Green Bay Packers

Ebron has opened the season with a combined 99 yards and one touchdown (12 targets), and he could have had another score had it not been called back due to a questionable pass interfernence call. At what has become a thin tight end position, Ebron is as good a non-elite option as there is in a plus matchup against the Packers.





Dwayne Allen vs. San Diego Chargers

Allen isn't going to be the most consistent tight end in fantasy football, but he's a viable streamer when the matchup is favorable. That's the case this week against the Chargers, who have surrendered an average of more than 12 fantasy points a game to tight ends. Allen is a free agent in 30 percent of NFL.com leagues, too.





Coby Fleener vs. Atlanta Falcons

I get it. Fleener has stink, stank, stunk this season. But the tight end position is thin, and this week's matchup against the Falcons is a favorable one. As a result, I'll give Fleener another week of rope to turn things around for the Saints and fantasy fans. If he doesn't get it together, he could land on the waiver wire very soon.


Sleepers: Kyle Rudolph at Panthers, Jacob Tamme at Saints (MNF)

Sit 'Em




Sit of the Week - Jimmy Graham vs. San Francisco 49ers

Trying to find relevant tight ends to list as sits is a difficult task, because the position is a trainwreck. So, I'm speaking to owners who love big names and feel like Graham is worth a roll of the dice. He's not, at least not yet. While he did see 54 snaps last week (up from 17 in Week 1), he's done little to warrant a starting fantasy role.





Gary Barnidge vs. Miami Dolphins

Barnidge was one of the best tight ends in fantasy football a season ago, but that sure seems like a long time ago. His targets have been down in the first two weeks, and his production has left a lot for fantasy fans to be desired. Couple that with the fact that Cody Kessler is starting, and Barnidge becomes a bigger gamble.





Martellus Bennett vs. Houston Texans

Bennett put up a huge stat line in a win over the Dolphins, and he could be a popular target in the pass attack for rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett. Of course, Bennett could also be asked to block more often as the Patriots look to run the football and keep Brissett comfortable. A game vs. the Texans isn't favorable, either.





Jesse James vs. Philadelphia Eagles

James found the end zone last week in a win over the Bengals, so his value in fantasy football is on the rise at a position that lacks depth. Still, he's a matchup-dependent starter and this week's game against the Eagles is anything but favorable. No defense has allowed fewer fantasy points to opposing tight ends so far in 2016.





Vance McDonald vs. Seattle Seahawks

McDonald had one of the most memorable touchdowns of Week 2 when he took one 75 yards to the house in a loss to the Panthers. Still, picking him up and starting him against the Seahawks feels a lot like chasing the fantasy points. Seattle has been a tough pull for tight ends so far this season, so keep McDonald on the bench.


Busts: Travis Kelce vs. Jets, Jordan Cameron vs. Browns

 

[Greenbacks]

Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 3: Wide receivers.


Start 'Em




Start of the Week - Larry Fitzgerald vs. Buffalo Bills

Regardless of age or the talent around him, Fitzgerald continues to produce both on the field and for fantasy owners. He's already scored three touchdowns this season, and he could build on that total in what is a plus matchup against a Bills defense that looked overmatched in a loss to the Jets. Make sure to keep Fitzgerald in there.





Jarvis Landry vs. Cleveland Browns

The top start 'em wideout a week ago, Landry went off for 10 catches and 137 yards in a loss to the Patriots. He should continue to rack up the targets against the Browns, who have allowed an average of almost 30 fantasy points per game to wideouts in the first two weekends. Owners should also consider DeVante Parker.





Jeremy Maclin vs. New York Jets

In seasons past, wide receivers who went up against the Jets pass defense and cornerback Darrelle Revis were considered bad fantasy options. Well, Revis Island has become more of a delightful statistical destination for the position since 2015. As a result, those owners who have Maclin shouldn't be afraid to keep him in their active lineups.





Marvin Jones vs. Green Bay Packers

Jones ranks seventh in wide receiver snaps and 11th in targets this season, so he's getting plenty of opportunities to produce. I'd get him into your lineup against a Packers defense that allowed 182 yards, one touchdown and over 24 fantasy points to Stefon Diggs last week. I'd expect another stat line with double digits from the Cal product.





Sterling Shepard vs. Washington Redskins

After two weeks, Shepard ranks 19th in fantasy points among wide receivers ... and he's scored more points than Odell Beckham Jr. While that's not a trend that's likely to continue, the rookie out of Oklahoma is still a viable No. 3 fantasy wideout or flex starter in a plus matchup against a Redskins defense that's struggled this year.


Sleepers: Travis Benjamin at Colts, Willie Snead vs. Falcons (MNF)

Sit 'Em




Sit of the Week - Randall Cobb vs. Detroit Lions

Cobb was last week's featured sit 'em in this column, and he produced a minuscule 4.3 fantasy points in a loss to the Vikings. Next on the schedule is a date with the Lions, who have held Cobb to fewer than 60 receiving yards in five of eight career meetings. Cobb has also scored touchdowns (three) in just two of those eight contests.





Julian Edelman vs. Houston Texans

Fantasy fans in PPR leagues might want to consider Edelman as a third wide receiver this week, but his statistical prospects take a major hit with Jacoby Brissett under center against a stout Texans defense. Even with coach Bill Belichick pulling the strings, I just can't project Edelman seeing a whole lot of targets in this offense.





Emmanuel Sanders vs. Cincinnati Bengals

Sanders has had a slow start to the season, posting 8.8 fantasy points in wins over the Panthers and Colts. Next on the schedule is a date with the Bengals, who have allowed an average of just 20.05 fantasy points per game to wideouts this season. A former superstar, Sanders is now a serious risk with Trevor Siemian under center.





Golden Tate vs. Green Bay Packers

Tate has not had a very promising start to the season, posting a mere nine catches (16 targets) for 54 yards and no touchdowns. He also seems to have fallen to second in the pecking order behind Jones, and both Anquan Boldin and Eric Ebron have been more involved as well. I'd keep Tate benched, even against the Packers.





Allen Hurns vs. Baltimore Ravens

Hurns has had a slow start to the season, posting a combined nine catches for 139 yards in his first two games. He's also failed to score a touchdown, which was a huge part of his overall value a season ago. I'd keep him on the bench against the Ravens, who have allowed the eighth-fewest fantasy points to opposing wide receivers.


Busts: DeSean Jackson at Giants, Torrey Smith at Seahawks

 

[Greenbacks]

Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 3: Running backs.


Start 'Em




Start of the Week - Melvin Gordon vs. Indianapolis Colts

Gordon could turn into the best draft bargain in fantasy football, and he figures to see a bigger role in the San Diego offense with Danny Woodhead (knee) out for the season. He's a virtual must-start runner this week against the Colts, who have given up more fantasy points to running backs (34.5 PPG) than any other team in the league.





Todd Gurley vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It's come down to this ... after two bad weeks, I have to put Gurley in the start 'em portion of this column. Fans are freaking out (and with good reason), but I'm giving Gurley the benefit of the doubt ahead of what is a plus matchup against a Bucs defense that's been bad against runners. If Gurley fails here, then I'll be worried.





Mark Ingram vs. Atlanta Falcons

The same applies to Ingram as it does to Gurley ... two bad weeks, lots of worried owners and a bunch of concerned questions from fans on Twitter. Ingram was limited to a mere 13 touches last week (for some reason), but I'm giving him another week of rope against Atlanta. He's scored five times in his last three games against them.





LeGarrette Blount vs. Houston Texans

Blount, listed as a sleeper last week, has put up 193 rushing yards and two touchdowns in his first two games of the season. He also saw 51 total snaps (29 carries) in last week's win over the Dolphins, and I'd be shocked if he didn't continue to run a lot with rookie Jacoby Brissett projected to start versus the Texans on Thursday.





DeMarco Murray vs. Oakland Raiders

Murray has been one of the top runners in fantasy football to start the 2016 season, and most of his production has come as a receiver out of the backfield (21.1 points). Fantasy owners should deploy him against the Raiders, who have surrendered an average of 20 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs after two weeks.


Sleepers: Isaiah Crowell at Dolphins, Christine Michael vs. 49ers

Sit 'Em




Sit of the Week - Carlos Hyde vs. Seattle Seahawks

Hyde was a major disappointment last week in Carolina, and the schedule isn't going to get better with a date in Seattle upcoming. Most No. 1 runners have not fared well in the Pacific Northwest over the last year, as just three have scored a rushing touchdown in that time. This is a good week to keep Hyde on the fantasy sidelines.





Eddie Lacy vs. Detroit Lions

Was it the weight, or was it the offense? Maybe the latter was a bigger part of the problem for Lacy last season, because he's been average at best in 2016. Lacy (35) split snaps with James Starks (34) last week against the Vikings, and now he'll face a Lions defense that's held him to an average of 5.4 fantasy points in five games.





T.J. Yeldon vs. Baltimore Ravens

Yeldon put up a 3.8-point stink bomb against the Chargers last week, which was at least in part due to the fact that Jacksonville had to abandon the run in an attempt to erase a deficit. Still, it's hard to trust a back with a 2.4 YPC average who will no doubt lose carries to Chris Ivory sooner than later. Yeldon is a so-so flex starter at best.





Jeremy Hill vs. Denver Broncos

Hill has been a regular member of the sit 'em running backs list, as he's rushed for a combined 53 yards over his first two contests. Last week in Pittsburgh, Giovani Bernard had more snaps (47) than Hill (29) and appeared to be the better back. Next on the schedule is a difficult home game against the Broncos, so keep Hill benched.





Matt Jones vs. New York Giants

Jones put up 12.5 fantasy points in last week's loss to the Cowboys, but I'm skeptical of his chances to put up good numbers again in what is a much tougher matchup against the Giants. Their upgraded defensive unit has looked like the real deal, holding Ezekiel Elliott and Mark Ingram to a combined 15.9 points in the first two weeks.


Busts: Latavius Murray at Titans, Ryan Mathews vs. Steelers

 

[Greenbacks]

Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 3: Quarterbacks.


Start 'Em




Start of the Week - Andrew Luck vs. San Diego Chargers

Last week, Luck put up a 10.08-point stink bomb in a loss to the Broncos. But come on, who doesn't struggle against the champs? I expect Luck to rebound against the Chargers, who have allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks. Luck also has 12 touchdown passes in his last four home contests.





Matt Ryan vs. New Orleans Saints

After the first two weeks, Ryan is your top-scoring fantasy player regardless of position. Seriously. He should now be owned in most leagues, and I'd argue he's a terrific start on Monday night against the Saints. In his last four contests in New Orleans, he has averaged a solid 333 yards and has thrown eight touchdown passess.





Philip Rivers vs. Indianapolis Colts

Rivers, listed as a start 'em last week, went off for four touchdowns and 23.8 fantasy points in a win over the Jaguars. More importantly, he did it without Keenan Allen and (for a time) Danny Woodhead. This week he's facing a questionable Colts pass defense that has allowed an average of 18.7 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks.





Eli Manning vs. Washington Redskins

Manning didn't meet the expectations of owners a week ago, scoring just 12.3 points against the Saints. He's still a viable starter this week however, as he faces a Redskins defense that has surrendered an average of 20 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks. Manning has also averaged 20.6 points in his last two home games against them.





Matthew Stafford vs. Green Bay Packers

Stafford's team let him down last week, as penalties cost him two touchdown passes in a loss to the Titans. I'd still roll with him for a matchup in Green Bay, where Stafford has scored 17 or more fantasy points in two of his last three contests. He's also tossed two or more touchdown strikes in four of his last five at Lambeau Field.


Sleepers: Dak Prescott vs. Bears, Ryan Tannehill vs. Browns

Sit 'Em




Sit of the Week - Andy Dalton vs. Denver Broncos

Dalton exceeded expectations last week in Pittsburgh, throwing for 366 yards with one touchdown while scoring 19.3 fantasy points. Still, the Red Rifle is a difficult sell for this week's matchup against the Broncos. Last week, Denver held Luck to a meager 10.08 fantasy points. Dalton could be in for a pretty difficult weekend ahead.





Kirk Cousins vs. New York Giants

Remember when Cousins was the hero of the 2015 fantasy postseason? That was then and this is now, and now Cousins looks highly unstartable in fantasy land. The veteran has struggled in his career against the Giants as well, averaging just 10.84 fantasy points in four career games versus Big Blue. Keep Cousins on the bench.





Tyrod Taylor vs. Arizona Cardinals

Taylor put up a solid stat line for fantasy fans in last week's loss to the Jets, but can he do it in back to back weeks? The matchup suggests no, as the Bills host a Cardinals defense that has surrendered a mere 9.34 fantasy points to quarterbacks in their first two games. Arizona has also stolen four picks from opposing field generals.





Jameis Winston vs. Los Angeles Rams

It's been a tale of two weekends for Winston, who had four touchdown passes in Week 1 ... and four interceptions in Week 2. Next up is a date with the Rams, who held Russell Wilson to a modest 11.56 fantasy points in a win over the Seahawks. Winston has also thrown for one or fewer touchdowns in five of his eight career home contests.





Ryan Fitzpatrick vs. Kansas City Chiefs

Fitzpatrick can be a solid streamer when the matchup is favorable, but that's not the case this week against a Chiefs defense that has allowed an average of just 194 passing yards to quarterbacks in their last nine home games. In their last four games at Arrowhead Stadium, three quarterbacks have recorded fewer than 180 passing yards.


Busts: Derek Carr at Titans, Sam Bradford at Panthers

 

[Greenbacks]

Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 3: Kickers.


Start 'Em




Start of the Week - Dan Bailey vs. Chicago Bears

Bailey has been the start of the week among kickers for two straight weeks, and he's the highest-scoring player at his position so far. So, why mess with a good thing? We'll keep Bailey in there for a third straight weeks against the Bears, who have surrendered the second-most fantasy points (12 PPG) to opposing kickers in 2016.





Justin Tucker vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Listed as a start 'em last week, Tucker went off for 13 fantasy points in a win over the Browns. The veteran is now seventh in points at the position, and he could improve on that rank in a road matchup against Jacksonville. The Jaguars have allowed an average of 8.5 fantasy points a game to kickers, so look for Tucker to shine.





Chandler Catanzaro vs. Buffalo Bills

Catanzaro rebounded from a Week 1 stinker with 10 fantasy points in last week's blowout win over the Buccaneers. I think he'll continue to produce at a high level against the Bills, who surrendered nine points to Tucker in their opener and 13 points to Nick Folk last Thursday night. Expect some Cat Scratch Fever from Catanzaro.





Adam Vinatieri vs. San Diego Chargers

Vinatieri has produced consecutive double-digit fantasy point performances against the Lions and Broncos, and I think he'll make it three in a row against the Chargers. This week's matchup in Indianapolis lines up to be a potential shootout, so point opportunities should be plentiful. Vinatieri shouldn't disappoint this weekend.


Sleepers: Matt Bryant at Saints (MNF), Andrew Franks vs. Browns

Sit 'Em




Sit of the Week - Matt Prater vs. Green Bay Packers

Prater has started the season with consecutive seven-point performances, and this week's matchup against the Packers doesn't bode well for his chances to improve. In three career games at Lambeau Field, the veteran kicker has scored three field goals and has never scored more than six points. Prater should be on your bench.





Jason Myers vs. Baltimore Ravens

Myers came out and scored an impressive 13 fantasy points in a Week 1 loss to the Packers, but he saw his stat line crash in a loss to the Chargers last weekend. I'm not expecting a rebound against the Ravens, who have surrendered the fewest fantasy points to kickers (1.5 PPG) in their first two contests. Leave Myers on the wire.





Roberto Aguayo vs. Los Angeles Rams

Aguayo hasn't had the best start to his "fantasy" career, scoring a combined eight points in his first two games. That includes a one-point stinker in last week's blowout loss to the Cardinals. While things can't get much worse than that, Aguayo's upcoming matchup against Los Angeles is reason enough to keep him on the sidelines.





Brandon McManus vs. Cincinnati Bengals

McManus put up an impressive 14 fantasy points in last week's win over the Colts, but an upcoming matchup against the Bengals isn't favorable. In fact, the Broncos could find it difficult to move the football in a road matchup that where Trevor Siemian might be under constant pressure. Don't be shocked if McManus is a disappointment.


Busts: Graham Gano vs. Vikings, Chris Boswell at Eagles

 

[Greenbacks]

Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Week 3: Defenses.


Start 'Em


Start of the Week - Miami Dolphins vs. Cleveland Browns

The Dolphins should be the most added defense off the waiver wire this week, and a matchup against the Browns is the reason. Opposing defense have scored an average of 10.5 fantasy points in two games against Cleveland, and now rookie Cody Kessler is being thrown into the fire. Miami should fish out a huge performance.



Cincinnati Bengals vs. Denver Broncos

You might look at this week's matchup against the Broncos and think it's a bad matchup, but this isn't Peyton Manning, friends. Trevor Siemian has already thrown three interceptions, and his first two games were at home. Imagine the pressure he'll be under in the Jungle? I like the Bengals defense to roar in this game.



New York Giants vs. Washington Redskins

The Giants defense looks pretty darn solid so far this season, and it showed in last week's 12-point performance against the Saints. Next up is a date with the Redskins and Kirk Cousins, who has three touchdown passes and 10 giveaways in four career games vs. Big Blue. The G-Men are available in a lot of leagues, too.



Baltimore Ravens vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

Remember when the Ravens defense was among the elite units in fantasy football? Well, owners should have faith in the purple and black against the Jaguars and turnover-prone quarterback Blake Bortles. Since 2014, no signal-caller has more giveaways (45). What's more, the Jags have allowed the third-most sacks since 2015.


Sleepers: Raiders defense at Titans, Buccaneers defense vs. Rams

Sit 'Em


Sit of the Week - Buffalo Bills vs. Arizona Cardinals

Whether it's Rex or Rob, the Ryans haven't been able to turn the Bills defense into a viable option on the field or in the fantasy football world. That isn't going to change this week against the Cardinals, who figure to pepper this unit with a performance that will scorch the scoreboard at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Sit the Bills.



Philadelphia Eagles vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

The Eagles defense has produced a combined 21 fantasy points over the first two weeks of the season, which ranks seventh at the position. Still, starting this unit against Ben Roethlisberger, DeAngelo Williams, Antonio Brown and an explosive Steelers offense is not something fantasy owners should be doing this weekend.



New York Jets vs. Kansas City Chiefs

The Jets didn't give fantasy fans a lot to cheer about last week, scoring just two points in a win over the Bills. This week might not be much different, and New York travels to Kansas City to face Alex Smith and a tough Chiefs team that plays well on its home field. Don't expect much from Gang Green in this one.



San Diego Chargers vs. Indianapolis Colts

The Chargers produced a little defensive electricity last week against the Jaguars, scoring nine fantasy points in a 38-14 win. However, things are going to be a lot more difficult for the Bolts this week when they travel to Indianapolis to face Andrew Luck and the Colts. In a potential shootout, sit San Diego's defense in all leagues.


Busts: Vikings defense at Panthers, Packers defense vs. Lions