NFL Week One: Fantasy Fill-Ins

Let’s face it.  Nobody wants to start their fantasy football season off with a loss, although half of us do.  I want you to end up in the happy half so I’ve uncovered some guys you can plug in if you are dealing with an injury or tough matchups.

Matt Hasselbeck, QB, Seattle Seahawks – Hasselbeck has a pretty cake matchup against St. Louis.  With an actual threat at WR in T.J. Houshmandzadeh, he is a nice spot play.  This is one of those weeks.  I would prefer to roll with Matt over QB's like Eli (Washington) or Cutler (Green Bay).

Mike Bell, RB, New Orleans Saints - Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush are going to be out or limited so Bell should get some touches.  Anytime you can use a RB that’s playing the Lions, you have to feel good about your chances.

Fred Jackson, RB, Buffalo Bills - I don’t expect a monster effort from Jackson, but he will provide yards on the ground and through the air.  With Marshawn Lynch out, Jackson’s a decent RB2/flex play this week.

Derrick Mason, WR, Baltimore Ravens - Mason continues to produce despite his age.  Joe Flacco should get the opportunity to throw a little more in his second year, and Kansas City is terrible, making Mason a nice WR3 option.

Chris Henry, WR, Cincinnati Bengals - Henry had a spectacular preseason, and appears to have gained so much maturity.  He’s a big play threat, and should be able to take advantage of Denver’s secondary.

Visanthe Shiancoe, TE, Minnesota Vikings - Shiancoe was a breakout player last year, and has had a strong preseason.  Brett Favre has targeted him several times, and he should be able to get open against Cleveland.  Favre’s smart enough to know that his wides aren’t great, so Shiancoe’s number could get called early and often.

Steven Hauschka, K, Baltimore Ravens - Hauschka has flown under the radar for the most part, but he will likely be one of the biggest adds after week one when he piles up the points against Kansas City.

Houston Texans Defense - Facing a Rookie QB in Mark Sanchez, Houston should be able to capitalize with some turnovers.  They will also bring plenty of pressure, which should result in multiple sacks making the Texans a nice spot start in week one.

Originally published at LestersLegends.com.