Fantasy Football Week 3: Matt Camp's Week 3 Big Board

Matt CampSep 21, 2016

Consider Week 3 to be your team's performance review.

After the completion of this week's games, it's a good time to take stock of your roster. Is a first-round pick like Todd Gurley underperforming with no end in sight? Maybe it's time to get him out of your lineup, or at least move him down your personal depth chart.

What about rising players? Melvin Gordon has played well and could be in for a much bigger role after the Chargers lost Danny Woodhead and Keenan Allen over the first two weeks. That means adjusting expectations to consider Gordon an RB1 rather than a possible RB2.

Use this week to look at some of those late-round lottery tickets and decide if they're worth keeping around or if they're wasting space on your bench. Considering how many injuries we had in Week 2, you may not have the luxury of stashing someone like Josh Doctson or Breshad Perriman.

As usual, this is the first look at my points-per-reception (PPR) rankings for Week 3. These will change throughout the week and up to Sunday's action as we get more information about injuries and limitations, so make sure to bookmark this page. For those playing in non-PPR formats, you can find those rankings here.

Top 100: Monday Night Main Event

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Tom Pennington/Getty Images

Matt Ryan and Julio Jones will help you clinch victory on Monday night.

I present my top 100 players (minus quarterbacks) for the week as a way to help determine your flex spots. You may favor a certain position or player over another based on his role and/or your scoring rules.

As an additional tiebreaker, here are the teams I like as a whole this week based on their matchups:

Atlanta Falcons (at New Orleans Saints)
New Orleans Saints (vs. Atlanta Falcons)
Arizona Cardinals (at Buffalo Bills)

#	Player (team)	Matchup	Pos	ECR™	vs. ECR
1	Julio Jones (ATL)	at NO	WR1	2	+1
2	Odell Beckham Jr. (NYG)	vs. WAS	WR2	3	+1
3	DeAngelo Williams (PIT)	at PHI	RB1	5	+2
4	Antonio Brown (PIT)	at PHI	WR3	1	-3
5	DeMarco Murray (TEN)	vs. OAK	RB2	21	+16
6	DeAndre Hopkins (HOU)	at NE	WR4	6	0
7	Matt Forte (NYJ)	at KC	RB3	15	+8
8	Dez Bryant (DAL)	vs. CHI	WR5	12	+4
9	Jarvis Landry (MIA)	vs. CLE	WR6	20	+11
10	Melvin Gordon (SD)	at IND	RB4	13	+3
11	Larry Fitzgerald (ARI)	at BUF	WR7	18	+7
12	David Johnson (ARI)	at BUF	RB5	4	-8
13	Stefon Diggs (MIN)	at CAR	WR8	31	+18
14	C.J. Anderson (DEN)	at CIN	RB6	14	0
15	Lamar Miller (HOU)	at NE	RB7	9	-6
16	Kelvin Benjamin (CAR)	vs. MIN	WR9	19	+3
17	Willie Snead (NO)	vs. ATL	WR10	30	+13
18	Will Fuller (HOU)	at NE	WR11	52	+34
19	Marvin Jones (DET)	at GB	WR12	33	+14
20	Amari Cooper (OAK)	at TEN	WR13	17	-3
21	Mike Evans (TB)	vs. LA	WR14	16	-5
22	Brandin Cooks (NO)	vs. ATL	WR15	7	-15
23	Travis Benjamin (SD)	at IND	WR16	32	+9
24	T.Y. Hilton (IND)	vs. SD	WR17	35	+11
25	Sterling Shepard (NYG)	vs. WAS	WR18	48	+23
26	Allen Robinson (JAC)	vs. BAL	WR19	8	-18
27	A.J. Green (CIN)	vs. DEN	WR20	22	-5
28	Eric Decker (NYJ)	at KC	WR21	27	-1
29	Tajae Sharpe (TEN)	vs. OAK	WR22	56	+27
30	Delanie Walker (TEN)	vs. OAK	TE1	29	-1
31	LeSean McCoy (BUF)	vs. ARI	RB8	36	+5
32	Jordan Matthews (PHI)	vs. PIT	WR23	28	-4
33	Julian Edelman (NE)	vs. HOU	WR24	47	+14
34	Jeremy Maclin (KC)	vs. NYJ	WR25	37	+3
35	DeVante Parker (MIA)	vs. CLE	WR26	79	+44
36	Spencer Ware (KC)	vs. NYJ	RB9	49	+13
37	Greg Olsen (CAR)	vs. MIN	TE2	39	+2
38	Alshon Jeffery (CHI)	at DAL	WR27	11	-27
39	Mark Ingram (NO)	vs. ATL	RB10	24	-15
40	Ezekiel Elliott (DAL)	vs. CHI	RB11	10	-30
41	Latavius Murray (OAK)	at TEN	RB12	44	+3
42	Jordan Reed (WAS)	at NYG	TE3	26	-16
43	Quincy Enunwa (NYJ)	at KC	WR28	94	+51
44	Mohamed Sanu (ATL)	at NO	WR29	80	+36
45	Jordy Nelson (GB)	vs. DET	WR30	23	-22
46	Frank Gore (IND)	vs. SD	RB13	62	+16
47	Doug Baldwin (SEA)	vs. SF	WR31	42	-5
48	Brandon Marshall (NYJ)	at KC	WR32	25	-23
49	DeSean Jackson (WAS)	at NYG	WR33	58	+9
50	Demaryius Thomas (DEN)	at CIN	WR34	40	-10
51	Michael Floyd (ARI)	at BUF	WR35	54	+3
52	Dennis Pitta (BAL)	at JAC	TE4	63	+11
53	Michael Crabtree (OAK)	at TEN	WR36	46	-7
54	Todd Gurley (LA)	at TB	RB14	38	-16
55	Randall Cobb (GB)	vs. DET	WR37	43	-12
56	Eddie Lacy (GB)	vs. DET	RB15	45	-11
57	Cole Beasley (DAL)	vs. CHI	WR38	85	+28
58	Theo Riddick (DET)	at GB	RB16	41	-17
59	Golden Tate (DET)	at GB	WR39	61	+2
60	Julius Thomas (JAC)	vs. BAL	TE5	55	-5
61	Charles Sims (TB)	vs. LA	RB17	51	-10
62	Rob Gronkowski (NE)	vs. HOU	TE6	67	+5
63	Kenny Britt (LA)	at TB	WR40	124	+61
64	Phillip Dorsett (IND)	vs. SD	WR41	81	+17
65	Mike Wallace (BAL)	at JAC	WR42	66	+1
66	Christine Michael (SEA)	vs. SF	RB18	76	+10
67	Tyrell Williams (SD)	at IND	WR43	75	+8
68	Carlos Hyde (SF)	at SEA	RB19	83	+15
69	Emmanuel Sanders (DEN)	at CIN	WR44	71	+2
70	Fozzy Whittaker (CAR)	vs. MIN	RB20	88	+18
71	Sammy Watkins (BUF)	vs. ARI	WR45	72	+1
72	Eric Ebron (DET)	at GB	TE7	68	-4
73	Ryan Mathews (PHI)	vs. PIT	RB21	57	-16
74	Giovani Bernard (CIN)	vs. DEN	RB22	65	-9
75	Isaiah Crowell (CLE)	at MIA	RB23	70	-5
76	Darren Sproles (PHI)	vs. PIT	RB24	105	+29
77	Victor Cruz (NYG)	vs. WAS	WR46	91	+14
78	Eddie Royal (CHI)	at DAL	WR47	154	+76
79	Jerick McKinnon (MIN)	at CAR	RB25	73	-6
80	Jeremy Langford (CHI)	at DAL	RB26	64	-16
81	Justin Forsett (BAL)	at JAC	RB27	107	+26
82	Jamison Crowder (WAS)	at NYG	WR48	113	+31
83	Tavon Austin (LA)	at TB	WR49	110	+27
84	Travis Kelce (KC)	vs. NYJ	TE8	53	-31
85	Allen Hurns (JAC)	vs. BAL	WR50	74	-11
86	Tevin Coleman (ATL)	at NO	RB28	59	-27
87	Devonta Freeman (ATL)	at NO	RB29	34	-53
88	Shane Vereen (NYG)	vs. WAS	RB30	87	-1
89	Jeremy Hill (CIN)	vs. DEN	RB31	106	+17
90	Dwayne Allen (IND)	vs. SD	TE9	77	-13
91	Nelson Agholor (PHI)	vs. PIT	WR51	126	+35
92	Matt Asiata (MIN)	at CAR	RB32	102	+10
93	Jared Cook (GB)	vs. DET	TE10	129	+36
94	Clive Walford (OAK)	at TEN	TE11	111	+17
95	Corey Coleman (CLE)	at MIA	WR52	86	-9
96	Jeremy Kerley (SF)	at SEA	WR53	151	+55
97	Jacob Tamme (ATL)	at NO	TE12	89	-8
98	Martellus Bennett (NE)	vs. HOU	TE13	96	-2
99	James White (NE)	vs. HOU	RB33	93	-6
100	Tyler Lockett (SEA)	vs. SF	WR54	82	-18

Quarterbacks: Back on Track

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Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Philip Rivers should give the Colts a lot of problems.

Better than Usual

Aaron Rodgers, GB (vs. DET)

This is a big week for Rodgers and the Packers. In last week's loss to the Vikings, Rodgers completed 20 of 36 pass attempts for 213 yards with a touchdown and an interception. He scored a rushing TD for the second straight week, but that still wasn't enough to boost him into a top-10 finish at the position.

Luckily, the Packers host the Lions on Sunday. Detroit's defense has given up 623 passing yards and six TDs over the first two weeks and the second-most fantasy points to QBs during that time. This will be the easiest matchup of the season for Rodgers, so it's imperative he takes advantage to get the offense back on track.

Week 3 Projection: 260-270 passing yards, 2-3 touchdowns, 15 rushing yards

Matt Ryan, ATL (at NO)

The Falcons escaped Oakland with a victory last week and, once again, Ryan lit up the fantasy scoreboard. He threw for 396 yards, three touchdowns and one interception while completing 26 of his 34 pass attempts. That's the second game this season he's taken advantage of a good matchup, but unlike the opener against the Buccaneers, the Falcons actually came away with a win.

Ryan will get an extra day to prepare for the Saints on Monday Night Football, but I doubt he needs it. Even though they didn't give up an offensive touchdown to the Giants in Week 2, New Orleans still struggled against Eli Manning and company. Through two weeks, the Saints have allowed 687 yards and a touchdown to QBs. You couldn't ask for a more fantasy-friendly matchup on both sides, which means the fantasy points will come in bunches.

Week 3 Projection: 330-340 passing yards, 2-3 touchdowns, 1 interception

Concerns

Jameis Winston, TB (vs. LA)

After a strong start to the season against the Falcons, Winston and the Buccaneers knew their schedule got much tougher, and their first test in Arizona didn't turn out well at all. Winston completed just 27 of his 52 attempted passes for 243 yards with one TD and four interceptions.

For a young QB, that can be a confidence-killer, but he'll have to rebound quickly against the visiting Rams on Sunday. Los Angeles saw Blaine Gabbert and the 49ers in Week 1 and managed to slow down a beat-up Seahawks offense last week. While the competition hasn't been that strong, credit to the Rams for holding QBs to just 424 yards and one TD in the first two weeks. You might be better off avoiding Winston for at least another week.

Week 3 Projection: 235-245 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 2 interceptions

Sam Bradford, MIN (at CAR)

Bradford joined the Vikings on September 3 but was already in the starting lineup by Week 2. Amazingly, he played perhaps the best game of his career in a victory over the Packers to open up the team's new stadium on Sunday Night Football. He lit up Green Bay for 286 yards and two touchdowns, including one to wide receiver Stefon Diggs and another to tight end Kyle Rudolph.

I must curb that enthusiasm with a reminder that this week's matchup takes place in Carolina against the defending NFC champions. The Panthers held their first two opponents to just 421 passing yards and three touchdowns, but they also racked up four interceptions. Of course, that came against Trevor Siemian and Blaine Gabbert, so Bradford will represent a tougher test this week.

Even though Bradford was lights-out in his Vikings debut, you may want to see what he does in a tougher road matchup before you're playing him with confidence based on just one game.

Week 3 Projection: 245-255 passing yards, 1-2 touchdowns, 1 interception

Avoid

Andy Dalton, CIN (vs. DEN)

Dalton draws the unenviable tasks of taking on the Broncos and their great defense this week, and he does so after an appearance of #BadAndy in Week 2 against the Steelers. If you go strictly by his passing numbers, Dalton was fine with 366 yards and a touchdown. If you watched the game, you know how inaccurate he was, completing 31 of 54 passing attempts.

Even though the Steelers defense has improved, it's not on the level of the Broncos. Dalton and the Bengals will catch Denver without linebacker DeMarcus Ware after he broke his forearm last week. However, Denver has been able to hold QBs to just 391 yards (second-fewest) and two TDs with two interceptions. Dalton isn't a weekly starter anyway, so look elsewhere for your Week 3 QB.

Week 3 Projection: 230-240 passing yards, 1-2 touchdowns, 1 interception

Sleepers

Marcus Mariota, TEN (vs. OAK)

Mariota and the Titans sneaked by the Lions in Week 2, and while the matchup was favorable, Mariota didn't capitalize with strong fantasy numbers. He was able to hit TE Delanie Walker and WR Andre Johnson for TDs as part of a day that saw him throw for 238 yards and an interception on 25-of-33 passing.

Tennessee's offense is short on big-time talent in the receiving corps, but it should have enough to get after the shaky Raiders defense on Sunday. Oakland got torched by Drew Brees and Matt Ryan to open the season, giving up 819 yards and seven touchdowns. If you hung on to Mariota after last week or can scoop him off the waiver wire, you should consider playing him in the most attractive matchup for any fantasy QB.

Week 3 Projection: 260-270 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 15 rushing yards

#	Player (team)	Matchup	ECR™	vs. ECR
1	Drew Brees (NO)	vs. ATL	1	0
2	Cam Newton (CAR)	vs. MIN	4	+2
3	Andrew Luck (IND)	vs. SD	3	0
4	Matt Ryan (ATL)	at NO	5	+1
5	Philip Rivers (SD)	at IND	7	+2
6	Eli Manning (NYG)	vs. WAS	9	+3
7	Carson Palmer (ARI)	at BUF	8	+1
8	Derek Carr (OAK)	at TEN	13	+5
9	Ben Roethlisberger (PIT)	at PHI	6	-3
10	Aaron Rodgers (GB)	vs. DET	2	-8
11	Joe Flacco (BAL)	at JAC	16	+5
12	Matthew Stafford (DET)	at GB	10	-2
13	Marcus Mariota (TEN)	vs. OAK	15	+2
14	Ryan Tannehill (MIA)	vs. CLE	14	0
15	Blake Bortles (JAC)	vs. BAL	11	-4
16	Alex Smith (KC)	vs. NYJ	25	+9
17	Jameis Winston (TB)	vs. LA	19	+2
18	Brock Osweiler (HOU)	at NE	23	+5
19	Russell Wilson (SEA)	vs. SF	12	-7
20	Ryan Fitzpatrick (NYJ)	at KC	17	-3
21	Andy Dalton (CIN)	vs. DEN	22	+1
22	Dak Prescott (DAL)	vs. CHI	18	-4
23	Sam Bradford (MIN)	at CAR	28	+5
24	Jimmy Garoppolo (NE)	vs. HOU
25	Carson Wentz (PHI)	vs. PIT	24	-1
26	Trevor Siemian (DEN)	at CIN	29	+3
27	Kirk Cousins (WAS)	at NYG	20	-7
28	Brian Hoyer (CHI)	at DAL	26	-2
29	Tyrod Taylor (BUF)	vs. ARI	21	-8
30	Blaine Gabbert (SF)	at SEA	32	+2
31	Case Keenum (LA)	at TB	31	0
32	Cody Kessler (CLE)	at MIA	33	+1

2016 Fantasy Football Rankings powered by FantasyPros

Running Backs: Survival of the Healthiest

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Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

It's been a busy and productive season for Matt Forte.

Better than Usual

Melvin Gordon, SD (vs. JAC)

Losing Danny Woodhead and Keenan Allen to torn ACLs in back-to-back weeks was terribly unlucky for the Chargers. I'm one to look for the fantasy positive and found one in the performance of Gordon. Even though he scored twice in the opener, Gordon lost significant touches to Woodhead on the ground aside from the expected targets.

When Woodhead went down last week, the Chargers leaned on Gordon and he rewarded them with 102 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries. In what's hopefully a sign of things to come, Gordon also contributed three receptions for 18 yards. A small role in the passing game would be nice, although the team brought in Dexter McCluster to possibly take some of that role, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

Still, Gordon should be plenty busy on the ground this week against a Colts defense that has allowed 236 rushing yards and three touchdowns to RBs in their first two games (Lions, Broncos). Gordon has proved he can handle a bigger role, and he should get it once again Sunday.

Week 3 Projection: 19 carries, 85 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, 3 receptions, 18 receiving yards

Concerns

Note: With Arian Foster, Ameer Abdullah, Doug Martin, Adrian Peterson, Jonathan Stewart, Thomas Rawls, Jamaal Charles and Chris Ivory all dealing with various injuries, keeping an eye on the practice reports will be important this week. I'll be updating my rankings accordingly for each of those respective backfields throughout the week. It may give us a lot of ugly committees.

Todd Gurley, LA (at TB)

If you're a Gurley owner, you're probably tired of being concerned about his slow start. Well, it might not get a lot better in Tampa this weekend.

So far, Gurley has just 98 rushing yards on 36 attempts and two receptions for 14 yards on four targets. Against RBs, the Buccaneers have allowed just 143 rushing yards and a touchdown on 48 carries. Their weakness against RBs comes in the passing game, which includes 14 receptions for 230 yards. If Gurley had a bigger role as a receiver, this matchup might not be as much of a concern.

Week 3 Projection: 18 carries, 54 rushing yards, 3 receptions, 18 receiving yards, 40 percent chance of TD

Avoid

Matt Jones, WAS (at NYG)

Jones might end up being a frustrating player all season if QB Kirk Cousins continues to struggle, especially in the red zone. The Redskins couldn't hang with the Cowboys last week, and while Jones scored, he was limited to just 13 carries for 61 yards. Volume remains a concern for Jones on a pass-first team, but he'll get a tougher matchup test when he travels to MetLife Stadium on Sunday.

Through two games, the Giants have held RBs to just 127 yards and a touchdown on 40 carries. Washington's defense has struggled at times in each of those games, and if they fall behind to the Giants, Jones would likely give way to Chris Thompson, the team's designated hurry-up back. You cannot play Jones with much confidence in Week 3.

Week 3 Projection: 13 carries, 48 rushing yards, 1 reception, 7 receiving yards, 30 percent chance of TD

Sleepers

Darren Sproles, PHI (vs. PIT)

In Monday's victory over the Bears, Sproles led the Eagles RBs with 41 of 72 snaps, which was nearly double Ryan Mathews' 21 snaps. He wound up with 12 carries for 40 yards and two receptions for eight yards on his only two targets. He has seven targets over his first two games and has led the backfield in snaps both times. His production hasn't matched his playing time, but if the Eagles stick with him this week, it could pay off.

In their toughest matchup of the young season, the Eagles host the undefeated Steelers on Sunday. They've faced a pair of offensively-challenged teams in the Browns and Bears, so they'll need to see an uptick in their offensive production to hang with the explosive Steelers.

Sproles could provide that spark if the Eagles take advantage of a possible weakness in Pittsburgh's defense. Over the first two weeks, they've given up 15 receptions for 162 yards and a touchdown to RBs. Gio Bernard did most of the damage for the Bengals last week with nine receptions for 100 yards and a score on 11 targets.

Whether the Eagles make Sproles a bigger part of the game plan from the jump or are forced to feature him while playing from behind, it should be a good week to get him in your lineup.

Week 3 Projection: 8 carries, 25 yards, 4 receptions, 36 yards, 20 percent chance of TD

#	Player (team)	Matchup	ECR™	vs. ECR
1	DeAngelo Williams (PIT)	at PHI	2	+1
2	DeMarco Murray (TEN)	vs. OAK	8	+6
3	Matt Forte (NYJ)	at KC	6	+3
4	Melvin Gordon (SD)	at IND	5	+1
5	David Johnson (ARI)	at BUF	1	-4
6	C.J. Anderson (DEN)	at CIN	7	+1
7	Lamar Miller (HOU)	at NE	3	-4
8	LeSean McCoy (BUF)	vs. ARI	10	+2
9	Spencer Ware (KC)	vs. NYJ	16	+7
10	Mark Ingram (NO)	vs. ATL	9	-1
11	Ezekiel Elliott (DAL)	vs. CHI	4	-7
12	Latavius Murray (OAK)	at TEN	13	+1
13	Frank Gore (IND)	vs. SD	20	+7
14	Todd Gurley (LA)	at TB	12	-2
15	Eddie Lacy (GB)	vs. DET	15	0
16	Theo Riddick (DET)	at GB	14	-2
17	Charles Sims (TB)	vs. LA	17	0
18	Christine Michael (SEA)	vs. SF	26	+8
19	Carlos Hyde (SF)	at SEA	28	+9
20	Fozzy Whittaker (CAR)	vs. MIN	31	+11
21	Ryan Mathews (PHI)	vs. PIT	18	-3
22	Giovani Bernard (CIN)	vs. DEN	23	+1
23	Isaiah Crowell (CLE)	at MIA	24	+1
24	Darren Sproles (PHI)	vs. PIT	38	+14
25	Jerick McKinnon (MIN)	at CAR	25	0
26	Jeremy Langford (CHI)	at DAL	22	-4
27	Justin Forsett (BAL)	at JAC	37	+10
28	Tevin Coleman (ATL)	at NO	19	-9
29	Devonta Freeman (ATL)	at NO	11	-18
30	Shane Vereen (NYG)	vs. WAS	30	0
31	Jeremy Hill (CIN)	vs. DEN	36	+5
32	Matt Asiata (MIN)	at CAR	35	+3
33	James White (NE)	vs. HOU	33	0
34	LeGarrette Blount (NE)	vs. HOU	21	-13
35	Chris Thompson (WAS)	at NYG	43	+8
36	Chris Ivory (JAC)	vs. BAL	45	+9
37	Kenyan Drake (MIA)	vs. CLE	41	+4
38	Terrance West (BAL)	at JAC	44	+6
39	Jay Ajayi (MIA)	vs. CLE	39	0
40	Rashad Jennings (NYG)	vs. WAS	27	-13
41	Charcandrick West (KC)	vs. NYJ	50	+9
42	Matt Jones (WAS)	at NYG	34	-8
43	Duke Johnson (CLE)	at MIA	32	-11
44	Josh Ferguson (IND)	vs. SD	59	+15
45	Dwayne Washington (DET)	at GB	48	+3
46	Derrick Henry (TEN)	vs. OAK	42	-4
47	T.J. Yeldon (JAC)	vs. BAL	29	-18
48	Thomas Rawls (SEA)	vs. SF	40	-8
49	DeAndre Washington (OAK)	at TEN	52	+3
50	Doug Martin (TB)	vs. LA	47	-3
51	Cameron Artis-Payne (CAR)	vs. MIN	46	-5
52	Bilal Powell (NYJ)	at KC	51	-1
53	James Starks (GB)	vs. DET	62	+9
54	Dexter McCluster (SD)	at IND	68	+14
55	Jalen Richard (OAK)	at TEN	69	+14
56	Travaris Cadet (NO)	vs. ATL	61	+5
57	Jordan Howard (CHI)	at DAL	58	+1
58	Devontae Booker (DEN)	at CIN	60	+2
59	Shaun Draughn (SF)	at SEA	57	-2
60	Alfred Morris (DAL)	vs. CHI	55	-5
61	Benny Cunningham (LA)	at TB	66	+5
62	Andre Ellington (ARI)	at BUF	73	+11
63	Tim Hightower (NO)	vs. ATL	70	+7
64	Robert Turbin (IND)	vs. SD	78	+14
65	Chris Johnson (ARI)	at BUF	67	+2
66	Ka'Deem Carey (CHI)	at DAL	79	+13
67	Mike Gillislee (BUF)	vs. ARI	72	+5
68	Jacquizz Rodgers (TB)	vs. LA	74	+6
69	Wendell Smallwood (PHI)	vs. PIT	77	+8

TOP NEWS

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Wide Receivers: Your Best Friends

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Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Larry Fitzgerald should stay hot when the Cardinals visit the Bills.

Better than Usual

Tajae Sharpe, TEN (vs. OAK)

After a solid performance in his NFL debut, Sharpe took a step back last week despite a favorable matchup with the Lions. He wound up with just four receptions for 33 yards on seven targets and lost possible touchdowns to TE Delanie Walker and WR Andre Johnson. Still, he led all receivers by playing every snap.

Sharpe has a great chance to bounce back against the visiting Raiders in Week 3. Oakland's defense has been abysmal against WRs in the first two weeks against the Saints and Falcons. Through two games, they've allowed the most fantasy points to WRs thanks to 35 receptions, 564 yards and five touchdowns.

Both Sharpe and Walker could be in for big games, and there's definitely enough production to share for each player to be a strong fantasy producer.

Week 3 Projection: 7 receptions, 87 yards, 30 percent chance of TD

Concerns

Julian Edelman, NE (vs. HOU)

The Patriots were taking it to the Dolphins last week and Edelman was a huge factor thanks to his connection with QB Jimmy Garoppolo. The two connected for six of Edelman's seven receptions before Garoppolo was forced from the game with a shoulder injury toward the end of the first half. Edelman had just one reception the rest of the way and finished with seven catches for 76 yards on 11 targets.

Garoppolo's status is up in the air for Thursday's matchup with the Texans, although the team is pushing him to play, according to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald. If the Patriots turn to Jacoby Brissett, it's a step down for Edelman, who will already have a tough enough time in an unfavorable matchup with the Texans. They've limited WRs to 298 yards and one touchdown on 23 receptions.

I've projected Edelman's numbers with the hope that Garoppolo plays, but if he doesn't, Edelman would likely fall out of the top 30 fantasy WRs for Week 3.

Week 3 Projection: 7 receptions, 70 yards, 20 percent chance of TD

Avoid

None of note, although injuries to Brandon Marshall (knee) and Sammy Watkins (foot) should be monitored throughout the week. According to Daniel Popper of the New York Daily News, Marshall said he feels "stable" and "will work [his] tail off to get out there" Sunday.

Week 3 Projection: 5 receptions, 70 yards, 30 percent chance of TD

Watkins played through his foot injury last week and plans to do so again this week, although he continues to be limited in practice, according to Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com.

Week 3 Projection: 5 receptions, 58 yards, 20 percent chance of TD

Sleepers

DeVante Parker, MIA (vs. CLE)

Parker had to sit out the opener due to a hamstring injury that plagued him for months, but he made his season debut in a big way last week against the Patriots. While the Dolphins lost, Parker was part of a furious comeback that eventually fell short. He hauled in eight of 13 targets for 106 yards, which is only the second time he's hit the century mark in his career.

According to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald, Parker isn't all the way back from his hamstring issues, but said, "When I get there, it's going to be a whole different kind of ballgame." That confidence should excite fantasy owners, and Parker has a chance to follow up last week's performance with a nice matchup against the Browns in Week 3.

In games against the Ravens and Eagles, the Browns allowed a total of 23 receptions for 331 yards and four TDs on 44 targets. Given the Dolphins' backfield concerns with Arian Foster nursing a groin injury, they have even more reason to throw it, and that means more volume for Parker. He could be in line for another big game at home against the Browns.

Week 3 Projection: 6 receptions, 78 yards, 30 percent chance of TD

#	Player (team)	Matchup	ECR™	vs. ECR
1	Julio Jones (ATL)	at NO	2	+1
2	Odell Beckham Jr. (NYG)	vs. WAS	3	+1
3	Antonio Brown (PIT)	at PHI	1	-2
4	DeAndre Hopkins (HOU)	at NE	4	0
5	Dez Bryant (DAL)	vs. CHI	7	+2
6	Jarvis Landry (MIA)	vs. CLE	13	+7
7	Larry Fitzgerald (ARI)	at BUF	12	+5
8	Stefon Diggs (MIN)	at CAR	20	+12
9	Kelvin Benjamin (CAR)	vs. MIN	11	+2
10	Willie Snead (NO)	vs. ATL	19	+9
11	Will Fuller (HOU)	at NE	31	+20
12	Marvin Jones (DET)	at GB	22	+10
13	Amari Cooper (OAK)	at TEN	10	-3
14	Mike Evans (TB)	vs. LA	9	-5
15	Brandin Cooks (NO)	vs. ATL	5	-10
16	Travis Benjamin (SD)	at IND	21	+5
17	T.Y. Hilton (IND)	vs. SD	23	+6
18	Sterling Shepard (NYG)	vs. WAS	28	+10
19	Allen Robinson (JAC)	vs. BAL	6	-13
20	A.J. Green (CIN)	vs. DEN	14	-6
21	Eric Decker (NYJ)	at KC	17	-4
22	Tajae Sharpe (TEN)	vs. OAK	33	+11
23	Jordan Matthews (PHI)	vs. PIT	18	-5
24	Julian Edelman (NE)	vs. HOU	29	+5
25	Jeremy Maclin (KC)	vs. NYJ	24	-1
26	DeVante Parker (MIA)	vs. CLE	41	+15
27	Alshon Jeffery (CHI)	at DAL	8	-19
28	Quincy Enunwa (NYJ)	at KC	48	+20
29	Mohamed Sanu (ATL)	at NO	42	+13
30	Jordy Nelson (GB)	vs. DET	15	-15
31	Doug Baldwin (SEA)	vs. SF	26	-5
32	Brandon Marshall (NYJ)	at KC	16	-16
33	DeSean Jackson (WAS)	at NYG	34	+1
34	Demaryius Thomas (DEN)	at CIN	25	-9
35	Michael Floyd (ARI)	at BUF	32	-3
36	Michael Crabtree (OAK)	at TEN	30	-6
37	Randall Cobb (GB)	vs. DET	27	-10
38	Cole Beasley (DAL)	vs. CHI	46	+8
39	Golden Tate (DET)	at GB	35	-4
40	Kenny Britt (LA)	at TB	60	+20
41	Phillip Dorsett (IND)	vs. SD	43	+2
42	Mike Wallace (BAL)	at JAC	36	-6
43	Tyrell Williams (SD)	at IND	40	-3
44	Emmanuel Sanders (DEN)	at CIN	37	-7
45	Sammy Watkins (BUF)	vs. ARI	38	-7
46	Victor Cruz (NYG)	vs. WAS	47	+1
47	Eddie Royal (CHI)	at DAL	63	+16
48	Jamison Crowder (WAS)	at NYG	56	+8
49	Tavon Austin (LA)	at TB	54	+5
50	Allen Hurns (JAC)	vs. BAL	39	-11
51	Nelson Agholor (PHI)	vs. PIT	61	+10
52	Corey Coleman (CLE)	at MIA	45	-7
53	Jeremy Kerley (SF)	at SEA	67	+14
54	Tyler Lockett (SEA)	vs. SF	44	-10
55	Adam Thielen (MIN)	at CAR	71	+16
56	Eli Rogers (PIT)	at PHI	53	-3
57	Adam Humphries (TB)	vs. LA	73	+16
58	Michael Thomas (NO)	vs. ATL	51	-7
59	Steve Smith (BAL)	at JAC	49	-10
60	Pierre Garcon (WAS)	at NYG	66	+6
61	John Brown (ARI)	at BUF	52	-9
62	Rishard Matthews (TEN)	vs. OAK	70	+8
63	Jermaine Kearse (SEA)	vs. SF	77	+14
64	Chris Hogan (NE)	vs. HOU	55	-9
65	Anquan Boldin (DET)	at GB	62	-3
66	Brandon LaFell (CIN)	vs. DEN	82	+16
67	Davante Adams (GB)	vs. DET	58	-9
68	Danny Amendola (NE)	vs. HOU	76	+8
69	Torrey Smith (SF)	at SEA	69	0
70	Kevin White (CHI)	at DAL	59	-11
71	Tyler Boyd (CIN)	vs. DEN	75	+4
72	Vincent Jackson (TB)	vs. LA	57	-15
73	Robert Woods (BUF)	vs. ARI	84	+11
74	Seth Roberts (OAK)	at TEN	85	+11
75	Sammie Coates (PIT)	at PHI	74	-1
76	Chris Conley (KC)	vs. NYJ	86	+10
77	Ted Ginn (CAR)	vs. MIN	80	+3
78	Breshad Perriman (BAL)	at JAC	83	+5
79	Terrelle Pryor (CLE)	at MIA	68	-11
80	Dorial Green-Beckham (PHI)	vs. PIT	89	+9
81	Devin Funchess (CAR)	vs. MIN	78	-3
82	Josh Doctson (WAS)	at NYG	81	-1

Tight Ends: Searching for Answers

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Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

With the Raiders coming to town, Delanie Walker could be in for a huge day.

Better than Usual

Delanie Walker, TEN (at OAK)

Walker was Tennessee's most reliable receiver last year and still looks the part in 2016. Last week, he got the Lions for six receptions, 83 yards and a touchdown on six targets in a big road victory for the Titans.

Walker draws another favorable matchup in Week 3 when the Raiders come to Nashville. While they handled Coby Fleener in Week 1, Oakland had all sorts of trouble with Falcons TEs Jacob Tamme and Austin Hooper last week. In total, Atlanta's TEs lit up the Raiders for 180 yards and a TD on 10 catches. Those numbers should look attractive if you have Walker in your lineup this week, especially since he's still the top receiver for the Titans. He'll have a legit chance of being the top fantasy TE this week.

Week 3 Projection: 6 receptions, 70 yards, 30 percent chance of TD

Concerns

Rob Gronkowski, NE (vs. MIA)

Gronkowski's hamstring problem remains one of the biggest storylines in fantasy football. He's now missed two games, and playing on a short week doesn't do much to help his chances of making his season debut on Thursday. According to the Boston Globe's Everett Cook, Gronkowski said he feels "decent" and is "improving every day."

If Gronk is good to go, you should play him, even at less than 100 percent. Hopefully, it's a decision that doesn't come down to the wire.

Week 3 Projection (if active): 5 receptions, 52 yards, 40 percent chance of TD

Avoid

None of note.

Sleepers

Jared Cook, GB (vs. DET)

The preseason hype on Cook has cooled off after a slow start, but a closer look at the numbers shows you should still have hope, especially this weekend against the Lions.

In Week 1, Cook played 49 percent of the snaps and had just one reception for seven yards on two targets. Last week, his snaps jumped to 64 percent and he managed to catch four of six targets for 31 yards. Green Bay is still trying to get its offense on track and Cook could be an important part of that if it wants to exploit a weakness in the Lions defense.

The Lions have been the worst defense against TEs this season and it's not even close. They've given up 15 receptions for 179 yards and four TDs to the position in just two games against the Colts and Titans. The Lions could also be without a key part of their pass coverage in linebacker DeAndre Levy, although head coach Jim Caldwell wouldn't discuss Levy's quad injury, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

Cook's arrow is pointing up, so if you're stuck at TE, he's definitely worth a shot.

Week 3 Projection: 5 receptions, 45 yards, 20 percent chance of TD

#	Player (team)	Matchup	ECR™	vs. ECR
1	Delanie Walker (TEN)	vs. OAK	2	+1
2	Greg Olsen (CAR)	vs. MIN	3	+1
3	Jordan Reed (WAS)	at NYG	1	-2
4	Dennis Pitta (BAL)	at JAC	7	+3
5	Julius Thomas (JAC)	vs. BAL	6	+1
6	Rob Gronkowski (NE)	vs. HOU	8	+2
7	Eric Ebron (DET)	at GB	9	+2
8	Travis Kelce (KC)	vs. NYJ	5	-3
9	Dwayne Allen (IND)	vs. SD	11	+2
10	Jared Cook (GB)	vs. DET	20	+10
11	Clive Walford (OAK)	at TEN	18	+7
12	Jacob Tamme (ATL)	at NO	12	0
13	Martellus Bennett (NE)	vs. HOU	14	+1
14	Antonio Gates (SD)	at IND	4	-10
15	Trey Burton (PHI)	vs. PIT	22	+7
16	Jesse James (PIT)	at PHI	16	0
17	Kyle Rudolph (MIN)	at CAR	15	-2
18	Jimmy Graham (SEA)	vs. SF	21	+3
19	Charles Clay (BUF)	vs. ARI	26	+7
20	Zach Miller (CHI)	at DAL	24	+4
21	Jordan Cameron (MIA)	vs. CLE	23	+2
22	Virgil Green (DEN)	at CIN	25	+3
23	Coby Fleener (NO)	vs. ATL	13	-10
24	Vance McDonald (SF)	at SEA	19	-5
25	Jack Doyle (IND)	vs. SD	29	+4
26	Jason Witten (DAL)	vs. CHI	10	-16
27	C.J. Uzomah (CIN)	vs. DEN	35	+8
28	Larry Donnell (NYG)	vs. WAS	28	0
29	Gary Barnidge (CLE)	at MIA	17	-12
30	Austin Seferian-Jenkins (TB)	vs. LA	33	+3
31	Jermaine Gresham (ARI)	at BUF	38	+7
32	Brent Celek (PHI)	vs. PIT	27	-5

Defenses: Match It Up

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Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Fire up the Dolphins defense against Cody Kessler and the Browns.

Best Options Based on Matchups

Houston Texans (at NE)

The Texans already have one of the league's best defenses, so they’re a weekly fantasy starter, but they might be the best option this week in New England.

With a short week to prepare due to the Thursday game, the Patriots could be without Jimmy Garoppolo (shoulder) and Rob Gronkowski (hamstring), meaning they’d turn to Jacoby Brissett to start. It’s asking a lot of a rookie to take on a pass rush led by J.J. Watt, especially behind New England’s shaky offensive line.

Week 3 Projection: 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 13-16 points allowed

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (vs. LA)

Using the Buccaneers this week is all about the matchup against the Rams.

The Rams haven’t scored a touchdown this season and their quarterback, Case Keenum, has just 369 yards and two interceptions in the first two games. Star RB Todd Gurley has been bottled up for just 98 yards on 36 carries. As a team, the Rams have allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing defenses.

Week 3 Projection: 3 sacks, 1 interception, 10-13 points allowed

#	Player (team)	Matchup	ECR™	vs. ECR
1	Houston Texans (HOU)	at NE	4	+3
2	Seattle Seahawks (SEA)	vs. SF	1	-1
3	Arizona Cardinals (ARI)	at BUF	5	+2
4	Carolina Panthers (CAR)	vs. MIN	2	-2
5	Denver Broncos (DEN)	at CIN	3	-2
6	Miami Dolphins (MIA)	vs. CLE	6	0
7	Cincinnati Bengals (CIN)	vs. DEN	7	0
8	New York Giants (NYG)	vs. WAS	14	+6
9	Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB)	vs. LA	16	+7
10	Pittsburgh Steelers (PIT)	at PHI	9	-1
11	Kansas City Chiefs (KC)	vs. NYJ	10	-1
12	Los Angeles Rams (LA)	at TB	13	+1
13	San Francisco 49ers (SF)	at SEA	25	+12
14	Dallas Cowboys (DAL)	vs. CHI	20	+6
15	New York Jets (NYJ)	at KC	12	-3
16	Green Bay Packers (GB)	vs. DET	11	-5
17	New England Patriots (NE)	vs. HOU	8	-9
18	Baltimore Ravens (BAL)	at JAC	15	-3
19	Minnesota Vikings (MIN)	at CAR	17	-2
20	Jacksonville Jaguars (JAC)	vs. BAL	19	-1

Kickers: Opportunity Matters

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Thomas B. Shea/Getty Images

Nick Novak has been busy this season.

Best Options Widely Available on the Waiver Wire

Nick Novak, HOU (at NE)

Novak is a perfect example of why you shouldn’t worry about kickers until you absolutely have to pick one up. Through two weeks, he’s made more field goals than anyone (seven), yet you can probably find him on your waiver wire right now. Last week, he hit four of five field-goal attempts and an extra point against the Chiefs.

The Texans should be able to control their matchup against the Patriots on Thursday night, as they have both the superior offense and defense. That should translate into plenty of opportunities for Novak to remain one of the best fantasy kickers early in the season.

#	Player (team)	Matchup	ECR™	vs. ECR
1	Dan Bailey (DAL)	vs. CHI	2	+1
2	Nick Novak (HOU)	at NE	20	+18
3	Chandler Catanzaro (ARI)	at BUF	3	0
4	Adam Vinatieri (IND)	vs. SD	1	-3
5	Justin Tucker (BAL)	at JAC	5	0
6	Nick Folk (NYJ)	at KC	21	+15
7	Mason Crosby (GB)	vs. DET	6	-1
8	Stephen Gostkowski (NE)	vs. HOU	4	-4
9	Matt Bryant (ATL)	at NO	7	-2
10	Will Lutz (NO)	vs. ATL	13	+3
11	Steven Hauschka (SEA)	vs. SF	8	-3
12	Graham Gano (CAR)	vs. MIN	9	-3
13	Josh Brown (NYG)	vs. WAS	11	-2
14	Josh Lambo (SD)	at IND	12	-2
15	Brandon McManus (DEN)	at CIN	14	-1
16	Cairo Santos (KC)	vs. NYJ	15	-1
17	Sebastian Janikowski (OAK)	at TEN	16	-1
18	Ryan Succop (TEN)	vs. OAK	25	+7
19	Blair Walsh (MIN)	at CAR	17	-2
20	Matt Prater (DET)	at GB	18	-2