Fantasy Football Week 7: Matt Camp's Week 7 Big Board
Last week was a great reminder that for all the logic you put into setting your fantasy football lineups, sometimes things just don’t work out how you planned in the wacky world of the NFL.
Expecting big performances from Steelers like Ben Roethlisberger, Antonio Brown and Le’Veon Bell against the Dolphins was justified in Week 6. That plan went out the window when Roethlisberger hurt his knee and tried to play through it with little success. Now, Pittsburgh has to host the Patriots in Week 7 with Landry Jones under center. Your feeling of excitement for the Steelers on your fantasy roster is now a feeling of fear.
Then, we had the Chiefs take on the Raiders, a team that entered Week 6 with the worst pass defense in the league. Did the Chiefs dial up their passing attack to expose the weakness? Nope. Instead, Alex Smith threw a season-low 22 passes, while Spencer Ware and Jamaal Charles combined for 33 rushing attempts, 164 yards and a pair of touchdowns.
It’s easy to throw your hands up in bewilderment when that happens, but you can’t let it keep you down for long. Put that ugly week behind you and focus on how to set yourself up for victory in Week 7. I’ll try to help in this article.
As a reminder, this is the first look at my points-per-reception (PPR) rankings for Week 7. 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.
Also, don’t forget that the Rams take on the Giants in London on Sunday morning, so be sure to take care of any lineup decisions featuring players from those teams before that early kickoff. Will Odell Beckham hug a soccer net? We can only hope.
Top 100
1 of 7
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 (vs. San Diego Chargers)
- Cincinnati Bengals (vs. Cleveland Browns)
- Washington Redskins (at Detroit Lions)
- San Diego Chargers (at Atlanta Falcons)
- Kansas City Chiefs (vs. New Orleans Saints)
Week 7 Top 100 PPR Rankings
| 1 | Julio Jones (ATL) | vs. SD | WR1 | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Odell Beckham Jr. (NYG) | at LA | WR2 | 4 | +2 |
| 3 | DeMarco Murray (TEN) | vs. IND | RB1 | 5 | +2 |
| 4 | Mike Evans (TB) | at SF | WR3 | 6 | +2 |
| 5 | Le'Veon Bell (PIT) | vs. NE | RB2 | 8 | +3 |
| 6 | A.J. Green (CIN) | vs. CLE | WR4 | 2 | -4 |
| 7 | T.Y. Hilton (IND) | at TEN | WR5 | 14 | +7 |
| 8 | LeSean McCoy (BUF) | at MIA | RB3 | 7 | -1 |
| 9 | Amari Cooper (OAK) | at JAC | WR6 | 15 | +6 |
| 10 | David Johnson (ARI) | vs. SEA | RB4 | 3 | -7 |
| 11 | Brandon Marshall (NYJ) | vs. BAL | WR7 | 11 | 0 |
| 12 | Antonio Brown (PIT) | vs. NE | WR8 | 16 | +4 |
| 13 | Devonta Freeman (ATL) | vs. SD | RB5 | 12 | -1 |
| 14 | Cameron Meredith (CHI) | at GB | WR9 | 20 | +6 |
| 15 | Melvin Gordon (SD) | at ATL | RB6 | 17 | +2 |
| 16 | Jordy Nelson (GB) | vs. CHI | WR10 | 13 | -3 |
| 17 | Lamar Miller (HOU) | at DEN | RB7 | 33 | +16 |
| 18 | Brandin Cooks (NO) | at KC | WR11 | 19 | +1 |
| 19 | Rob Gronkowski (NE) | at PIT | TE1 | 10 | -9 |
| 20 | Christine Michael (SEA) | at ARI | RB8 | 21 | +1 |
| 21 | Jeremy Maclin (KC) | vs. NO | WR12 | 23 | +2 |
| 22 | Todd Gurley (LA) | vs. NYG | RB9 | 25 | +3 |
| 23 | Alshon Jeffery (CHI) | at GB | WR13 | 22 | -1 |
| 24 | Marvin Jones (DET) | vs. WAS | WR14 | 18 | -6 |
| 25 | Allen Robinson (JAC) | vs. OAK | WR15 | 9 | -16 |
| 26 | Michael Crabtree (OAK) | at JAC | WR16 | 30 | +4 |
| 27 | Spencer Ware (KC) | vs. NO | RB10 | 27 | 0 |
| 28 | Jarvis Landry (MIA) | vs. BUF | WR17 | 26 | -2 |
| 29 | Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) | vs. SEA | WR18 | 24 | -5 |
| 30 | Hunter Henry (SD) | at ATL | TE2 | 49 | +19 |
| 31 | Randall Cobb (GB) | vs. CHI | WR19 | 39 | +8 |
| 32 | Demaryius Thomas (DEN) | vs. HOU | WR20 | 28 | -4 |
| 33 | Golden Tate (DET) | vs. WAS | WR21 | 45 | +12 |
| 34 | Terrelle Pryor (CLE) | at CIN | WR22 | 34 | 0 |
| 35 | Julian Edelman (NE) | at PIT | WR23 | 35 | 0 |
| 36 | Tevin Coleman (ATL) | vs. SD | RB11 | 43 | +7 |
| 37 | C.J. Anderson (DEN) | vs. HOU | RB12 | 40 | +3 |
| 38 | Emmanuel Sanders (DEN) | vs. HOU | WR24 | 37 | -1 |
| 39 | Travis Kelce (KC) | vs. NO | TE3 | 29 | -10 |
| 40 | DeAndre Hopkins (HOU) | at DEN | WR25 | 41 | +1 |
| 41 | Doug Baldwin (SEA) | at ARI | WR26 | 38 | -3 |
| 42 | Jordan Howard (CHI) | at GB | RB13 | 44 | +2 |
| 43 | Jimmy Graham (SEA) | at ARI | TE4 | 42 | -1 |
| 44 | Ty Montgomery (GB) | vs. CHI | WR27 | 99 | +55 |
| 45 | Travis Benjamin (SD) | at ATL | WR28 | 52 | +7 |
| 46 | Giovani Bernard (CIN) | vs. CLE | RB14 | 50 | +4 |
| 47 | Jamaal Charles (KC) | vs. NO | RB15 | 46 | -1 |
| 48 | Mike Wallace (BAL) | at NYJ | WR29 | 58 | +10 |
| 49 | Delanie Walker (TEN) | vs. IND | TE5 | 36 | -13 |
| 50 | DeSean Jackson (WAS) | at DET | WR30 | 47 | -3 |
| 51 | James White (NE) | at PIT | RB16 | 48 | -3 |
| 52 | Michael Thomas (NO) | at KC | WR31 | 56 | +4 |
| 53 | Mark Ingram (NO) | at KC | RB17 | 31 | -22 |
| 54 | Stefon Diggs (MIN) | at PHI | WR32 | 75 | +21 |
| 55 | Martellus Bennett (NE) | at PIT | TE6 | 55 | 0 |
| 56 | Matt Jones (WAS) | at DET | RB18 | 63 | +7 |
| 57 | Frank Gore (IND) | at TEN | RB19 | 59 | +2 |
| 58 | Kenny Britt (LA) | vs. NYG | WR33 | 67 | +9 |
| 59 | Cameron Brate (TB) | at SF | TE7 | 103 | +44 |
| 60 | Duke Johnson (CLE) | at CIN | RB20 | 91 | +31 |
| 61 | Willie Snead (NO) | at KC | WR34 | 53 | -8 |
| 62 | Allen Hurns (JAC) | vs. OAK | WR35 | 64 | +2 |
| 63 | Robert Woods (BUF) | at MIA | WR36 | 72 | +9 |
| 64 | LeGarrette Blount (NE) | at PIT | RB21 | 69 | +5 |
| 65 | Terrance West (BAL) | at NYJ | RB22 | 61 | -4 |
| 66 | Tyrell Williams (SD) | at ATL | WR37 | 65 | -1 |
| 67 | Jay Ajayi (MIA) | vs. BUF | RB23 | 70 | +3 |
| 68 | Zach Miller (CHI) | at GB | TE8 | 54 | -14 |
| 69 | Jamison Crowder (WAS) | at DET | WR38 | 73 | +4 |
| 70 | Coby Fleener (NO) | at KC | TE9 | 57 | -13 |
| 71 | Jerick McKinnon (MIN) | at PHI | RB24 | 60 | -11 |
| 72 | Sterling Shepard (NYG) | at LA | WR39 | 68 | -4 |
| 73 | Doug Martin (TB) | at SF | RB25 | 71 | -2 |
| 74 | John Brown (ARI) | vs. SEA | WR40 | 66 | -8 |
| 75 | Jacquizz Rodgers (TB) | at SF | RB26 | 90 | +15 |
| 76 | Theo Riddick (DET) | vs. WAS | RB27 | 85 | +9 |
| 77 | Gary Barnidge (CLE) | at CIN | TE10 | 79 | +2 |
| 78 | Mohamed Sanu (ATL) | vs. SD | WR41 | 84 | +6 |
| 79 | Darren Sproles (PHI) | vs. MIN | RB28 | 82 | +3 |
| 80 | Jordan Matthews (PHI) | vs. MIN | WR42 | 51 | -29 |
| 81 | Chris Hogan (NE) | at PIT | WR43 | 81 | 0 |
| 82 | Kyle Rudolph (MIN) | at PHI | TE11 | 62 | -20 |
| 83 | DeVante Parker (MIA) | vs. BUF | WR44 | 83 | 0 |
| 84 | Charles Clay (BUF) | at MIA | TE12 | 92 | +8 |
| 85 | Will Fuller (HOU) | at DEN | WR45 | 89 | +4 |
| 86 | Kendall Wright (TEN) | vs. IND | WR46 | 100 | +14 |
| 87 | Isaiah Crowell (CLE) | at CIN | RB29 | 87 | 0 |
| 88 | Bilal Powell (NYJ) | vs. BAL | RB30 | 107 | +19 |
| 89 | Tavon Austin (LA) | vs. NYG | WR47 | 93 | +4 |
| 90 | Matt Forte (NYJ) | vs. BAL | RB31 | 74 | -16 |
| 91 | Julius Thomas (JAC) | vs. OAK | TE13 | 77 | -14 |
| 92 | Jeremy Hill (CIN) | vs. CLE | RB32 | 78 | -14 |
| 93 | Quincy Enunwa (NYJ) | vs. BAL | WR48 | 76 | -17 |
| 94 | Anquan Boldin (DET) | vs. WAS | WR49 | 102 | +8 |
| 95 | Pierre Garcon (WAS) | at DET | WR50 | 118 | +23 |
| 96 | Jack Doyle (IND) | at TEN | TE14 | 95 | -1 |
| 97 | Ryan Mathews (PHI) | vs. MIN | RB33 | 108 | +11 |
| 98 | Sammie Coates (PIT) | vs. NE | WR51 | 101 | +3 |
| 99 | Dennis Pitta (BAL) | at NYJ | TE15 | 80 | -19 |
| 100 | Cordarrelle Patterson (MIN) | at PHI | WR52 | 166 | +66 |
Quarterbacks
2 of 7
Better than Usual
Andy Dalton, CIN (vs. CLE)
Dalton has quietly been a top-10 fantasy quarterback this season, although last week’s performance against the Patriots didn’t do a lot to boost his standing. Dalton completed 21 of his 31 attempts for 254 yards and a touchdown. He has just one game with multiple passing TDs and two games with at least 300 yards.
Despite not having a consistent secondary option behind A.J. Green, Dalton is getting by as a low-end starting option. He should be better than that this week against the Browns. Cleveland’s given up three TDs in each of their last four games and at least 300 yards in three of their six games. Last week, Marcus Mariota got them for 284 yards, three TDs and 64 rushing yards.
If you’ve been waiting for a week to use Dalton with confidence, this is it.
Week 7 Projection: 285 yards, 2 touchdowns
Concerns
Russell Wilson, SEA (at ARI)
With a week to heal his leg injuries, Wilson came back from the bye with a nice matchup against the Falcons. Unfortunately, he underwhelmed for fantasy with just 270 yards through the air and seven rushing yards. He didn’t throw or run in a TD. Wilson has just 35 rushing yards all season, a number he rushed for in seven games last year.
The Cardinals haven’t faced any top-10 QBs this year, and the only one in the top-15 they've faced was Tyrod Taylor, who threw for just 119 yards but ran for 76 and a TD in a victory. Arizona is giving up an average of about 210 yards this season. Wilson isn’t a top-20 QB coming into this week and likely won’t be one when it’s done.
Week 7 Projection: 250 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 11 rushing yards
Carson Palmer, ARI (vs. SEA)
The days of using Palmer as a weekly starter are over. The Cardinals had no problem taking care of the Jets in Week 6, yet Palmer threw for only 213 yards and a TD on 23-of-34 passing. David Johnson carried the offense with 22 rushes for 111 yards and three TDs. Because Johnson is so good, the Cardinals can run their offense through him and pull back on how much Palmer throws it.
Seattle's defense has 16 sacks and just 78 points allowed on the season. They’ve been a top-three defense against fantasy QBs, which only spells trouble for Palmer. They gave up 335 yards and three TDs to Matt Ryan last week, but before that they allowed just one TD in four previous games. Palmer isn’t playing anywhere near Ryan’s level, so this is still a matchup to worry about Sunday night.
Week 7 Projection: 255 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 2 interceptions
Avoid
Carson Wentz, PHI (vs. MIN)
Wentz’s fantasy numbers have dropped off following the team’s Week 4 bye, although he hasn’t played badly. Philadelphia’s defense couldn’t get off the field last week, so Wentz was limited to just 22 attempts, of which he completed 11 for just 179 yards without a TD or interception. In the week prior at Detroit, Wentz went 25-of-33 for 238 yards with a pair of scores and one interception.
Numbers and matchups don’t matter when you’re facing the Vikings because they may be the best defense in the league. QBs average less than 240 yards per game against Minnesota, and they’ve given up just four TDs all season. They will likely add to their total of 19 sacks on the season if they attack Eagles right tackle Halapoulivaati Vaitai, who was a big reason Wentz was sacked five times last week.
The rookie will join a list that includes Aaron Rodgers, Cam Newton and Eli Manning as those who’ve been victimized by the Vikings in 2016.
Week 7 Projection: 235 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception
Sleepers
Alex Smith, KC (vs. NO)
I’m tempting fate by going back to Smith as a streamer and a sleeper this week. As I discussed in the intro, Smith threw just 22 passes last week, but he completed 19 of them for 224 yards without a TD or interception. Smith played well, but it meant nothing for fantasy thanks to the lack of volume and TDs.
So why will I go back to him against another bad defense? The Raiders never got out of the gate last week and so the Chiefs didn’t have to ramp up their passing attack. I expect the Saints to have more success with their offense, and that should push Smith to go after their vulnerable defense. Four of five QBs threw for at least 319 yards against the Saints, and the last three each had two TDs apiece.
I find it too hard to pass up using any QB against the Saints defense, and I expect Smith to be busier than he was last week.
Week 7 Projection: 270 yards, 2 touchdowns
Marcus Mariota, TEN (vs. IND)
With 124 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries in the last two weeks, Mariota has tapped back into the rushing ability that made him so dangerous in the past. It’s also boosted his fantasy value up, and that’s great timing with an AFC South showdown against the Colts coming this weekend.
In the first six weeks, the Colts gave up the ninth-most fantasy points to QBs by allowing an average of over 300 yards and more than a TD per game. They blew a lead to Brock Osweiler and the Texans last week, giving up 269 yards and a pair of TDs to one of the worst-performing QBs of the 2016 season. With Mariota riding high and this matchup clearly in his favor, he’s a strong fantasy option yet again.
Week 7 Projection: 265 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 45 rushing yards
Week 7 Quarterback Rankings
| 1 | Tom Brady (NE) | at PIT | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Matt Ryan (ATL) | vs. SD | 2 | 0 |
| 3 | Matthew Stafford (DET) | vs. WAS | 4 | +1 |
| 4 | Drew Brees (NO) | at KC | 5 | +1 |
| 5 | Philip Rivers (SD) | at ATL | 3 | -2 |
| 6 | Derek Carr (OAK) | at JAC | 10 | +4 |
| 7 | Andrew Luck (IND) | at TEN | 6 | -1 |
| 8 | Marcus Mariota (TEN) | vs. IND | 8 | 0 |
| 9 | Kirk Cousins (WAS) | at DET | 11 | +2 |
| 10 | Andy Dalton (CIN) | vs. CLE | 9 | -1 |
| 11 | Aaron Rodgers (GB) | vs. CHI | 7 | -4 |
| 12 | Alex Smith (KC) | vs. NO | 15 | +3 |
| 13 | Brian Hoyer (CHI) | at GB | 18 | +5 |
| 14 | Jameis Winston (TB) | at SF | 14 | 0 |
| 15 | Russell Wilson (SEA) | at ARI | 13 | -2 |
| 16 | Blake Bortles (JAC) | vs. OAK | 12 | -4 |
| 17 | Joe Flacco (BAL) | at NYJ | 20 | +3 |
| 18 | Eli Manning (NYG) | at LA | 16 | -2 |
| 19 | Tyrod Taylor (BUF) | at MIA | 17 | -2 |
| 20 | Carson Palmer (ARI) | vs. SEA | 19 | -1 |
| 21 | Case Keenum (LA) | vs. NYG | 28 | +7 |
| 22 | Sam Bradford (MIN) | at PHI | 22 | 0 |
| 23 | Colin Kaepernick (SF) | vs. TB | 21 | -2 |
| 24 | Ryan Tannehill (MIA) | vs. BUF | 24 | 0 |
| 25 | Carson Wentz (PHI) | vs. MIN | 23 | -2 |
| 26 | Cody Kessler (CLE) | at CIN | 27 | +1 |
| 27 | Trevor Siemian (DEN) | vs. HOU | 25 | -2 |
| 28 | Landry Jones (PIT) | vs. NE | 30 | +2 |
| 29 | Brock Osweiler (HOU) | at DEN | 29 | 0 |
| 30 | Ryan Fitzpatrick (NYJ) | vs. BAL | 26 | -4 |
| 31 | Geno Smith (NYJ) | vs. BAL | 31 | 0 |
Running Backs
3 of 7
Better than Usual
Giovani Bernard, CIN (vs. CLE)
If you want to pick a Bengals back who can take advantage of this week’s matchup with the Browns, you should be looking at Bernard. He’s out-snapped Jeremy Hill in the last two games and four of six times this season. While neither player is averaging even 3.7 yards per carry, Bernard makes up for it with 29 receptions for 256 yards compared to just four receptions for 40 yards for Hill.
You want Bernard in your lineup this weekend because the Browns allowed the 11th-most fantasy points to RBs in the first six games. There seems to be more trust in Bernard right now, and with an active role as a runner and a receiver, he’s the Bengals RB of choice for fantasy.
Week 7 Projection: 15 carries, 55 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, 5 receptions, 44 receiving yards
Concerns
Jordan Howard, CHI (at GB)
Howard’s hot streak was cooled off by the Jaguars…and Ka’Deem Carey? Howard was held to 34 yards and a TD on 15 carries and added just two receptions for six yards on four targets while playing 69 percent of the snaps. Carey didn’t have a reception, but he turned his nine carries into 50 yards on 31 percent of the snaps.
To be fair, that’s a normal division of snaps, but Howard spoiled us at over 90 percent in the previous two games. The carries were closer than you want to see, and if that stays the same in Week 7, it could be another rough one for Howard.
Ezekiel Elliott gashed the Packers for 157 yards on 28 carries last week, but for the season, they’ve held RBs to an average of three yards per carry. Howard is good, but he’s not at the level of Elliott, so he’ll have a tough matchup on his hands in Green Bay on Thursday night.
Week 7 Projection: 15 carries, 50 rushing yards, 3 receptions, 20 receiving yards
Avoid
Matt Forte, NYJ (vs. BAL)
The Jets are a complete mess and Forte isn’t helping the cause. He ran for just 19 yards on nine carries last week and now has 360 yards on 102 carries (3.5 yards per carry) on the season. His only three touchdowns came in Week 2, and he’s chipped in just 14 receptions for 93 yards on 22 targets. Bilal Powell is averaging six yards per carry and has 24 receptions for 156 yards on 33 targets.
Powell out-snapped Forte in two of the last three games, including 73-38 percent in Week 6. With Forte going in the wrong direction, you’re better off staying away from him with the Ravens on the schedule this week. Baltimore held RBs to just 3.6 yards per carry in the first six weeks. Forte needs volume to have fantasy value and he’s not getting it.
Week 7 Projection: 11 carries, 40 rushing yards, 2 receptions, 12 receiving yards
Ryan Mathews, PHI (vs. MIN)
The Eagles have turned their backfield into an ugly committee, and that’s bad news for Mathews. He ran well last week, going for 60 yards on nine carries, but that’s all he accounted for while playing just 21 percent of the snaps. Wendell Smallwood carried four times for six yards and had a catch for 14 yards with 19 percent, and Kenjon Barner ran twice for six yards on 15 percent.
The only Eagle RB to consider using is Darren Sproles based on his snaps and consistent role in the offense both as a runner and a receiver. He had 44 percent of the snaps in Week 6 and has played 59 more snaps than Mathews in 2016.
The Vikings have one of the best defenses in the league and have held RBs to just 3.5 yards per carry on the year. With so many players involved and a rough matchup, you can’t trust Mathews.
Week 7 Projection: 11 carries, 39 rushing yards
Sleepers
Duke Johnson, CLE (at CIN)
The Browns have yet to win a game, which means they play from behind a lot, and that’s caught up to Isaiah Crowell after such a hot start. In the first four games, he ran 61 times for 394 yards (6.5 yards per carry) with three touchdowns. In the last two games, he has 22 carries for 38 yards (1.7 YPC) and hasn’t scored.
Johnson hasn’t been busy on the ground, but with 167 yards and a TD on 32 carries (5.2 YPC), he’s been productive when called on to run, which is all that matters. He remains a consistent part of the passing game with 24 receptions on 34 targets for 192 yards. By comparison, Crowell has nine receptions for 91 yards on 13 targets.
This season, Cincinnati has allowed RBs to average more than five receptions and almost 47 receiving yards per game and the 10th-most fantasy points. Last week, they allowed James White to catch eight passes for 47 yards and two TDs. They’ve also given up 4.4 yards per carry on the year.
Because the Browns are underdogs once again, you’re better off favoring Johnson over Crowell against the Bengals. Consider Johnson your upside option out of this backfield.
Week 7 Projection: 6 carries, 27 rushing yards, 5 receptions, 40 receiving yards
Week 7 Running Back PPR Rankings
| 1 | DeMarco Murray (TEN) | vs. IND | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Le'Veon Bell (PIT) | vs. NE | 3 | +1 |
| 3 | LeSean McCoy (BUF) | at MIA | 2 | -1 |
| 4 | David Johnson (ARI) | vs. SEA | 4 | 0 |
| 5 | Devonta Freeman (ATL) | vs. SD | 5 | 0 |
| 6 | Melvin Gordon (SD) | at ATL | 6 | 0 |
| 7 | Lamar Miller (HOU) | at DEN | 12 | +5 |
| 8 | Christine Michael (SEA) | at ARI | 8 | 0 |
| 9 | Todd Gurley (LA) | vs. NYG | 7 | -2 |
| 10 | Spencer Ware (KC) | vs. NO | 9 | -1 |
| 11 | Tevin Coleman (ATL) | vs. SD | 15 | +4 |
| 12 | C.J. Anderson (DEN) | vs. HOU | 13 | +1 |
| 13 | Jordan Howard (CHI) | at GB | 14 | +1 |
| 14 | Giovani Bernard (CIN) | vs. CLE | 18 | +4 |
| 15 | Jamaal Charles (KC) | vs. NO | 16 | +1 |
| 16 | James White (NE) | at PIT | 17 | +1 |
| 17 | Mark Ingram (NO) | at KC | 11 | -6 |
| 18 | Matt Jones (WAS) | at DET | 21 | +3 |
| 19 | Frank Gore (IND) | at TEN | 19 | 0 |
| 20 | Duke Johnson (CLE) | at CIN | 32 | +12 |
| 21 | LeGarrette Blount (NE) | at PIT | 25 | +4 |
| 22 | Terrance West (BAL) | at NYJ | 22 | 0 |
| 23 | Jay Ajayi (MIA) | vs. BUF | 24 | +1 |
| 24 | Jerick McKinnon (MIN) | at PHI | 20 | -4 |
| 25 | Doug Martin (TB) | at SF | 23 | -2 |
| 26 | Jacquizz Rodgers (TB) | at SF | 31 | +5 |
| 27 | Theo Riddick (DET) | vs. WAS | 28 | +1 |
| 28 | Darren Sproles (PHI) | vs. MIN | 29 | +1 |
| 29 | Isaiah Crowell (CLE) | at CIN | 30 | +1 |
| 30 | Bilal Powell (NYJ) | vs. BAL | 37 | +7 |
| 31 | Matt Forte (NYJ) | vs. BAL | 26 | -5 |
| 32 | Jeremy Hill (CIN) | vs. CLE | 27 | -5 |
| 33 | Ryan Mathews (PHI) | vs. MIN | 35 | +2 |
| 34 | DeAndre Washington (OAK) | at JAC | 34 | 0 |
| 35 | Matt Asiata (MIN) | at PHI | 40 | +5 |
| 36 | T.J. Yeldon (JAC) | vs. OAK | 33 | -3 |
| 37 | Chris Ivory (JAC) | vs. OAK | 38 | +1 |
| 38 | Devontae Booker (DEN) | vs. HOU | 43 | +5 |
| 39 | Knile Davis (GB) | vs. CHI | 44 | +5 |
| 40 | Mike Davis (SF) | vs. TB | 62 | +22 |
| 41 | Chris Thompson (WAS) | at DET | 41 | 0 |
| 42 | Bobby Rainey (NYG) | at LA | 47 | +5 |
| 43 | Mike Gillislee (BUF) | at MIA | 54 | +11 |
| 44 | Rashad Jennings (NYG) | at LA | 39 | -5 |
| 45 | Arian Foster (MIA) | vs. BUF | 42 | -3 |
| 46 | Jalen Richard (OAK) | at JAC | 45 | -1 |
| 47 | Justin Forsett (DET) | vs. WAS | 50 | +3 |
| 48 | Derrick Henry (TEN) | vs. IND | 48 | 0 |
| 49 | Shaun Draughn (SF) | vs. TB | 55 | +6 |
| 50 | C.J. Spiller (SEA) | at ARI | 49 | -1 |
| 51 | Zach Zenner (DET) | vs. WAS | 46 | -5 |
| 52 | Latavius Murray (OAK) | at JAC | 51 | -1 |
| 53 | DeAngelo Williams (PIT) | vs. NE | 58 | +5 |
| 54 | Dwayne Washington (DET) | vs. WAS | 53 | -1 |
| 55 | Kenneth Dixon (BAL) | at NYJ | 52 | -3 |
| 56 | Damien Williams (MIA) | vs. BUF | 59 | +3 |
| 57 | Jamize Olawale (OAK) | at JAC | 73 | +16 |
| 58 | Wendell Smallwood (PHI) | vs. MIN | 65 | +7 |
| 59 | Travaris Cadet (NO) | at KC | 56 | -3 |
| 60 | Ka'Deem Carey (CHI) | at GB | 68 | +8 |
| 61 | Javorius Allen (BAL) | at NYJ | 63 | +2 |
| 62 | Benny Cunningham (LA) | vs. NYG | 57 | -5 |
| 63 | Robert Turbin (IND) | at TEN | 60 | -3 |
| 64 | Robert Kelley (WAS) | at DET | 70 | +6 |
| 65 | Alfred Blue (HOU) | at DEN | 74 | +9 |
| 66 | Andre Ellington (ARI) | vs. SEA | 61 | -5 |
| 67 | Dexter McCluster (SD) | at ATL | 64 | -3 |
| 68 | Paul Perkins (NYG) | at LA | 79 | +11 |
Wide Receivers
4 of 7
Better than Usual
Jeremy Maclin, KC (vs. NO)
Last week, Maclin faced the worst pass defense and the worst defense against fantasy wide receivers and wound up with three receptions for 49 yards on three targets. In fact, no Chiefs receiver had more than four targets or three receptions, and that’s because Alex Smith threw just 22 passes. Logic didn’t prevail, but the Chiefs did, so their game plan worked.
I have trouble believing the same will happen against the Saints in Kansas City on Sunday. The Saints give up the 10th-most fantasy points, more than 15 receptions, 211 yards and almost a touchdown per game to WRs. Can the Chiefs avoid such a great matchup for their passing game again? I’ll say they don’t and Maclin gets busy.
Week 7 Projection: 6 receptions, 82 yards, 1 touchdown
Concerns
DeAndre Hopkins, HOU (at DEN)
Without some late-game production in the last two weeks, many more people would be freaking out about Hopkins right now. He managed to salvage his fantasy value in Week 6 with nine receptions for 71 yards on 15 targets. That comes a week after he posted five receptions for 56 yards and a touchdown on nine targets. You can blame Brock Osweiler for Hopkins ruining the value of your first-round pick.
Unfortunately, it will be tough for Hopkins to get going in Week 7 with a trip to Denver on tap. They’re the top defense against fantasy WRs with just 51 receptions for 571 yards and a TD allowed in their first six games. That TD came from Kelvin Benjamin back in Week 1. Since then, they've faced T.Y. Hilton, A.J. Green, Mike Evans and Julio Jones. That’s a battle-tested defense, so Hopkins won’t be a new challenge.
Week 7 Projection: 5 receptions, 56 yards
Demaryius Thomas, DEN (vs. HOU)
Monday night’s showdown between the Broncos and Texans could be a battle of the defenses and who survives on offense. Denver has the best defense against fantasy WRs, but Houston isn’t far behind in third. They give up about 11 receptions and 143 yards to WRs per game with just three TDs allowed all season.
Thomas failed to take advantage of last week’s great matchup with the Chargers and wound up with just five receptions for 35 yards on a season-high 10 targets. The blame should go more on Trevor Siemian since he managed just 230 yards on 50 attempts. If your QB averages 4.6 yards per attempt, you’re in trouble.
Week 7 Projection: 5 receptions, 65 yards
Avoid
Jordan Matthews, PHI (vs. MIN)
Matthews hasn’t been the catch monster we saw in 2015, and a lack of volume isn’t helping much, but now he’s dealing with a knee issue on top of everything. Oh, and he plays the Vikings on Sunday.
In last week’s loss to the Redskins, Matthews caught three of seven targets for 75 yards. He hasn’t had five receptions or more than 75 yards in any of his last three games. According to Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer, the Eagles said Matthews is dealing with knee tendonitis, which may be contributing to his lack of production.
This week, Matthews faces a Vikings defense that’s given up the second-fewest fantasy points to WRs this season despite tough matchups with the Panthers, Packers, Giants and Texans. There are no positives for Matthews, so stay away from him if you can.
Week 7 Projection: 4 receptions, 52 yards
Sleepers
Robert Woods, BUF (at MIA)
It’s easy to overlook Woods, but he is the top receiver for the Bills with Sammy Watkins out and has been the busiest target for Tyrod Taylor. Woods found the end zone for the first time last week as part of a five-catch, 44-yard performance on eight targets in a win over the 49ers. He leads the team in all receiving categories.
It’s worth considering him in Week 7 because the Dolphins allowed the seventh-most fantasy points to WRs in the first six weeks. Woods won’t make big plays, but he’s a safe target in the short and intermediate areas and doesn’t have much competition for looks.
Week 7 Projection: 6 receptions, 61 yards, 1 touchdown
Week 7 Wide Receiver PPR Rankings
| 1 | Julio Jones (ATL) | vs. SD | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Odell Beckham Jr. (NYG) | at LA | 3 | +1 |
| 3 | Mike Evans (TB) | at SF | 4 | +1 |
| 4 | A.J. Green (CIN) | vs. CLE | 2 | -2 |
| 5 | T.Y. Hilton (IND) | at TEN | 8 | +3 |
| 6 | Amari Cooper (OAK) | at JAC | 10 | +4 |
| 7 | Brandon Marshall (NYJ) | vs. BAL | 6 | -1 |
| 8 | Antonio Brown (PIT) | vs. NE | 9 | +1 |
| 9 | Cameron Meredith (CHI) | at GB | 13 | +4 |
| 10 | Jordy Nelson (GB) | vs. CHI | 7 | -3 |
| 11 | Brandin Cooks (NO) | at KC | 12 | +1 |
| 12 | Jeremy Maclin (KC) | vs. NO | 15 | +3 |
| 13 | Alshon Jeffery (CHI) | at GB | 14 | +1 |
| 14 | Marvin Jones (DET) | vs. WAS | 11 | -3 |
| 15 | Allen Robinson (JAC) | vs. OAK | 5 | -10 |
| 16 | Michael Crabtree (OAK) | at JAC | 18 | +2 |
| 17 | Jarvis Landry (MIA) | vs. BUF | 16 | -1 |
| 18 | Larry Fitzgerald (ARI) | vs. SEA | 17 | -1 |
| 19 | Randall Cobb (GB) | vs. CHI | 23 | +4 |
| 20 | Demaryius Thomas (DEN) | vs. HOU | 19 | -1 |
| 21 | Golden Tate (DET) | vs. WAS | 26 | +5 |
| 22 | Terrelle Pryor (CLE) | at CIN | 21 | -1 |
| 23 | Julian Edelman (NE) | at PIT | 20 | -3 |
| 24 | Emmanuel Sanders (DEN) | vs. HOU | 22 | -2 |
| 25 | DeAndre Hopkins (HOU) | at DEN | 25 | 0 |
| 26 | Doug Baldwin (SEA) | at ARI | 24 | -2 |
| 27 | Ty Montgomery (GB) | vs. CHI | 46 | +19 |
| 28 | Travis Benjamin (SD) | at ATL | 28 | 0 |
| 29 | Mike Wallace (BAL) | at NYJ | 31 | +2 |
| 30 | DeSean Jackson (WAS) | at DET | 27 | -3 |
| 31 | Michael Thomas (NO) | at KC | 32 | +1 |
| 32 | Stefon Diggs (MIN) | at PHI | 37 | +5 |
| 33 | Kenny Britt (LA) | vs. NYG | 36 | +3 |
| 34 | Willie Snead (NO) | at KC | 29 | -5 |
| 35 | Allen Hurns (JAC) | vs. OAK | 33 | -2 |
| 36 | Robert Woods (BUF) | at MIA | 39 | +3 |
| 37 | Tyrell Williams (SD) | at ATL | 34 | -3 |
| 38 | Jamison Crowder (WAS) | at DET | 40 | +2 |
| 39 | Sterling Shepard (NYG) | at LA | 38 | -1 |
| 40 | John Brown (ARI) | vs. SEA | 35 | -5 |
| 41 | Mohamed Sanu (ATL) | vs. SD | 44 | +3 |
| 42 | Jordan Matthews (PHI) | vs. MIN | 30 | -12 |
| 43 | Chris Hogan (NE) | at PIT | 42 | -1 |
| 44 | DeVante Parker (MIA) | vs. BUF | 43 | -1 |
| 45 | Will Fuller (HOU) | at DEN | 45 | 0 |
| 46 | Kendall Wright (TEN) | vs. IND | 47 | +1 |
| 47 | Tavon Austin (LA) | vs. NYG | 48 | +1 |
| 48 | Quincy Enunwa (NYJ) | vs. BAL | 41 | -7 |
| 49 | Anquan Boldin (DET) | vs. WAS | 51 | +2 |
| 50 | Pierre Garcon (WAS) | at DET | 59 | +9 |
| 51 | Sammie Coates (PIT) | vs. NE | 52 | +1 |
| 52 | Cordarrelle Patterson (MIN) | at PHI | 68 | +16 |
| 53 | Eddie Royal (CHI) | at GB | 53 | 0 |
| 54 | Adam Humphries (TB) | at SF | 57 | +3 |
| 55 | Steve Smith (BAL) | at NYJ | 62 | +7 |
| 56 | Brandon LaFell (CIN) | vs. CLE | 50 | -6 |
| 57 | Tyler Lockett (SEA) | at ARI | 54 | -3 |
| 58 | Torrey Smith (SF) | vs. TB | 49 | -9 |
| 59 | Adam Thielen (MIN) | at PHI | 56 | -3 |
| 60 | Jeremy Kerley (SF) | vs. TB | 55 | -5 |
| 61 | Chris Conley (KC) | vs. NO | 60 | -1 |
| 62 | Victor Cruz (NYG) | at LA | 61 | -1 |
| 63 | Breshad Perriman (BAL) | at NYJ | 65 | +2 |
| 64 | Michael Floyd (ARI) | vs. SEA | 58 | -6 |
| 65 | Rishard Matthews (TEN) | vs. IND | 66 | +1 |
| 66 | Dontrelle Inman (SD) | at ATL | 77 | +11 |
| 67 | Kamar Aiken (BAL) | at NYJ | 63 | -4 |
| 68 | Tajae Sharpe (TEN) | vs. IND | 74 | +6 |
| 69 | Phillip Dorsett (IND) | at TEN | 64 | -5 |
| 70 | Brian Quick (LA) | vs. NYG | 71 | +1 |
| 71 | Marqise Lee (JAC) | vs. OAK | 72 | +1 |
| 72 | Marquise Goodwin (BUF) | at MIA | 70 | -2 |
| 73 | Eli Rogers (PIT) | vs. NE | 73 | 0 |
| 74 | Danny Amendola (NE) | at PIT | 81 | +7 |
| 75 | Dorial Green-Beckham (PHI) | vs. MIN | 75 | 0 |
| 76 | Chester Rogers (IND) | at TEN | 69 | -7 |
| 77 | Kenny Stills (MIA) | vs. BUF | 80 | +3 |
| 78 | Andre Johnson (TEN) | vs. IND | 76 | -2 |
| 79 | Seth Roberts (OAK) | at JAC | 79 | 0 |
| 80 | Justin Hunter (BUF) | at MIA | 87 | +7 |
| 81 | Davante Adams (GB) | vs. CHI | 67 | -14 |
Tight Ends
5 of 7
Better than Usual
Travis Kelce, KC (vs. NO)
The Chiefs didn’t have to get pass-happy last week in Oakland in some ugly weather because the Raiders didn’t get their passing game into any kind of rhythm. Because of that, Kelce had just three receptions for 32 yards on three targets in what looked like a fantastic matchup.
He has another good one this week against the visiting Saints. Last week, the Saints gave up nine receptions for 119 yards and a touchdown to Greg Olsen and Ed Dickson in a win over the Panthers. Kelce can be just as dangerous as Olsen if given the chance, and he should get that opportunity. Assuming New Orleans gets its high-powered offense going, the Chiefs may have to match it, which is good news for Kelce.
Week 7 Projection: 6 receptions, 69 yards, 1 touchdown
Concerns
Kyle Rudolph, MIN (at PHI)
Before the Week 6 bye, Rudolph had his first bad game with Sam Bradford, posting just two receptions for 15 yards on four targets in a tough matchup against the Texans. He comes out of the bye with another stiff test on Sunday in Philadelphia.
Only the Cardinals have allowed fewer points to TEs than the Eagles. In five games, the Eagles held TEs to just eight receptions for 93 yards and a TD, and that includes shutouts against the Browns and Lions. Rudolph poses one of the tougher challenges they’ve had this season, but you have to respect how great they’ve been regardless of competition.
Week 7 Projection: 4 receptions, 45 yards
Avoid
None of note.
Sleepers
Cameron Brate, TB (at SF)
While Mike Evans has the highest target-per-game average at 12.4, there’s still room for others to contribute in an offense that’s averaging more than 41 pass attempts per game over the first six weeks. Brate might be even more important to the offense after the team announced Vincent Jackson was put on injured reserve with an ACL injury, according to Jenna Laine of ESPN.com.
Brate gets his first chance to prove he can do more with a nice matchup against the 49ers this weekend. On average, they give up more than five receptions and 63 yards to TEs each game and have allowed two 100-yard games. Brate does have five red-zone targets this season, and both of his TDs came inside the 10-yard line. He gets a boost from the matchup and absence of Jackson.
Week 7 Projection: 5 receptions, 57 yards, 1 touchdown
Week 7 Tight End PPR Rankings
| 1 | Rob Gronkowski (NE) | at PIT | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Hunter Henry (SD) | at ATL | 5 | +3 |
| 3 | Travis Kelce (KC) | vs. NO | 2 | -1 |
| 4 | Jimmy Graham (SEA) | at ARI | 4 | 0 |
| 5 | Delanie Walker (TEN) | vs. IND | 3 | -2 |
| 6 | Martellus Bennett (NE) | at PIT | 7 | +1 |
| 7 | Cameron Brate (TB) | at SF | 17 | +10 |
| 8 | Zach Miller (CHI) | at GB | 6 | -2 |
| 9 | Coby Fleener (NO) | at KC | 8 | -1 |
| 10 | Gary Barnidge (CLE) | at CIN | 10 | 0 |
| 11 | Kyle Rudolph (MIN) | at PHI | 9 | -2 |
| 12 | Charles Clay (BUF) | at MIA | 16 | +4 |
| 13 | Julius Thomas (JAC) | vs. OAK | 11 | -2 |
| 14 | Jack Doyle (IND) | at TEN | 15 | +1 |
| 15 | Dennis Pitta (BAL) | at NYJ | 12 | -3 |
| 16 | Vernon Davis (WAS) | at DET | 20 | +4 |
| 17 | C.J. Fiedorowicz (HOU) | at DEN | 18 | +1 |
| 18 | Antonio Gates (SD) | at ATL | 19 | +1 |
| 19 | Zach Ertz (PHI) | vs. MIN | 14 | -5 |
| 20 | Jesse James (PIT) | vs. NE | 21 | +1 |
| 21 | Jacob Tamme (ATL) | vs. SD | 23 | +2 |
| 22 | Will Tye (NYG) | at LA | 33 | +11 |
| 23 | Richard Rodgers (GB) | vs. CHI | 27 | +4 |
| 24 | Larry Donnell (NYG) | at LA | 25 | +1 |
| 25 | Lance Kendricks (LA) | vs. NYG | 26 | +1 |
| 26 | C.J. Uzomah (CIN) | vs. CLE | 28 | +2 |
| 27 | Vance McDonald (SF) | vs. TB | 30 | +3 |
| 28 | Virgil Green (DEN) | vs. HOU | 29 | +1 |
| 29 | Clive Walford (OAK) | at JAC | 31 | +2 |
| 30 | Jordan Reed (WAS) | at DET | 13 | -17 |
| 31 | Tyler Eifert (CIN) | vs. CLE | 22 | -9 |
| 32 | Eric Ebron (DET) | vs. WAS | 24 | -8 |
Defenses
6 of 7
Best Options Based on Matchups
Denver Broncos (vs. HOU)
The champs had some issues with the Chargers last week, but their defense still played a relatively strong game even though they lost. Brock Osweiler won’t give them the same challenge Monday night. With eight interceptions and 12 sacks taken, Osweiler is a big reason the Texans have given up the sixth-most fantasy points to defenses this season.
Week 7 Projection: 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, 15-18 points allowed
Buffalo Bills (at MIA)
After their meltdown against the Jets in Week 2, Bills head coach Rex Ryan and his staff have turned their defense around and now ride a four-game winning streak into Miami. Even though the Dolphins shocked the Steelers last week behind a big game from Jay Ajayi, their passing attack has struggled to find consistency. Protection has been an issue, as evidenced by the 17 sacks they allowed in the first six weeks. Buffalo will add to that total in Week 7.
Week 7 Projection: 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, 18-20 points allowed
Cincinnati Bengals (vs. CLE)
As a whole, the Bengals have been a disappointing team this season, and it stems from underachievement across the board. Sometimes you need a game to get things right, and this could be the one with the winless Browns coming to town. While they’ve shown some signs of life on offense, the Browns are still tied for the seventh-most fantasy points allowed to defenses, and a big part of that is the 19 sacks given up so far.
Week 7 Projection: 2 sacks, 1 interception, 18-20 points allowed
Week 7 Defense Rankings
| 1 | Denver Broncos (DEN) | vs. HOU | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Minnesota Vikings (MIN) | at PHI | 2 | 0 |
| 3 | Buffalo Bills (BUF) | at MIA | 4 | +1 |
| 4 | New England Patriots (NE) | at PIT | 3 | -1 |
| 5 | Seattle Seahawks (SEA) | at ARI | 5 | 0 |
| 6 | Cincinnati Bengals (CIN) | vs. CLE | 6 | 0 |
| 7 | Arizona Cardinals (ARI) | vs. SEA | 7 | 0 |
| 8 | Houston Texans (HOU) | at DEN | 13 | +5 |
| 9 | Los Angeles Rams (LA) | vs. NYG | 9 | 0 |
| 10 | Baltimore Ravens (BAL) | at NYJ | 10 | 0 |
| 11 | Philadelphia Eagles (PHI) | vs. MIN | 11 | 0 |
| 12 | Tennessee Titans (TEN) | vs. IND | 12 | 0 |
| 13 | Green Bay Packers (GB) | vs. CHI | 8 | -5 |
| 14 | Tampa Bay Buccaneers (TB) | at SF | 17 | +3 |
| 15 | New York Jets (NYJ) | vs. BAL | 14 | -1 |
| 16 | Kansas City Chiefs (KC) | vs. NO | 16 | 0 |
| 17 | Miami Dolphins (MIA) | vs. BUF | 25 | +8 |
| 18 | New York Giants (NYG) | at LA | 15 | -3 |
| 19 | Detroit Lions (DET) | vs. WAS | 19 | 0 |
| 20 | Oakland Raiders (OAK) | at JAC | 18 | -2 |
Kickers
7 of 7
Best Options Widely Available on the Waiver Wire
Matt Bryant, ATL (vs. SD)
A good kicker in a great offense is exactly who you want in your lineup. Bryant checks those boxes and hasn’t missed in the first six weeks. That’s 12 field goals and 21 extra points, which is a bunch of fantasy production (for a kicker). The Falcons shouldn’t have a problem rolling right along against the Chargers on Sunday, so Bryant’s great season will continue. Hopefully, he stays perfect.
Week 7 Kicker Rankings
| 1 | Stephen Gostkowski (NE) | at PIT | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Adam Vinatieri (IND) | at TEN | 2 | 0 |
| 3 | Matt Bryant (ATL) | vs. SD | 5 | +2 |
| 4 | Justin Tucker (BAL) | at NYJ | 3 | -1 |
| 5 | Cairo Santos (KC) | vs. NO | 6 | +1 |
| 6 | Mason Crosby (GB) | vs. CHI | 4 | -2 |
| 7 | Steven Hauschka (SEA) | at ARI | 7 | 0 |
| 8 | Josh Lambo (SD) | at ATL | 8 | 0 |
| 9 | Sebastian Janikowski (OAK) | at JAC | 17 | +8 |
| 10 | Brandon McManus (DEN) | vs. HOU | 9 | -1 |
| 11 | Mike Nugent (CIN) | vs. CLE | 10 | -1 |
| 12 | Josh Brown (NYG) | at LA | 11 | -1 |
| 13 | Matt Prater (DET) | vs. WAS | 12 | -1 |
| 14 | Chandler Catanzaro (ARI) | vs. SEA | 13 | -1 |
| 15 | Dustin Hopkins (WAS) | at DET | 14 | -1 |
| 16 | Blair Walsh (MIN) | at PHI | 15 | -1 |
| 17 | Wil Lutz (NO) | at KC | 16 | -1 |
| 18 | Chris Boswell (PIT) | vs. NE | 18 | 0 |
| 19 | Dan Carpenter (BUF) | at MIA | 19 | 0 |
| 20 | Caleb Sturgis (PHI) | vs. MIN | 20 | 0 |
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