Andrew Luck: Fantasy Owners Must Start Colts QB vs. Vikings

Andrew Luck proved that he will be a worthy fantasy football option in 2012 last weekend when he threw for 309 yards against the Chicago Bears, the fifth-most yards of any quarterback in Week 1.

Granted, he attempted 45 passes and threw three picks to the Bears defense, but it was still a quality effort from a rookie going up against a formidable defense on the road.

After all, first-time performances like Robert Griffin III's last weekend are rare. 

Fantasy football owners with Luck on their roster this weekend would be wise to start him against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 2. 

Luck and the Colts will be at home for the first time this season, and they'll face off against a mediocre pass defense (ranked 16th in the NFL) that surrendered 260 passing yards to the Jacksonville Jaguars' Blaine Gabbert and their anemic aerial attack.

Minnesota also gave up more than 100 yards to the Jaguars on the ground last weekend, which should open up some running lanes for Indy's Donald Brown.

The more of a running threat the Colts can present, the better off Luck will be throwing the ball downfield thanks to effective play action. 

Also, wide receiver Reggie Wayne is capable of breaking off a huge play that adds to Luck's fantasy production. Wayne caught nine passes against Chicago for 135 yards.

Just imagine what kind of damage he can do against a Vikings secondary that allowed Cecil Shorts to catch four balls for 74 yards and a touchdown in Week 1. 

Given Luck's demonstrated ability and the state of the Vikings defense in 2012, there's no reason why he won't be a fantasy superstar in Week 2.

That's why fantasy owners must start him vs. Minnesota.

Luck is a virtual lock for 250 yards and a pair of touchdowns at home on Sunday. I'll set the bar and see if he can step over. 

Follow Bleacher Report Featured Columnist Patrick Clarke on Twitter for more fantasy football take and analysis.