Peyton Manning: Projecting Broncos Star QB's Fantasy Output in Week 4

There is no question that future Hall of Fame quarterback Peyton Manning has been one of the most enigmatic stars in the NFL for the first three weeks of the season, but the Denver Broncos and fantasy owners need more consistency.

With a Week 4 matchup against the Oakland Raiders, this is Manning’s time to shine.

The veteran quarterback hasn’t played as well as many experts have predicted, but nothing can get a struggling QB playing better faster than a great matchup.

As Oakland travels to Denver this week, Manning is ready for his breakout game.

Expect big things from the Broncos and their star QB this Sunday.

Fantasy Stat Line

While the weaknesses in the Raiders’ secondary should have the Broncos dedicated to the pass, the fact that Willis McGahee has injured ribs and may not be 100 percent will have Oakland playing the pass more often.

As much as their defensive style will limit Manning’s big-play ability, he was never really known for throwing the big bombs down the field. As long as his receivers hit their marks, the veteran QB will keep the chains moving with or without a rushing attack.

With the continued evolution of the top two wide receivers in Denver—Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas—Manning will show improvements in both his consistency and his overall numbers.

The great matchup against a struggling Oakland defense is the perfect remedy for the star’s slow start.

Final Word: 20-of-26 for 275 yards and three touchdowns

Prediction

Despite the Oakland Raiders' valiant effort in their win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2, the Denver Broncos will be attacking Sunday with most of their key pieces healthy.

This time around, Oakland won’t have the luxury of facing a shell of a team like they did against Pittsburgh.

As if the Raiders’ offense wasn’t bound to have enough trouble on its hands with Champ Bailey and the boys, their 26th-ranked pass defense will be facing off against a version of Peyton Manning that has a chip on his shoulder because of how he has performed so far.

With a lack of serious depth at both cornerback and safety positions, if the Broncos keep drives alive and wear the Raiders defense out early, Manning will be able to pick them up and lead the team to a huge divisional victory.

Fantasy owners and Denver faithful, rejoice!

Final Word: Denver Broncos 34, Oakland Raiders 20

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