Fantasy Football Week 1 Projections: Why Kyle Orton Will Be Solid

I've said before that I think the Broncos will drop their opener on Monday night against the Raiders. I am not changing my view on that.

But a losing player can be a valuable fantasy option.

Actually, a losing quarterback can be an extremely valuable fantasy option in a high-scoring game. When they fall behind, the team will go to the air a lot. That's where the quarterback can rack of a lot of comparatively cheap yards.

But here's the thing with fantasy. If a quarterback throws for 60 yards on a game-winning touchdown drive, the points are exactly the same as they are when a quarterback throws for 60 yards in a blowout.

That's where Kyle Orton thrives.

He's been a fantasy sleeper throughout his career in Denver. That's something that can easily continue this year, as long as he's on the field.

At some point, the playing time may run out. If Denver struggles, it's not inconceivable that they will turn to Brady Quinn or Tim Tebow at quarterback.

But as long as Orton is healthy, his spot on the field is not going to be in question during the season's first week.

Oakland does not have a good secondary. I think the Raiders will win a high-scoring affair. Certainly the Broncos and their fans don't want to lose to their rivals at home on National TV, but Orton's fantasy owners will be just fine in this one.

Orton won’t remind anyone of Peyton Manning or anything like that, but do you have Manning on your team? Is Kyle Orton available in your league? If you answered yes to those questions, might I suggest that you pick Orton up?

Granted, Orton is probably not available. But if he is, pick him up now. That’s a strong acquisition to make.

Also, if you’re going against Orton on Monday night and holding a lead, I wouldn’t be sitting too comfortably. The numbers will be there. While he’s on the field, Orton will show that he’s a fantasy weapon to be reckoned with.