Fantasy Football Week 1 Rankings: Andre Johnson Will Be Top Week 1 WR

How will Peyton Manning's injury impact fantasy matches that don't involve him?

Well, it makes sense that Colts offensive players should be avoided. After all, that's an offense that hasn't had any meaningful snaps without Manning as the quarterback since 1997.

But how will that make an impact on the Colts opponents?

Well, the more the Colts offense struggles, the more their opponent's offense is going to be on the field. In Week 1, that opposing offense is the Houston Texans. They are led by the three-headed attack of quarterback Matt Schaub, running back Arian Foster and wide receiver Andre Johnson.

Johnson has been one of the top receivers in the game for a few years.

Over the last two seasons, Johnson has played 29 games and caught 187 passes for 2,785 yards and 17 touchdowns.

Is that really the kind of player that you want to see more of on the field? If you're a Texans fan or fantasy owner, you probably do.

If you don't like Houston or are going against Johnson, you're probably hoping Kerry Collins can keep the Texans offense off of the field for as long as is humanly possible.

But I just don't see that happening. Even if Collins fills in admirably, Johnson is still a beast capable of taking a game over with a single play.

Oh, and did I mention that Foster’s playing time is in doubt?

Well, he’s likely to play but shouldn’t get a tremendous load of carries. What does that mean? Well, it makes sense to me that the Texans will make Johnson more a part of the game plan.

Schaub has his issues, but he’s the kind of quarterback who can take advantage of a receiver like Johnson. He’s certainly done it in the past.

When you look at his talent and how much time he spends on the field, Johnson is due to have a huge day. Don’t be at all surprised to see north of 100 yards and two touchdowns.

If that’s not the top Week 1 receiver, just hope you have the guy who does have that day. At the very least, hope that your opponent does not.