NFL Week 5 Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Why Plaxico Burress Is a Must-Start

Despite being relatively unproductive so far this season, Plaxico Burress is still available in just under four percent of fantasy football leagues and could be a must-start this week against the New England Patriots.

Burress certainly hasn't been a standout receiver so far this season, but he could be an excellent start or pick-up given the fact that bye weeks officially start this week.

With the 2-2 New York Jets looking to rebound from a huge loss to the Baltimore Ravens, it will be interesting to see how they utilize Burress against a much different opponent in Week 5.

Let's take a look at why Burress could be a must-start this week.

Plaxico Playing Better than Jets No. 1 Santonio Holmes

Everyone knows that Santonio Holmes is the man in New York. It was Holmes and not Braylon Edwards who was pursued by the Jets as a re-signing priority this offseason. Holmes was also named a captain this season by his teammates.

So far, however, it's been Burress that has more offensive production.

In four games, Holmes has scored 21 points with an average of 5.3 PPG. Burress, on the other hand, has scored 27 points with a 6.8 average.

Given that it is only four games into the season, these statistics could be underdeveloped, but going from what we know so far, Plax is definitely having a better season.

Patriots Solid Against the Run, Weak Against the Pass

Vince Wilfork anchors a stingy Patriots run-defense that has only allowed an average of 4.8 yards to opposing ball-carriers.

Jets RB Shonn Greene will look to get more involved in the offense but up to this point, hasn't done much for New York offensively.

Along with the Patriots ability to stop the run, they have struggled against the pass, allowing opposing QBs a 66.07 completion percentage with nearly nine yards per completion.

With two very capable receivers, the Jets will likely blow up in the passing game. More than likely, that means some touches for Plaxico Burress who has already gotten into the end zone twice this season.

Overall, Plaxico is a risk this week, but given the facts we just discussed, he could be poised for a break-out game.  If your team is being affected by bye weeks, Plaxico could be just the guy you're looking for to fill an empty slot.

Thanks for reading.

Follow me on Twitter @MCNick92