Fantasy Football Week 3 Quick Points
Sep 12, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots wide receiver Julian Edelman (11) runs the ball New York Jets during the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark L. Baer-USA TODAY Sports
Berry’s waiver wires and sleepers, oh my. If you started foaming from the mouth after reading the first few words, then you, my fantasy football nerd, are ready for some fantasy football—and it may also be time to see a shrink. If you’re in a league, or several leagues, it’s all business from here on out. Fantasy football. All. The. Time. By the way, if you didn’t pick up Patriots receiver Julian Edelman and start him last week, well, what can I say? I told you so! If you’re in a PPR league, this guy scored over 21 points for you.
Before I begin with fantasy football advice for Week 3, I just wanted to get a thing or two out of the way: How about Michael Vick and those Eagles? This guy was a disaster of a quarterback last season, and now he’s putting up these kind of stats: 428 yards, 64 percent completion percentage, two touchdowns, and 23 yards on the ground with a touchdown last week against the Chargers. I regret ever doubting you, Vick!
You know who I didn’t doubt? DeSean Jackson. Non-existent last season, Jackson already has 297 receiving yards, and two touchdowns in two games. You will carry me to fantasy football glory!
Everyone, let’s all thank new Eagles head coach Chip Kelly.
Now, onto a few of the who’s who of waiver wire priorities:
Green Bay running back James Starks
If you haven’t picked the running back up yet, what are you waiting for? Packers running back Eddie Lacy suffered a concussion last week, so Starks had to step up in Lacy’s absence; Starks ended up rushing for 132 yards (6.6 yards per carry), one touchdown and four receptions for 36 yards.
I’m not saying that you should replace Adrian Peterson with Starks, but Starks is a nice pickup. The Packers offense will find themselves in the red zone often, so Starks will get plenty of opportunities to score.
Cincinnati Bengals tight end Tyler Eifert
If you’re unhappy with your tight end, Tyler Eifert is the perfect addition to your team. As the season progresses, I believe Eifert will get more snaps, eventually getting the starting role over Gresham.
At 6’6″ and 250 pounds, Eifert definitely has the size. He is very quick off the snap, especially for his size. The tight end has great hands and is a dynamic receiver after the catch, which is something the Jets need. Eifert is very agile and quick and can get open in little zones. He is a vertical threat that can definitely make the big plays after the catch by bulling his way through tackles. Last week, Eifert finished the game with three receptions (targeted five times) for 66 yards.
Houston Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins
Yes, I’m aware the Andre Johnson is the Texan’s No. 1 receiver, but the rookie out of Clemson is still getting looks from Matt Schaub. In Week 1, with Johnson in the lineup, Hopkins finished with five receptions for 66 yards. In Week 2, Johnson suffered a concussion, and Hopkins stepped up in Johnson’s absence. Hopkins finished with seven receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown.
Look for Hopkins to have another big day against a struggling Ravens secondary this week. Even if you’re hesitant to insert him into your lineup this week, he’s a good option to have. Even with Johnson back, Hopkins will have the luxury of not getting the attention Johnson will get, which will open the rookie up to put up some big numbers.
Stay tuned for more fantasy football gold nuggets throughout the season from Empire Writes Back, because why not?