I’m going to look at the matchups each week and pick five fantasy starters that could be in for a tough week. Here’s a look at players who could struggle this week.
With the bye weeks upon us, you can’t necessarily sit the guys on this list unless you have great depth, but expect a drop in production.
Eli Manning, QB, New York Giants – Eli has averaged 206.5 passing yards, 3.7 rushing yards, with 12 passing TDs, 10 INTs, and 1 rushing TD in ten career games against the Eagles, which works out to be roughly 13.5 fantasy points per game. They are also playing in Philly. Here’s a look at his past two games at The Linc:
2008: 17 of 31, 191 yards, TD, 2 INTs
2007: 17 of 31, 219 yards, INT
Knowshon Moreno, RB, Denver Broncos – Knowshon has an impressive start to his NFL career, but I recommend using another option if possible as he takes on the Ravens in Baltimore. Though his only rushing TD came on the road, he is averaging just 51 yards per game on the ground away from Invesco Field at Mile High. He also has just one catch on the road for -1 yard.
Derrick Mason, WR, Baltimore Ravens – Mason gets to face a heavy dose of Champ Bailey and Denver’s strong passing defense. The Broncos have allowed just three passing TDs this year. Mason is playing at home, where he is actually less productive.
Home – 3 games, 9 catches, 165 yards (55/gm), 1 TD
Away – 3 games, 17 catches, 216 yards (72/gm), 2 TDs
Since 2007:
Home – 19 games, 84 catches, 985 yards (51.8/gm), 4 TDs
Away – 19 games, 125 catches, 1520 yards (80/game), 9 TDs
Vernon Davis, TE, San Francisco 49ers – The Colts have been tough against the pass all year long, and have been especially tough on opposing Tight Ends. They held Marcedes Lewis, Anthony Fasano, Anthony Becht, Stephen Spacht, John Carlson, Bo Scaife, and Randy McMichael to a combined 18 catches for 137 yards this year.
New York Giants Defense/Special Teams – The Giants have had one of the best defenses this season, but they draw a tough matchup this week against the Eagles. If they can’t put pressure on Donovan McNabb, it could be a long day in Philly for the G-Men.
