BALLER MOVE: Consider streaming in 12-team leagues
POSITIONAL VALUE: QB2
ANALYSIS: The same way his previous season ended, Matthew Stafford returns to Detroit, the franchise that made him the first-overall pick in 2009. And just like the postseason loss, points won't be hard to come by.
The Rams and Lions combined for 47 points in the Wild Card round while Stafford threw for 367 yards (nearly half of which went to Puka Nacua) and two touchdowns. The over/under this time around is a league-high 51 points. Real-life points equal fantasy points.
Matthew Stafford in his last 2 games against the Lions:
33.2 FPTS (334-3)
26.7 FPTS (367-2)Lions vs. Rams has the highest O/U on the Week at 51 points.
Fire up both Stafford and Goff this week if you’re streaming QB.
— Chris O'Brien (@17gamepace) September 3, 2024
For Stafford's sake, it should come through the air. The Lions were one of the best defenses against the run a year ago and struggled when opponents dropped back to pass. Improving the secondary was a priority for the Detroit front office in the offseason. First-round pick Terrion Arnold and free-agent acquisition Carlton Davis should be the new starting outside cornerbacks.
Even with new members of the secondary, Nacua and Cooper Kupp can consistently beat any cornerbacks in the NFL. Stafford won't earn fantasy managers any points via rushing yards but the matchup and game script places him just outside of the top 12 in Week 1.
More Fantasy Football Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Picks
Who Should I Start for Fantasy Football Week 12? Jonathon Brooks, Aaron Jones, Cam Akers, Roschon Johnson, Trey Benson
When choosing who to start in fantasy football, it's important to take a lot of things into account. The skill level of the player, the talent and run-blocking prowess of the offensive line, the effectiveness of the offense in general, and even how good the team's defense is all play a part in RB opportunities […]
Who Should I Start for Fantasy Football Week 12? Michael Pittman Jr., Ricky Pearsall, Jordan Addison, Keenan Allen, Tee Higgins
Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr., San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Ricky Pearsall, Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Jordan Addison, Chicago Bears wide receiver Keenan Allen, and Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins are five wideouts who are on many fantasy football rosters this season. If you have any of these players in any of […]
Who Should I Start for Fantasy Football Week 12? Tua Tagovailoa, Bo Nix, Jared Goff
As we gear up for Week 12, every lineup decision counts more than ever. With six teams on bye and playoff races heating up, choosing the right quarterback can make or break your week. Fortunately, several signal-callers are in prime positions to deliver strong performances based on their recent form and matchups. This week, let's […]
Who Should I Start for Fantasy Football Week 12? Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Courtland Sutton, Marvin Harrison Jr.
Fantasy managers face tough decisions at wide receiver every week, and Week 12 is no different. Some players have emerged as must-starts, while others continue to be matchup-dependent. Picking the right players can make all the difference. This week, let's break down three wide receivers: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Courtland Sutton, and Marvin Harrison Jr. Each has […]
Who Should I Start for Fantasy Football Week 12? Jonnu Smith, Will Dissly, Hunter Henry
Week 12 is here, and fantasy managers are making crucial lineup decisions. Tight end remains a tricky position to pin down. This week, three players are intriguing options: Jonnu Smith, Will Dissly, and Hunter Henry. Let's evaluate each player's performance, role in their offense, and Week 12 matchup to decide if they should be started […]
Download Our Free News & Alerts Mobile App
Like what you see? Download our updated fantasy football app for iPhone and Android with 24x7 player news, injury alerts, rankings, starts/sits & more. All free!