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Welcome back, RotoBallers, to another start'em and sit'em piece as we look ahead to Week 3! If you need help setting your lineups this week, you have come to the right place. This Week 3 matchups analysis and Start 'Em, Sit 'Em piece will look at matchups we love and hate this week of the fantasy football season.
Last week, players like Malik Nabers, J.K. Dobbins, and Marvin Harrison Jr. were all on the love list. All three of those players went on to have solid fantasy days. Nabers scored 28.7 PPR fantasy points, Dobbins finished with 20.1 PPR fantasy points, and Harrison finished as the overall WR1 behind a four-catch, 130-yard, two-touchdown performance.
So, let's dive into every Week 3 game (Sunday through Monday) and analyze the best starts and sits. This article will go through every player in every game to determine which players you should be starting in fantasy this week.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 1:00 EDT Games
Los Angeles Chargers at Pittsburgh Steelers
Spread: Steelers -1.5
Implied Total: Chargers (17) vs. Steelers (18.5)
Matchups We Love:
It hasn't been the best start for Pat Freiermuth, but he has finished as a top-13 fantasy tight end in both games to begin the season. In both contests, the Steelers tight end caught four passes. The good news for him is that a bigger game could be in store against the Chargers in Week 3. Los Angeles is allowing 11.1 PPR fantasy points per game through the first two weeks and just allowed five catches to Panther tight ends last week.
Matchups We Hate:
Not only is quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle) dealing with an ankle injury, but the matchup against the Steelers secondary makes him a must-sit in Superflex formats. Pittsburgh has only allowed 14.5 fantasy points per game to quarterbacks this year while giving up a combined 401 pass yards. Given that Herbert has yet to finish inside the top-20 at the quarterback position this season, he should be left on benches this weekend.
Chargers RBs
The Steelers defense is legit and opposing running backs are averaging only 3.7 yards per carry through the first two weeks. Pittsburgh held Bijan Robinson to 18 carries for 68 yards in Week 1 (3.78 yards per carry), and Javonte Williams to 11 carries for 17 yards (1.55 yards per carry) last week. As a result, both Dobbins and Gus Edwards are risky plays in fantasy this week.
WR Quentin Johnston/Joshua Palmer
It remains to be seen if Quentin Johnston or Joshua Palmer will draw the Joey Porter Jr. shadow in Week 3. Either way, though, both could have a tough time in this game. Porter held Drake London and Courtland Sutton to one catch each over the first two weeks when he was matched up against them. Even with Johnston establishing himself in Los Angeles' offense, he is not a strong start this week against Pittsburgh's secondary.
Other Matchups:
Managers likely expected more from quarterback Justin Fields in fantasy to begin the year. He has yet to score more than 12 fantasy points through the first two weeks and now goes up against a revamped Chargers defense that has allowed only 13 combined points so far this season. So, Fields comes in as a high-end QB2 in Week 3 -- even with his rushing upside.
RB Najee Harris
The rushing volume has been there for Steelers running back Najee Harris to start the season. In Week 1, Harris saw 20 carries and last week, he rushed 17 times for 69 yards. But he remains a very touchdown-dependent fantasy option. Despite seeing at least 17 carries in both games, he has yet to score over nine PPR fantasy points. As a result, he might be a low-end RB2 option in Week 3.
Steelers running back Jaylen Warren saw an uptick in playing time last week, totaling 48% of the team's offensive snaps. However, that playing time didn't really help him. He scored just 8.1 PPR fantasy points on 11 touches. Given how well the Chargers defense has played in the first two weeks, Warren is a risky option in all formats. Keep in mind, though, that Los Angeles has allowed 13 catches to opposing running backs this year.
It's hard to start any Chargers wide receivers in fantasy, especially rookie Ladd McConkey. Los Angeles is only throwing on 40.3% of its play (third-fewest in the NFL through two weeks). McConkey was solid in Week 1 -- catching five passes for 39 yards and one touchdown -- but he saw his snap percentage (49%), targets (four), and routes run (15) drop last week. That makes him too hard to trust in fantasy this week.
Wide receiver George Pickens had a rough Week 2 performance, catching only two passes for 29 yards. But Pickens did get the Patrick Surtain II shadow throughout the contest. While the matchup against Los Angeles' secondary is a bit better, there are concerns about his quarterback play heading into Week 3. Fields has yet to throw for over 160 yards in either game this season. So, the Steelers wideout is more of a WR3 this weekend.
Injuries:
- Russell Wilson (calf)
- Joshua Palmer (elbow/calf)
- Justin Herbert (ankle)
Houston Texans at Minnesota Vikings
Spread: Texans -2.5
Implied Total: Texans (24) vs. Vikings (21.5)
Matchups We Love:
If you have Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson in fantasy, you are starting him no matter the matchup. However, a big game could be in store against cornerback Derek Stingley Jr. Stingley has given up 10 catches through the first two weeks, including a 60-yard touchdown to Alec Pierce in Week 1. Jefferson should be able to exploit that young corner all game.
WR Nico Collins
The Vikings defense has surprisedly been a top unit to start the season, but Nico Collins has been unstoppable in 2024. He currently leads the league with 252 receiving yards. Having Collins in this section is more about the way he has played in the first two weeks than his matchup against the Vikings' secondary. Fantasy managers should be starting the Texans wideout in Week 3.
If there has been a weak point in Minnesota's defense through the first two weeks, it has been defending tight ends. They have allowed 11 catches to the position so far this year and just gave up seven catches for 76 yards and one touchdown to George Kittle last week. So, there is some potential for Dalton Schultz to be a top-12 play this week.
Matchups We Hate:
QB C.J. Stroud
Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud hasn't been an elite fantasy option so far in 2024. He hasn't scored more than 19 fantasy points in either game and only totaled 14.3 fantasy points in Week 2. It's hard to sit him because most fantasy managers spent a fifth or sixth-round draft pick on him, but the matchup against the Vikings should scare some fantasy managers. Last week, Brock Purdy scored just 14.96 fantasy points against this defense.
RB Aaron Jones
Running back Aaron Jones was a part of this section last week because of the tough matchup against the 49ers defense. Well, things don't get better for him in Week 3, as Jones goes up against a tough Texans' front seven on Sunday. Houston is allowing the third-fewest fantasy points to running backs through the first two weeks while giving up the second-fewest rush yards.
Other Matchups:
QB Sam Darnold
It has been a surprise to see quarterback Sam Darnold play as well as he has through the first two weeks. In Week 2, he tore a part San Francisco's secondary and finished as the QB4 in fantasy on the week. Now, he faces a Texans defense that allowed Anthony Richardson to throw for 212 yards on only nine completions. So, there is some appeal in starting Darnold in Superflex formats this week.
RB Joe Mixon
Running back Joe Mixon left Sunday's game early with an ankle injury, and it remains to be seen if he will be able to suit up on Sunday against the Vikings. If he can, Mixon will be a strong RB2 against a Vikings defense that just allowed a 100-yard rusher last week. If he can't, Cam Akers becomes an interesting play this weekend. With Dameon Pierce (hamstring) also nursing an injury, Akers would be a solid RB2 in Week 3.
#Texans back at practice. This is a practice heat that can make or break souls.
No Joe Mixon or Dameon Pierce so far.
— DJ Bien-Aime (@Djbienaime) September 19, 2024
WRs Tank Dell/ Stefon Diggs
Collins is clearly Stroud's favorite target in Houston's offense, and we are waiting to see who emerges as the WR2 in this offense. Early on, it appears to be an even split between Stefon Diggs and Tank Dell. Diggs has seen 12 targets compared to Dell's 11 targets. However, both Texans wideouts have yet to total more than 40 receiving yards in a game this season. As a result, they are both WR3s in fantasy this weekend.
Injuries:
- Justin Jefferson (quad)
- Jordan Addison (ankle)
- Joe Mixon (ankle)
- Dameon Pierce (hamstring)
Philadelphia Eagles at New Orleans Saints
Spread: Saints -2.5
Implied Total: Eagles (23.5) vs. Saints (26)
Matchups We Love:
QB Derek Carr
We will eventually find out if the Saints offense is legit. For now, though, it's best to roll with as many pieces as you can from this offense in fantasy, including Derek Carr in Week 3 against the Philadelphia Eagles. The Eagles secondary has plenty of holes and gave up the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in 2023. With Carr scoring 20-plus fantasy points in back-to-back games, he comes in as a low-end QB1 on Sunday.
RB Alvin Kamara
Coming off a four-touchdown performance, it wouldn't be wise to sit Saints running back Alvin Kamara in fantasy. Not only did he just score 44 PPR fantasy points, but he has a great matchup against the Eagles in Week 3. Philadelphia is allowing 6.4 yards per carry (most in the NFL) and gave up over 80 rush yards to Josh Jacobs and Robinson in the first two weeks. So, lock Kamara into your lineups this week.
Saints WRs
To reiterate the point above, the Eagles secondary is not very good. They allowed two wide receivers (London and Darnell Mooney) to score over 17 PPR fantasy points last week and have allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers in the first two weeks. So, expect both Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed to have strong fantasy days in Week 3. Olave is a low-end WR1, while Shaheed is a high-end WR3/flex play.
With A.J. Brown (hamstring) out last week, wide receiver DeVonta Smith caught seven passes for 76 yards and one touchdown. There's also a good chance Brown misses Week 3 after he told ESPN he will miss multiple weeks. That is certainly good news for Smith's fantasy value for the time being. If Marshon Lattimore -- who missed Week 2 with a hamstring injury -- also can't suit up, expect the Eagles wideout to have a big fantasy day.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Jalen Hurts
The Saints defense has had its way early on and just held the Cowboys offense to 19 points in Week 2. In that game, Dak Prescott only scored 14.9 fantasy points while throwing two interceptions. So, Jalen Hurts could have his hands full on Sunday. However, fantasy managers shouldn't be sitting Hurts. The Eagles quarterback has rushed 26 times in two weeks and his rushing upside gives him a nice fantasy floor each week.
Sunday's game against the Saints will be a tough matchup for running back Saquon Barkley. New Orleans is allowing only 3.1 yards per carry and 11.1 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing running backs across the first two weeks. Nevertheless, you aren't sitting Barkley in fantasy because of the tough matchup. He is running behind one of the best offensive lines and has totaled 52 touches already this season.
TE Taysom Hill
It's hard to really evaluate Taysom Hill in fantasy because the Saints haven't needed to use him a ton in the first couple of weeks. But he continues to play multiple positions on offense (running back, tight end, and fullback). With the Eagles allowing the most yards per carry so far this season, Hill does have some fantasy appeal this week. Just check to see if he will play this week after he injured his chest in Week 2.
Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert continues to have a high fantasy floor. In Week 1, he finished with four catches for 31 yards, and last week, he caught three passes for 38 yards. Goedert won't have many big fantasy games in this Philadelphia offense, but he can get fantasy managers somewhere between six and 10 PPR fantasy points. With Brown expected to be out again, the Eagles tight end is a low-end TE1 this week.
Injuries:
- A.J. Brown (hamstring)
- Taysom Hill (chest)
Denver Broncos at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Spread: Buccaneers -6.5
Implied Total: Broncos (16.5) vs. Buccaneers (23)
Matchups We Love:
RB Rachaad White
Fantasy managers are panicking about Rachaad White after his dreadful fantasy performance in Week 2. White only scored 3.3 PPR fantasy points last week. But there is still reason to believe in the Buccaneers running back for Week 3. He has played at least 70% of the team's offensive snaps in both games and now faces a Broncos defense that gave up the third-most fantasy points to opposing running backs last year.
Matchups We Hate:
Broncos RBs
Not many things are going right for the Broncos offense to start the year, including their rushing attack. Both Williams and Jaleel McLaughlin are averaging under 2.55 yards per carry through the first two weeks. On top of that, the Buccaneers have one of the better front sevens in the league. Even with Vita Vea (knee) possibly missing Sunday's game due to an injury, Williams and McLaughlin are not strong plays in Week 3.
WR Mike Evans
I hate putting Mike Evans on this list because he is practically a must-start in fantasy every week. But if there were a week to sit him, it's against the Broncos. Surtain should be shadowing Evans throughout the contest, and the Broncos corner held both DK Metcalf and Pickens to poor fantasy days. You likely are still starting the veteran wideout in fantasy this weekend, but expectations might need to be tempered.
TE Greg Dulcich
In most leagues you aren't starting tight end Greg Dulcich. Even despite seeing eight targets last week, he doesn't have much fantasy potential against the Buccaneers in Week 3. Tampa has allowed only 9.2 PPR fantasy points to the position in two games so far this season. So, Dulcich isn't a strong start on Sunday.
Other Matchups:
It has been a great start to the fantasy season for Baker Mayfield. He has scored at least 19 fantasy points in back-to-back games. As a result, Mayfield has emerged as a potential streaming option for fantasy managers. But the matchup against Denver isn't as great as some might think. If the Buccaneers get ahead early in this game, it could result in a poor fantasy day. Still, he comes in as a low-end QB1 this weekend.
QB Bo Nix
Bo Nix does not look like the same quarterback we saw in the preseason. The rookie has struggled big-time in his first two career starts, throwing zero touchdown passes and four interceptions. Even though the Buccaneers have given up the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season, Nix is too hard to trust in fantasy this week.
WR Chris Godwin
With Chris Godwin working mostly in the slot in 2024, that has certainly paid off for him. Through two games, he has totaled 15 catches for 200 yards and two touchdowns. Assuming Surtain does shadow Evans, look for Godwin to see more opportunities in the middle of the field. After back-to-back strong fantasy days, he is a solid WR2 against the Broncos in Week 3.
WR Courtland Sutton
On paper, the matchup for wide receiver Courtland Sutton is a great one. The Buccaneers secondary is dealing with some injuries and that unit allowed over 32 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts last year. However, Nix's inconsistencies make Sutton almost unstartable in fantasy right now. The 28-year-old has only five catches for 64 yards to begin the year.
Injuries:
- Rachaad White (groin)
Green Bay Packers at Tennessee Titans
Spread: Titans -2.5
Implied Total: Packers (17) vs. Titans (19.5)
Matchups We Love:
RB Tony Pollard
The Packers have been one of the worst teams stopping the run through the first two weeks. Barkley ran 24 times for 109 yards and two touchdowns against them in Week 1 and Jonathan Taylor averaged 8.6 yards per carry against them last week. As a result, Tony Pollard could be in for a big game in Week 3. He has totaled at least 15 carries in both games this season while playing over 60% of the offensive snaps.
RB Josh Jacobs
Jacobs has been a workhorse back for Green Bay to start the season, totaling 48 carries for 235 yards. Whether Jordan Love or Malik Willis starts at quarterback this week, Jacobs should be leaned on heavily against a Titans defense that just allowed two running backs to score over 19 PPR fantasy points (Breece Hall and Braelon Allen) in Week 2. He's a strong RB2 option on Sunday.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Will Levis
Many thought Titans quarterback Will Levis was going to improve in Year 2. However, that hasn't been the case early on, as Levis has thrown for just 319 yards, two touchdowns, and three interceptions through two weeks. Things won't get easier for him in Week 3 against the Packers either. Green Bay has forced five interceptions so far this season, making the second-year quarterback a low-end QB2 this weekend.
Other Matchups:
Packers QBs
There's a chance that Love will be ready to go on Sunday against the Titans. He has practiced in a limited fashion this week and is making significant progress from his knee injury. The team, though, could decide to rest him for another week and give Willis another start under center. If Love plays, he's a low-end QB1. If Willis draws the start, he should not be started in most Superflex formats.
Packers WRs
Whether you should start Jayden Reed in fantasy this week will depend on Love's availability. If he starts, Reed is a strong play in all formats. He totaled 33.1 PPR fantasy points in Week 1 with him under center and just 6.6 fantasy points with Willis last week. As for Christian Watson and Romeo Doubs, they should likely only be started in deeper formats if Love plays.
After just two games, it's pretty apparent Calvin Ridley is the team's WR1. He has seen 13 targets through two games while totaling 127 receiving yards. Serving as the team's WR1, though, will come with some tough matchups along the way. In Week 3, Jaire Alexander could line up opposite him. However, Alexander did give up over 100 yards in Week 1, so managers shouldn't really be worried about the potential shadow there.
At this point of the season, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins is not startable in fantasy. He continues to ramp up after dealing with a knee issue for most of training camp. He has played only 46 total snaps through two weeks and has yet to play over 50% of the offensive snaps in any games this season. So, make sure to leave Hopkins on your bench in Week 3.
Injuries:
- Jordan Love (knee)
- Jayden Reed (calf)
New York Giants at Cleveland Browns
Spread: Browns -6.5
Implied Total: Giants (16) vs. Browns (22.5)
Matchups We Love:
RB Jerome Ford
In 2023, the Giants allowed 4.7 yards per carry. Fast forward to 2024 and New York still hasn't fixed its run defense. Through two weeks, they have allowed 5.3 yards per carry. Jones rushed for 94 yards against them in Week 1 and Brian Robinson Jr. rushed for 133 yards last week. Even after seeing only seven carries in Week 2, Jerome Ford is a strong start this weekend. As for D'Onta Foreman, he could be a solid play in deeper formats.
WRs Amari Cooper
There is some reason to panic on wide receiver Amari Cooper in fantasy. While he has seen a combined 17 targets in two weeks, he has only caught five of them for a whopping 27 yards. But this is the week that we could see Cooper have one of those big games. The Giants allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to opposing wide receivers last season. That makes him a potential WR2 this week.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Daniel Jones
After quarterback Daniel Jones found himself on the love list last week and finished as the QB6, he should not be started in any format in Week 3 against the Browns. Cleveland allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks last season. In two games in 2024, they have held both Prescott and Trevor Lawrence to under 12 fantasy points. So, Jones is not a great start this week.
WR Malik Nabers
Unfortunately, Nabers will not be going up against the Commanders' secondary every week. The rookie caught 10 passes for 127 yards and one touchdown in Week 2 and finished the game with a whopping 66.7% target share. But the rookie could struggle to put up solid fantasy numbers in Week 3 against a tough Browns secondary. Cleveland allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to opposing wideouts in 2023.
Other Matchups:
It's safe to say that quarterback Deshaun Watson is not an elite fantasy option anymore. After once being a top fantasy quarterback, he has been more of a QB2 over the past few years. Even in a great matchup against the Giants secondary, Watson should only be started in Superflex formats. He has thrown just one passing touchdown this year while passing for a mere 355 yards.
Running back Devin Singletary remains a solid RB2/flex play in Week 3 against the Browns. He has played at least 70% of the offensive snaps in both games this season while totaling 31 touches. Despite Cleveland having one of the better defenses in the NFL, they are allowing five yards per carry so far in 2024. As a result, Singletary could be a fine flex option in most leagues this week.
WR Jerry Jeudy
Jerry Jeudy has been a better fantasy option than Cooper in the early going. He has totaled double-digit PPR fantasy points in both games this season while remaining a key part of Cleveland's offense. Given New York's struggles in the secondary, Jeudy could be a sneaky flex play in 12-plus team leagues.
Injuries:
- David Njoku (ankle) Still not practicing and unlikely to play
Chicago Bears at Indianapolis Colts
Spread: Colts -1.5
Implied Total: Bears (21) vs. Colts (22.5)
Matchups We Love:
Running back D'Andre Swift has yet to score in double figures in PPR formats so far this year while averaging a mere two yards per carry. However, a matchup against the Colts couldn't be any better for Swift. Indianapolis is allowing 5.1 yards per carry in 2024 and both Jacobs (151 yards) and Mixon (159 yards) rushed for over 150 yards against them in the first two weeks. So, expect a nice fantasy day from Swift in Week 3.
WR DJ Moore
The Bears offense has looked all out of sorts through the first two weeks, which has hurt DJ Moore's fantasy value. Moore has yet to score more than 11.5 PPR fantasy points in a game this year. That could change, though, in a great matchup against the Colts. With cornerback Kenny Moore II likely staying in the slot, Moore has every opportunity to have a big game. Nico Collins totaled 117 receiving yards against them back in Week 1.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Anthony Richardson
It's tough to sit Richardson in fantasy on any week because he has such a high fantasy ceiling. Just look at Week 1 against the Texans when he scored 27.1 fantasy points. As a result, I'm not necessarily sitting him against the Bears in Week 3. But expectations should be tempered with Richardson on Sunday. Chicago held Stroud to just 14.3 fantasy points last week.
Fantasy managers should think twice about starting Michael Pittman Jr. in fantasy. Through two games, Pittman has only scored a combined 12.2 PPR fantasy points. Now, he gets a potential matchup against Jaylon Johnson in the secondary. Despite Johnson not really shadowing much through the first two weeks, the Colts wideout will likely see a handful of snaps against him. That's why he should be left on benches this week.
WR Keenan Allen
Wide receiver Keenan Allen (heel) missed last week's contest, and the veteran is still not practicing as of Thursday. That certainly puts his status in jeopardy for Week 3. Even if he plays, though, fantasy managers should not be starting him against the Colts. Moore has established himself as one of the best slot corners in the league and that matchup will be tough for Allen.
Other Matchups:
With the way quarterback Caleb Williams has looked in his first two career games, it would be hard to start him as your QB1 in fantasy this week. The rookie has yet to score in double figures in fantasy this season, and he's just too much of a risk right now. Williams comes in as more of a low-end QB2 in Week 3.
RB Jonathan Taylor
It was quite a surprise to see Taylor play zero snaps in the fourth quarter last week. Colts head coach Shane Steichen said it was because the team was trailing and in obvious pass situations. However, that isn't a great sign for his fantasy value moving forward. Still, you're starting Taylor in every format this weekend in a solid matchup against a Bears defense that is giving up 4.5 yards per carry through two weeks.
WR Alec Pierce
Pierce is definitely Richardson's fantasy deep-threat target. Through two weeks, the Colts wideout ranks sixth in the NFL in air yards (225) and second in target depth (ADOT) at 22.5. Those stats have certainly worked out well for him to begin the season, as he has scored at least 16 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games. That big-play ability makes him a potential flex option in some leagues this weekend.
WR Rome Odunze
Even if Allen doesn't suit up in Week 3, Rome Odunze is not a strong start in fantasy this weekend. Odunze has not been a major part of Chicago's offense through two games. The rookie has only seen nine targets while reeling three of those for 44 yards. As a result, it's best to leave the 22-year-old wideout on your bench in fantasy in Week 3.
Injuries:
- Keenan Allen (heel)
- Josh Downs (ankle)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Afternoon Games
Carolina Panthers at Las Vegas Raiders
Spread: Raiders -5.5
Implied Total: Panthers (17.5) vs. Raiders (23)
Matchups We Love:
RB Zamir White
Fantasy managers might be hesitant to start running back Zamir White this week. He has yet to score above seven PPR fantasy points and continues to split work with Alexander Mattison. However, this is the one week you should be starting him. The Panthers have allowed the second-most rush yards (333) to opposing running backs this season and the fourth-most fantasy points. Make sure to get White in your lineups.
Running back Chuba Hubbard is another player fantasy managers might be scared to start this week -- even in a great matchup. But as long as this game is close, Hubbard should see plenty of opportunities in Week 3. The Raiders are allowing 6.1 yards per carry through two weeks and both Dobbins and Derrick Henry scored a touchdown against them this year. So, the Panthers back is a solid flex play this week.
If you have wide receiver Davante Adams in fantasy, you should not be sitting him by any means. Adams is coming off a nine-catch, 110-yard, one-touchdown performance in Week 2 and now faces a Panthers secondary that just allowed Johnston to have a career game. Cornerback Jaycee Horn might be the primary defender on Adams, but the All-Pro wideout should have his way on Sunday.
TE Brock Bowers
Tight end Brock Bowers has caught 15 passes for 156 yards in his first two career games. In both games, the 21-year-old scored double-digit fantasy points in PPR formats and caught at least six passes. After scoring 18.8 PPR fantasy points against a tough Ravens defense last week, the rookie now gets a Panthers secondary that is giving up over 18 PPR fantasy points per game this year. That makes Bowers a must-start this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Quarterback Gardner Minshew III did his job last week by getting his playmakers (Adams and Bowers) the ball. That helped him finish with 276 yards and one touchdown en route to a QB17 fantasy finish. However, Minshew is not a strong start in one-quarterback leagues even against the Panthers. Dating back to last season, the 28-year-old has failed to score over 18 fantasy points in 10 of his last 12 games.
QB Andy Dalton
With quarterback Bryce Young being benched, Andy Dalton will make his season debut on Sunday against the Raiders. Dalton hasn't made many starts over the past two years but did score 23.5 fantasy points in his only start last season. It would be tough, though, to rely on him in Superflex formats this weekend.
Panthers WRs
With Dalton now taking over under center, both Diontae Johnson and Adam Thielen should be better fantasy plays moving forward. Both wideouts caught five passes in the team's first two games and failed to make a fantasy impact. But that should change with the veteran now under center. Last year, Thielen scored 31.5 PPR fantasy points with Dalton as his quarterback in Week 3.
So, both Thielen and Johnson should see more opportunities in the passing game moving forward. It's still somewhat of a risk to start either in fantasy this week because we don't really know how this offense will look. That's why Johnson will come in as a WR3, while Thielen could be a solid flex play in deeper formats.
Injuries:
- Jonathon Brooks (knee)
Miami Dolphins at Seattle Seahawks
Spread: Seahawks -4.5
Implied Total: Dolphins (18.5) vs. Seahawks (23)
Matchups We Love:
Seahawks RBs
Running back Kenneth Walker III (oblique) is still not practicing, so it could be another Zach Charbonnet day. Whoever starts for Seattle's backfield this week should be in for a strong fantasy day against the Dolphins. Miami just allowed James Cook to run all over them last week and Tank Bigsby ran for 73 yards against them in Week 1. As a result, Charbonnet is a must-start in fantasy this week.
Matchups We Hate:
With Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) going on injured reserve earlier this week, it appears the team will roll with Skylar Thompson for the time being. However, he should not be added or started in many leagues. In three career starts, Thompson has thrown for 538 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. So, he's better left on waivers.
Dolphins WRs
Given Tagovailoa's recent concussion, both Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle will not necessarily be strong plays moving forward. In three career starts with Thompson under center, Hill averaged 11.2 PPR fantasy points, while Waddle averaged 7.9 PPR fantasy points. So, both aren't necessarily must-starts in Week 3 against the Seahawks. You probably are still starting Hill, but Waddle is an extremely risky flex play this week.
Other Matchups:
QB Geno Smith
In consecutive weeks, Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith has finished as the QB7 in fantasy. He'll now head into Week 3 with a great matchup against a Dolphins defense that gave up the ninth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks last year. With a solid wide receiver trio in Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Smith is a high-end QB2 this weekend.
Running back De'Von Achane will enter Week 3 following an impressive 29.5 PPR fantasy points against the Bills. While losing Tagovailoa is not great for the Dolphins offense as a whole, Achane shouldn't lose too much value. With a young, inexperienced quarterback under center, the explosive running back should continue to see plenty of targets in the passing game. As a result, you're starting him in fantasy on Sunday.
WR DK Metcalf
Metcalf is coming off a monster performance in Week 2, catching 10 passes for 129 yards and one touchdown. Now, the 26-year-old could potentially have a matchup against cornerback Jalen Ramsey in Week 3. Ramsey has only allowed two catches for 40 yards through the first two weeks, but that shouldn't really hurt the wideout's fantasy value this weekend. Last week, Metcalf held his own against Christian Gonzalez.
WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba
The breakout we have all been waiting for finally occurred last week with Smith-Njigba. The second-year wideout caught 12 of 16 targets for 117 yards while playing 83% of the team's offensive snaps. It's apparent the Seahawks want to get their young wide receiver more involved on offense and that's a good sign for his fantasy value the rest of the year.
With a matchup against Kader Kohou in the slot, he can easily build on that performance in Week 3. Smith-Njigba is a solid WR2 this week.
Injuries:
- DK Metcalf (hand)
- Kenneth Walker (oblique)
- Tua Tagovailoa (concussion)
Baltimore Ravens at Dallas Cowboys
Spread: Ravens -1.5
Implied Total: Ravens (25) vs. Cowboys (23.5)
Matchups We Love:
RB Derrick Henry
Through two weeks, fantasy managers likely aren't too happy they chose Henry early in drafts. He has yet to play more than 46% of the offensive snaps and remains non-existent in the passing game. However, Henry remains a must-start, especially in Week 3 against the Cowboys. Dallas is allowing the most fantasy points to opposing running backs so far this season while giving up four rushing touchdowns.
WR CeeDee Lamb
Cowboys wide receiver Ceedee Lamb is dealing with an ankle injury, but he should be fine to suit up on Sunday. While you will be starting Lamb no matter what, he has a great matchup in Week 3 against Baltimore's secondary. The Ravens have allowed the sixth-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts so far in 2024 and Adams just had a strong fantasy day against this defense in Week 2.
Cowboys tight end Jake Ferguson is still not fully practicing following a knee injury he suffered in Week 1. However, he is certainly on pace to play in Week 3 against the Ravens. If he does suit up, he should be started in most cases because he has a great matchup this weekend. Baltimore just allowed nine catches for 98 yards to Bowers last week, so Ferguson is a strong TE1 on Sunday.
Cowboys TE Jake Ferguson (knee) returned to practice yesterday after missing one game with his injury suffered vs. Cleveland.
He was back on the field again today with his knee wrap. pic.twitter.com/vq85LVuyj9
— Nick Harris (@NickHarrisFWST) September 19, 2024
Matchups We Hate:
Cowboys RBs
No Cowboys running back has really established themselves as the team's RB1. Both Ezekiel Elliott and Rico Dowdle continue to evenly split reps out of the backfield, which has certainly hurt their fantasy value. Both Elliott and Dowdle will almost be unstartable moving forward, especially in Week 3 against a vicious Ravens' run defense. Baltimore is allowing only 2.7 yards per carry through two games so far this year.
Other Matchups:
QB Dak Prescott
No team has allowed more passing yards (567) than the Ravens through two weeks of the season. In Week 1, Patrick Mahomes threw for 291 yards and one touchdown, and then last week, Minshew threw for 276 yards and one touchdown. So, there is some appeal in starting quarterback Dak Prescott in fantasy this week. Baltimore clearly has some holes in its secondary, making Prescott a low-end QB1 this weekend.
Lamar Jackson's rushing upside gives him a high fantasy floor and ceiling each week. That has helped him finish as a top-10 fantasy quarterback in each of the first two weeks. As a result, you aren't sitting him in fantasy against the Cowboys in Week 3.
WR Zay Flowers
There's no doubt that wide receiver Zay Flowers has turned into Jackson's favorite target in the passing game. He has seen double-digit targets in back-to-back games and just finished as the WR12 in PPR formats last week against the Raiders. With Flowers working primarily in the slot, he should avoid Trevon Diggs in the secondary. That makes him a strong WR2 option in fantasy this weekend.
The consistency from wide receiver Brandin Cooks in fantasy is not quite there. After scoring 14.5 PPR fantasy points in Week 1, Cooks followed that up by totaling only 3.6 PPR fantasy points last week. The good news for him heading into Week 3 is that Baltimore has allowed the most passing yards through two weeks, so Dallas could decide to lean on the passing attack this weekend. That makes the veteran a potential flex play.
Ravens TEs
In Week 1, Isaiah Likely outscored Mark Andrews in PPR formats. But the roles were reversed last week, as Andrews (9.1 PPR fantasy points) outscored Likely (4.6 PPR fantasy points). Given the veteran's involvement in Week 2, he should remain a TE1 against the Cowboys. However, Likely will come in as more of a low-end TE1. He didn't play over 50% of the offensive snaps last week and only saw three targets in the contest.
Injuries:
- CeeDee Lamb (ankle)
- Jake Ferguson (knee)
Detroit Lions at Arizona Cardinals
Spread: Lions -3
Implied Total: Lions (27.75) vs. Cardinals (24.75)
Matchups We Love:
QB Jared Goff
It has been a rough few fantasy weeks for quarterback Jared Goff, as he has yet to score more than 12.5 fantasy points in any game this season. As a result, fantasy managers might be hesitant to start him this week. However, the matchup against the Cardinals secondary makes him an intriguing fantasy option in Week 3. Arizona has allowed the third-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks so far this season.
QB Kyler Murray
Quarterback Kyler Murray is coming off a QB1 fantasy finish in Week 2, where he scored 28.5 fantasy points against the Rams. Now, the Cardinals quarterback goes up against a Lions secondary that has allowed the fifth-most passing yards (502) through two weeks. Given Murray's upside also on the ground, he is a strong QB1 option in Week 3.
It appears wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown is fine after injuring his leg in last week's game. Coming off an 11-catch for 119-yard performance in Week 2, St. Brown will enter this week as a must-start option in all formats. The Cardinals have allowed the ninth-most fantasy points to wide receivers in the first two weeks.
It's safe to say that wide receiver Jameson Williams has been one of the best fantasy value picks this year. Williams has caught 10 passes for 200 yards and one touchdown through two weeks and is currently the WR7 in PPR formats. With the matchup against Arizona's secondary being a favorable one, it's hard to sit the 23-year-old wideout in fantasy this week. He has seen at least nine targets in both games this season.
WR Marvin Harrison Jr.
After finishing as the WR103 in Week 1, Harrison finished as the overall WR1 last week behind a four-catch, 130-yard, two-touchdown performance. He'll look to now carry that momentum into Week 3 against a Lions defense that certainly has holes in the secondary. Through two weeks, they have allowed the second-most fantasy points to opposing wideouts. The rookie should be in for a strong fantasy day again.
Matchups We Hate:
RB James Conner
The hardest decision fantasy managers might have to make this week is whether to start running back James Conner. Conner has been fantastic in the early going, scoring over 19 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games. However, the veteran might struggle in Week 3 against the Lions. Detroit has allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs through two weeks. That makes the Cardinals back a risky RB2 this week.
Other Matchups:
Lions RBs
Surprisingly, the Cardinals have been a solid run defense so far, holding opposing running backs to just 3.1 yards per carry. In Week 1, Cook averaged 3.74 yards per carry, and last week, Kyren Williams averaged 2.1 yards per carry. So, it could be a tougher day for both David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs on the ground. Given Gibbs' potential in the passing game, though, he is a must-start while Montgomery is a low-end RB2.
TE Trey McBride
If you have tight end Trey McBride, you are starting him no matter the matchup. He has finished as a top-12 tight end in both weeks in 2024 and just scored 18.7 PPR fantasy points last week against the Rams. Since the way to beat the Lions is through the air, McBride should be in for a strong fantasy day in Week 3.
TE Sam LaPorta
It has been a disappointing start to the season for tight end Sam LaPorta. He has only scored 11.8 PPR fantasy points combined through the first two weeks and is coming off a TE30 fantasy finish in Week 2. Still, you likely aren't sitting LaPorta this week -- unless you also have someone Bowers on your roster.
Injuries:
None
San Francisco 49ers at Los Angeles Rams
Spread: 49ers -7.5
Implied Total: 49ers (25.5) vs. Rams (18)
Matchups We Love:
QB Brock Purdy
It has not been a strong start to the season for quarterback Brock Purdy. He has failed to score above 15 fantasy points in both weeks and now he will be missing two of his top playmakers (Christian McCaffrey and Deebo Samuel Sr.) in Week 3. But this matchup against the Rams couldn't be better for Purdy. Los Angeles has allowed the fourth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks in 2024, making Purdy a QB1 option this week.
RB Jordan Mason
In two starts this season, Jordan Mason has 48 carries for 247 yards and two touchdowns while seeing 81% of the offensive snaps. While his involvement in the passing game is minimal -- only two catches for nine yards -- his potential in the running game makes him a must-start option in fantasy for as long as McCaffrey is out. Oh and now he gets a matchup against a Rams defense that has allowed 4.99 yards per carry this year.
After missing all of training camp, it has taken wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk some time to get going. Through two weeks, he has just six catches for 71 yards. However, in Week 3 against the Rams, we could finally see Aiyuk have a strong game. The 26-year-old has caught at least seven passes for over 80 receiving yards in three of the last four games that Samuel has been out. So, make sure to get him into your lineups this week.
TE George Kittle
With Samuel out, Kittle should also get a big boost in the passing game. He has caught at least seven passes and totaled over 75 receiving yards in three of the past four games that the wideout has missed. As a result, he should be started in all formats this weekend. The Rams have also allowed the second-most fantasy points to tight ends this season. Just make sure he plays this week after he suffered a hamstring injury in practice.
Matchups We Hate:
Tight end Colby Parkinson had a quiet Week 2 performance, only catching one pass for 12 yards. Unfortunately, things might not get better for him in Week 3 against a 49ers defense that is great at shutting down opposing tight ends. This year, San Francisco is allowing only 2.4 PPR fantasy points per game to the position. So, Parkinson is more of a TE2 this week.
Other Matchups:
Quarterback Matthew Stafford will try to beat the defending NFC champions without Cooper Kupp (ankle) and Puka Nacua (knee). That certainly seems like a tough task for any quarterback. With his top two wideouts not playing in this game, it's hard to trust Stafford in fantasy in Week 3 against the 49ers.
RB Kyren Williams
Williams has struggled on the ground to start the season. He is only averaging 2.5 yards per carry and part of that reason is because of the team's offensive line injuries. However, expect the Rams to really lean on him on Sunday with both Kupp and Nacua out. Williams has seen at least 16 touches in both games, and the 49ers are allowing 4.9 yards per carry through two weeks. He is a low-end RB1 option this week.
Wide receiver Demarcus Robinson should step into the WR1 role for the Rams following the injuries to Kupp and Nacua. Robinson thrived in Los Angeles' offense late last season and averaged over 15 PPR fantasy points from Week 13 to Week 17. So, he could be an interesting flex play in most 12-plus team leagues in Week 3.
Injuries:
- Puka Nacua (knee)
- Cooper Kupp (ankle)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Kansas City Chiefs at Atlanta Falcons
Spread: Chiefs -3.5
Implied Total: Chiefs (25) vs. Colts (21.5)
Matchups We Love:
TE Kyle Pitts
Kyle Pitts continues to be a subpar fantasy option, as he has seen just seven targets through two weeks. Well, if there were a week for him to have a big game it would be against the Chiefs. Kansas City has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing tight ends to start the season. Likely scored over 26 PPR fantasy points in Week 1, and Mike Gesicki had over 16 PPR fantasy points last week. Therefore, you should be starting Pitts this week.
Matchups We Hate:
WR Drake London
London might be more of an inconsistent fantasy option than managers might have thought entering the year. Despite scoring 17.4 PPR fantasy points last week, it might be tough to rely on him to finish as a top-30 option in Week 3. Cornerback Trent McDuffie should be following him in this game, and McDuffie did a nice job against Ja'Marr Chase last week. As a result, London is a low-end WR2 this weekend.
Other Matchups:
QB Patrick Mahomes
It has been a while since Mahomes has finished as a top-five fantasy quarterback in a week. As a matter of fact,the last time he finished as the QB5 or better was back in Week 7 of the 2023 season. So, some fantasy managers might be hesitant to start the Chiefs quarterback in fantasy this week. But you shouldn't be sitting him this week because he can go off on any given week.
QB Kirk Cousins
Quarterback Kirk Cousins was a much better fantasy option last week, scoring 17.5 fantasy points against the Eagles. However, it's too hard to trust him as your QB1 in fantasy in Week 3 -- even against a Chiefs defense that allowed back-to-back solid fantasy days to Jackson and Joe Burrow.
Chiefs RBs
No one knows how the Chiefs backfield will play out with Isiah Pacheco (fibula) on injured reserve. Carson Steele could see the early-down work, while Samaje Perine could be the primary receiving back. Add in Kareem Hunt -- who was signed to the practice squad this week -- and this backfield becomes really messy for fantasy purposes. So fantasy managers shouldn't start Steele, Perine, or Hunt until we see it play out first.
#Chiefs OC Matt Nagy says that there's a lot of confidence in RB Carson Steele.
He adds, 'He's probably as ready as he could possibly be for being a young rookie player in this position.' pic.twitter.com/XFBLk4V2UL
— Sports Radio 810 WHB (@SportsRadio810) September 19, 2024
RB Bijan Robinson
It doesn't matter who Robinson goes up against, you are definitely starting him every week. He has totaled at least 18 touches and 110 yards from scrimmage in both games this season. With the Chiefs allowing 4.8 yards per carry so far in 2024, the Falcons running back could have his best fantasy day yet in Week 3.
WR Rashee Rice
Wide receiver Rashee Rice will continue to be a strong WR2 in fantasy this week against the Falcons. Rice has scored over 17 PPR fantasy points in both of his games this season while totaling at least 75 receiving yards in each contest. With Marquise Brown (shoulder) out of the season, there's no reason why the Chiefs wideout can't continue to be a consistent fantasy option for fantasy managers.
Wide receiver Xavier Worthy will likely be a boom-or-bust option for most of his rookie season. That has certainly been the case through his first two career games. Worthy scored over 20 PPR fantasy points in Week 1 against the Ravens but followed that up by scoring a mere 4.2 PPR fantasy points last week. That high ceiling and low floor in fantasy make him a risky flex option this week.
TE Travis Kelce
Travis Kelce has been one of the bigger disappointments at tight end in the early going. Through two weeks, he ranks as the TE28 in PPR formats. Kelce hasn't really been involved through the first two weeks but the Chiefs also haven't needed to air it out 40-plus times a game. With Mahomes throwing just 25 attempts last week and Pacheco now on IR, Kelce should be more involved moving forward. He's a TE1 this week.
Injuries:
- Isiah Pacheco (fibula)
Matchups Analysis - Monday Night Football
Jacksonville Jaguars at Buffalo Bills
Spread: Bills -5.5
Implied Total: Jaguars (20) vs. Bills (25.5)
Matchups We Love:
QB Josh Allen
It was a strange game for quarterback Josh Allen in Week 2, as he threw for just 139 yards and one touchdown against the Dolphins. But expect him to put up his usual big numbers against the Jaguars in Week 3. Jacksonville has allowed the third-most passing yards (524) and the eighth-most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season.
Many fantasy managers are panicking about Travis Etienne after just two weeks. He has scored less than 15 PPR fantasy points in back-to-back games while finishing outside the top 18 at the running back position in both weeks. However, look for the young back to have his best fantasy day against a Bills defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points to running backs this year. That makes Etienne a must-start option.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Trevor Lawrence
Lawrence has not looked great under center so far in 2024. He has thrown for less than 225 yards in both games this season while completing just 51% of his passes through the air. Now, he faces a Bills defense that shut down Murray in Week 1 and Tagovailoa in Week 2. As a result, fantasy managers should stay away from the Jaguars quarterback in fantasy on Monday night.
Jaguars WRs
Through two weeks, the Bills have done a great job locking down the opposing team's top wideouts. In Week 1, Harrison was held to just one catch and last week both Hill and Waddle combined for only 15.1 PPR fantasy points. That is not great news for Brian Thomas Jr., Gabe Davis, and Christian Kirk this week. Kirk is a must-sit after catching one pass last week while Thomas and Davis are risky flex plays.
Other Matchups:
RB James Cook
The Jaguars are allowing only 3.8 yards per carry to start the season, but Cook remains a strong play against them in Week 3. He is coming off a three-touchdown performance and is the clear RB1 in Buffalo's backfield. So, make sure to get the third-year back in your starting lineups this week.
Bills WRs
After two weeks, there has been no Bills wide receiver who has taken the WR1 role in this offense. Khalil Shakir appears to be the best option in this offense right now after totaling double-digit PPR fantasy points in both games this season. He'll be a borderline flex play in Week 3 against the Jaguars. As for Keon Coleman, he only saw one target last week, so it's best to leave him on your bench on Monday.
We have yet to see tight end Dalton Kincaid make a major impact on offense through the first two weeks. Kincaid has only five receptions for 44 yards to begin the season. However, it's obvious that Buffalo wants to get him more involved on offense moving forward. Despite Jacksonville only allowing 2.7 PPR fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this year, the Bills playmaker is still a low-end TE1 in Week 3.
Injuries:
None
Washington Commanders at Cincinnati Bengals
Spread: Bengals -7.5
Implied Total: Commanders (20.5) vs. Bengals (28)
Matchups We Love:
QB Joe Burrow
Burrow in fantasy, you are starting him against this Commanders defense in Week 3. Washington has given up the most fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season and both Mayfield (QB2) and Jones (QB6) finished as top-six fantasy options. As a result, Burrow should be in for a monster fantasy day on Monday. Start him as your QB1 in Week 3.
WR Ja'Marr Chase
Fantasy managers who own Chase must stay patient. Despite delivering subpar fantasy performances in Week 1 and Week 2, the Bengals wideout should have a fantastic game in Week 3. Washington has allowed the most fantasy points to opposing wideouts this season, and Nabers just scored 28.7 PPR fantasy points against that secondary in Week 2. Expect a big game from Chase on Monday night.
WR Tee Higgins
It remains to be seen if Tee Higgins (hamstring) will be ready to go in Week 3. If he does, Higgins will almost definitely be on a snap count. So, that could scare some fantasy managers from starting him this week. Still, against this Commanders secondary, he should see plenty of opportunities in the passing game. He'll come in as a WR3 on Monday in a great matchup.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Quarterback Jayden Daniels has rushed 26 times in the first two weeks and that rushing upside makes him a weekly QB1. Even though he scored just 13.4 fantasy points against the Giants last week, Daniels' high fantasy floor makes him a low-end QB1 against the Bengals in Week 3. Cincinnati has allowed the seventh-most rush yards (61) to opposing quarterbacks so far this season.
RB Zack Moss
After two weeks, it's obvious that Zack Moss is the Bengals' RB1. Moss has played at least 65% of the team's offensive snaps in both games this season. While Moss hasn't done very much with his opportunities to begin the year, the potential is there for him to be a strong flex play in Week 3. The Commanders are allowing over 4.5 yards per carry in 2024.
Robinson continues to impress out of Washington's backfield. In both games this season, he has scored at least 14.5 PPR fantasy points. Last week, he ran for 133 yards against the Giants. As a result, Robinson is a solid RB2 in fantasy this week against a Bengals defense that is allowing over 20 PPR fantasy points to opposing running backs in 2024.
At this point of the season, wide receiver Terry McLaurin should not be started in most formats. He has yet to score in double figures and has finished as the WR70 (Week 1) and WR80 (Week 2) in PPR formats. Until we see a solid game from him it's probably best to leave him on your bench for the time being.
TE Mike Gesicki
Gesicki has been one of the most added tight ends in fantasy this week. The Bengals playmaker totaled seven catches for 91 yards and will enter Week 3 with a 20.6% target share on the season. Given how poor Washington's secondary has looked this season, Gesicki is a sneaky tight-end option this week.
Injuries:
None
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