The below list is not designed as a sit/start type article. Rather, it is aimed at trying to refocus some of our expectations. These will be players that you may be relying on heavily for big points each week, but for some identified reason, the player may not be as productive as usual. Here are the Top 5 players that could underperform in Week 9… manage your expectations accordingly.
1. Matt Ryan Quarterback, Atlanta Falcons
What a tough year it has been for Ryan and the Falcons. Injuries to star wide receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White, and starting running back Steven Jackson have left the Falcons offense a shell of its former self and have greatly contributed to the 2-5 start for the perennial playoff contenders. Last week, Ryan finished with four interceptions and a quarterback rating of 47.2. It’s not all Ryan’s fault. He simply does not have the weapons to compete. But that’s not changing this week and he faces an outstanding Panthers defense. Carolina is third in total defense (301.4). They allow the second fewest fantasy points by opposing quarterbacks (11.02) and have only allowed six passing touchdowns all year (second fewest). Ryan is not a top 12 fantasy quarterback this week, and even with six teams on bye, he should not be started.
Better Option: Jake Locker
2. Vincent Jackson Wide Receiver, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jackson has been a lone bright spot for the winless and dysfunctional Buccaneers. He has a solid 623 yards and four touchdowns on the season. Since the switch to rookie quarterback Mike Glennon four weeks ago, Jackson has had at least 11 targets each week. This week, however, has all the makings of an embarrassing shutout, as the Bucs travel to Seattle. The Seahawks defense is exceptional anywhere, but at home, they morph into a giant Diekembe Mutombo finger, denying any and all offense. They are third in the league against the pass, allowing only 184 yards per game. They are also sixth in fantasy points to opposing wide receivers (16.43) and first in points by opposing quarterbacks (10.20). Look for this game to get out of hand quickly.
Better Option: Keenan Allen
3. Fred Jackson Running Back, Buffalo Bills
Jackson has been a top 10 fantasy running back so far this season. He practiced in full on Thursday and should be able to play despite a knee injury. Those are the good things. He plays against Kansas City this weekend. That’s the bad. Looks like Bills starting quarterback Thaddeus Lewis will be unable to play this weekend, meaning this is the third straight week that the Chiefs will face a third string quarterback. Look for them to stack the box and force either Jeff Tuel or Matt Flynn to beat them. The Chiefs rank fifth in total defense and allow the fifth fewest points to opposing fantasy running backs (12.78). With all the byes, it is unlikely many can afford to bench Jackson, so hope for a goal line carry.
Better Option: Le’Veon Bell
4. Tom Brady Quarterback, New England
Brady and the Patriots offense have been out of sync all year. Granted, Brady has not had the best weapons around him, but he has not played like the quarterback we all expect. He is locking on to one target and has become very predictable. Maybe he just doesn’t trust the people around him. Whatever the reason, he is not a starting fantasy quarterback right now. He has less fantasy points than Geno Smith. This week doesn’t look like the week for Brady and the Patriots to get back on track. The Steelers have allowed the fewest passing touchdowns of any team in the league (5) and allow the fourth fewest fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks (12.33)
Better Option: Terrelle Pryor
5. Torrey Smith Wide Receiver, Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens offense hasn’t been clicking on all cylinders this year, they rank 25th in total offense. While the running game has certainly been the bigger let down, the passing game has lacked explosiveness as well. Smith ranks 11th in the league in receiving yards, but has only found the end zone once. This week the Ravens take on the divisional rival Browns. The Browns allow the seventh fewest fantasy points to opposing wide receivers (17.36). Smith should be covered by Joe Haden, one of the best corners in the league right now. Look for Smith to struggle.
Better Option: Jarrett Boykin