So, I gotta ask. After another subpar performance from the offense of both teams on Thursday night, are we ready to just bench all our fantasy players for future TNF games? Bet the under on every TNF game? Both? Okay, maybe I’m overreacting, but that’s kind of the point of this weekly column. If you have been here before, you know what to expect, and I thank you more than you know for continuing to check these out. We have a terrific team here that works incredibly hard at The Fantasy Doctors (TFD), and I hope you all continue to ride with us! Let’s recap the game that occurred on Thursday night, review some of last week’s bold predictions, and then discuss some of the talk/headlines ahead of the upcoming slate of games. Are these headlines just some of us talkin’ crazy? Or is the talk legit? Let’s roll.
Commanders 12, Bears 7
Commander top performer(s): A changing of the guard in Washington. News dropped a few hours before game time that Brian Robinson Jr, the rookie RB from Alabama, who somehow got shot through the knee in the preseason and avoided structural damage, was going to be RB1. First off, his story is absolutely incredible. If you aren’t rooting for this kid you must have a heart the size of the Grinch (before it grew). Amazing storyline. Plus, he looked damn good running the ball. Finished with 17 carries for 60 yards and found the endzone in a game that didn’t offer too many exciting moments. In a game where Carson Wentz didn’t break 100 yards passing, Robinson was the star here. Word is Wentz fractured a finger on his throwing hand, and is going to see a specialist in the next few days. This is something to monitor. While some may think a fractured finger is nothing, it could be more complicated than that. He could have additional damage to various structures of the finger, kind of like Russell Wilson last year. If Wentz were to miss time, it would be Taylor Heinicke as the next man up. Bears top performer(s): Man, I really thought the Bear’s offense was going to show up in this one. Facing a pretty soft Washington defense, they still struggled to execute and finish drives. Darnell Mooney continues to develop stronger chemistry by the week with Justin Fields but still belongs on fantasy benches. As for the fantasy star of the game for Chicago, I’m going with Justin Fields. With bye weeks beginning this week, Fields could offer some upside for folks in need of a replacement. Passed for almost 200 yards in this one and gained an additional 88 yards rushing. If he could limit turnovers & get more production from his skill players, Fields’ ceiling would elevate significantly.
Last Week’s Headlines:
Russell Wilson is Washed Verdict: Talkin’ Crazy. Russ is dealing with a partially torn lat muscle. Clearly affecting the way he throws, especially the deep ball. When this info dropped, his struggles this year made much more sense. Bailey Zappe Will Lead the Pats to a W over the Lions Verdict: Legitimate. Man, I nailed this one. Had a feeling Belichick and the defense would show up, and boy did they. Saquon Barkley Will Finish the Season as RB1 Verdict: Legitimate. This is still TBD, but it looks like it has a strong chance. Nick Chubb is making a case as well. The Steelers Will be Blown Out By The Bills Verdict: Talkin’ Crazy. Yeah, I botched this one, badly. Thought the Steelers would at least show up somewhat, but they didn’t. Could be a LONG season for the black & yellow faithful.
Miscellaneous Quick Hits:
I picked the Jets to top the Dolphins, which happened. The Bucs did not bounce back as strongly as I thought they would, but more on them below. The Chiefs also did not blow out the Raiders, but Patrick Mahomes continues to creep into the MVP conversation. Also, Wentz did not get benched in the Tennessee game, but did offer another costly turnover, which seems to be a pattern. Overall, not too shabby results from the predictions of last week. Let’s dive into this week. The Bucs Will Finally Breakout This Week They are playing the Steelers. The Steeler’s defense, especially their secondary, has been awful the last few weeks. Fire up ALL Bucs this week. Brady, Fournette, Evans, Godwin, and even Gage. Do it. Verdict: Legitimate The Dolphins Are In Trouble: After starting the season 3-0, the Dolphins have dropped the last 2 games, and face a tough Minnesota team this week. Skylar Thompson is starting again, due to injuries and Teddy and Tua. While they may be in trouble this week, I’m not concerned long-term. Tua has cleared concussion protocol, and will be starting next week against a soft Pittsburgh defense. Don’t expect much from the Dolphins this week, but I would definitely start Hill, Waddle, and Mostert. Verdict: Talkin’ Crazy. No Steelers Are Fantasy Worthy This Week: This is a tough one. I love Najee Harris as a player. The guy is tough and as talented as they come. I also like George Pickens & Diontae Johnson. BUT, I’m not touching ANY Steelers players this week. Kenny Pickett, in his second career start, gets a tough Tampa Bay defense. I’m benching all Steelers this week. Verdict: Legitimate.
Miscellaneous Quick Hits:
Davante Adams should NOT be suspended. He apologized, was charged with a crime, and will pay a fine. That’s it. Let’s not get carried away. Remember when some folks were saying be careful of Travis Kelce & his age? The inevitable decline was coming? Yeah, I wasn’t buying it then, and sure as hell am not buying it now. When he hangs it up, we will be talking about him as one of the top tight ends there ever was. Rhamondre Stevenson is going to have another HUGE game. Book it. The Chiefs get their partial revenge and beat Buffalo in a crazy game. Well, let’s see how these all play out. See you next week!
