Fantasy Football Week 6 Starts of the Week: A Monster Day for Montgomery?
After a few unexpected byes and schedule changes, several teams are faced with new opponents. Through five weeks we have gotten a better understanding of matchups to exploit and matchups to avoid, but at the end of the day, nothing is certain. With that being said, here are some players that I believe are positioned for some big performances.
Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions, Quarterback
Coming off a bye, Matthew Stafford and the Lions should be fully rested in what could be a high scoring matchup against the Jaguars this weekend. In the past three weeks, the Jaguars defense has surrendered at least 30 points and have allowed quarterbacks to throw for 300-plus yards or score multiple touchdowns in every game. These are both teams with poor defenses, but have the ability to put up points on offense, setting up for a potential shootout. With this type of game script, Stafford should see plenty of scoring opportunities and with the talented pass catchers at his arsenal, he could be in for a big day.
Honorable Mentions: Gardner Minshew II, Ryan Fitzpatrick
David Montgomery, Chicago Bears, Running Back
In what looked like a tough matchup, Montgomery was able to produce a solid fantasy performance last Thursday night. He should be able to continue that production against a much more favorable Carolina defense that has allowed a running back to score in every game and go over 100 scrimmage yards in four of five weeks. With Cohen out for the season, Montgomery has seen an increase in targets, receiving season highs in his last two contests. Given how successful running backs have been against this defense, Montgomery has the chance to blow up this weekend.
Honorable Mentions: Jonathan Taylor, James Robinson
DeVante Parker, Miami Dolphins, Wide Receiver
Parker has been the most reliable option on his offense, leading the team in receiving or finishing with 50-plus yards and a touchdown in every game. This Sunday he goes up against a Jets defense that surrendered 380 passing yards and allowed DeAndre Hopkins to go off for six receptions, 131 yards, and a touchdown last weekend. Parker’s consistency and chemistry with his quarterback should allow him to see plenty of targets and take advantage of a favorable matchup.
Honorable Mentions: CeeDee Lamb, Juju Smith-Schuster
Zach Ertz, Tight End, Philadelphia Eagles
It’s been a disappointing start for Zach Ertz, but it’s only a matter of time before we see a bounce-back performance. Although the Ravens present a difficult matchup this weekend, they haven’t been as successful shutting down tight ends. The emergence of Fulgham and Philadelphia’s pass-catchers getting healthy could take away attention from Ertz, opening him up and allowing him to see more opportunities.
Honorable Mentions: Mike Gesicki, T.J. Hockenson
New England Patriots, D/ST
Bellicheck’s defense should be more than ready to take on the Denver Broncos after getting an unexpected bye week to prepare. With several injuries and off the field issues to key starters on Denver’s offense, the Patriots should have no problem taking advantage of a short-handed Broncos team.
Honorable Mentions: Indianapolis Colts, Chicago Bears
Writer
-By: Sunny Choudhury