Fantasy Football Week 7 Starts of the Week: Bounce Back for Big Ben?
After some unexpected performances last week, this has just been a reminder of how unpredictable this season can be. We are at that point in the season where draft capital should not always determine your starting lineups. It is important not to count players out after a down week or chase previous performances but rather evaluate the outcome and what caused them. With that being said, here are some players that I believe are positioned for a big week.
Ben Roethlisberger, Pittsburgh Steelers, Quarterback
After throwing for multiple touchdowns in every game, Roethlisberger’s streak came to an end in a blowout win last Sunday. He should be able to bounce back against a Titans defense that after week 1, has allowed multiple scores to quarterbacks in each contest and got torched for 335 passing yards and four touchdowns to Deshaun Watson last weekend. With two undefeated teams set to face off, this should be a more competitive matchup, forcing Roethlisberger to throw the ball. Given the emergence of Chase Claypool and Diontae Johnson getting healthy, Big Ben could be for a big day in a potential shootout.
Honorable Mentions: Matt Ryan, Matthew Stafford
David Johnson, Houston Texans, Running Back
Although David Johnson has been a reliable fantasy option, he hasn’t exploded since week 1. This could change as he faces a Packers defense that has allowed a running back to score multiple touchdowns and eclipse 50 rushing yards in four of their last five games. Coming off a game where they surrendered 113 scrimmage yards and two scores to Ronald Jones, Johnson could be in for a big performance as long as he continues to receive his touches.
Honorable Mentions: Ronald Jones II, Todd Gurley II
Tyler Lockett, Seattle Seahawks, Wide Receiver
In their last two games, Metcalf has outshined Lockett, outproducing him in both contests. This could turn around this weekend as the Seahawks take on a division rival that Metcalf struggled with last season. In both matchups against the Arizona Cardinals, Metcalf combined for one reception for six yards. His emergence should continue to draw the attention of cornerback Patrick Peterson, opening up Lockett to see more targets. Lockett’s versatility to play outside and in the slot allows him to avoid tough matchups and given how terrible this Seattle defense has been, he should see plenty of opportunities in a potentially high scoring game.
Honorable Mentions: Terry McLaurin, Tyler Boyd
T.J. Hockenson, Detroit Lions, Tight End
Targeting pass-catchers facing Atlanta has remained a constant theme, and this week is no different. Through six games, the Falcons defense has allowed seven touchdowns to tight ends and 55-plus yards to four of them. Hockenson is no stranger to finding the end zone, leading his team in receiving touchdowns. Coming off back to back games with a score, he has the chance to do it again this Sunday in a favorable matchup.
Honorable Mentions: Austin Hooper, Hunter Henry
Buffalo Bills, D/ST
After a rough performance Monday night, the Bills defense could not have asked for a better matchup to turn things around. This Sunday they get to take on the only remaining winless team in the league, The New York Jets. With limited playmakers and now without former pro-bowler Le’Veon Bell, this is an offense that continues to get worse. With no desire to win, the Bills defense should be able to take advantage of a struggling team.
Honorable Mentions: Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Rams
Writer
-By: Sunny Choudhury