QB Carson Palmer - Even facing a Panthers D which has fared poorly the first two weeks, it’s not safe to start Palmer in fantasy leagues. He has performed very average thus far in 2010 and don’t be fooled by the Patriots game; most of those yards and TDs came in garbage time. We also think the Bengals will run the ball a ton on Sunday.
As such, expect Palmer’s stats to be mediocre at best, in the 175 yard with one TD range.
RB Matt Forte – The Packers D has been tough on opposing RBs and we expect LB Clay Mathews and Co. to continue that trend this week. Forte’s value has been at receiver this year but you can expect DC Dom Capers to have a sound plan to limit his effectiveness out of the backfield. Expect him to be more of a fantasy bust than boom on MNF.
WR Steve Smith (Car) - Rookie QB Jimmy Clausen is now the starter in Carolina and no one else has emerged at receiver opposite Smith. Expect the Bengals and their stout secondary to key on Smith and keep him out of the end zone and under 50 receiving yards.
TE Jeremy Shockey - The Falcons upgraded their secondary in the offseason and it’s paying dividends thus far. While Drew Brees presents a much bigger test than any of the QBs they faced through two weeks, look for Shockey to remain a non factor on Sunday.
D/ST – New York Jets - This is the Dolphins home opener and the Fins gave New York fits defensively a year ago. Look for Miami to mix in the Wild Cat offensively and for the Jets to feel CB Darrelle Revis’s absence. WR Brandon Marshall abused CB Antonio Cromartie when the two played in the AFC West and we expect Miami to go after this matchup this Sunday.
Others who will have subpar games
QB Brett Favre, RB Thomas Jones, WR Steve Smith (NYG), TE Brandon Pettigrew, D/ST Atlanta Falcons
