Quarterback
Russell Wilson, Denver (at LA Chargers)
When the Broncos fell behind in Week 13, they put the offense on Wilson's back, a la the Seahawks when they would fall behind after starting slow during the Wilson era. He accounted for two scores, including one on the ground, and got the team within one play of a comeback win at Houston. Against the poor Chargers pass defense this week, expect a similar model on offense, especially if Justin Herbert is able to move the ball against the Broncos.
Gardner Minshew, Indianapolis (at Cincinnati)
We'll be watching the weather reports in Cincinnati, Cleveland, and Baltimore to help with lineup decisions. As long as it isn't forecast to be too sloppy and windy in Cincinnati, Minshew is a worthy QB2/Superflex and spot start QB1 against a Bengals defense that has been slipping against the pass lately. Minshew got deep ball specialist Alec Pierce involved last week, and Cincinnati was much stronger against the Jaguars run game on Monday night, so Shane Steichen could focus this week's game plan on the pass.
Jake Browning, Cincinnati (vs Indianapolis)
Browning's short-range passing might be less affected by the weather, but check the reports before playing him as your QB2/Superflex or desperation QB1. Browning was 32 for 37 against the Jaguars, which is impressive against any NFL defense, no matter how low the average depth of target is. Tee Higgins is getting healthier, and Browning can take advantage of a high-quality receiver group to pad his fantasy stats.
Desmond Ridder, Atlanta (vs Tampa Bay)
Ridder actually threw for 250 yards and scored on the ground, along with compiling 38 rushing yards in the first meeting with the Bucs. The Falcons offense goes through the running game first and foremost, but Ridder was able to rack up that passing yardage against them on only 25 attempts.
Continue reading this content with a PRO subscription.
"Footballguys is the best premium
fantasy football
only site on the planet."
Matthew Berry, NBC Sports EDGE