Dark Horses - Week 5

 

Dark Horses - Week 5

Quarterbacks

Jacoby Brissett vs Lions

If you haven’t noticed, the Lions defense has been gashed this season, giving up over 325 passing yards and 3 touchdowns to opposing QBs on average. The lesson is start quarterbacks against them, even if it’s an uninspiring one like Brissett.

Jameis Winston at Commanders

The Commanders secondary has been a disaster this season and quarterbacks have taken advantage. Running on the Commanders hasn’t been easy but Jameis is an old fashioned pocket gun slinger. He is likely to have a turnover or even 2 but like last week can make up for it with 250 passing yards and 3 scores. Winston could end up a top 8 QB for the second week in a row.

Running Backs

Will Shipley vs Jaguars

This is more a factor of opportunity than anything. Saquon Barkley was ruled out for the Eagles London tilt against the Jags. Saquon’s original backup Tank Bigsby is on IR. Shipley is next man up.  Jacksonville has been one of the more difficult defenses for running backs this season but the opportunity for Shipley is significant given the lack of competition for touches. 

Roschon Johnson at Packers

Here’s a stat for you. Not only are the Packers the 2nd most favorable defenses for opposing running backs but have given up a rushing touchdown to the short yardage backup/complementary running back in every game this season. D’Andre Swift is a must start this week but with Kyle Monangai missing the game, it is Roschon who will serve as the short yardage complement for the Bears.

Blake Corum vs Bills

Logging just 12 carries over the past 2 games, Corum hype has all but died. It would figure that Corum finally has a good game now. The stars are aligning for that possibility. The last time these two teams played they combined for 86 points and over 900 yards of offense. Both teams still have explosive offensive potential. Could be a shootout on Monday night.

Wide Receivers / Tight Ends

Jaylin Noel at Titans

Houston has been searching for that #2 receiver after losing Jayden Higgins in preseason. Second year Noel is making the case last week logging a career high 85 yards in his short 2 year career. This week Noel could see a usage increase in a must win game for Houston.

Wan’Dale Robinson vs Texans

Same game and perhaps surprising considering the presumptive reputation of the Texans defense heading into the season. Houston has been the most favorable defenses for opposing wide receivers.  While eyes will be on Carnell Tate, it could be WRob that surprises. The Texans have been especially vulnerable in the slot where Robinson does his work. Robinson is also coming off 2 straight games with a TD. 

Mike Gesicki at Dolphins

The Dolphins have given up either a TD or 100 yards to a tight end in every game since week 1. Gesicki has caught a touchdown in 3 of 4 games played. Tee Higgins is banged up heading into the game. A lot going for Gesicki to have a startworthy game on Sunday. 

Antonio Williams vs Giants

The good news for the Commanders is Jayden Daniels is back. The bad news is he will be without Stefon Diggs and possibly Terry McLaurin too.  Williams will likely get the start and should see plenty of targets. In week one he flashed catching all 4 of his targets for 64 yards and a touchdown. While the Giants pass defense isn’t exactly a pushover I think that stat line is repeatable for Williams considering the circumstances.

Tre Harris vs Broncos

The Chargers are in desperation mode for a win. Not only has Quentin Johnston been ruled out but Ladd McConkey might not suit up. The Broncos are missing several key starters in the secondary including Patrick Surtain. Harris has already been the target share leader the last 2 weeks. He should be again in a sneaky good matchup.