Week 1 Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em: Justin Boone’s Must-Start Players and Key Bench Decisions

Justin Boone shares insights on undervalued fantasy football players to consider for your lineup and those you might want to bench.

Players to Start

Baker Mayfield, QB, Buccaneers vs. Falcons
Mayfield had an impressive track record against the Falcons last season, throwing three touchdowns in each game they faced. The Falcons struggled defensively, allowing the sixth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks in 2024. Given the projected high score of 47.5 for this game and Mayfield’s strong receiving options, including Emeka Egbuka filling in for Chris Godwin, he’s likely to be a strong QB1 this week.

James Conner, RB, Cardinals vs. Saints
Conner has consistently ranked as a top-15 fantasy back per game since joining the Cardinals. This season starts off on a positive note regarding his health. The Saints were one of the easiest matchups for fantasy running backs last year, and with the Cardinals favored by 6.5 points, Conner is set for a productive game and is a solid RB1 option this week.

Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Panthers at Jaguars
Starting a rookie can be risky, but McMillan stands out. As a top-10 draft pick, he demonstrated impressive college stats with strong target volume. With key players like Adam Thielen gone, he should receive plenty of opportunities against a Jaguars secondary that struggled last season.

T.J. Hockenson, TE, Vikings at Bears
After battling injuries last season, Hockenson is healthy and ready to shine. He’s a top-five tight end, and with the Vikings needing a strong passing game—especially with Jordan Addison suspended—he’s poised for a big week against a Bears defense he’s performed well against previously.

Players to Sit

Jared Goff, QB, Lions at Packers
Goff is facing a tough match against the Packers without key playmakers and an offensive line in flux. Historically, he’s struggled in Green Bay, making him a risky start this week, especially with an added threat from a strong Packers pass rush.

D’Andre Swift, RB, Bears vs. Vikings
Swift’s starting role seems shaky, especially against a tough Vikings defense that has limited running backs significantly. He may find it challenging to deliver in fantasy scores early in the season.

Calvin Ridley, WR, Titans at Broncos
Despite new quarterback Cam Ward boosting his potential this season, Ridley faces another hurdle. The Broncos defense is tough, especially with Pat Surtain II likely covering him. This matchup may limit Ridley’s production, making him a WR3 this week.

Additional Insights

Recent statistics show that only 28% of fantasy players adjusted their lineups after the first week of the season last year, often missing out on valuable opportunities. Keeping an eye on matchups and player performance is essential.

Moreover, the NFL landscape is shifting. Experts note an increase in passer ratings and receiver efficiency in recent seasons. This trend may continue as teams adapt their strategies.

In essence, understanding player matchups and their past performances can greatly influence your fantasy decisions. As the season unfolds, tracking these players closely could be the difference between securing a win or facing a tough loss.

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