Credit: Patrick Breen, Arizona Republic
Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals at Buffalo Bills: Many fantasy managers might be scared off by the fact the Cardinals are the second-largest underdog on the Week 1 slate. Some fear that Arizona is going to be overmatched, especially against a Bills pass defense which allowed just 3,676 yards, and the second-fewest passing touchdowns (18) in the NFL in 2023. However, all indications are that Murray is officially back at his preinjury speed, making him a legit QB1 in all fantasy formats, regardless of the matchup.
Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions: While some personnel has changed since January, on both sides, Stafford will be playing his second consecutive game in Detroit, his old stomping grounds. In the NFC Wild Card game, Staff completed 25-of-36 passes for 367 yards, two TDs and no INTs. He was hyped for the return, and he should be amped for the rematch after the narrow 24-23 bouncing from the postseason. He also has all-everything RB Kyren Williams healthy in the backfield, with rookie RB Blake Corum as a change-of-pace guy. WRs Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua also are at his disposal. The former Lions signal caller should put up gaudy numbers in Week 1 to outpace projections.
Credit: John Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets at San Francisco 49ers: In Week 1 last season, on a Monday night, Rodgers lasted just four snaps before rupturing his Achilles tendon. It was a tough start, as all the Jets’ plans around the future Hall of Famer were put on ice. It’s been a tough 12 months, but Gang Green fans and fantasy managers are ready to see what the 40-year-old can do. But, facing a tough 49ers defense on the road in an opener is a tall order. San Francisco’s pass D tied for an NFL high with 22 INTs a season ago.
Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears vs. Tennessee Titans: The Bears drafted Williams No. 1 overall, and they are ready to see what the shiny new toy can do in his first meaningful game. Fantasy managers shouldn’t be as optimistic, as the fringe QB1 has a difficult matchup to start. The Titans recorded an NFL-low six INTs in 2023, so that’s good news. But, they also allowed just 20 passing scores, which was tied for the fourth-lowest mark in the NFL and upgraded the secondary. Where Williams could flash is in the running game, as Tennessee had difficulty in that department a season ago.
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