Navigating the unpredictable waters of fantasy football requires making tough decisions, especially when setting your lineup each week. The goal of this start 'em sit 'em week 2 guide is to assist fantasy football managers in optimizing their lineups for success. Week 2 presents a fresh set of challenges and opportunities based on the outcomes of Week 1 and evolving team dynamics. Therefore, making informed choices about which players to start and which to sit is crucial for maximizing your chances of victory. This comprehensive guide will delve into key matchups, player performances, and potential sleepers to help you make the right calls.
Quarterbacks: Who to Start and Who to Sit in Week 2
The quarterback position is the cornerstone of many fantasy teams, and selecting the right signal-caller can make or break your week. Analyzing matchups, recent performance, and overall team strategy is vital when deciding who to start and sit. This section will break down several quarterbacks, providing insights and recommendations to help you make the best decision for your fantasy roster.
Start 'Em:
If you're looking for quarterbacks to start, consider players in favorable matchups or those with a history of strong performance. When evaluating your quarterback options, focus on factors like passing yards, touchdown potential, and the likelihood of rushing contributions.
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Patrick Mahomes (KC): Patrick Mahomes is a perennial fantasy football stud, and he remains a must-start in Week 2. Fresh off another stellar performance, Mahomes faces a defense that struggled against the pass in Week 1. His exceptional arm talent and the Chiefs' explosive offense make him a top-tier option every week.
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Josh Allen (BUF): Josh Allen is another elite quarterback who should be in your starting lineup. With his dual-threat ability and a favorable matchup, Allen is poised for another big game. His rushing prowess adds a significant boost to his fantasy value, making him a weekly lock.
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Justin Herbert (LAC): Justin Herbert has consistently demonstrated his high ceiling, and Week 2 presents an excellent opportunity for him to shine. Facing a defense susceptible to the pass, Herbert's strong arm and talented receiving corps make him a compelling start. Herbert’s consistent performance and the Chargers' offensive scheme make him a reliable fantasy option.
Sit 'Em:
Conversely, some quarterbacks face challenging matchups or have shown inconsistent performance, making them risky starts in Week 2. It’s important to consider factors like defensive strength, weather conditions, and the quarterback's recent track record when deciding who to sit.
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Russell Wilson (DEN): Russell Wilson's performance has been underwhelming, and a tough matchup in Week 2 makes him a risky start. The Broncos' offense is still finding its rhythm, and Wilson's struggles with consistency make him a questionable option.
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Matt Ryan (IND): Matt Ryan has not lived up to expectations, and his situation in Week 2 is less than ideal. Facing a strong pass defense, Ryan is likely to struggle. His limited mobility and the Colts' offensive woes make him a player to avoid this week.
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Trevor Lawrence (JAX): Trevor Lawrence has shown flashes of potential but remains inconsistent. A difficult matchup against a stout defense means Lawrence should be on your bench in Week 2. His tendency to make mistakes under pressure makes him a risky start.
Running Backs: Start These RBs for a High-Scoring Week
The running back position is pivotal in fantasy football, and identifying the right players to start can lead to significant scoring advantages. Consider factors such as workload, matchup, and the potential for touchdowns when making your decisions. The objective of this section is to guide you through the top running back options for Week 2, highlighting those poised for breakout performances and advising against those facing unfavorable circumstances.
Start 'Em:
The running backs listed in this segment are those who are expected to have substantial workloads and favorable matchups, making them ideal candidates for your starting lineup. Look for running backs with high touch counts, significant receiving potential, and advantageous matchups against weaker run defenses.
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Christian McCaffrey (CAR): Christian McCaffrey is a fantasy football superstar, and he should be in every lineup he's healthy for. McCaffrey's dual-threat ability as a runner and receiver makes him a weekly top-tier option. His consistent volume and high ceiling make him a must-start.
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Austin Ekeler (LAC): Austin Ekeler is a versatile running back who excels in both the running and passing game. Ekeler’s role in the Chargers' offense and his knack for finding the end zone make him a valuable fantasy asset. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds to his appeal.
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Najee Harris (PIT): Najee Harris is the workhorse back for the Steelers, and his volume alone makes him a strong start. Despite some inconsistencies, Harris’s high number of touches provides a solid floor for fantasy points. His role as the primary ball carrier makes him a reliable option.
Sit 'Em:
Conversely, certain running backs are facing tough defenses, dealing with injury concerns, or are part of crowded backfields, making them risky plays in Week 2. Consider these factors and temper your expectations for these players.
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Damien Harris (NE): Damien Harris is part of a committee backfield in New England, which limits his fantasy upside. A difficult matchup further reduces his appeal, making him a player to avoid in Week 2. The Patriots' unpredictable backfield situation makes him a risky start.
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Miles Sanders (PHI): Miles Sanders has potential, but inconsistencies in his usage make him a risky start. The Eagles have other capable backs, which can limit Sanders’ opportunities. His role in the offense is not as secure as other top running backs.
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Chase Edmonds (MIA): Chase Edmonds is part of a crowded backfield in Miami, which caps his fantasy ceiling. A challenging matchup in Week 2 further diminishes his value, making him a player to keep on your bench. The Dolphins' running back situation is too unpredictable for Edmonds to be a reliable start.
Wide Receivers: Top WRs to Start and Bench in Week 2
Wide receivers are essential components of any successful fantasy team, and choosing the right ones to start can be the key to victory. Evaluating factors such as target share, matchup, and quarterback chemistry is crucial when making these decisions. This section aims to provide a detailed analysis of wide receiver options, highlighting those with the potential for significant production and those facing unfavorable circumstances. — Wild Animal Park Weather: Your Guide To Planning A Trip
Start 'Em:
When deciding which wide receivers to start, prioritize those with high target shares, favorable matchups, and strong quarterback connections. These players are most likely to produce significant fantasy points. Identifying wide receivers who are the primary targets in their offenses is crucial for fantasy success.
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Cooper Kupp (LAR): Cooper Kupp is the top receiver in fantasy football and a must-start every week. Kupp’s connection with his quarterback and his consistent target share make him a weekly lock. His ability to consistently produce big numbers makes him a top-tier option.
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Justin Jefferson (MIN): Justin Jefferson has established himself as one of the premier wide receivers in the NFL. With his exceptional route-running and reliable hands, Jefferson is primed for another productive week. His role as the focal point of the Vikings' passing game makes him a must-start. — New Strike Suit Customs: My Latest Creations!
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Ja’Marr Chase (CIN): Ja’Marr Chase is a dynamic playmaker who has the potential to score every time he touches the ball. His connection with his quarterback and his ability to make big plays make him a top fantasy option. Chase’s explosive potential makes him a weekly starter.
Sit 'Em:
Conversely, certain wide receivers are facing tough matchups, dealing with quarterback changes, or are part of crowded receiving corps, making them risky plays in Week 2. It’s important to consider these factors and manage your expectations accordingly.
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Allen Robinson (LAR): Allen Robinson has struggled to find his rhythm in his new offense, and a challenging matchup makes him a risky start. His inconsistent performance and the Rams' crowded receiving corps make him a questionable option.
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DeVante Parker (NE): DeVante Parker is part of a crowded receiving corps in New England, which limits his fantasy upside. A difficult matchup further reduces his appeal, making him a player to avoid in Week 2. The Patriots' unpredictable passing game makes him a risky start.
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Kadarius Toney (NYG): Kadarius Toney’s role in the Giants' offense is uncertain, and his inconsistent usage makes him a risky start. His limited playing time and the Giants' offensive struggles make him a player to keep on your bench.
Tight Ends: Start or Sit These TEs Based on Week 2 Matchups
The tight end position can be a source of frustration in fantasy football, but identifying the right players to start can provide a significant advantage. Consider factors such as target share, red-zone opportunities, and matchup when making your decisions. This section will analyze tight end options for Week 2, highlighting potential sleepers and advising caution with certain underperforming players.
Start 'Em:
The tight ends listed in this section are those who have favorable matchups, high target shares, or are key components of their team’s passing attack. Starting these players can provide a solid floor and the potential for significant upside.
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Travis Kelce (KC): Travis Kelce remains the gold standard at the tight end position, and he should be started every week. Kelce’s connection with his quarterback and his consistent production make him a top-tier fantasy option. His ability to dominate his position makes him a must-start.
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Mark Andrews (BAL): Mark Andrews is one of the top tight ends in the league, and his role in the Ravens' offense makes him a reliable fantasy starter. Andrews’s strong hands and red-zone presence make him a valuable asset. His consistent targets make him a top-tier option.
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Darren Waller (LV): Darren Waller is a key part of the Raiders' passing game, and his potential for targets makes him a strong start. Waller’s size and athleticism make him a difficult matchup for opposing defenses. His role in the Raiders' offense makes him a reliable starter.
Sit 'Em:
Conversely, some tight ends face challenging matchups, are part of crowded tight end rooms, or have inconsistent production, making them risky starts in Week 2. Consider these factors when setting your lineup.
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Mike Gesicki (MIA): Mike Gesicki’s role in the Dolphins' offense is uncertain, and his inconsistent usage makes him a risky start. The Dolphins' crowded tight end room limits his potential. His lack of consistent targets makes him a player to avoid.
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Cole Kmet (CHI): Cole Kmet has struggled to produce consistent fantasy numbers, and a difficult matchup makes him a risky start. The Bears' offensive struggles further diminish his value. His limited opportunities make him a player to keep on your bench.
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Robert Tonyan (GB): Robert Tonyan is returning from injury and may not be fully integrated into the Packers' offense yet. His uncertain role and the Packers' passing game struggles make him a risky start. His limited snaps make him a player to avoid in Week 2.
Defenses: Which DSTs to Start and Sit for Week 2
The defense/special teams (DST) position can be a crucial component of fantasy scoring, and selecting the right DST can provide a significant boost to your weekly score. Consider factors such as matchups, turnover potential, and the DST's ability to generate sacks and defensive touchdowns. This section will break down DST options for Week 2, highlighting those with favorable matchups and advising caution with DSTs facing strong offenses.
Start 'Em:
Target DSTs facing weak offenses, rookie quarterbacks, or teams prone to turnovers. These DSTs have the highest potential for sacks, turnovers, and defensive scores.
- San Francisco 49ers DST: The 49ers DST boasts a strong defensive line and a favorable matchup, making them a top start in Week 2. Their ability to generate pressure and force turnovers makes them a high-upside option.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers DST: The Buccaneers DST is a consistently strong unit, and a favorable matchup makes them a solid start in Week 2. Their aggressive defensive style and turnover-forcing ability make them a reliable choice.
- Denver Broncos DST: The Broncos DST has a talented defense and a favorable matchup, positioning them as a strong start in Week 2. Their pass-rushing prowess and coverage skills make them a formidable fantasy option.
Sit 'Em:
Avoid DSTs facing high-powered offenses, experienced quarterbacks, or teams with strong offensive lines. These DSTs are likely to struggle to generate fantasy points.
- New York Jets DST: The Jets DST faces a tough matchup against a high-scoring offense, making them a risky start in Week 2. Their struggles against strong offenses make them a player to avoid.
- Washington Commanders DST: The Commanders DST faces a challenging matchup and should be avoided in Week 2. Their inconsistencies and tough opponent make them a risky choice.
- Las Vegas Raiders DST: The Raiders DST has a difficult matchup and is not a recommended start in Week 2. Their defensive struggles and the strength of their opponent make them a player to avoid.
By carefully evaluating these start 'em sit 'em week 2 recommendations across all positions, you can optimize your fantasy lineup and increase your chances of success. Remember to stay updated on injury reports and late-breaking news to make the most informed decisions possible. Staying informed is key to fantasy football success, so keep an eye on player news and updates as the week progresses.
FAQs About Start 'Em Sit 'Em for Week 2
Here are some frequently asked questions to further guide your lineup decisions for Week 2 in fantasy football. These questions address common scenarios and provide insights to help you navigate challenging start/sit choices.
What should I do if I have two highly ranked players at the same position, and I can only start one?
When faced with a difficult decision between two highly ranked players, consider factors beyond just rankings. Look at their recent performance, their matchups for the week, and any potential game-script factors. A player with a favorable matchup or a higher projected workload might be the better choice, even if they are ranked slightly lower.
How much weight should I give to Week 1 performances when making start/sit decisions for Week 2?
Week 1 performances provide some valuable information, but it’s important not to overreact. One week is a small sample size, and many factors can influence a single game. Use Week 1 as a data point, but also consider a player’s track record, their matchup, and any changes in their role or usage. — Packers Game Today: Your Ultimate Guide
Should I start a player coming off an injury in Week 2, or should I wait and see?
Starting a player returning from injury can be risky. Consider their injury status, their projected workload, and the matchup. If they are listed as questionable or are expected to be on a snap count, it might be safer to sit them. However, if they are fully healthy and have a favorable matchup, they could be a worthwhile start.
How do I balance upside versus a safe floor when making start/sit decisions in fantasy football?
Balancing upside and floor depends on your team’s situation and risk tolerance. If you are a significant underdog, taking a chance on a high-upside player might be necessary. If you are favored, a player with a safer floor might be the better option to secure a win. Consider your opponent's strengths and weaknesses when making this decision.
What impact do Monday night games have on my start/sit decisions?
Monday night games can be tricky because you have to wait until the end of the week to see those players perform. If you have close decisions, it’s often best to start players in earlier games to avoid having a player on your bench who could have scored points. However, if you need a high-upside play, starting a Monday night player can be a calculated risk.
How important are matchups when deciding who to start and sit in fantasy football?
Matchups are a crucial factor in start/sit decisions. A favorable matchup against a weak defense can significantly boost a player’s potential. Conversely, a tough matchup against a strong defense can limit a player’s production. Always consider matchups when making your lineup choices, but don’t let them be the only factor.
What resources can I use to stay updated on player news and injury reports throughout the week?
Staying updated on player news and injury reports is essential for making informed start/sit decisions. Reliable resources include reputable fantasy football websites (like https://www.fantasypros.com/), news outlets (such as https://www.espn.com/), and social media accounts of fantasy football experts (you can find many on platforms like X, formerly Twitter). Regular updates will help you make the best choices for your lineup.
How can I use advanced stats to improve my start/sit decisions in fantasy football?
Advanced stats, such as target share, air yards, and snap counts, can provide valuable insights for start/sit decisions. Target share indicates how frequently a player is targeted in their team’s passing game, while air yards show the total distance of a player’s targets. Snap counts reveal how much playing time a player is getting. These stats can help you identify players with high potential for production. Websites like https://www.pro-football-reference.com/ offer a wealth of data to inform your decisions.
