The 15

The Patriots host the New Orleans Saints in a week 3 tilt this upcoming Sunday.  If there is one thing that Bill Belichick preaches, it’s “ignore the noise.”  It’s posted all over the facility.  For this reason, the team will not be caught “looking ahead,” as some college teams may do the week before a rivalry game.  New England faces a Saints team coming off a loss in Carolina, where they made Sam Darnold look like John Elway.  This is likely because they are led by one of the most overrated coaches in NFL history.

              The pill popping, pedophilia priest pandering Payton brings his team to Foxboro in a battle of the 1-1s.  New Orleans did beat the Green Bay Packers week one, but I expect that to be a paper victory in hindsight, as Green Bay looks like a team that has implosion written all over it. 

Jameis Winston, once rumored to be a potential QB in New England by a local podcast, comes in off of a 11/22 performance with 2 INTs.  He will face a confident Patriots secondary, coming off of a 4INT game, allowing an average of 185 ypg in the air.  Look for pressure to come from the front even more so on Sunday, forcing Winston to think on his feet.

Offensively the Patriots will have a similar game plan.  New Orleans has the #7 defense in the league, allowing an average of only 66 ypg on the ground.  Again, as the late Lee Corso says, “not so fast my friend.”  Christian McCaffrey ran for 72 yards last week, with a TD.  This was the first true test that the Saints faced against a decent RB.  Apologies to former BC Eagle, AJ Dillon.  For anyone complaining about Matt Jones’ lack of pass attempts, they clearly do not understand Patriots football or have watched a game in the last 20 years.  Each week brings a complex game plan.  Some weeks it’s ground and pound, some weeks its pass all day.  The first three weeks’ opponents have dictated the offensive game plan. 

Although this is Truly not a space for prognostications, this is a Patriots/Over play.  Go get ‘em Jasper.

S. Tzu-Pei is an Intern for The15.

              Throughout the discourse of human history, we must wonder if Alexander Pope was a New York Jets fan.  Another autumn is upon us bringing another rookie QB, and another new head coach.  Yet, hope springs eternal for Gang Green.  Zach Wilson comes in boasting a 35.6 QB Rating and his team is installed as a 6.5pt. home underdog on Sunday.  Michael McCorkle Jones comes in boasting 2x the QBR of his colleague who was picked 13 spots later.  Still, as non Patriots HOF member Duane Charles Parcells once said, “You are what your record says you are.”

              Look for New England to have a similar offensive game plan this week.  The Jets gave up 111 rushing yards last week vs. Carolina, and will have to face a 3 headed running attack this week at Met Life Stadium.  If Damien Harris can move the ball as well as he did week one, then the Jets will be in for a long day.  Parlay that with James White and perhaps even JJ Taylor, and the Patriots could make a long day for New York’s defense. 

              Jones seemed relatively comfortable in the pocket vs. Miami last week, and look for him to improve progressions this week.  Trent Brown remains questionable, but the Patriots were able to hold the line together quite well last week in spite of multiple injuries at the right tackle position.  Look for the play action to open up and for the Patriots to pick on New York’s inexperience CBs for large plays.

              We’ll be certain to see the “Bill Belichick vs. Rookie QB” stats all day tomorrow.  21-6, if you’re keeping score at home.  But as the late Lee Corso would say, “Not so fast my friends.”  Coach Hoodie is only 8-6 on the road vs. rookie QBs.  Of those losses to rookie QBs, 2 are SB Champs in Ben Roethlisberger and Russell Wilson.  Interestingly enough, 2 are NYJ QBs in Mark Sanchez and Geno Smith.  Strange things happen in East Rutherford.

              The Patriots are winners of the last 10 games vs. the NYJ.  I do not see any way that this is not 11, come 4:30 tomorrow.  Lay the points, Jasper.  Lay the points.

S. Tzu-Pei is an Intern for The15.

Let’s check the ol’ stat sheet and see how we did! (Small sample size disclaimer goes here)

Quarterbacks:

Studs:

• Aaron Rodgers – comp 15 att 28 yds 133 td 0 int 2
• Kyler Murray – comp 21 att 32 yds 289 td 4 int 1 (5-20 1 td rushing)
• Tom Brady – comp 23 att 50 yds 379 td 4 int 2
• Matt Stafford – comp 20 att 26 yds 321 td int 0
• Joe Burrow – comp 20 att 27 yds 261 td 2 int 0

Duds:

• Ben Roethlisberger- comp 18 att 32 yds 188 td 1 int 0
• Dak Prescott- comp 42 att 58 yds 403 td 3 int 1
• Tyrod Taylor – comp 21 att 32 yds 291 td 2 int 0
• Jalen Hurts – comp 27 att 35 yds 264 td 3 int 0
• Kirk Cousins – comp 36 att 49 yds 351 td 2 int 0

Sleepers:

• Mac Jones – comp 29 att 39 yds 281 td 1 int 0
• Kyler Murray – comp 21 att 32 yds 289 td 4 int 1
• Justin Herbert – comp 31 att 47 yds 224 td 1 int 1
• Ryan Tannenhill- comp 21 att 35 yds 212 td 1 int 1

Running Backs

Studs:

• Nick Chubb – att 15 yds 83 td 2
• Antonio Gibson – att 20 yds 90 td 0
• Jonathan Taylor – att 17 yds 56 td 0
• Aaron Jones – att 5 yds 9 td 0
• Josh Jacobs – att 10 yds 34 td 2

Duds:

• Saquan Barkley – att 10 yds 26 td 0
• Austin Ekeler – att 15 yds 57 td 1
• Christian McCaffrey – att 21 yds 98 td 0
• David Montgomery – att 16 yds 108 td 1

Sleepers:

• Kareem Hunt – att 6 yds 33 td 1
• James Connor – att 16 yds 53 td 0
• Zach Moss – inactive
• Sony Michel – att 1 yds 2 td

Wide Recievers % Tight Ends

Studs:

• Julio Jones – rec 3 yds 32 td 0
• Tyreek Hill – rec 11 yds 197 td 1
• Justin Jefferson – rec 5 yds 71 td 0
• Mike Evans – rec 3 yds 24 td 0
• Darren Waller (TE) – rec 10 yds 105 td 1
• Logan Thomas (TE) – rec 3 yds 30 td 1
• Kyle Pitts (TE) – rec 4 yds 31 td 0
• Noah Fant (TE) – rec 6 yds 62 td 0

Duds:

• Odell Beckham Jr. – Inactive
• Henry Rugg – rec 2 yds 46 td 0
• Juju Smith-Schuster – rec 4 yds 52 td 0
• Calvin Ridley – rec 5 yds 51 td 0
• Kenny Golliday – rec 4 yds 64 td 0
• Zach Ertz (TE) – rec 2 yds 34 td 0
• TJ Hockinson (TE) – rec 8 yds 97 td 1
• Blake Jarwin (TE) – rec 3 yds 20 td 0
• Jared Cook (TE) – rec 5 yds 56 td 0
• Evan Engram (TE) – inactive

Sleepers:

• Diontae Johnson – rec 5 yds 36 td 1
• DeVonta Smith – rec 6 yds 71 td 1
• Mike Gesicki (TE) – rec 0 yds 0 td 0
• Anthony Firkster (TE) – rec 3 yds 19 td 0

Kickers and Defense/Special Teams to follow in Part 2!

One or more of the interns did this.

Fantasy Football drafts can be some of the most fun things some of us do. There’s rules that should be followed and a lot of strategy that comes to it. Here’s my guide for Rules, Studs, Duds, and Sleepers:

Rules:

1. Always watch your bye weeks: For some of us this may be obvious but to the rookie drafter this is often overlooked. I rarely draft players with the same bye weeks unless they are on my bench. In a now 17 game season this is seemingly less crucial but trust me – don’t let it come back to bite you in the ass.
2. Know the difference between a PPR league and Non-PPR league: A PPR league is a points per reception league which puts more emphasis on pass catching running backs and wide receivers who rack up receptions. It is imperative to know the difference before drafting your team. For my money, PPR leagues are more fun to play in than non-PPR leagues.
3. Have stud running backs: Considering most running backs are a running and passing threat – always put more emphasis on running backs earlier on than wide outs. I typically recommend drafting two RB’s within the first three rounds. Take this rule to the bank- please trust me.
4. Watch your draft board: A Fantasy Football draft is not the time to be distracted. Always watch your draft board and see where other players are going. Whether drafting against friends or randos, make sure you don’t miss out on your pick. If Kickers seem to be going in that round – draft one. If tight ends are getting gobbled up – snag one.
5. Keep trade bait on your bench: This rule is imperative as well. Always keep a player on your bench that would be attract to other drafters and also someone you’d be willing to part ways with. Players like Rob Gronkowski and Baker Mayfield are perfect trade bait. (Unless Baker is your starter!)

Studs:

1. Julio Jones- WR- Tennessee Titans: How could this guy not be a stud this season? I’ve seem Julio getting drafted way later than expected and it’s disrespectful. In this Titans offense, Jones will flourish because many teams many key in on running back Derrick Henry. Also don’t discount that AJ Brown could be a decoy possibly for Julio Jones.
2. Kyler Murray- QB- Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals have a sneaky good team this year and Murray is a good part of it. Murray can throw it strong and rush it hard which is exactly what you need in a Fantasy Football QB. Count on this man to have a strong season especially with an upgraded defense which should put him in prime scoring positions.
3. Aaron Rodgers- QB- Green Bay Packers: Despite not wanting to play for his team this season, Aaron Rodgers still has a good team around him. DeVante Adams is a stud and he also has Aaron Jones to hand the ball off to. Expect big numbers from A-Rod this season.
4. Nick Chubb- RB- Cleveland Browns: Chubb is always a must have running back in Fantasy Football. A versatile player, Chubb can do mostly anything on the field. With an every down back like him – you can’t go wrong.
5. Tyreek Hill- WR- Kansas City Chiefs: Tyreek Hill is a can’t miss player in Fantasy Football. His best weeks are better than most wide receivers seasons. Do not miss on the chance of drafting him.
6. Antonio Gibson- RB- Washington Football Team: Gibson was a beast in 2020 racking up 170 carries for 795 yards and 11 touchdowns. The Washington offense should be better this season with Ryan Fitzpatrick behind center. Look for Gibson to have a huge season.
7. Darren Waller- TE- Las Vegas Raiders: Darren Waller is a savage regardless of who is throwing to him. Derek Carr has been his QB for every season but look for Carr to look for Waller early and often in games. Waller is a very sure handed receiver and has an ability to get yards after the catch- don’t let him sneak down your draft board.
8. Justin Tucker- K- Baltimore Ravens: Never think it’s too early to draft a kicker and Tucker is the best. Most kickers are hit or miss but trust Justin to give you at least 8 points a week. I always draft a kicker earlier than most and usually Tucker is my guy.
9. Logan Thomas- TE- Washington Football Team: No, I’m not falling in love with Washington Football team players but this guy will be a stud. He is physical and sure handed which always bodes well for any tight end. Considering most teams will be locked in on WR Terry McLaurin, he is sure not to disappoint.
10. Patriots- D/ST: Do not sleep on the Patriots at the defense/special teams position. This team has studs all across the ball on defense and will easily be a top 5 defense this year. With or without Stephon Gilmore this team looks good.

Duds:

1. Ben Roethisberger- QB- Pittsburgh Steelers: Big Ben has been a dud for many seasons. I wouldn’t draft him as a starter or backup. Stay clear away from Big Ben as he is an interception machine.
2. Dak Prescott- QB- Dallas Cowboys: Sure, the Cowboys have great weapons but I’m not sure Dak can get them the ball. The Cowboys are a run heavy team and Zeke isn’t going anywhere. Plus Dak is injury prone and never reliable.;
3. Saquon Barkley- RB- New York Giants: Saquon has great talent but never play a full season. I’d stay clear away from him if you are looking for someone reliable. In the later games of the season Saquon may prove me wrong but I wouldn’t draft him at the position he is going lately.
4. Austin Ekeler- RB- Los Angeles Chargers: Although Ekeler, has been great in past seasons don’t expect him to be great this year. A lot of teams have figured out his running style and Justin Herbert has to rely on a different guy. Do not expect Ekeler to have a good year.
5. Odell Beckham JR- WR- Cleveland Browns: I never rely on OBJ. He is an ego maniac and unreliable. A very streaky player is never one you need in Fantasy Football. Look for someone more in my sleepers.
6. Henry Ruggs- WR- Las Vegas Raiders: Ruggs was great in college and an intriguing pick but don’t put your faith in him. The Raiders won’t be too great and Ruggs won’t be anything to write home about- don’t draft him.
7. Zach Ertz- TE- Philadelphia Eagles: Mr. Ertz is often injury prone and in a loaded TE room in Philly, I wouldn’t rely too much on him. On the worse side of 30, Ertz is not worth drafting as a starter or on your bench.
8. TJ Hockenson- TE- Detroit Lions: Although Hocksenson has been ranked as the 6th best TE in some leagues, I wouldn’t draft him unless as a bench player. I don’t rely on Jared Goff getting him the ball much and the Lions usually suck. Steer clear of Hockenson.
9. Texans- D/ST: This team looks good on paper but I wouldn’t draft them if you paid me. With Deshaun Watson out most likely the whole season this defense is going to see a lot of time on the field.
10. Browns- D/ST: This team seemingly has a lot of playmakers but can’t always put it together at times. Plus, Baker Mayfield can throw untimely picks which leads to bad situations. Don’t reach for this defense and special teams

Sleepers:

1. QB- Mac Jones- New England Patriots: Don’t expect Jones to light things up initially but he will be a good pick. With great coaching and developmental skill position players the Patriots should help with his transition. Look for Mac to throw for 20+ TD’s this season.
2. QB- Kyler Murray- Arizona Cardinals: Murray can be absolute stud in Fantasy Football. As both a passing and rushing threat, these are always the type of quarterbacks you look for. I won’t steer you wrong with this sleeper whether as a bench player or starter.
3. RB- Kareem Hunt- Cleveland Browns: Hunt is a shifty and sneaky good player. Behind Nick Chubb, Hunt can thrive in short yardage and passing down situations. Never sleep on Kareem Hunt.

This article shall continue on tomorrow. More Studs, Duds, and Sleepers tomorrow.

By: Joshua Marion

Follow me on Twitter @jmarion34