If I’m being honest about the first dozen pre-season games, New York is already out of the running for a championship. The Giants looked rough on defense and then both their new safeties were injured. The Jets looked rough on defense and that is supposed to be their strength. The Bills were, well, the Bills. Add it all up and there’s a real interesting surprise: Some valid fantasy options.
Let’s start with the Giants. If Beckham and Cruz are capable, they’ll have a lot of work. Add in the option of Jones and a defense that will give up a lot of points, and we are looking at one of the best Points Per Catch options in fantasy. The G-men receivers will get plenty of touches in the vein of Patriots receivers. They’ll need to get big yards for the come from behind habits that are about to be formed. Don’t forget that this is a contract year for Eli, who expects to become the highest paid player in the NFL. Last year’s work won’t earn him that contract, so this year must. If those Manning boys know anything, they know how to be earners.
The Jets are a mess. A real bad mess. The starting QB only has the job due to the original starter getting cold cocked. With that mess (and likely that QB) in the rearview, it boils down to what the Jets are going to have to do. Well, they are going to have to play some scoring defense. That is going to happen, and smart people will ride that D to the fantasy championship.
The Bills have two injured running backs and a QB that is unknown. Mark my words: This is going to be a breakout year for Tyrod Taylor. He’s the best thing to come out of VaTech since Vick, and though lacking some of the footwork and speed of the fleet footed Vick, he does have far better accuracy. I’m banking on him to be effective…
All in all, draft weekend will be one for the ages. I have two drafts in two days and lots of unknowns. Here’s hoping for a good season.