Lineup Prep: Super Bowl
Wed Feb 7 8:43am ET
By JEFF PAUR
Sr Fantasy Writer
Pacheco is playing at high level
Not sure about you, but there is not a better weekend in sports than Super Bowl weekend. It is as good as it gets. Just everything involved with it is so much fun. I am so looking forward to it all this weekend. Let’s hope it is a good game and lives up to the hype. Now for my random thoughts for the week. . . .
I will give you my pick for the game right off the bat. I think it will be a close game, but look for the Chiefs to squeak it out. I think the experience factor plays a difference here in the end, especially when it comes to the quarterback position. Patrick Mahomes has been outstanding during the playoffs and think he has a huge advantage over Brock Purdy. Plus, the Chiefs defense has been outstanding lately, completely shutting down the opponent. I don’t see them shutting down the 49ers high-powered offense, but think they will cause Purdy problems. I’m going with a Chiefs 31-27 victory.
If you still don’t have any fantasy teams alive in the playoffs, consider playing our fun pickem contests. We have tons of options available to play with for the Super Bowl. I wanted to give you a few of my favorite pickem plays for the big game. Give me Travis Kelce more than 70.5-receiving yards. Kelce has 71-plus yards all three of his playoff games and is coming off arguably his best game of the season. And the 49ers struggled to stop the tight end last week, seeing Sam LaPorta rack up the receptions and yards. I also like Brandon Aiyuk less than 61.5-receiving yards. Aiyuk has failed to hit that mark two of three games and has just three catches each of his last three games. Lastly, I like Deebo Samuel more than 79.5-rushing and receiving yards. Samuel had 11 touches his last game and was a huge part of the offense. I look for the 49ers to get him involved early and often, giving him good potential to rack up some total yards.
I’m not sure how I feel about the Commanders hiring of Kliff Kingsbury. His offenses were fine in Arizona, but not as explosive as many thought and he struggled some using Caleb Williams last year at USC. I think the Commanders would have been better served keeping Eric Bieniemy as their offensive coordinator. I thought he did a great job with the offense last year in Washington all things considered. I’m not convinced Kingsbury is going to be an upgrade.
On a different subject, can we stop teasing and showing parts of the Super Bowl commercials before the game? I mean part of the fun of the game is the commercials. They are always entertaining and a part of the event. But now, you see parts of the commercials before the game, ruining the surprise. C’mon people. Let’s stop this tradition right now.
We had our first TFC draft of the 2024 season last night. And in a surprise move, the first pick of the draft was Breece Hall. And we also saw Sam LaPorta get picked before Travis Kelce. It is always interesting to see how these early drafts shake out. A lot is going to change between now and the start of next season, but trends are starting now. In this draft, four running backs were picked in the first round compared to eight receivers. And the quarterback position looks as deep as ever with guys like Jordan Love getting picked in Round 11. Brock Purdy and Kirk Cousins also went very late.
News and Notes: The Chargers hired Greg Roman as their new offensive coordinator. Roman tends to be more run heavy when it comes to play calling. . . . .Former Texans and Patriots running back Rex Burkhead announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday.
HOT PLAYS
Isiah Pacheco, RB, Chiefs. Pacheco has taken his game to new heights during the Chiefs playoff run. He has at least 15 fantasy points four straight games and found the end zone seven consecutive games. He even has 20-plus carries two of three games, getting a big workload in the Chiefs offense. Expect more of the same this week from Pacheco. The 49ers allowed 182-rushing yards to the Lions their last game and allowed 135-plus rushing yards each of their two playoff games.
Travis Kelce, TE, Chiefs. Kelce has looked like a different player during these playoffs than the regular season. He had 11 receptions his last game and at least five catches all three playoff games. He has 14-plus fantasy points all three games. He has really elevated his game after a ho-hum second half of the season. Look for him to be the focal point of the Chiefs passing game once again this week. And San Francisco couldn’t contain Sam LaPorta in the Championship game, allowing him to get nine receptions for 97 yards. The Packers tight ends had six receptions and a touchdown in the 49ers other playoff game.
COLD PLAYS
Brandon Aiyuk, WR, 49ers. Aiyuk did score a touchdown his last game, which was a big positive, but he had just three receptions. He has just three cathodes three straight games. He has were than 40 yards two of three. And with the Chiefs secondary clamping down on receivers right not, it could be more of the same for Aiyuk this week. He could be held in check once again.
Jerick McKinnon, RB, Chiefs. McKinnon is expected to make his long-awaited return this week, returning from a groin injury. He has not played since Week 15. Just remember he has not reached double-digit touches in a single game this year. Pacheco is the lead back in this offense and will get most of the work at running back. McKinnon played great during the Chiefs playoff run last season, but this is a new year. Plus, McKinnon has not played in several weeks, so you have to wonder how much he is even on the field. He will be a big risk to use for fantasy owners.
SLEEPERS
Jauan Jennings, WR, 49ers. There are always surprise players in the Super Bowl, so why not Jennings. He could draw the most favorable matchups in coverage for the 49ers receiver options. And he has looked good in the playoffs, having six receptions for 69 yards in two games. He played 42 percent of the snaps last week - even with Deebo Samuel back in the lineup. Jennings might get a big play or two in this one, making him an intriguing fantasy play.
Marquez Valdes-Scantling, WR, Chiefs. Valdes-Scantling had the game-clinching reception in the Championship game, making a sliding catch on third down to clinch the game. He finished with two receptions for 38 yards. But he played a season-high 83 percent of the snaps in that game, which is encouraging. If he is on the field that much again this week, his reception and yardage totals could rise in what might be a high-scoring game.
High/Low Scoring Games
Each week we will take a look at some of the high and low scoring games for the coming week. In high scoring affairs, get your marginal players on those teams in your lineup to take advantage of the possible points barrage. And in the low scoring games, keep those marginal players on the bench and make sure to have your defenses involved in those contests.
High Scoring Games: Chiefs/49ers.
Low Scoring Games: None.
Jeff Paur is a two-time finalist for FSWA Fantasy Football Writer of the Year and won the FSWA award for Best Fantasy Football Article on the Web in 2011. He also was the most accurate expert in 2012, winning the FSTA Fantasy Football Accuracy Award. If you have any questions for Jeff, email him at [email protected]. Follow Jeff on Twitter @jeffpaur.
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- Broncos RB Tyler Badie injures back, out for rest of Jets game
- Packers WR Christian Watson (ankle) ruled out for rest of Vikings game
- Colts QB Anthony Richardson injures hip, out vs. Steelers
- No surgery for Cowboys’ DeMarcus Lawrence (Lisfranc)
- Texans RB Joe Mixon (ankle) to miss game vs. Jaguars
- Packers QB Jordan Love active, CB Jaire Alexander out vs. Vikings
- Eagles RT Lane Johnson (concussion) out vs. Bucs
- Jaguars put standout LB Foyesade Oluokun (foot) on IR
- Chargers QB Justin Herbert (ankle) expected to start vs. Chiefs
- Packers QB Jordan Love to start against Vikings
- Browns place OT Trent Brown (knee) on IR, ending his season
- Dolphins QB Tyler Huntley to start Monday vs. Titans
- Chargers QB Justin Herbert (ankle) questionable vs. Chiefs
- Titans put CB Chidobe Awuzie (groin) on IR
- Eagles WR DeVonta Smith out, A.J. Brown questionable vs. Bucs
- Packers 'encouraged' QB Jordan Love on field, Sunday start uncertain
- Raiders WR Davante Adams, DE Maxx Crosby ruled out for Week 4
- Bills LB Terrel Bernard, CB Taron Johnson out vs. Ravens
- Cowboys LB Micah Parsons has high ankle sprain; DE could miss weeks
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The Paur Report
Bender's Starts/Sits: Week 4
Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson (neck) exited during the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Carolina Panthers. He was ruled out for the remainder of the contest. At the time of his departure, he had registered two tackles and one pass defended. Hendrickson is a key piece of the Bengals' defense, so losing him for any amount of time is bad news. In all likelihood, the Bengals' coaching staff will provide an update on his status in the aftermath of Sunday's game. In the event that he misses additional time, Joseph Ossai would be in line to earn more snaps.
From RotoBaller
Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor (ankle) exited during the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. He is officially questionable to return. At the time of his departure, Taylor had registered 88 rushing yards, 20 receiving yards, and one touchdown. The Colts enjoyed a balanced offensive attack even after Joe Flacco came off the bench to replace Anthony Richardson (hip) on Sunday afternoon. The Colts are leaving the door open for Taylor to return in Week 4, but in the event that he remains sidelined, fantasy managers should expect some sort of injury update from the coaching staff after the game. Trey Sermon will handle the bulk of touches out of the backfield until Taylor can return.
From RotoBaller
Carolina Panthers linebacker Josey Jewell (hamstring, groin) exited during the second half of Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals. He is officially listed as doubtful to return. At the time of his departure, he had registered seven tackles, so his absence is tough news for Carolina's defensive core. To add insult to injury, the Panthers are also currently without Shaq Thompson (leg), who was carted to the locker room in Week 4. With both Jewell and Thompson currently sidelined, depth linebackers Claudin Cherelus and Trevin Wallace will likely earn more defensive snaps.
From RotoBaller
Carolina Panthers linebacker Shaq Thompson (leg) was carted to the locker room during the fourth quarter of Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The team has not yet announced any sort of update or designation pertaining to the veteran's injury. At the time of his departure, he had recorded five tackles. Claudin Cherelus and Trevin Wallace are candidates to earn more snaps for the duration of Thompson's absence.
From RotoBaller
Jacksonville Jaguars pass-rusher Josh Hines-Allen (head) exited during the second half of Sunday's game against the Houston Texans. He was quickly evaluated and ultimately diagnosed with a concussion. As a result, he has been ruled out for the remainder of the contest. At the time of his departure, he had registered three tackles, including two quarterback hits. We will likely get an update on his status in the aftermath of the game, but Hines-Allen should be considered a longshot to play in Week 5 versus the Indianapolis Colts given the typical recovery time for a concussion in the NFL. Rookie Myles Cole could see more snaps until Hines-Allen is able to return to the mix.
From RotoBaller
Jacksonville Jaguars pass-rusher Josh Hines-Allen (head) exited during the second half of Sunday's game against the Houston Texans and is being evaluated for a concussion. At the time of his departure, he had registered three tackles, including two quarterback hits. Hines-Allen is merely being evaluated right now, but if he were to officially enter concussion protocol, he'd be a longshot to suit up in Week 5 versus the Indianapolis Colts. Rookie Myles Cole could see more snaps until Hines-Allen is able to return.
From RotoBaller
Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter (cramps) exited during the second half of Sunday's game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He is officially questionable to return. At the time of his departure, Carter had registered one tackle and one pass defended. The Eagles are leaving the door open for Carter to return today, but in the event that he remains sidelined, we should get more info on his status after the game ends. Thomas Booker IV is expected to earn more snaps until Carter can return.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints linebacker Willie Gay Jr. (hand) has been downgraded to out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons. He exited in the first quarter and was never able to get back into the contest, finishing Week 4 with two total tackles. We should know more about Gay's status and the severity of his injury in the aftermath of Sunday's contest. Anfernee Orji will earn more snaps for the remainder of Week 4.
From RotoBaller
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (ankle) has been downgraded to out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Minnesota Vikings. He exited in the first quarter after a play in which quarterback Jordan Love was interception while throwing to Watson. The young receiver injured his ankle on the interception and corresponding tackle attempt. That was Watson's only target of the contest, so he finished Week 4 with zero catches for zero yards. It's a frustrating end to the weekend for Watson, whose value finally seemed to be trending up with Love back from his injury. Now, we'll wait for more information on Watson before assessing how much time he might miss. In his absence, Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks should earn more targets behind Jayden Reed.
From RotoBaller
Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (ankle) is officially active for Sunday's game against the Kansas City Chiefs. He had been listed as questionable, but the expectation heading into the weekend was that Herbert would be able to play. Indeed, he is confirmed as the starter for a Week 4 divisional clash between the Chargers and Chiefs. Through parts of three games this year, Herbert has completed 67.2 percent of his passes for 399 yards, four touchdowns, one interception, and one lost fumble. The former first-round pick has a solid touchdown-to-interception ratio, but fantasy managers would love to see more yards and scoring from him in general. He ranks as a low-end QB2 against a solid Chiefs defense.
From RotoBaller
New Orleans Saints utility player Taysom Hill (abdomen) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons. He had six rushes for 24 yards and two touchdowns at the time of his departure. Hill has been able to inject an element of life into the Saints' offense numerous times throughout his career, so losing him is bad news for New Orleans. With that said, the Saints will still be able to run the ball effectively thanks to the impact of Alvin Kamara out of the backfield. Kamara and Jamaal Williams should handle all rushing duties for the Saints until Hill is healthy enough to play again.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle) has officially been ruled out for the rest of Sunday's contest against the Indianapolis Colts. He'll finish as the team's leading rusher so far with six carries for 43 yards as well as two receptions for 19 yards. The 12-year veteran was the lone silver lining for the Steelers before leaving, and the offense has struggled even more since then. The Steelers have only managed to score three points through two and a half quarters so far. Najee Harris continues to get the starter's workload while Aaron Shampklin is the only other healthy back on the roster. They likely won't be running the ball much more as they'll attempt a comeback win in the third and fourth quarter.
From RotoBaller
Chicago Bears offensive lineman Teven Jenkins (ribs) has officially been listed as questionable to return after picking up a rib injury in the first half of the contest against the Los Angeles Rams. Since there aren't any more left guards on the depth chart, Matt Pryor will move over to fill that vacancy while Nate Davis has come in to play right guard. The offensive line play has already been quite abysmal for the Bears, so this may spell even more trouble for Caleb Williams and the offense. Jenkins' status will be monitored as the game goes on, and he's worth monitoring going into next week to see if the Bears have to make any moves to bolster the depth of the offensive line.
From RotoBaller
San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. (calf) is now considered active for the team's Week 4 contest against the New England Patriots. He was able to put in a couple of limited practices this week, so he may not receive the usual workload in this game. With Samuel back on the field, Jordan Mason and Jauan Jennings may not see the same amount of touches that they would have otherwise. The Patriots give up the 11th-most fantasy points per game to opposing receivers in half-PPR formats, so the 49ers receiver group could find plenty of open areas to operate. Samuel does present some risk to fantasy managers given how tricky calf issues can be though.
From RotoBaller
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Cordarrelle Patterson (ankle) has been one of the only bright spots for the team so far, but had to leave the game with an ankle injury and has been deemed questionable to return. The veteran back posted 43 yards on six carries and two receptions for 19 yards through the air. The Steelers' offense hasn't been able to move the ball at all except for some of the plays that Patterson put together. With him sidelined, the struggle will seemingly get worse as the only healthy running backs left are Najee Harris and Aaron Shampklin. Harris registered a measly 0.8 yards per carry before halftime while Shampklin received one carry for five yards. If Patterson can get back on the field, he may be the best option for the Steelers to sneak out a win.
From RotoBaller
Houston Texans offensive lineman Laremy Tunsil (ankle) is questionable to return to Sunday's game after suffering an ankle injury in the second quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Tunsil has been a key part of C.J. Stroud's protection, but he has also hurt them often with false start penalties. Rookie Blake Fisher is the next left tackle on the depth chart, which could be worrisome if the Jaguars decide to attack that side and test the rookie out. Tunsil's status will continue to be monitored as the game goes on, and he'll likely receive some more tests on Monday to determine if he has to miss any extended time.
From RotoBaller
Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Trey Palmer (concussion) has been ruled out for the rest of the game against the Philadelphia Eagles after suffering a concussion in the first half. The second-year wideout caught all three targets for 26 yards and a touchdown before leaving the game. At the time, he had the fourth-most targets on the team, but the third-most yards in this contest. Palmer had just moved up the depth chart for this game with Jalen McMillan (hamstring) ruled out right before game time. After Palmer, Sterling Shepard and rookie Kameron Johnson are the next two up. Cade Otton will also likely see some more opportunities if Mike Evans and Chris Godwin don't soak up all of the remaining targets.
From RotoBaller
Denver Broncos running back Tyler Badie (undisclosed) was carted off the sidelines to the locker room during the second quarter of Sunday's game against the New York Jets. Badie went to the sidelines after losing a fumble and seemingly went down on the sidelines with some sort of issue. He was then put on a backboard and carted off to the team's locker room with the problem still unknown. The sixth-round rookie had one carry for zero yards and two receptions for -4 yards before leaving the game. He delivered a quality game the week before against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers which moved him into the third-string conversation. He's listed as questionable to return right now, so his status will be monitored as the game goes on.
From RotoBaller
Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson (ankle) is questionable to return to Sunday's NFC North clash with the Vikings. The wideout injured his ankle. However, he needed to be carted off, so his day could very well be over. If that's the case, Watson will finish without a catch (one target), with Jayden Reed and Romeo Doubs potentially in line to see more attention from Jordan Love for the rest of the afternoon.
From RotoBaller
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (hip) has been ruled out for the rest of the game after suffering a hip injury in the second quarter of Sunday's game. The young signal-caller was hit and fell a bit awkwardly on a scramble where he fumbled the ball. He returned to the game for a snap and limped off the field and into the locker room after taking another hit on another scramble. Joe Flacco has officially taken over as the quarterback and immediately scored to put the Colts up by two scores over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Richardson's status will be something to monitor as the team will likely perform some more tests later on Sunday and Monday to determine the severity. In the meantime, Flacco will likely be a popular waiver wire pickup.
From RotoBaller
