Coming into the start of Week 10, no quarterback had thrown for more yards than Philip Rivers of the Los Angeles Chargers and no team had allowed more passing yards then the Oakland Raiders, so naturally, Rivers was in must-start territory for “Thursday Night Football,” right? Sigh!!!
Rivers threw three interceptions — and it could have been six, if we’re being honest. The Raiders beat the Chargers, 26-24. Running back Josh Jacobs is proving to be bust-proof, as he scored the go ahead touchdown, while fellow running backs Melvin Gordon and Austin Ekeler proved they can both be reliable starters each week.
Tight end Hunter Henry is a must start each week. Receiver Keenan Allen was serviceable in a PPR format, but not what we all expected or needed from him. Tight end Darren Waller and receiver Tyrell Williams both disappointed as well. Oh, and some dude named Alec Ingold scored a TD. Never heard of him? Good, I would have been worried if you had!
Here are five players I expect to have solid fantasy days who may be slightly off your radar:
1. O.J. Howard, TE, Tampa Bay
It’s now or never! Howard is back! Howard is healthy! Tampa plays Arizona! The Cardinals are terrible against tight ends! Has to work, right?!?!
2. Ronald Jones II, RB, Tampa Bay
Smelling a trend here. Ronald Jones is now the starting running back for Tampa, which has a terrific matchup against the Cardinals. Jones started against the San Francisco 49ers Oct. 31 and had 20 touches and scored a touchdown. If that happens again this week, he is a solid RB2.
3. Sam Darnold, QB, New York Jets
I know, Darnold is impossible to trust. I mean, are ghosts real or imagined? But it is also tough to ignore the plus-plus matchup he has against the New York Giants. I think you could do worse this week if you are in bye week or injury trouble.
4. Russell Gage, WR, Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta defense is not good, to be kind, and New Orleans Saints slot corners have been awful this season. So Gage, who had nine targets and eight catches his last time out, could find himself in a decent position for an Atlanta team that I assume will be playing from behind against the Saints Nov. 10. He’s certainly worth a flier in a DFS lineup.
5. Gus Edwards, RB, Baltimore
The GUS BUS! It seems like he has the closer role for the Ravens. The Ravens should be playing from ahead against the Cincinnati Bengals Nov. 10, so Edwards should see 10-plus touches and maybe a red-zone carry.
Sleeper defense: Kansas City Chiefs
Need a kicker? Sam Ficken, New York Jets
Check out Ken Zalis’ latest fantasy football player rankings, and click here for the latest fantasy football advice.