Treat the first week of fantasy football like you would a first date: It’s OK to like someone after spending a few hours with them, but don’t get married until you meet their parents or see how they perform against the Steelers defense. The exceptions are few: Beyonce, Megan Fox and Drew Brees.
Here’s what we know for sure after the first flirtation with the NFL.
Needs a second opinion
Jay Cutler, QB, Bears: Don’t panic yet, Cutler owners. It can only get better from here. We think.
Steve Slaton, RB, Houston: The Texans’ entire offense laid a stink bomb against a game Jets D. He’ll rebound.
Joe Flacco, QB, Baltimore: OK, don’t expect 43 pass attempts from the Ravens every week.
Dr. Fantasy’s injury checkup
Pierre Thomas, RB, New Orleans: He’ll be back from a sprained MCL this week, but after Bell’s explosive performance, they’ll likely split duties. Lower your expectations.
LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, San Diego: He was seen limping badly after the game Monday night after rolling his ankle. Monitor this one and make a roster decision later this week.
Anthony Gonzalez, WR, Indianapolis: Stash him on your bench for now. His injury means Reggie Wayne and Dallas Clark might see even more passes from Peyton Manning.
Locks of the week
John Carlson, TE, vs. 49ers: This Seahawk won’t always fly this high, but he looks to be a breakout top-tier tight end this season.
Adrian Peterson, RB, vs. Lions: If Bell can run for 143 yards against Detroit, could A.P. break 500?
Philip Rivers, QB, vs. Ravens: The Baltimore D looks like it’s lost a few feathers since last year.
– – –
Thumbs Up, Thumbs Down
(Up) Darren Sproles, RB, San Diego: If he’s still available in your league somehow, you should leap to the waiver wire fast enough to throw your back out.
(Up) Mike Bell, RB, New Orleans: Ditto.
(Down) Marc Bulger, QB, St. Louis: We were willing to give him a mulligan for an injury-plagued ’08, but this former stud is done until further notice.
(Down) Antonio Bryant, WR, Tampa Bay: His iffy surgically repaired knee and new QB situation mean he could be a one-hit wonder.
