Chicago vs. Detroit: Jared Goff to Bounce Back
Stat: Jared Goff is seeking to become the first starting QB to win 11 straight games when coming off a loss since Aaron Rodgers (2018–22).
Both the Bears and Lions are looking to secure a win this Sunday at Ford Field, with a few key changes being necessary for the Lions to get the edge. Better offensive line communication, winning 3rd downs, and establishing the run have to be addressed by the Lions, who are up against a Bears’ team boasting a solid secondary and a QB who isn’t afraid to scramble.
Goff may have more inside knowledge of the Bears’ defensive strategy in this matchup. Dennis Allen passed on his defensive style to Aaron Glenn, who then taught it to the Lions’ current defensive coordinator, Kelvin Sheppard.
Why it matters: There is reason to believe Goff can bounce back with solid fantasy production and a win in Week 2. Bears had fourth lowest pressure rating of Week 1 which at the very least gives Goff more time to cook.
Carolina vs. Arizona: McMillan’s Target Share
Stat: Tetairoa McMillan led the Panthers in Week 1 with 9 targets, 118 air yards, and 68 receiving yards; now faces an Arizona defense that allowed 17 catches for 126 yards to Saints WRs.
Kyler Murray aims to lead Arizona to its first 2-0 start since 2021, when they also made a playoff appearance. Even in a losing game, there is room for Tetairoa McMillan to see solid production especially after the Panthers’ dreadful season opener.
McMillian against the Jaguars in Week 1 had 22.9% target share with a 40.6% air-yard share (16th-best). Trusting Bryce Young’s play to improve adds more appeal to the rookie receiver succeeding on the field and in fantasy lineups.
For context, Bryce Young completed 65.4% of his passes for two touchdowns with no picks and rushed for 68 yards and a score in the 36-30 overtime victory against the Cardinals late last season. Gannon wants to stop the run this time around making an elite passing offensive performance from the Panthers vital for the win.
Why it matters: McMillan is trending toward a central role in Carolina’s passing attack against a defense that already showed vulnerability to WR-heavy production in the past.
New York Giants vs. Dallas: Dak Prescott’s Streak
Stat: Dak Prescott has won 13 straight starts against the Giants, the second-longest QB streak vs. one opponent since the AFL-NFL merger.
Prescott’s Week 1 stat line downplays his elite QB status. He scored just 7.8 fantasy points and lost 61 yards to drops—the most of any quarterback. There is definitely room for Dak to improve. Notably, the Giants allowed the 11th most yards per attempt in Week 1, offering an opportunity. Also, the Cowboys haven’t started 0-2 since 2010.
Prescott’s success will also depend on the Cowboys’ offensive line holding up against a Giants‘ defense that did get three sacks against the Commanders.
Why it matters: Sustained dominance from Prescott signals a real matchup edge that could definitely translate to fantasy production for the entire Cowboys offense.
Atlanta vs. Minnesota: Vikings’ RB Committee
Stat: Week 1 — Jordan Mason 16 touches (8.5 fantasy pts), Aaron Jones Sr. 11 touches (15.7 pts including a 27-yard TD). Usage points to a true 50-50 split.
A running back by committee approach seems to be the new normal for Minnesota this season with Jones Sr. getting the edge if your are looking for a true “pass catcher” running back. Mason provides steady opportunity for carries with a higher upside for explosive plays coming from Aaron Jones Sr.
Last year, Atlanta gave up the most receptions and the second-most (tied) receiving touchdowns to running backs.The Falcons are also a tough matchup for Minnesota’s running game, once again making the passing game the preferred strategy to secure a 2-0 start for McCarthy and the Vikings.
Why it matters: A genuine committee backfield limits ceiling outcomes and should be considered heavily when deciding on running back options.
