Cat Scratch Reader discusses the Panthers trip to New England this weekend.
RB DeAngelo Williams – Williams returned to practice and should be a good start this week even against the Patriots #8 defense against RB FFL points. Williams should be rejuvenated from his week off and looking to make an impact. I’m thinking 105 yards and a TD.
Fantasy Scouting Report: Carolina Panthers
RB Jonathan Stewart – Stewart had a good point total as a spot starter last week against the Bucs with 120 yards and a TD. Don’t expect the same this week. The return of Williams and a low scoring affair in Foxboro should keep Stewart on your bench but if you brave it he just might get a TD and around 60 yards.
WR Steve Smith – Smith would appear to be a good play against a Patriots secondary giving up 20.9 FFL per week to WRs. That is until you consider 3rd year QB Matt Moore will start again. Expect the playbook to be limited yet again as the Panthers look to limit his exposure. Still, if I had him I would start him and I’m going to predict an optimistic 90 yards and score.
QB Matt Moore – Unless you’re already out of the playoffs, leave the tea leaves in the bag and Matt Moore on the waiver wire.
Panthers Defense & ST – I actually played the Panthers D myself last week and was rewarded with their best week of the year (19 points). No such luck this week as they face Tom Brady and the Patriots #2 offense. Also, the Panthers return units have been anything but spectacular so there is no boost there. Leave them on the bench as there are better options on the wire. (I picked up the Titans going against the Rams)
K John Kasay – Given the weather report Kasay is not a good play this week. His FG opportunities will be limited and the chance of weather impacting his kicks makes it an easy decision to look elsewhere.
Panthers TEs Jeff King, Dante Rosario and Gary Barnidge – None of these players are consistent enough for a play this week and Moore has yet to build a rapport with any of them. If I had to pick one for a big game against the Patriots it would be Rosario. He is the best at stretching the field and given the Patriots struggles in the secondary just might get several targets in this game, but it’s a long shot. Best case scenario is 60 yards and a score for Rosario.
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