In Week 1, the Dallas Cowboys came from behind to beat the New York Giants. Since then, the Giants have gone 3-2, while the Cowboys have gone 2-2 and lost their starting quarterback and No. 1 wide receiver. Sunday, the two teams play each other again, both needing a win to stay near the top of the NFC East standings.
Fantasy football advice, Week 7: Who to start/sit for Cowboys vs. Giants
It’s one of two in-season rematches of Week 7.
The only fantasy-relevant Cowboy on the injury report is wide receiver Dez Bryant, who is still dealing with his foot problem. Officially, he’s listed as doubtful, but there’s no chance he’ll return this week. The Giants also have injury problems among wide receivers; wide receiver Victor Cruz will miss another game, while Odell Beckham Jr. and Rueben Randle are both expected to play through their hamstring issues.
This is the second of two late-afternoon games for Week 7, with the Giants hosting for a 4:25 p.m. ET scheduled start time. Let’s take a look at the fantasy names to consider:
COWBOYS
Start ‘em?: We haven’t seen a lot from Jason Witten since Week 1; he’s no longer a must-start tight end. ... Dan Bailey still looks like a fine kicker.
Sit ‘em: The Cowboys will turn to Matt Cassel at quarterback for Week 7, which -- man, get well soon, Tony Romo. ... If you can afford to, sit all three Dallas running backs -- Joseph Randle, Christine Michael, Darren McFadden -- this week to see how the team makes use of the players coming out of the bye. ... Terrance Williams and Cole Beasley would be tough to use with a good quarterback; with Cassel, they’re stay-aways. ... The Cowboys’ defense had 20 points in Week 2 and one total combined point in all other games combined.
GIANTS
Start ‘em: After a rough Week 6, it’s tempting to bench Eli Manning, but he had looked really strong for a full month before that. He’s fine. ... Even banged up, you’re using Odell Beckham Jr. in every game.
Start ‘em?: If you’re using Larry Donnell, it’s just for his marginal touchdown potential. He hasn’t been great. ... Josh Brown has been good whenever the New York offense has given him a shot. ... The Giants’ defense isn’t great, but with Cassel lined up opposite them, they have potential.
Sit ‘em: The running-back mix in New York is frustrating. If you’re starting one, it’s Rashad Jennings over Shane Vereen and/or Andre Williams, but the best bet is to let them all sit. ... Rueben Randle seemed like a good bet with Victor Cruz staying hurt, but he’s only had one really good game.
SUMMARY
Start in every league: Eli Manning, Odell Beckham Jr.
Start if you’re desperate: Jason Witten, Dan Bailey, Larry Donnell, Josh Brown, New York defense
Bench: Matt Cassel, Joseph Randle, Christine Michael, Darren McFadden, Terrance Williams, Cole Beasley, Dallas defense, Rashad Jennings, Shane Vereen, Andre Williams, Rueben Randle
