Fantasy football advice, Week 11: Who to start/sit for Washington vs. Panthers
Can Washington keep its recent decent stretch going?
We're down to two undefeated teams in the NFL, and the Carolina Panthers are one of them, well out in front in the NFC South. Meanwhile, Washington has ridden a recent hot stretch, winning two of three, into second place in the NFC East, half a game behind the New York Giants. So both teams could use a win when they face each other Sunday, though for different reasons.
Washington running back Alfred Morris is on the weekly injury report with a rib problem, but he's expected to be fine for the game. For Carolina, wide receiver Philly Brown injured his shoulder in practice Thursday, and is unlikely to play Sunday.
Carolina is host to visiting Washington Sunday, with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. ET. Let’s take a look at the fantasy names to consider:
WASHINGTON
Start ‘em: With 40 fantasy points in three games since returning from injury, Jordan Reed is a must-start tight end.
Start ‘em?: If I'm using a Washington receiver this week, it's Jamison Crowder, who works out of the slot, where Carolina is far more vulnerable. ... Dustin Hopkins has been really good with Washington, though a strong defense could hinder his production.
Sit ‘em: Coming off of a monster game against New Orleans, don't get sucked in on Kirk Cousins. He'll come back to earth against Carolina. ... The Washington running-back duo of Alfred Morris and Matt Jones was strong a week ago, but it's been woefully inconsistent overall. Avoid them and No. 3 Chris Thompson. ... Against Carolina, this is not the week you want to consider DeSean Jackson or Pierre Garcon. ... The Washington defense had a good Week 10, but that was after consecutive negative-point games.
PANTHERS
Start ‘em: No matter what, you're using Cam Newton here. He could be in line for a huge game. ... The Washington defense was really strong against the run earlier in the season. The numbers have tailed off of late, but either way, Jonathan Stewart is a good fantasy option. ... Of course you're still using Greg Olsen. ... Graham Gano has been a stout kicker all year. ... If Kirk Cousins hasn't really put his turnover problems behind him, the Panthers' defense could feast.
Start ‘em?: With Philly Brown almost certainly out, Ted Ginn Jr. is an intriguing option, with a fair ceiling.
Sit ‘em: The No. 2 wide receiver for Carolina this week will likely be Devin Funchess, but neither he nor Jerricho Cotchery is on the fantasy radar right now.
SUMMARY
Start in every league: Jordan Reed, Cam Newton, Jonathan Stewart, Greg Olsen, Graham Gano, Carolina defense
Start if you're desperate: Jamison Crowder, Dustin Hopkins, Ted Ginn Jr.
Bench: Kirk Cousins, Alfred Morris, Matt Jones, Chris Thompson, DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garcon, Washington defense, Devin Funchess, Jerricho Cotchery
