UPDATE, 2:09 p.m. EST: The Texans are expected to make a change at quarterback and are preparing to start Ryan Mallett on Sunday versus the Carolina Panthers, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport
Ryan Mallett expected to start Sunday, per report, but shouldn’t in fantasy leagues
The Texans are keeping their hand close to their chest regarding the announcement of who will start at quarterback on Sunday. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Houston Texans quarterback Brian Hoyer is expected to start for the team's Week 2 matchup with the Carolina Panthers, according to The Houston Chronicle's John McClain and ESPN's Tania Ganguli.
This would come as a bit of a shock after Hoyer’s dismal performance in Week 1, which led him to be pulled from the game in favor of Ryan Mallett. In Hoyer’s relief, Mallett moved the ball well and took shots down the field to ultimately get the Texans back in the game despite falling short. Hoyer completed 18-of-34 passes for 236 yards with a touchdown and an interception, while Mallett completed 8-of-13 passes for 96 yards and a touchdown.
Fantasy Spin: Though Hoyer had a performance he'd love to forget vs. the Kansas City Chiefs, he remains capable enough to keep stud wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins relevant in fantasy leagues. Regardless of who starts for the Texans, the dropoff between Hoyer and Mallett isn't significant enough to weigh down Hopkins' fantasy prospects.
Neither Texans quarterback is an advisable start versus the Panthers, and Hopkins remains the only must-start in their offense.
