The New England Patriots had a convincing win in Week 1 over the Pittsburgh Steelers, with only a garbage time Pittsburgh touchdown making the game seem close. The Buffalo Bills were similarly convincing over the Indianapolis Colts, holding a prolific Indianapolis offense scoreless into the fourth quarter. The two teams go for 2-0 against one another Sunday in an AFC East matchup.
Fantasy football advice, Week 2: Who to start/sit for Patriots vs. Bills
Two teams that looked really strong in Week 1 face off in a hunt for 2-0.
From a fantasy perspective, the Patriots come into Sunday's game almost totally healthy. Running back Travaris Cadet is dealing with a hamstring issue, but (a) should be fine for the game and (b) isn't guaranteed to be much of a part of the offense even when healthy. On the Buffalo side, running back LeSean McCoy has been dealing with a hamstring issue, with the news getting worse as the week went on. He's no guarantee to play. Wide receiver Percy Harvin, dealing with a hip problem, will play.
Buffalo will play host for Sunday’s game, scheduled for 1 p.m. ET. Here’s a look at the fantasy names to consider:
PATRIOTS
Start 'em: Even against a strong Buffalo defense, you're using Tom Brady in fantasy largely because, come on, it's Tom Brady. ... You're using both Julian Edelman and Rob Gronkowski, even in a dodgy matchup. They've more than proven themselves, and if they fail, well, they've earned the right to fail in your lineup. ... Stephen Gostkowski is still the top kicker option.
Start 'em?: In his first game back from suspension, LeGarrette Blount should see heavy usage, but he's also a New England running back, which means you never really know. ... The Patriots' defense is good, not great, making it a questionable fantasy start.
Sit 'em: The return of Blount means the Week 1 New England running backs, primarily Dion Lewis and Brandon Bolden, are almost impossible to use outside of super-deep leagues. ... Neither Aaron Dobson nor Danny Amendola looks likely to do much while Brandon LaFell is sidelined. ... Another year, another Patriots tight end (now Scott Chandler) who offers touchdown upside but not much in yardage.
BILLS
Start 'em: The only Buffalo players who really need to be in lineups are kicker Dan Carpenter and, despite the stout opponent, the Bills' defense.
Start 'em?: New starting quarterback Tyrod Taylor looks fully competent in Week 1. He's still a mid-to-low QB2, but his running ability means he'll offer some value every week he starts. ... The Buffalo running back situation is interesting. LeSean McCoy didn't look great in Week 1, but he's the starter. Karlos Williams looked better, but he needs McCoy to sit out to be of use. Regardless, whichever one starts is a fantasy play. ... Sammy Watkins won't face Vontae Davis every week. He's a fine mid-to-low flex. ... Charles Clay is one of those mid-level tight ends who needs a touchdown to be helpful, but he could get one.
Sit 'em: With Watkins likely getting more attention from the offense, Percy Harvin will get less, and Robert Woods will continue to not get much. They are fantasy bench-fillers.
SUMMARY
Start in every league: Tom Brady, Julian Edelman, Rob Gronkowski, Stephen Gostkowksi, Dan Carpenter, Buffalo defense
Start if you're desperate: LeGarrette Blount, New England defense, Tyrod Taylor, LeSean McCoy, Karlos Williams, Sammy Watkins, Charles Clay
Bench: Dion Lewis, Brandon Bolden, Aaron Dobson, Danny Amendola, Scott Chandler, Percy Harvin, Robert Woods
