Mulligan’s Fantasy Forecast, Week 6
How’s that Randy Moss trade to the Vikings in the middle of the season for a shocker? It’s probably the best thing that could have happened for Randy Moss owners since Moss apparently stopped caring in New England. Now, re-energized, Moss owners should see a full return on their draft investment.
Good Match-ups
Jay Cutler vs. Seahawks defense: Despite missing last week’s game against the Panthers after suffering a concussion in the Bears previous game, Cutler did have limited participation in Chicago practices during the week. The consensus is that Cutler will start this week, and he gets a great match up against Seattle. The Seahawks are one of only two teams that have given up more than 300 yards passing per game through the first five weeks of this season. Look for Cutler to get back on track with a big game this week.
Frank Gore vs. Raiders defense: Gore had himself a rough night last Sunday against the Eagles but has the ideal match up for a rebound this week as the Niners face the Oakland Raiders. Only the lowly Buffalo Bills have been worse at defending the run this season as the Raiders are allowing teams to rush for over 147 yards per game. If you thought about benching Gore for even a split-second this week, don’t.
Not so good match-ups
Shaun Hill vs. Giants defense: Hill has played pretty well in the absence of Lions starting QB Matthew Stafford and fantasy owner have begun to take notice. However, if you haven’t been able to take advantage of Hill’s strong play by now, it’s likely too late to start. Hill faces a Giants defense this week that has allowed an NFL-low 146 passing yards per game this season to this point. This may also be Hill’s last start as the Lions get a bye in Week 7 with Stafford expected to be ready to reclaim his starting gig for Week 8.
Peyton Hillis vs. Steelers defense: Hillis saw his workload limited last week after suffering a quad injury during the previous week’s practice. This week, Hillis and the Browns will travel to Pittsburgh to face the Steelers who are holding teams to a measly 62 yards rushing per game this season best in the NFL. That’s not a match up that I would want to start a healthy Peyton Hillis, let alone an injured one.
Waiver wire watch: Michael Bush, RB, Raiders: McFadden’s absence meant Michael Bush got the start last week for the Raiders at running back against the Chargers. Bush put up over 100 yards rushing and a touchdown as well as three catches for 31 yards with the opportunity. Should McFadden miss this week’s game, Bush will get another start and a solid match up against a below average 49ers run defense.
Kyle Mulligan is a contributing sports writer for the Observer. He welcomes your feedback and can be reached at kjmulli@gmail.com.