Johnny Manziel, Montreal – $6021
Since their Week 14 bye, the Toronto Argonauts have allowed an average of 32 points against per game, the most in the league. The Argos’ porous defence faces the Montreal Alouettes this week, and Johnny Manziel should be fantasy relevant. Over his last three starts, Manziel has looked more comfortable in the Canadian game. Posting an admirable 8.6 yards per attempt he appears to be acclimating to Mike Sherman’s system. Conversely, only once over the last four weeks have the Argos prevented a quarterback from throwing for two touchdowns and over 200 yards. While not a flashy play, Manziel projects to be a useful start for CFL Fantasy.
Tyrell Sutton, B.C. – $6580
In his first start with the B.C. Lions against the vaunted Calgary Stampeders defence, Tyrell Sutton again looked like the player who led the league in rushing in 2015. Perhaps most encouraging for fantasy owners was that he did not share any running back touches with previous incumbent Jeremiah Johnson. Sutton may be somewhat tested by an Eskimos defence that has been effective against running backs in consecutive weeks. However, in a must-win game for both teams, Sutton should again see 15 or more touches and have a monopoly on goal-line carries.
Brandon Burks, Toronto – $4200
Negative game script limited Burks carry totals, but his passing work made him an excellent start last week against Hamilton. With seven targets, Burks looks like a reliable bargain running back for CFL Fantasy. In addition, Montreal’s defence has been beatable on the ground, giving Burks a chance at getting a greater volume of touches this week. Lastly, Burks has displayed big-play ability in consecutive weeks, and only requires a small number of touches to return on his affordable CFL Fantasy salary.
Brandon Banks, Hamilton – $12219
No player has been more frequently targeted in the CFL than Brandon Banks. Over his last four games, Jeremiah Masoli has targeted Banks a total of 40 times. In that time Banks has posted an absurd 385 yards and seven touchdowns. Over the season, Banks leads the league in both targets and Air Yards per game. When Hamilton last faced the Ottawa Redblacks, Banks posted nine receptions for 113 yards. There is a reason he’s the most expensive non-quarterback in CFL Fantasy. Banks should be leaned on heavily at this crucial stage of the season, both by Hamilton and fantasy owners.
Chris Matthews, Calgary – $2500
Chris Matthews made an immediate impact in his return to the CFL. More impressive than his 45 yards and touchdown against B.C. were his eight targets. Bo Levi Mitchell has been working to build a rapport with Matthews, and the offence looks to be emphasizing the big-bodied receiver. Saskatchewan’s defence appeared very beatable last week when they were routed by the Blue Bombers. With another week to further integrate into the offence, Matthews should remain heavily utilized and have the opportunity for a big week.
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