Start: HOU WR Nico Collins vs. DEN CB Riley Moss
Collins missed last week with a concussion, but he is trending towards playing this week against Denver. QB C.J. Stroud played well without Collins and WR2 Christian Kirk, racking up over 300 passing yards, and got the win. With Stroud gaining some confidence in what has been an underwhelming season so far for Houston, Collins could explode, as Denver will be without the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, Patrick Surtain II, for several weeks.
Riley Moss is a great complementary cornerback, but will he be up to the task of being the top corner? The Broncos could use more zone coverage while Surtain is out, which is Nico Collins’ strong suit. Collins was ranked as the second-best receiver against zone last season, according to PFF. Do not be scared off by the “Denver” matchup. Go ahead and fire up Collins this week.
Sit: GB WR Matthew Golden vs. CAR CB Mike Jackson
Golden’s production in his rookie year has still not flourished as many had hoped. Last week, Golden caught three passes for a measly four yards. The news does not get any better for fantasy managers as Christian Watson returned last week and instantly made an impact with four catches for 85 yards, showing the chemistry that had been built previously with Jordan Love.
Carolina’s pass defense has not been too bad this season, surrendering just under 200 passing yards a game. The Panthers have been gashed on the ground a few times this season, including Bills RB James Cook last week, who ran for over 200 yards. Josh Jacobs could be in for a big game in a run-heavy scheme. All the more reason to pivot from Golden this week.
