NFL Week 2: Key Matchups, Fantasy Sleepers, and Surprising Trends to Watch

Get ready for NFL Week 2 with in-depth analysis on key matchups, fantasy sleepers, and surprising trends that could shape the outcomes of this weekend's games.

Stat Trends That Could Determine Week 2 Winners

Caleb Williams' Accuracy Woes Caleb Williams struggled with accuracy in Week 1, particularly when throwing outside the numbers. With a 29% off-target rate and a negative-13% completion percentage over expectation (CPOE), Williams faces a tough challenge against the Lions. His new coach, Ben Johnson, might help, but Detroit's defense could still pose problems.

Rams' Interior Line vs. Jeffery Simmons The Rams' interior line took a hit with injuries in Week 1. If Steve Avila and Kevin Dotson can't play, Beaux Limmer will step in, but his performance last week was shaky. Facing Titans' Jeffery Simmons, who ranked 10th in pass rush win rate last season, will be a tough test for the Rams' backups.

Texans' Running Game Against the Buccaneers Houston's shift in run scheme from outside zone to duo could be problematic against Tampa Bay, which has allowed just 3.5 yards per carry against duo runs since last season. The Buccaneers' defensive front, led by Vita Vea, remains a formidable challenge.

Fantasy Sleepers to Watch

Cedric Tillman, WR, Cleveland Browns (46.1% rostered) Tillman saw eight targets and posted 16.2 fantasy points in Week 1. With Joe Flacco projected for high passing volume, Tillman is a solid flex option.

Juwan Johnson, TE, New Orleans Saints (37.6% rostered) Johnson led the Saints in receiving in Week 1 and could continue to be a reliable target in Kellen Moore's offense, despite a tough matchup against the 49ers.

Trevor Lawrence, QB, Jacksonville Jaguars (36.1% rostered) Lawrence should outperform his Week 1 fantasy points in a high-scoring game against the Bengals, especially with key targets like Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter.

Michael Penix Jr., QB, Atlanta Falcons (26.8% rostered) Penix showed promise in Week 1 and could replicate Caleb Williams' success against the Vikings' defense.

Kareem Hunt, RB, Kansas City Chiefs (20.3% rostered) Hunt matched Isiah Pacheco's touches in Week 1 and could be a valuable contributor in multiple roles against the Eagles.

Potential Surprises

Bears' Trick Play Expect the Bears to pull off a trick play against the Vikings, especially with Ben Johnson's creative play-calling.

Bills' High-Scoring Game The Bills could score 40-plus points again, especially against a Jets secondary that struggled in Week 1.

James Conner's Rushing Dominance Conner could lead the league in rushing this week against a Panthers defense that has allowed over 200 rushing yards in seven straight games.

Key Matchup to Watch

J.J. McCarthy vs. Jessie Bates III McCarthy's ability to identify Bates post-snap will be crucial. Bates' range and ball skills make him a constant threat, and McCarthy will need to be at his best to navigate this matchup.

Best Bet of the Week

Tampa Bay Buccaneers +2.5 at Houston Texans With a healthier skill group and a steadier offensive line, the Buccaneers have the edge in this possession-driven game.

What to Read Next

Top Fantasy Football Pickups to Replace Joe Burrow and Boost Your Roster in Week 3
NFL

Top Fantasy Football Pickups to Replace Joe Burrow and Boost Your Roster in Week 3

Discover the best available quarterbacks and other key players to replace Joe Burrow and enhance your fantasy football roster for Week 3 of the NFL season.

NFL Week 3 Betting Insights: Key Matchups and Predictions
NFL

NFL Week 3 Betting Insights: Key Matchups and Predictions

Explore the top NFL Week 3 betting picks, including insights on the Colts, Commanders, and Bears, and key matchups to watch.

Tucker Kraft's Stellar Performance Signals a Promising NFL Season
NFL

Tucker Kraft's Stellar Performance Signals a Promising NFL Season

Tucker Kraft's impressive 124-yard game for the Green Bay Packers hints at a breakout NFL season, showcasing his potential as a top tight end.

Steelers Defense Struggles Continue: Can Pittsburgh Turn the Tide in the NFL Season?
NFL

Steelers Defense Struggles Continue: Can Pittsburgh Turn the Tide in the NFL Season?

The Pittsburgh Steelers' defense faces ongoing challenges as they struggle to contain opponents, raising questions about their ability to rebound in the 2025 NFL season.

Broncos' Fourth-Quarter Collapse Leads to Heartbreaking Loss Against Colts
NFL

Broncos' Fourth-Quarter Collapse Leads to Heartbreaking Loss Against Colts

The Denver Broncos' fourth-quarter errors led to a stunning 29-28 loss to the Indianapolis Colts, highlighting critical mistakes and missed opportunities.

C.J. Stroud's Journey: Balancing Faith, Fame, and Football in the NFL
NFL

C.J. Stroud's Journey: Balancing Faith, Fame, and Football in the NFL

Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud shares his journey of balancing faith, fame, and football, focusing on personal growth and team success.

Geno Smith's New Era: Leading the Las Vegas Raiders to Glory
NFL

Geno Smith's New Era: Leading the Las Vegas Raiders to Glory

Geno Smith finds a new home with the Las Vegas Raiders, aiming to lead the team to success under the guidance of coach Pete Carroll.

NFL Week 2 Thrillers: Cowboys, Colts, and Bengals Stage Epic Comebacks
NFL

NFL Week 2 Thrillers: Cowboys, Colts, and Bengals Stage Epic Comebacks

Week 2 of the NFL season saw dramatic comebacks from the Cowboys, Colts, and Bengals. Dive into the thrilling finishes and what lies ahead for these teams.

Baker Mayfield Aims for Greater Success in Year 3 with the Buccaneers
NFL

Baker Mayfield Aims for Greater Success in Year 3 with the Buccaneers

Baker Mayfield seeks to build on his career-best season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, aiming for more wins and team success in Year 3.

Jim Harbaugh vs. Pete Carroll: A Rivalry Rekindled on Monday Night Football
NFL

Jim Harbaugh vs. Pete Carroll: A Rivalry Rekindled on Monday Night Football

Explore the intense, nearly two-decade-long rivalry between Jim Harbaugh and Pete Carroll as they face off again in the NFL.

Drake Maye's Stellar Performance Leads Patriots to Victory Over Dolphins
NFL

Drake Maye's Stellar Performance Leads Patriots to Victory Over Dolphins

Drake Maye showcased significant improvement as he led the New England Patriots to a thrilling 33-27 victory over the Miami Dolphins in NFL Week 2.

Sam Darnold Shines as Seattle Seahawks Dominate Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2 Showdown
NFL

Sam Darnold Shines as Seattle Seahawks Dominate Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2 Showdown

Sam Darnold led the Seattle Seahawks to a commanding 31-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers, showcasing his versatility and poise in a game-changing performance.

Joe Burrow's Turf Toe Injury: Impact on Bengals' Super Bowl Hopes and Jake Browning's Role
NFL

Joe Burrow's Turf Toe Injury: Impact on Bengals' Super Bowl Hopes and Jake Browning's Role

Joe Burrow's turf toe injury could sideline him for months, impacting the Bengals' Super Bowl aspirations. Jake Browning steps in as the starting QB.

NFL Overtime Strategy 2025: First vs. Second Possession Debate
NFL

NFL Overtime Strategy 2025: First vs. Second Possession Debate

Explore the evolving NFL overtime strategies for the 2025 season, focusing on the debate between taking the first or second possession in OT.

Chicago Bears' Defensive Struggles Continue in Crushing Loss to Detroit Lions
NFL

Chicago Bears' Defensive Struggles Continue in Crushing Loss to Detroit Lions

The Chicago Bears' defense faltered again in a 52-21 loss to the Detroit Lions, marking their third 50-plus point game since 2024.

Load More

We use essential cookies to make our site work. With your consent, we may also use non-essential cookies to improve user experience and analyze website traffic. By clicking "Accept," you agree to our website's cookie use as described in our Cookie Policy.