Two can be better than one
In the fantasy football world player selection is constantly asking the question—who is getting the touches? In mock drafts and then in the real draft, we base a lot of our selection on who is the primary player.
I believe that when it comes to many receivers that they benefit from being teamed with another good player. Why? It is because if you are doubled teamed all the time, it is very hard to get open often and make big plays.
It takes a good QB and offensive line to give the receivers time to get open. But thanks to the NFL’s do not touch after the line of scrimmage rule, it is easier today than a few years ago.
Let’s look at who will benefit this year from additional help. Let’s start with Derrick Mason of the Ravens. Who would you put your best defender on when playing the Ravens, most likely Anquan Boldin. Last year, the defenses thought of Mason first. Now Derrick is getting older and only so many passes will be thrown, but he will get his share and I predict that his average yards/reception will be better.
Another player who will eventually benefit will be B. Edwards when Holmes is allowed to play. Santanio will be the primary go to guy and Edwards, starting in week 5 will become a secondary receiver. But what an opportunity for him, if he can hold on to the ball, he has a chance to be a big time fantasy player, even more productive than early in the season when he is the number one guy on the pass playbook pages.
A primary receiver can also benefit when a good number two shows up. Take Chad Ochocinco, for example, now he has bad knee Bryant and the foot in mouth disease T. Owens to take pressure off of him. I think if either number two is healthy and motivated, Chad’s numbers will soar. Palmer must be on his game, but assuming the same as last year, more openings due to less coverage for Chad O.
There are other examples, such as Dez Bryant, the greatest receiver to never play a pro game, teaming up with Austin Miles. I am sure that the Cowboys are dreaming of single coverage on either guy and letting Romo toss it to the open man. Of course, Dez must live up to his own hype, but the idea is good.
Finally, when a good receiver leaves it opens up opportunities for their replacements. Steve Breaston of the Cardinals is an example. The only difference is that Warner had retired and now Leinart will be the QB, that could be a problem, but let’s see how Matt looks when he is the man.
Player selection tools will help spot the hidden gems, but self searching helps. Use Data Sense to help you, but remember you are the GM of your team and its your call.
Have a good week, do some mock drafts, get your salary caps teams ready. Training camp is almost upon us and the real fun is less than seven weeks away.








