In Week Two it is hard to know what to expect. Rams fans are giddy after a strong showing against their defending division champions, the Cardinals. Still, their offense, while showing some promise, is hardly one to bet on.
The Raiders, vastly underperformed from their expectations. They still have a few fantasy options worth betting on and there is a good chance that they will have a bounce back game and prove the signs of improvement were not a hoax.
The St. Louis Rams Fantasy Prospects
Steven Jackson
Jackson had a less than stellar debut, but he was still solid. Look for the Rams to give the ball often to Jackson to try and take some of the load off of Bradford.
While the Raiders showed some signs of an improved run D vs the Titans and Chris Johnson, Johnson still ended up have a big. Until the Raiders show otherwise, it is always a good idea to start opposing RB’s.
Prognosis: No brainer, start him.
Mark Clayton
He had a career day in his Rams debut. With a thin Rams WR corp and a young QB he already had chemistry with, Clayton should continue to be the first option in the passing game.
He may face the task of having Nnam Asomugha shadowing him and also, he has a rookie QB getting his first road start throwing him the ball.
Prognosis: Unless you are desperate, bench him.
Sam Bradford
Too soon, too soon, too soon
Prognosis: Bench
Rams Defense
The Rams defense certainly looked improved in Week One and the Raiders Offense looked shaky. The Rams may get some sacks in this game, but that will be about it.
Prognosis: Bench
Oakland Raiders Fantasy Prospects
Darren McFadden
He had a great debut against a stout defense. He was the Raiders only effective weapon. Michael Bush is listed as questionable and may cut into McFadden’s touches. Still, 20 days after thumb surgery any role Bush plays will be limited at best.
Look for the Raiders to get their run game going and keep McFadden rolling. He also looked to have good chemistry with the check-down happy Campbell.
Prognosis: Start him
Louis Murphy
He did not have impressive stats in Week One. Campbell seemed to be looking his way more than he was throwing it. Still, the Rams were effective in slowing down Larry Fitzgerald last week and with the Raiders passing game still under construction….
Prognosis: Bench
Zach Miller
Didn’t have the most impressive day Week One and he may be needed to provide extra protection. Still, he remains the Raiders main weapon in the passing game and will be the first person Campbell looks to in the Redzone.
Prognosis: No brainer, start him
Jason Campbell
He is going to need time to throw it to put up any stats. The Rams have a decent D-Line, which could generate some pressure. I expect Campbell will have a bounce back game, but look for the Raiders to rely more on the run in this game.
Prognosis: Bench
Raiders Defense
They gave up big plays and points last week, but they have a solid pass rush. A good pass rush vs. a rookie QB making his first start on the road = turnovers.
Prognosis: If you need it, this D could be a good waiver wire one week start.