This article will take a weekly look at players who could provide value in a given week. The basis for this value will be the difference between the Top 200 forward, a look at the top 200 players with the whole season in mind, and the weekly rankings. Both of these are from the Footballguys.com Insider content. An emphasis will be on the players with the largest differences between the season outlook and this week only. Also, a preference will be given to differences for the higher ranked players. Some of these differences will be due to injury, matchup of the week, or short-term situation. Now, let's take a look at this week's value players.
QUARTERBACK
- Top 200 ranking: 13
- Weekly ranking: 4
- Difference: +9
Seattle has enjoyed a couple of extra days to rest up after the demolishing of San Francisco last Thursday night. This week, the Seahawks travel to Dallas to face a Cowboys defense much stronger in the front seven than the secondary. The Seattle passing game has been amiss to begin the season, even with the additions of Jimmy Graham and Tyler Lockett. It will take time to fully incorporate each into the offensive scheme. We expect improvement this week.
- Top 200 ranking: 14
- Weekly ranking: 6
- Difference: +8
Ryan and company get a great matchup against the sieve of a secondary call the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay has yielded big yardage to opposing passers so far this season and we expect the trend to continue. The Buccaneers yield the third most post to opposing fantasy quarterbacks. This could be another monster outing for the Matt Ryan/Julio Jones combination. There will be plenty of fireworks.
RUNNING BACK
- Top 200 ranking: 33
- Weekly ranking: 19
- Difference: +14
Hillman has taken over the primary running back duties for the Broncos. He has easily outplayed C.J. Anderson for the top spot on the depth chart this season. Hillman also adds value in the passing game. In a tough matchup versus the Packers on Sunday evening, we expect Hillman to be relied heavily upon to keep the pressure off of Peyton Manning. If Denver does fall behind on the scoreboard, it will give Hillman opportunities to contribute in the passing game.
- Top 200 ranking: 15
- Weekly ranking: 10
- Difference: +5
The Ravens have given up big yardage to opposing passers and rushers. Many are surprised by the ineffective run defense, but look no further than last Monday night's game against Arizona where the Cardinals totaled 150 rushing yards. Chris Johnson ran wild in the contest. The injury and fumbling of rookie Melvin Gordon should lead to an even larger role for the diminutive Woodhead.
- Top 200 ranking: 16
- Weekly ranking: 7
- Difference: +9
West is coming off his a solid game against the Steelers. He looks to assert himself into the RB1 role against the pitiful Lions rush defense in Week 8. Detroit has allowed opposing teams to impose their collective will on the hapless defense. West is a RB1 this week and should see 20-25 touches.
WIDE RECEIVER
- Top 200 ranking: 21
- Weekly ranking: 7
- Difference: +14
The Chiefs desperately need Maclin back in the lineup. He looks to be a full go against the Lions this week after missing the Pittsburgh game due to a concussion suffered in Week 6. Detroit does not have a strong pass defense so this looks to be a plus matchup. Kansas City will rely on Maclin even more with Jamaal Charles out for the season. The time has come for Maclin to step up into the WR1 role.
- Top 200 ranking: 27
- Weekly ranking: 20
- Difference: +7
Brown has enjoyed some big games this season, and so have the other Cardinals receivers. He should have ample opportunity for big plays against the Browns secondary. We like Brown as an upside fantasy WR3 this week. Carson Palmer has looked Brown's way this season and this should continue. Keep an eye on the practice reports late this week as Brown is still trying to get past hamstring injuries to both legs.
Odell Beckham, Jr.
- Top 200 ranking: 13
- Weekly ranking: 5
- Difference: +8
Beckham has flashed some this season but has left fans and fantasy owners wanting more. The hamstring injury has slowed down the terrific sophomore. The game in New Orleans against a very suspect pass defense should offer Beckham a chance for a big fantasy outburst. The Giants lead the division and need a win on the road this week.
TIGHT END
- Top 200 ranking: 11
- Weekly ranking: 6
- Difference: +5
Graham and the Seahawks travel to Dallas in a big game for both teams. Each has a losing record, but is still in the running for the playoffs. Graham does not see consistent pass targets from week to week, especially if you ask fantasy owners. The Cowboys struggle to defend the tight end position so we expect Pete Carroll and company to exploit this advantage.
- Top 200 ranking: 7
- Weekly ranking: 4
- Difference: +3
Cleveland travels to Arizona this week. The Cardinals should be able to jump out to an early lead, forcing the Browns into throwing often. With the strong Arizona cornerbacks taking Travis Benjamin away, we are expecting Barnidge to see close to a season-high in targets.
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