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.

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