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Key NFL Week 3 matchups to leverage in fantasy football start/sit decisions

Chicago, Illinois, USA; Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd (83) makes a catch against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Mike Dinovo-USA TODAY Sports

Football is a game of matchups. There is a saying in fantasy football to “start your studs,” but we really want to rely on the players who will score the most fantasy points. Talent plays a large factor in which players score the most, but matchups also heavily contribute.


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Digging deep into the PFF database, here are four cases where the combination of how the two teams play or use their players will lead to bigger games by the offenses involved.

It’s time to stop sleeping on Daniel Jones

The Giants' signal-caller was a sleeper heading into the 2021 season who has paid off through two weeks. He ranks fifth in fantasy points, in part due to his 122 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He’s shown significant improvement as a passer every season and currently has the second-highest PFF passing grade behind Tom Brady.

Related content for you: NFL Week 3 Positional Fantasy Football Rankings via Nathan Jahnke

Jones should benefit from the improved weapons around him. Starting tight end Evan Engram could be returning from injury this week after missing the first two games. First-round rookie Kadarius Toney saw increased playing time in Week 2 compared to Week 1, and that trend should continue. Saquon Barkley and the rest of the offense is coming off extended rest after last playing on Thursday Night Football.

Jones faces a Falcons team that has given up the most fantasy points to quarterbacks this season. Both QBs to face them finished as top-five fantasy quarterbacks that week. Jones at the very least needs to be on fantasy rosters, and he should be in starting lineups some weeks — especially when facing arguably the best matchup in the NFL.

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