Remember when fantasy matchup analysis used to be “Team A gives up the most fantasy points to wide receivers”? Well, we’ve moved from analog to digital and now look at matchups on an individual level. Each week, I dig through the actually coverage tendencies for all 32 NFL teams and compile this information in the WR/CB Matchup Chart, which is released on Thursday mornings.
Remember, the chart only contains data from the present season. For those who would like to do historic research on coverage responsibilities, I suggest checking out the 2015 Coverage Data Chart. We also released a new feature this season, the Shadow Coverage Matrix, which breaks down every shadow coverage situation for every team throughout the season. Also, if you’re curious how tight ends perform on a per route basis, check out our tight end route data chart.
Week 16 matchup upgrades
Allen Robinson vs. Tennessee – We have the makings of a bizarro week in the NFL, as Todd Gurley projects as a potential top-five running back, and Robinson has WR1 potential. We’re not going to go quite that far, but the Jacksonville receiver is worth strong consideration based on his matchup. With Jason McCourty banged up, the Titans will be forced to turn to LeSahaun Sims to play along with Antwon Blake. Sims is a rookie fifth-rounder who gave up eight catches for 108 yards and a score to the Bears in Week 12, and Blake was the only corner to allow over 1,000 yards in his coverage last season. Robinson is volatile because of Blake Bortles, but he certainly offers upside this week.
Cameron Meredith vs. Washington – With Alshon Jeffery likely to draw Josh Norman, Meredith has the potential to see plenty of volume this week. With Redskins rookie CB Kendall Fuller benched, Meredith will square off against Bashaud Breeland. A standout last year, Breeland has largely struggled this season, allowing a catch on 64.1 percent of his targets and surrendering five touchdowns.