The article discusses the challenges faced by NFL teams and fantasy managers in Week 7, highlighting injuries to key players like Jayden Daniels, the rise of rookies like Oronde Gadsden II, quarterback controversies in Arizona and Minnesota, and strategic shifts in team lineups, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the season and the importance of waiver wire pickups.
Five NFL teams will start backup quarterbacks this weekend due to injuries to their starters, including notable players like Joe Burrow and Brock Purdy, highlighting the physical toll of football despite protections. The NFL continues to prioritize expanding the season and teams despite these injuries, emphasizing the sport's popularity regardless of player availability.
The Cincinnati Bengals placed quarterback Joe Burrow on injured reserve after toe surgery, promoting Jake Browning to starter and signing veterans Mike White and Sean Clifford to the practice squad to bolster quarterback depth amid Burrow's significant injury.
Wisconsin Badgers opened their season with a 17-0 win over Miami (OH), overcoming multiple quarterback injuries and showcasing a strong defensive performance, while their offense displayed potential under Jeff Grimes's creative scheme despite some struggles.
Iowa quarterback Cade McNamara has entered the NCAA transfer portal, seeking to play a seventh college season in 2025. McNamara, who began his career at Michigan, transferred to Iowa after losing the starting job to J.J. McCarthy. He suffered a season-ending ACL injury in 2023 and a concussion this season, limiting his play. McNamara will need an NCAA waiver for an additional year of eligibility, potentially using a medical redshirt for his 2022 knee injury. Iowa's quarterback situation remains uncertain, with Brendan Sullivan and Jackson Stratton as potential returnees.
Russell Wilson endured a tough game against the Cleveland Browns, getting sacked four times and hit nine times, all in the first half, during the Pittsburgh Steelers' 24-19 loss. Despite the heavy pressure and harsh weather conditions, Wilson managed to make key plays, including a 23-yard touchdown pass. Through five starts, Wilson has been sacked 16 times, raising concerns about his protection and durability as he approaches his 36th birthday. Fortunately, he appears to have avoided serious injury.
Several NFL teams are dealing with quarterback injuries ahead of Week 14 games. Trevor Lawrence will start for the Jacksonville Jaguars despite a high ankle sprain. Joe Flacco will start for the Cleveland Browns, with Dorian Thompson-Robinson as the backup. Derek Carr is pushing to play for the New Orleans Saints despite a rib cartilage fracture and shoulder sprain, with Jameis Winston as the backup option. Geno Smith's availability is in question for the Seattle Seahawks, with Drew Lock prepared to start if needed.
In Week 14 of fantasy football, several quarterback injuries have created favorable matchups for streaming defenses. The New England Patriots, New York Jets, New York Giants, Carolina Panthers, and Jacksonville Jaguars are all potential targets for opposing defenses. Additionally, the article provides a list of defenses worth stashing or holding for the upcoming fantasy playoffs.
No. 5 Florida State and Florida will face off in a highly anticipated rivalry matchup, with both teams dealing with injuries to their star quarterbacks. FSU needs a win to stay in the College Football Playoff race, while Florida is aiming to reach bowl eligibility. Backup quarterbacks Tate Rodemaker and Max Brown will play crucial roles in determining the outcome. Last year's game was a thrilling contest, and this year's matchup is expected to be just as intense. The prediction favors Florida, who will be motivated to spoil FSU's playoff hopes.
NFL quarterbacks continue to suffer injuries, with Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals and Deshaun Watson of the Cleveland Browns both ruled out for the season due to injuries. Kirk Cousins of the Minnesota Vikings sustained a season-ending Achilles injury, while Daniel Jones of the New York Giants suffered a torn ACL. Aaron Rodgers of the New York Jets also suffered an Achilles injury in his debut with the team, but there are hints that he may return later in the season. The injuries highlight the physical toll and unpredictability of the game.
Week 8 of the NFL season saw a rash of quarterback injuries, including Kirk Cousins, Matthew Stafford, Desmond Ridder, Kenny Pickett, and Tyrod Taylor. These injuries will have a significant impact on the offenses of the affected teams and their fantasy football production. The Minnesota Vikings will rely on rookie Jaren Hall to lead the offense, potentially affecting the production of Jordan Addison, T.J. Hockenson, and Justin Jefferson. The Los Angeles Rams may turn to backup Brett Rypien if Stafford misses time, impacting Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua. The Pittsburgh Steelers will likely start Mitch Trubisky, leading to increased targets for Diontae Johnson and George Pickens. The Atlanta Falcons may see Taylor Heinicke take over for Desmond Ridder, potentially narrowing the passing tree to focus on Kyle Pitts. The New York Giants may be without both Tyrod Taylor and Daniel Jones, leaving Saquon Barkley as the only viable fantasy option.
Kirk Cousins suffered a season-ending Achilles injury during the Minnesota Vikings' win over the Green Bay Packers in Week 8. The injury comes at a time when the Vikings had turned their season around, making it even more devastating. The Vikings will have to rely on rookie Jaren Hall or consider other options like Sean Mannion or Nick Mullens. The long-term effects of the injury could complicate Cousins' future in the league. Additionally, several other quarterbacks, including Matthew Stafford and Tyrod Taylor, also suffered injuries in Week 8.
Baylor Bears will be without starting quarterback Blake Shapen for 2-3 weeks due to an MCL injury, while the Utah Utes may also be without their starting quarterback, Cam Rising, as he continues to recover from an ACL tear. Baylor coach Dave Aranda confirmed Shapen's absence and expressed confidence in backup quarterback Sawyer Robertson. The Utes' head coach, Kyle Whittingham, expects Baylor to bounce back from their disappointing loss and emphasized the importance of being prepared to face a stronger team. In addition to Shapen, Baylor will also be missing starting safety Devin Lemear and outside linebacker Garmon Randolph due to injuries.