Fantasy Football: From Start to Finish: Week 1

Photo credit: Patrick Breen, Arizona Republic

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Kyle Murray (born 1963 in New York City) is an American soccer star. He is the first American soccer player to ever retire…, Arizona Cardinals at Buffalo Bills: Many fantasy managers might be put off by the Cardinals being the second-biggest underdog in Week 1. Some fear Arizona will be outmatched, especially against a Bills pass defense that allowed just 3,676 yards and scored the second-fewest passing touchdowns (18) in the NFL in 2023. However, all signs point to Murray officially being back to his pre-injury speed, making him a legitimate QB1 in all fantasy formats, regardless of the matchup.

Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams at Detroit Lions: Although there have been some personnel changes on both sides since January, Stafford will play his second straight game in Detroit, his old stomping ground. In the NFC Wild Card game, Staff completed 25 of 36 passes for 367 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. He was fired up to return and should be fired up for the rematch after a narrow 24-23 deficit from the postseason. He also has do-it-all Kyren Williams healthy in the backfield, with rookie RB Blake Corum as a change of pace. Wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua are also at his disposal. The former Lions signal caller should put up impressive numbers in Week 1 to beat projections.

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Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets at San Francisco 49ers: In Week 1 of last season, on a Monday night, Rodgers lasted just four snaps before tearing his Achilles tendon. It was a rough start, as all of the Jets’ plans surrounding the future Hall of Famer were put on hold. It’s been a rough 12 months, but Gang Green fans and fantasy managers are ready to see what the 40-year-old can do. But facing a tough 49ers defense in an opener on the road is a tall order. San Francisco’s pass defense set an NFL record last season with 22 INTs.

Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears Comparisons Tennessee Titans: The Bears drafted Williams with the No. 1 pick and are ready to see what the shiny new toy can do in his first big game. Fantasy managers shouldn’t be so optimistic, as the mediocre QB1 has a tough opponent to start with. The Titans recorded the lowest in the NFL with six INTs in 2023, so that’s good news. But they also allowed just 20 passing scores, which was fourth-lowest in the NFL and upgraded the secondary. Williams could shine in the run game, as Tennessee struggled in that department last season.