Key Matchups and Player Statistics to Watch in NFL Week 3
1. Dak Prescott vs. Chicago Bears Defense
The Chicago Bears’ pass defense has struggled significantly through the first two weeks, allowing touchdown passes at the highest rate in the NFL. The team also ranks second-to-last in pressure rate and gives up the third-most yards per completion. Compounding these issues, the Bears will be without their top cornerback, Jaylon Johnson, for their upcoming game against Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys.
2. New England Patriots Passing Attack vs. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers have been vulnerable against the pass, allowing the fifth-most yards per attempt this season despite facing quarterbacks Justin Fields and Sam Darnold. They will now face the New England Patriots, a team that ranks in the top five for pass rate over expectation, suggesting a potential opportunity for quarterback Drake Maye.
3. Jordan Mason vs. Cincinnati Bengals Defense
With running back Aaron Jones sidelined, Jordan Mason is poised for an increased role. Even while splitting duties, Mason has commanded a 10% target share this season. Historically, in seven career games where he has received at least 15 touches, Mason averages 94 rushing yards. He faces a Cincinnati Bengals defense that allowed 5.3 yards per carry to Jacksonville running backs last week.
4. Bhayshul Tuten vs. Houston Texans Defense
Jacksonville running back Bhayshul Tuten demonstrated significant efficiency last week, gaining 74 yards on just 10 touches for an average of 7.4 yards per touch. He was involved on 56% of the offensive snaps he played. Tuten, who is available in approximately 40% of fantasy leagues, has a favorable matchup against the Houston Texans, a team that has surrendered the ninth-most fantasy points to running backs.
5. Tony Pollard vs. Indianapolis Colts Defense
Dallas Cowboys running back Tony Pollard leads the NFL in snap rate among his position and is averaging 19.5 touches per game. His high usage rate is paired with an advantageous matchup this week against the Indianapolis Colts, whose defense is allowing five yards per carry to opposing rushers, the sixth-highest mark in the league.
6. Darnell Mooney vs. Carolina Panthers
In his return to action last week, wide receiver Darnell Mooney achieved 100% route participation, indicating a full-time role in the offense. Mooney, who finished as a top-35 fantasy receiver in points per game last season, is currently available in over 50% of leagues and will face the Carolina Panthers.
7. Troy Franklin’s Emerging Role with Denver Broncos
Rookie wide receiver Troy Franklin has emerged as the Denver Broncos’ leading pass-catcher, pacing the team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards through two games. In last week’s contest, he also led the team in routes run and earned a commanding 30% target share. Franklin remains available in over 60% of fantasy leagues.
8. Wan’Dale Robinson vs. Kansas City Chiefs Secondary
New York Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson has been a consistent target, securing a target share of at least 25% in both of his games this season. He has a promising matchup this week against the Kansas City Chiefs, who have allowed the second-highest catch rate to slot receivers in the NFL.
9. Harold Fannin vs. Green Bay Packers Linebackers
Tight end Harold Fannin has proven to be a reliable option, catching at least five passes in each of his first two games. This week, he faces the Green Bay Packers, a defense that has struggled to contain tight ends, allowing the fifth-most receiving yards per game to the position.
10. Juwan Johnson’s Elite Production for New Orleans Saints
New Orleans Saints tight end Juwan Johnson has established himself as a top fantasy option early this season. He ranks third among all NFL tight ends in target share and second in total fantasy points. Despite this high level of production, Johnson is still available in approximately 30% of fantasy leagues.
