Fantasy Football Preview: Cleveland Browns vs Los Angeles Chargers
It’s a battle of 3-1 teams in week five of the NFL season. The Cleveland Browns are in Los Angeles this weekend to take on the Chargers. Some might say it’s a bit of a surprise that the Chargers are 3-1. But, to the players and fans of the Chargers, it’s not surprising. Speaking of players, let’s take a lot at this fantasy football preview: Cleveland Browns vs Los Angeles Chargers.
Must play:
Kareem Hunt
Kareem Hunt has been on a tear lately for the Browns. In the last two games Hunt has had 24 rushing attempts, 150 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Keep in mind he split reps with Nick Chubb. Hunt has found the end zone in the last two games whereas Chubb has not. It’s a headache to stop the two headed monster in Cleveland and once again they both will be a problem this weekend. Hunt should be in the flex position without a doubt.
Prediction: 10 carries, 90 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns
Justin Herbert
This is a no brainer. Justin Herbert has been great so far this season. He’s continuing to build chemistry with Mike Williams, and found chemistry with tight end Jared Cook. Keep in mind too he finds running back Austin Ekeler for any screen plays as well. Herbert can also get it done with his legs if necessary. Herbert is not afraid of the long ball and at this point it’s just routine. This game is expected to be a shootout and Herbert will need to be all hands on deck for LA in order to win this.
Prediction: 30-40, 370 passing yards, 4 touchdowns
Also start:
Austin Hooper
Since David Njoku continues to be underused by the Browns and Odell hasn’t been great, Austin Hooper is looking at being the lead receiver for Cleveland in this matchup. Hooper isn’t the most attractive tight end to start, but he’s worth it in the flex or tight end position. Baker (or whoever will play quarterback if Baker can’t play) will be looking for Hooper.
Prediction: 5 catches, 85 receiving yards, 1 touchdown
Keenan Allen
This is also a no brainer. Yes Mike Williams is off to a hot start but Allen will get tons of yards after catch. Allen is the best receiver on the Chargers and still one of the best receivers in the NFL. He will go out and make a play when Herbert needs him to. The only time Allen should ever be benched is if he’s injured or if Los Angeles is on their bye week.
Prediction: 8 catches, 110 yards, 2 touchdowns
Toss up:
Baker Mayfield
That’s right. Fantasy owners might want to think twice about playing Baker Mayfield this week. He’s currently nursing a partially torn labrum on his non throwing shoulder. But, that obviously will still affect him. Plus, for some reason he hasn’t been able to connect with Odell Beckham Jr so far. It’s risky to play Mayfield this week, but he isn’t avoidable either.
Prediction: 15-25, 190 passing yards, 1 touchdown
Avoid:
David Njoku
David Njoku requested a trade in the offseason. He should have been traded because of how underused he is in Cleveland. He’s given no chance to truly shine and it’s a waste. Njoku doesn’t have more receptions or yards than fellow tight end Austin Hooper. Fantasy owners should leave Njoku on the bench until a trade happens because it appears that Cleveland wants Austin Hooper to be that guy.
Prediction: 2 catches, 30 yards
Images from: bangthebook.com, dknation.draftkings.com, boltbeat.com, sportsnet.ca, dawgpounddaily.com
Feeling tired, unable to focus and low on energy? We got you covered. Go to shockedenergy.com today and get yourself Shocked Energy today! Obtaining maximum energy with healthy ingredients. Use the promo codes “CGS21” or “CGSN” for 10% off your order today.
Tired of soreness and pain slowing you and your workouts down? Change that. Melt stress away anytime, anywhere with the ExoGun. Designed to give you the ultimate recovery utilizing percussive therapy and deep tissue massage, it will change your recovery life FOREVER. Follow this link (Exogun) for 10% off or use code promo code CGS10 at checkout!
-Matt Burnett (@mattthew_jordan on Twitter)