WR/CB MATCHUPS REPORT
This new featured tool displays how each defense performs against their opponent’s receiving yardage gained by position.
New this year: Rank now considers the opponent. So for example, if the Vikings limit the Packers WR1 to only 18 yards but that WR1 happens to be Sammy Watkins, that won’t be as impressive as Denver which allows more yards (36) to DK Metcalf.
If you see a team is ranked 1st vs. WR #1, that defense is currently the best at limiting their opponent’s WR #1. Or, if you see a team is ranked 32nd against WR #2, that defense is the worst against WR #2’s. This is a great tool to find and exploit useful matchups. Don’t forget to check out all the positions as well (WR #1, WR #2, Other WRs, TE & RB).
Defensive Back Update
• Last week we saw Detroit shadow Justin Jefferson with CB Jeff Okudah being provided safety help. That approach was very successful, limiting Jefferson to 14 yards on 3 receptions. Expect a similar approach this week with D.K. Metcalf. On a positive note, that may open more opportunities for Tyler Lockett.
• Darius Slay continues to excel at shadowing the opposition’s top wideout. Don’t let Terry McLaurin’s 102-yard effort last week fool you. Most of that production came in the second half with the outcome long decided. Slay is a pure perimeter corner so expect him to spend more time covering Zay Jones than Christian Kirk.
• Speaking of the Jaguars, they look impressive in these charts, but it’s been a lot of luck. Jacksonville allowed Terry McLaurin to catch 2/58/1 in Week 1 but then got to face the Colts without Michael Pittman and Chargers with a beat-up Justin Herbert playing without Keenan Allen.
• Arizona is allowing an NFL-worst 101 receiving yards per game to opposing tight ends. Too bad the Panthers won’t be able to exploit that in Week 4. Baker Mayfield has drained the Carolina offense and the team’s tight ends have combined to catch just 10 balls.
• The injury-plagued Bills just signed 32-year-old street free agent Xavier Rhodes and Rhodes may start right away. That’s great news for Rashond Bateman and Baltimore’s No. 1 ranked offense.
