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NFL Week 7: Key Matchups, Trends, and Insights

As we head into Week 7 of the 2024 NFL season, several key matchups and trends are worth keeping an eye on. From Jayden Daniels’ potential MVP boost to the Chiefs’ stingy defense against outside zone runs, here are some insights to inform your fantasy football decisions and game-day expectations.

Stat Trends to Watch

• Jayden Daniels vs. Panthers: The Commanders’ rookie quarterback faces the worst defense in football, according to ESPN’s Football Power Index. Expect a big game from Daniels, who could vault himself to the top of the MVP race.
• Diontae Johnson vs. Commanders: Washington’s defense struggles to keep wide receivers from getting into open space, making this a favorable matchup for Johnson. A big game could raise his trade value.
• Chiefs vs. 49ers: Kansas City’s defense has been stingy against outside zone runs, allowing just 2.7 yards per carry. If they can stifle the 49ers’ ground attack, it could have a major impact on the game’s outcome.

Fantasy Sleepers to Pick Up

• Romeo Doubs, WR, Green Bay Packers: With Dontayvion Wicks dealing with a shoulder injury, Doubs could see a bigger role in the Packers’ offense.
• Xavier Legette, WR, Carolina Panthers: Legette has scored 11 or more fantasy points in two of his past three games and faces a Commanders defense that has allowed the 10th-most fantasy points per game to wide receivers.
• Hunter Henry, TE, New England Patriots: Henry has been a reliable fantasy option, scoring 13.0 or more points in every game where he has had at least five targets.

Potential Surprises

• Kerby Joseph intercepts Sam Darnold: Darnold has thrown an interception in four of five games played this season, and Joseph’s ball-hawking skills could lead to a pick on Sunday.
• Zach Ertz logs over 75 yards vs. Carolina: The Panthers’ defense has allowed 9.3 yards per attempt on throws inside the numbers, making this a favorable matchup for Ertz.

Upset Watch

• Seattle Seahawks (+3) at Atlanta Falcons: The Seahawks have lost three straight games, but they’ve had a long week of rest and returned a few injured starters. They look better than the Falcons by most advanced metrics.

Latest Buzz

• Jets prepare for Russell Wilson to start: The Jets are preparing for Wilson to start at quarterback for the Steelers this week, but they’re also aware of the possibility of a third-down/red zone package for Justin Fields.
• Lions look for pass-rush help: The Lions are doing their due diligence on