New England Patriots: Week 2 Fantasy Flashback

Sep 16, 2012; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) misses the pass as Arizona Cardinals free safety Kerry Rhodes (25) and strong safety Adrian Wilson (24) defend during the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Arizona Cardinals defeated the New England Patriots 20-18. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-US PRESSWIREWeek 2 Fantasy Review

Mama said there’d be fantasy days like this.

Despite what appeared to be a favorable matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, the usual fantasy-dependable Patriots offense disappointed in Week 2. Tom Brady looked awful early but rebounded to put up respectable numbers- but certainly not what you expect, especially since he was drafted in the first or second rounds of fantasy drafts. 316 yards with one touchdown and one pick is acceptable if its’ Phil Rivers, not TB12…Stevan Ridley followed up his breakthrough performance with a mediocre showing, putting up 95 total yards (71 on the ground). With another 21 touches this week, Ridley owners can be confident that he’s the starter, but have to wonder if he is suited for 20+ touches each week like he’s been getting so far in the young season…While backup Shane Vereen is still battling injury, he makes for an interesting speculative add for Ridley owners looking for insurance – or any owners looking for a flyer on a running back who may see action in the later weeks of 2012…Wes Welker, last week’s Patriot Start of the Week, saw much more action this week and it was reflected in his numbers. Welker tallied 5 receptions for 95 yards and was in for more passing downs than Julian Edelman, especially after Aaron Hernandez left with an ankle injury…Man-child Rob Gronkowski was one of the few bright spots for the Patriots with 6 catches, 75 yards and a touchdown. With Hernandez expected to miss several games due to an ankle sprain, Gronk will be the only legit tight end target for Brady and should post phenomenal numbers in that stretch…Brandon Lloyd continues his immersion into the offense. While he did amass 8 catches, he totaled just 60 yards and still does not look fully in synch with Brady. It won’t be long before they’re on the same page and with Hernandez out, Lloyd should see more targets.

Week 2 Fantasy Stud

Despite missing the game winning field goal, it was kicker Stephen Gostkowski who earned Week 2 Fantasy Stud honors. S-Go kicked field goals from 34, 46, 51 and 53 yards. Sure, Gronk had the more traditional standout fantasy game, but Gostkowski put up 17 points in many leagues, a total you just don’t expect to get from your kicker.

Check Musket Fire on Friday for the Patriots’ Week 3 Fantasy Preview to see who should be starting and who should be benched this week against Baltimore.

2012 Patriot Fantasy Start of the Week Archives

Week 1: Stevan Ridley – Prediction: 96 yards rushing, TD, 3 receptions, 24 yards receiving

Actual: 125 yards rushing, TD, 2 receptions, 27 yards receiving

Week 2: Wes Welker – Prediction: 10 receptions, 107 yards receiving, TD

Actual: 5 receptions, 95 yards receiving