Sleepers at Quarterback
Bo Nix, Denver (vs Carolina)
Nix wasn’t that efficient as a passer last week, but he had his highest rushing output of the season. The Panthers defense just made Marcus Mariota look good, and they are starting Bryce Young this week, which appeared to have a demoralizing effect on the team earlier this season. Nix should have a chance to be a part of multiple touchdown plays this week.
Justin Herbert, LA Chargers (vs New Orleans)
While we were sleeping Monday night, Herbert threw for 349 yards against the Cardinals. The Chargers unfortunately had to settle for five field goals, but that could change this week against a Saints defense that just lost one of its most productive cornerbacks (Paulson Adebo) to a broken femur. The Chargers' bye-week adjustments appear to be putting Herbert back at the center of the offensive game plan.
Jameis Winston, Cleveland (vs Baltimore)
Winston should get a ton of attempts against a Ravens defense that shuts down the run but is soft against the pass. The Ravens offense also tends to jump out to big early leads and force the opponent into catch-up mode. Winston should be comfortable taking the whole offense on his shoulders, and the whole team (stadium, really) could have their spirits lifted by not having to play for Deshaun Watson.
Marcus Mariota, Washington (vs Chicago)
Jayden Daniels didn’t practice Wednesday. Friday is the important day, but the Commanders have every incentive to be conservative with the return of their franchise quarterback. Mariota was actually good, but against the Panthers, who are at the opposite end of the difficulty spectrum from the rested Bears defense coming off of a bye. Still, Mariota might have taken to Kliff Kingsbury’s uptempo offense. He showed good chemistry with Terry McLaurin, and he can add value as a runner if you are looking to replace Daniels in a 2QB/Superflex league.