The New York Tebows are going to take on their housing mates and defending Super Bowl Champion' New York Giants tonight. Of course all the talk going into the game is going to surround Mark Sanchez and Tim Tebow, but there is definitely a lot more to watch in regards to fantasy football.
I am interested to see how Jets rookie Stephen Hill performs as a starter tonight. The talented young receiver caught two passes for just 17 yards on three targets against the Cincinnati Bengals in the preseason opener. It is either a good or bad sign that Hill is starting opposite the enigma that is Santonio Holmes. It could just be that the Jets are void of talent and depth at wide receiver.
Fellow first-round pick David Wilson averaged over six yards per rush for the Giants last week. The former Virginia Tech standout could be a solid late-round pickup for you moving forward. He will be the primary backup to Ahmad Bradshaw entering the 2012 season and could net you some valuable fantasy points.
That being said, the most important player to watch this evening is Victor Cruz, who will be going up against the best cover corner in the NFL in the form of Darrelle Revis. Despite having a breakout 2011 campaign, some are still questioning whether Cruz will be able to repeat that performance. I am sold and believe he is a true WR1 in standard leagues.
The San Francisco 49ers travel to Texas in a matchup with the Houston Texans in what is a battle between two Super Bowl or bust teams.
Alex Smith will get extended action and will have both Mario Manningham and Randy Moss on the football field to throw to. As I covered in an article earlier this week, Smith could be a solid QB2 option for you're fantasy team, especially with the wide array of talented players the 49ers have on the offensive side of the ball. I am also intrigued to see how the 49ers line hold up in front of Smith against a stellar Texans' pass-rush.
On the other side of the ball, you pretty much know what you're going to get. Arian Foster is going to be one of the first 'backs selected in most fantasy leagues, while Ben Tate will be a solid RB2 option. I am more intrigued to see Matt Schaub go up against an elite defense.
Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos will be hosting the Seattle Seahawks tonight as well. It will be interesting to see the future Hall of Fame quarterback go up against one of the best secondaries in the National Football League. I want to see him lead a couple lengthy drives and prove he is ready to be a starting fantasy quarterback.
Meanwhile, Matt Flynn and Russell Wilson battle it out for the Seahawks starting quarterback job. Both will have the pleasure of throwing to the recently signed Terrell Owens. That is definitely something to take a look at.