Mark Sanchez is back as an NFL starter by default. The Philadelphia Eagles backup was thrust into duty when Nick Foles suffered a broken collarbone in the first quarter of a 31-21 win over the Houston Texans and finished with 202 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. Sanchez should get a minimum of six starts in Foles’ absence, which could be more than enough to stake his claim to a more permanent job.
But is Sanchez worth a waiver wire claim as more than just a one-week rental? His understanding of the offense and what is expected him are points in his favor and give him a chance to perhaps unseat Nick Foles permanently. Foles had his share of struggles before his Week 9 injury with unforced errors that have cost the Eagles points. If Sanchez plays better, he could shed the “interim” title and become Chip Kelly’s full-time starter.
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ running back situation is well worth monitoring in fantasy leagues with the possibility of at least one player providing better than expected value. In the absence of injured Doug Martin, Bobby Rainey performed admirably last week, but rookie Charles Sims looms as a young option that coach Lovie Smith would like to evaluate in the second half of the season. Both backs could have fantasy value facing a soft Atlanta Falcons defense in Week 10.
Rookie wide receivers such as Martavis Bryant, Mike Evans and Donte Moncrief could also be difference-makers down the stretch. Bryant is on a hot streak with five touchdowns in the first three games of his career, while Evans has gone from steady to dynamic with four touchdowns in his last five games. They both come highly recommended by Keystone Sports Network analysts Jon Ritchie and Bob Flounders.
Check out who else Flounders and Ritchie like and get their takes on the Bucs backfield, among many other subjects, on this week’s KSN podcast. For more analysis, check out KeystoneSportsNetwork.com and be sure to follow @KSNSportsNet on Twitter.