Welcome to Going Deep! This weekly article will make use of charting data, advanced metrics, and other RotoViz tools — specifically the Passing Game Matchup Rater — to help readers better understand the challenges facing wide receivers and tight ends in the coming week. As my process makes heavy use of the Matchup Rater, I’d highly recommend that you set aside half an hour to watch the tutorial/walkthrough and take a spin through the tool. (Note that for 2024, the “Target Explorer” tab has been removed from the tool.)
In Part 1, I included matchup graphics and some high-level notes. For Part 2, we’ll dive deeper into specific matchups and players.
Please note, in general this article will only discuss players averaging 6.0 or more PPR.
Giants at Browns
Wan’Dale Robinson has the most favorable matchup rating among the Giants’ pass catchers, coming in at 59. Cleveland’s defense has been average at defending both slot and wide alignments, but they have managed to hold wide receivers to fewer points per reception (PPR) than seasonal averages. Since Week 11 of 2023, only two wide receivers have posted WR1 finishes against them. However, in Week 1 of 2024, Brandin Cooks finished as WR21, while CeeDee Lamb was WR23. In Week 2, Brian Thomas finished as WR29. Although Robinson’s profile doesn’t align closely with this group, it does suggest Cleveland’s defense has some level of vulnerability to wide receivers. As a result, Malik Nabers, who should see a healthy target share, should perform well. Meanwhile, Darius Slayton’s outlook projects slightly below his typical average performance.
Jerry Jeudy has been a pleasant surprise through the first two games in Cleveland. He and Elijah Moore have shared duties in the slot, while Amari Cooper has primarily lined up out wide.
Jeudy and Moore match up more favorably against the Giants than Cooper. A review of the 10 highest-scoring wide receivers to face the team since Week 11 of last season shows few players who operate similarly to Cooper. As a result, fantasy managers with strong wide receiver depth could justify starting alternatives this week.
Philadelphia at New Orleans
Wide receivers have found great success against the Eagles in recent weeks. While Chris Olave and Rashid Shaheed don’t have particularly high matchup ratings, they can be
