The NFL kicked off its preseason in thrilling fashion with the Hall of Fame Game between the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans. This event marks the celebration of new Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees and our first look at teams’ rosters on the field. In this space, I asked readers to chime in about their Week 17 slates leading up the final week of NFL Sunday action for a while as we know it. But now that those are just wrapping on another “expected” note with likely Rams sitting meaningless…
Game Overview
The Chicago Bears vs. the Houston Texans was a close one in this Hall of Fame Game For both, a mix of veterans and young talent battled it out for reps in their quest to find the best 90 men on one final time. The Bears defeated the Texans to close out this contest, as some players shined in their return.
Key Performances
Solid showing from Bears QB Justin Fields Hats off to the young rookie; he looked poised and accurate throughout. As he connected well with his receivers and didn’t make bone-headed decisions, Fields showcased signs of improvement that could have fantasy owners confident in their QB.
David Montgomery : The Bears running back looked good from his blend of power and ability to make guys miss. He ran well, finding holes in the Houston run defense and breaking off some long runs en route to reminding us why he was considered a fantasy RB1 entering 2013.
Brandin Cooks – In Week 4, Cooks showed off his veteran experience for the Houston Texans by running precise routes and catching passes when they counted. The clear alpha in the Texans’ passing game, he is a top fantasy option at tight end.
Fantasy Football Implications
The new QB in town: You never know what the Bears will do with Fields, who they are expected to draft high. If he can sustain this level of play then we are looking at a fantasy prospect with major upside, especially in leagues that award bonus points for quarterback rushing yards.
Running Back Depth: Montgomery proves his is the lead back. That said, turn your attention to the reserves rushing backs as these games can serve a purpose when it comes to potential handcuffs or upside sweeteners going into Weeks 1-17.
That should calm the nerves of those who started Cooks in fantasy. Wide Receiver Watch However, it will be important for the Bears to track how well Fields’ establishes a relationship with his receivers. If one receiver distinguishes themselves as Fields’ go-to guy, they may shoot up the fantasy ranks.
Fantasy Football
One defensively (if that can be a word); Both team’s defenses certainly had their moments but also showed considerable room for improvement. Although fantasy writers and analysts around the web love to rank these offensive players against defenses with statistical weaknesses, it should not be without caution.
Final Thoughts
The NFL preseason began with a bang last night in the Hall of Fame Game, leaving plenty to discuss regarding which players will or won’t emerge on fantasy radars this fall. As we move further into the preseason, keep an eye on production and changes to depth charts in order to capitalize on taking gambles for your fantasy roster.
Bookmark PFF and check back for more fantasy football breakdowns, advice and statistics as we enter another week of the 2018 regular season.
