Fantasy Studs and Duds: WR Edition

STUD - Cordarrelle Patterson- 

Patterson had a pretty quiet start to his rookie season, but came on strong at the end of the year. In his final 5 games, Patterson scored at least one touchdown in every game (6 total). Patterson is a natural playmaker that is always a home run threat. Not only does he catch passes, but he can get you points running the ball and returning kicks too. Now that he has a year under his belt, look for Patterson to breakout and start the 2014 season the way he ended last season.


DUD - Wes Welker- 

I love Wes Welker, but I am not high on him in 2014. Welker had a great start to the 2013 season, scoring 8 touchdowns in the first 6 games. After that, Welker only had 2 touchdowns for the remainder of the regular season and missed the final 3 games due to a concussion. There are 2 main reasons why I am staying away from Welker for the upcoming season:
1. Concussions. He is a small guy and is prone to taking some big hits. With his history of concussions, he could be out multiple games or even the season if he gets any more.
2. Inconsistency. Even with Decker gone, there are still too many weapons in Denver. It will be hard for Welker to be consistent and rack up the touchdowns with Demaryius Thomas, Julius Thomas and Montee Ball stealing red zone opportunities.

Fantasy Studs and Duds: RB Edition

STUD - Giovani Bernard- 

Coming into his 2nd year with Hue Jackson as the new offensive coordinator, Gio is destined for major success in 2014. The Law Firm is another year older and Gio is too talented to not utilize him often on the field. Bernard had a respectable rookie year, but was not on the field enough to be your fantasy bell cow. You can bet Bernard will hold the reins to the Bengals offense in 2014. Top 5 RB in PPR leagues.


DUD - Knowshon Moreno- 

Although Moreno had a career year, there are too many risks involved with him for the 2014 season. I'm staying away from Moreno because of the trifecta: 1. Inflated numbers last year thanks to Peyton. 2. Tannehill and the Dolphins offense ranked 26th in the league in rush yards per game last year. 3. Injury concerns (tore acl in 2011, arthroscopic knee surgery in 2012 and ankle/rib injuries in 2013). Don't be surprised if he doesn't break 1,000 yards in 2014.