Brandon Marshall - Week 1 vs. Buffalo Bills
Brandon Marshall led the Chicago Bears in targets a season ago and was fifth total in the NFL. With Alshon Jeffery taking some of the attention off of him, Marshall was able to set a career high in receiving touchdowns last year.
Marshall looked good in the preseason as he caught 10 passes for 72 yards and a touchdown in three games. He should be on his way to another high reception season, making him an attractive PPR option.
He has a favorable matchup against the Buffalo Bills, so you should start him with confidence in Week 1.
Fantasy Upside
Jay Cutler loves Brandon Marshall. When the two were a pair in Denver it was true, and it remains true in Chicago. Excluding Marshall’s rookie season (he only had 20 receptions) he has been in the top five for targets every year with Cutler as his QB. The targets turn into production as Marshall has also had at least 100 receptions and 1,200 yards in every season with Cutler.
The last two years with Chicago could arguably be his best seasons as well. He’s hit double-digit touchdowns in both 2012 (11) and 2013 (12), posting his career bests.
Fantasy Downside
The development of teammate Alshon Jeffery has decreased Marshall’s production somewhat. Marshall had his receptions, yards and targets take a dip in 2013 compared to 2012. Jeffery was on the team in 2012, but injuries slowed down his season.
Bottom Line
Marshall is a WR1 in both formats. Jeffery’s arrival doesn’t diminish Marshall’s stats to the point where it’s worrisome. There’s no reason why Marshall can’t post another 100-reception, 1,200-yard, double-digit touchdown season again in 2014. He will strive in Marc Trestman’s system and have another big year.
