Fantasy Forecast: Week 6

Tom Brady

You’ll be starting all of the elements of the New England passing game this week against a thin and exploitable Dallas secondary. The Pats have focused on the run in recent weeks, but they figure to air it out this week to take advantage of favorable matchups through the air. Brady has thrown just 3 TDs in his past two games, but he should throw for 3+ TDs and 300+ yards against the Cowboys.

BenJarvus Green-Ellis/Stevan Ridley

The Law Firm stole the show against the Jets last week, and he should see his fair share of touches to keep the Dallas defense honest. Look for him to touch the ball around 15 times for 75 yards and a score. Ridley struggled to gain traction last week against the Jets, and it would be a surprise to see him get more than 6-8 touches and 40 yards. I’d shy away from starting him unless bye weeks are crippling your team in Week 6.

Wes Welker/Deion Branch/Chad Ochocinco

Any element of the New England passing game should be a safe start this week. Welker should see his usual 7-100-1 statline, but both Branch and Ochocinco could factor into the equation with well. Look for those two players to split up 8 catches for 90 yards and a score, with Branch likely getting the lion’s share of looks. I’d rank Branch as a WR3 this week, and I wouldn’t shy away from Ochocinco if you are desperate for a flex play.

Rob Gronkowski/Aaron Hernandez

Gronkowski hasn’t figured heavily in the passing game the past two weeks, but it’s hard to envision him having fewer than 4 catches and 50 yards against the Dallas secondary. Hernandez makes for an excellent play in PPR leagues, as he figures to reel in 4-5 catches for 50+ yards as well. I’d start either player with confidence.

Stephen Gostkowski

Dallas has a good front 7 that could force a few FG attempts in the red zone, but their secondary should allow the New England offense to visit the end zone a few times. Expect 4-5 extra points and 1-2 FGs this week.

New England Defense/Special Teams

The Patriots do not match up well against the Cowboys offense. The secondary could struggle to contain Dez Bryant and Miles Austin on the outside, and Witten should be able to find room to operate underneath. The Pats D could easily give up 30+ points and have no more than 2-3 turnovers and sacks combined. I’d look for other options this week.