Sunday AM update: ESPN’s projections have Dalton projected for 18.7 fantasy points, as he gets his first start with the Cowboys tomorrow night on MNF. The Arizona Cardinals have taken some recent hits on defense, particularly with the loss of LB Chandler Jones (biceps) for the season, which may set a narrative for an offensive, high-scoring affair.
After last week’s horrific injury to Cowboys QB Dak Prescott, Andy Dalton was forced into action and led the Cowboys to a win over the New York Giants.
This week, Dalton will have had a full week to prepare for the Arizona Cardinals.
Fantasy Football analysis: Dallas QB Andy Dalton
After Prescott’s injury, Dalton came in and was extremely efficient. He’ll never be as dynamic of a playmaker as Dak is, but in just a quarter and a half he threw for 111 yards and just missed on two of his throws.
The Cowboys have a good corps of receivers, including Amari Cooper and CeeDee Lamb, so it would be weird to limit the opportunities to get them the ball. They’ll probably rely on the ground more often than they would if Dak was healthy, but should still go to the air a good amount.
The Cardinals have had a tough time containing QBs from a fantasy perspective as well. They give up an average of 20 points per game to QBs, and even gave up 15 to the Jets last week. The game plan this week will be different from a typical Dallas game. Expect to see more of Ezekiel Elliott. But with the talent on the perimeter, the Cowboys will still probably throw the ball a decent amount, especially against an Arizona defense that gives up big fantasy points to QB’s.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Start Andy Dalton.