Sam Darnold

Week 6 vs. Minnesota Vikings

Sam Darnold came crashing back to earth last week against the Eagles, throwing for just 177 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions. After putting up borderline top-five numbers through the first four weeks – heavily aided by five rushing touchdowns – it seemed inevitable Darnold’s numbers would normalize. The real Darnold is likely somewhere in between the dreadful showing we saw last week, and the four previous games.

This week, Darnold faces a hot-and-cold Vikings defense that ranks ninth in aFPA to opposing quarterbacks. The Vikings shut down Jared Goff last week, but that was Jared Goff and the Lions, so it’s hard to figure out exactly how good they are. Likewise, with a shaky Baker Mayfield in Week 4. Expect Darnold to bounce back a bit, but to normalize into a fringe, matchup-based starter. We have him ranked just outside of QB1 territory this week, making him a viable streaming option against Minnesota.

Week 4 at Dallas Cowboys

Sam Darnold had a great fantasy outing against the Texans last week, throwing for 304 yards and running in two touchdowns. Darnold isn’t usually thought of for his mobility, but he’s been unafraid to use his legs in the red zone, and three rushing touchdowns through as many games. Darnold also has just one interception and is completing a career-high 68.2% of his passes.

This week, Darnold faces a Cowboys defense that ranks a surprising sixth in aFPA to opposing quarterbacks this season after being a sieve a year ago. We have Darnold ranked just outside of starting material this week, making him a quality streamer or QB2 option in a game where the Panthers will probably need to throw a bit more than they have thus far this season. He’s a risky gamble, but worth considering if you have a need.

Week 2 vs. New Orleans Saints

Sam Darnold had a nice start to his Panthers career with 279 yards, two touchdowns – one rushing – and a victory over his former team. His fantasy numbers were modest, but that rushing touchdown is probably not something we can bank on. The Saints shut down the Packers' offense last week and ranked fifth in aFPA to opposing quarterbacks last year, so fantasy managers should look elsewhere if possible in all league formats.