THE WHISTLEBLOWER’S STUDS AND DUDS
Stud 1: Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert had a down game against Dallas, throwing an interception at the goal line and dealing with simple accuracy mistakes. But, in Week 3 LA faces Kansas City. The Chief’s defense was awful against the Ravens, with the exception of Tyrann Mathieu’s pick-six. Quite possibly, Herbert will bounce back in a big way against the Chiefs.
Dud 1: Jacoby Brissett, Miami Dolphins
Jacoby Brissett has his work cut out for him after the Dolphins’ starting QB Tua suffered a rib injury last week. Miami is going up against a much improved Las Vegas defense. While Brissett will have Jaylen Waddle and Will Fuller V to throw to, don’t expect much from the Fins this week.
Stud 2: Aaron Jones, Green Bay Packers
Aaron Jones had a massive game in Week 2, scoring four touchdowns against the Detroit Lions. Jones looked like he’s in prime form for the 2021 season. When you factor in San Francisco’s banged-up defense, expect a big game from Jones against the 49ers.
Dud 2: Saquon Barkley, New York Giants
Saquon Barkley hasn’t looked like his former self after his ACL tear in 2020. Barkley hasn’t peaked over 75 yards yet this season and looks like he is a shadow of the explosive Saquads of 2018-2019. The Giants’ offense has shifted towards Daniel Jones and the passing game leaving Saquon the odd man out.
Stud 3: Chris Godwin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs have the hottest offense in the NFL right now. And, suddenly, Chris Godwin is the WR1 in Tampa due to mediocre play from Mike Evans and COVID issues with Antonio Brown. Expect a big showing from Godwin when the Bucs go up against the Rams, who outside of Jalen Ramsey, have a pretty weak secondary.
Dud 3: JuJu Smith-Schuster, Pittsburgh Steelers
Pittsburgh is the biggest 2021 mystery, offensively speaking. Big Ben is struggling and Najee Harris is still developing. Meanwhile, JuJu Smith-Schuster appears to be the third option behind Chase Claypool and Dionte Johnson. Sadly JuJu has been a disappointment over the last three seasons since Antonio Brown’s departure.
