Fantasy Land: Studs and Duds, Week 1

A two-time champion in a hardcore keeper league, including some know-it-all media "experts", Adam Boedeker gives his fantasy expertise on a weekly basis.

Stud of the Week

Miles Austin, WR, DAL — It's true, Austin is Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo's third option in the passing game behind far-and-away No. 1 Dez Bryant and tight end Jason Witten. But keep this in mind, Witten doesn't catch touchdown passes, the Giants' secondary is in shambles and Austin has a track record of good performances against the Giants, averaging better than six catches and 100 yards per game in last year's two meetings. Sounds like a sure thing to me, especially right now, before his hamstrings act up.

Honorable mention: Michael Vick, PHI (at WAS); Ahmad Bradshaw, IND (vs. OAK); Tony Romo, DAL (vs. NYG); Robert Griffin III, WAS (vs. PHI).

Dud of the Week

Cam Newton, QB, CAR — Look, if you drafted Newton, it was likely in the first couple of rounds, depending on the format of your league, and it's unlikely you're going to bench him in Week 1. But just beware here as the Panthers open up the season with a matchup against the Seahawks, who might have the best defense in football and almost certainly have the best secondary in the game. Newton is going to be a top-5 quarterback this season, but if you have another viable option, you might want to at least consider it here.

Honorable mention: Vincent Jackson, TB (at NYJ); Steve Johnson, BUF (vs. NE); Ryan Matthews, SD (vs. HOU); Andy Dalton, CIN (at CHI).

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