No matter how great a quarterback is on the field, they almost always need a complimentary group of receivers to help them excel. While the Buffalo Bills have been devoid of serious playmakers for most of the season, this team was persistent before the trade deadline in acquiring star wideout Kelvin Benjamin from the Carolina Panthers. Although this move is notable for obvious reasons, it also overshadows the quiet return of wideout Jordan Matthews from injury. Despite underwhelming performances in his last two games, Matthews should be able to bounce back against the weak secondary of the New Yor Jets this week.
Team: Buffalo Bills
Position: Wide Receiver
Percent Owned On Fantasy Teams: (Yahoo Fantasy): 32%
Fantasy Points Total Thru Week 8 (Half PPR): Projected: 58.63 Actual: 33.82
Although the individual statistics are not great for Matthews at the moment, his notoriety as a reliable wideout has earned him the trust of Tyrod Taylor as the dual-threat passer has a QB rating of 121.5 (7th in the league) when targeting the aforementioned wideout. Even better, Matthews has made the most of his opportunities when targeted as he averages 9.7 yards per target (13th amongst receivers) and has an elite catch rate of 75% (6th amongst receivers).
Despite having low fantasy numbers recently, Matthews is actually one of the better wideouts in the league in terms of fantasy points per target (2.01, 16th amongst receivers). The issue for Matthews has been target volume, something that should be somewhat rectified with Benjamin drawing the attention of opposing secondaries. In this way, both receivers should help the other become more effective as defenses will have to account for both of these big-play wideouts rather double-covering just one on every play.
While Matthews still needs to prove that he can convert his impressive receiving skill set into valuable fantasy points, his proven efficiency with the Eagles and Bills when healthy should intrigue fantasy owners who are looking for a breakout flex play. Against the Jets this week, Matthews will have a grand opportunity to go off against one of the more porous secondaries in the league and could be a consistent flex play going forward if he performs well on Sunday.
