Overtime Fantasy

The Type Of Game I Expect

It’s no secret that Baltimore has their backs against the wall, even after a big win last week – yes, it was the Bears, but nonetheless a big win in the record book against a well-coached team.

This is the first of back-to-back-to-back road games for Baltimore and they absolutely need to go 2-1 here at a minimum as they visit the Dolphins, Vikings, and Browns. Not surprisingly, I expect Cleveland to be the “trappiest” game of the 3.

Look for Baltimore to come out SWINGING, lots of Derrick Henry coupled with some deep shots early to catch the Dolphins sleeping after a “big” win for them last week.

On the flip side, the Dolphins are coming off a game against my Atlanta Falcons where they looked well coached and the execution was there. Now, was this against one of the Falcons infamous “let me lay down before you run me over” type of performances? I believe that game game said more about the Falcons that it did the Dolphins.

Even with that said, the Dolphins offense will certainly carry some of that rhythm into this home game. I expect them to be able to move the ball early, but don’t be surprised to see Miami struggle offensively especially as this game rolls on.

Key Players/Matchups

Lamar Jackson’s return. I don’t expect much rust here honestly, especially against a Dolphins defense that has been very up-and down this year. Good game against the Falcons and Kirk Cousins means they’re primed for a let-down week against a returning Lamar.

Watch for the Ravens tight ends to make some plays against a Dolphins team allowing 7+ targets to TEs in 5/8 games this season.

Baltimore’s defense is back to roughly full strength, but I still expect some rust especially against a talented backfield and solid receiving group.

Waddle and Co. vs. a bottom 5 ranked defense against WRs. This is a gateway game for the Baltimore secondary and defense to see if they are healthy and ready to turn a corner, but again I expect some success early as everyone settles into the game.

No idea what to think in the trenches – I think all 4 units: Baltimore OL, DL, Miami OL, DL, have had their fair share of issues this season, will have more on this in a recap style post.

Overall Thoughts and Picks To Look At

I do lean to the over in this game especially at the current number, 51. I like the first half over even more as I mentioned that the game could grind to a halt especially as the Baltimore defense gets comfortable.

Personally, I’m playing Lamar in 2 fantasy leagues and Waddle in 2 fantasy leagues, I love having some action on a Thursday night game to root for while I sip on my whisky.

If it’s not clear by now, I lean Baltimore in this game and expect the Dolphins performance from last week to look more like a bubble than a changing of the guard for their season. Harbaugh gets it done tonight and the over barely hits thanks to a quick start.

My Wife’s Thoughts:

“I don’t think I have any players playing tonight, not even sure which position Lamar plays, but I know he’s on Angela’s team” Thanks Ashton!