Fantasy Football Player Notes

You were warned that it would be a Peterson-heavy game against the Dolphins. That time is now over. The timing of Bill Callahan taking over for Jay Gruden just happened to take place before a game they could win, though oddsmakers don't see this one going that way. Running backs are averaging just 21.0 touches per game against the 49ers, which is the lowest in the NFL. The 49ers opponents are averaging just 55.4 plays per game (2nd fewest in NFL) while the Redskins offense has netted just 56.7 plays per game (3rd fewest in NFL), making this the worst possible scenario for a two-down running back who doesn't participate much in the passing game. The status of Thompson will affect his output, though it'd be likely we see Wendell Smallwood walk into that passing-down role rather than Peterson taking on a big role. Even when teams try to run the ball against the 49ers, it hasn't panned out well, as they've allowed just 3.98 yards per carry and have yet to allow a touchdown, either rushing or receiving. The Patriots are the only other team who can say that. Even if Thompson can't play in this game, Peterson should be considered a low-ceiling RB3/4-type option this week.

With Keenum back under center, McLaurin was once again highly productive. Sure, the Dolphins were missing their best cornerback Xavien Howard, but it was going to be a plus-matchup regardless. Now onto the 49ers, who run a zone-heavy scheme, which means McLaurin will line up across from Emmanuel Moseley, the second-year cornerback who's stepped in for Ahkello Witherspoon the last two weeks and done a solid job. Despite playing against the Browns and Rams receivers, he's allowed just 4-of-7 passing for 28 yards in coverage the last two weeks. Again, he's zone-heavy, so they'll be relying on pressure up front, or McLaurin should find soft spots in the coverage. McLaurin needs to be started given his role in the offense as someone who's weighted opportunity ranks third-best in the NFL, just behind Michael Thomas and Keenan Allen. Based on the weeks he's played, he's seeing 51 percent of the Redskins air yards, which is the biggest share in the NFL (closest player is Michael Thomas at 44 percent). Consider McLaurin a low-end WR2 in a tough matchup but one who should remain in your lineup.