Buffalo Bills Fantasy Outlook

Sep 8, 2013; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller (28) runs with the ball and breaks a tackle by New England Patriots defensive end Chandler Jones (95) during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Patriots beat the Bills 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

CJ Spiller was a top 10 running back in most fantasy drafts this year and with a first week performance of being well under par, I wouldn’t blame some people for benching him with another option that might be more consistent coming into week 2.  Although I would warn them that Spiller is one to explode with points and that could be even more frustrating if he is on your bench.  Spiller is expected to put in a performance worth 14-15 points against the Panthers who were ranked as giving up the 13th fewest yards to running backs this year.  This is a run heavy defense that will be going up against a run heavy offense in the early going.  Expect a battle, but I believe Spiller will put up what he is expected to.

Stevie Johnson is coming off of a 9+ point game with 39 yards and a TD last week.  With the Bills offense moving in a run heavy direction, Johnson will get points but it is just up in the air as to how much he will be used.  Look for Johnson to be in the mid to high single digits again, 6-9 points, for this game.  Manuel could spread the ball around, which could hurt Johnson’s numbers if the pass is available, because the Panthers were ranked as giving up the 9th most points to wide receivers this year.

EJ Manuel is coming off of a 16 point game and looks to repeat that effort.  The Panthers are able to be beat on the back end, but the Buffalo Bills have shown that they do not have a deep ball as of yet.  The short ball could be deadly to the Bills as the Panthers have a decent front 7.  The Panthers have given up the 9th fewest points to QBs so far.

Fred Jackson was able to put a couple of runs together for the Bills and was able to help salvage a limited running attack that Spiller brought to the table.  Jackson could begin to see a higher role and get more carries if Spiller continues to struggle.  Jackson was able to put together a 10 point game last week and is slated for mid-range single digit points against the Panthers.  He is not a bad option if you are in a flex league and need another RB on your roster.  He will put points on the board.