Carolina Panthers
Cam Newton (Quarterback): Newton had his best game of the season and of the fantasy season on Sunday. Newton made mincemeat out of this New Orleans secondary and he threw for 5 touchdowns and only 1 interception. Newton also completed 28 out of 41 passing attempts for 331 yards. The Saints defense truly is the best matchup for teams heading into the fantasy playoffs.
Jonathan Stewart (Running Back): Stewart owners grew concerned when it was announced that they would be dialing back his touches. This did not happen on Sunday, instead Stewart had 21 rushing attempts for 82 yards and a touchdown; he also tacked on 3 catches for 31 yards. Stewart was likely involved so much because the Saints made this game a dog fight, if the Panthers find a couple of blow outs down the road they could rest Stewart for the playoffs.
Greg Olsen (Tight End): Olsen had a great matchup and did not disappoint. He finished the game hauling in 9 out of his 12 targets for 129 yards. Olsen is clearly the best tight end in the league while Gronk is injured and he proves that with his consistency and the amount of targets he receives on a daily basis.
New Orleans Saints
Mark Ingram (Running Back): Ingram had a pretty decent game as he recorded 12 rushing attempts for 56 yards a touchdown, and a 2 point conversion. Ingram also hauled in 4 targets for 23 yards as his streak of productive games continues. He will continue to be a RB3 with high RB2 upside.
Drew Brees (Quarterback): Brees had one of his best games of the year in a terrible matchup that would decimate most other fantasy quarterbacks. Instead Brees put the team on his back fighting for deep balls and points as if this were the Super Bowl. Brees finished his game completing 24 out of 42 passing attempts for 282 yards, 3 touchdowns, and an interception. If he can do that against the Panthers, he could do that against anyone.
Brandin Cooks (Wide Receiver): Cooks had a stellar day as he caught 6 of his 10 targets for 104 yards and a touchdown. Cooks is a must start at this point as he has stayed hot for several weeks in a row.
