3 Bold NFL Predictions for Week 1
Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman Will Each Outscore Jordan Howard
Why This Is Bold: Jordan Howard was drafted as the RB7, while Devonta Freeman is the RB5 and Tevin Coleman is the RB26.
Why This Will Happen: The Atlanta Falcons are seven-point favorites, which means they’ll likely be able to give Freeman and Coleman enough touches to rack up fantasy points. Even if the duo -- especially Coleman -- likely face regression in 2017, Week 1 should be the high-water mark for their combined production.
The Chicago Bears ranked 32nd in the NFL by Adjusted Defensive Rushing NEP per play in 2016. They didn’t make any significant draft picks or free-agent signings on the front seven, so there’s no reason to expect marked improvement.
The Falcons weren’t much stouter than the Bears, ranking 31st in Adjusted Defensive Rushing NEP per play in 2016. But the Bears' offense figures to be even worse than it was last year, especially in Mike Glennon's first appearance with the team.
Howard will get his carries, and he’ll probably be pretty effective with them. However, his chances of scoring a touchdown will be slim, and rookie Tarik Cohen is making a case to be involved in the passing game.
