How did you like your first NFL Sunday? It was great to have games back and we got a few interesting matchups and results, too. As will be the case throughout the NFL Season, on Monday mornings I’ll preview the Monday Night Football game but first I’ll give three takeaways from the Sunday slate. So, let’s look at our three headlines.

It Might Be Time to Give Up on J.K. Dobbins
About:
When Dobbins was drafted, many had lofty expectations. He was an explosive runner taken by a run-first team. But it just hasn’t materialized that way. He missed the whole 2021 season and was limited to just eight games in 2022. But he seemed to be fully healthy and ready to run for 2023. After a good first half and his first touchdown of the year, Dobbins tore his Achilles tendon, ending his season. It’s another lost year for Dobbins, who will head into free agency this off-season. It’s unclear what, if any career he might have in the future, making it a disappointment for Dobbins, the Ravens and those that roster him in fantasy.

The Steelers Offense is a Mess
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Sure, the 49ers have a good defense. That’s a part of it. But the Steelers’ offense looked back, and it looks like Kenny Pickett isn’t making the leap in year two. On Sunday, both Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren struggled. They combined for 37 yards on nine carries. The passing game struggled, too. The team put up just seven points at home. And, to make matters worse, the Steelers saw Pat Freiermuth and Diontae Johnson leave with injury. None of that bodes well for a Steelers team that is in an incredibly tough division.

Calvin Ridley is back!
About
: It wasn’t all sad news on the first Sunday. One of the big moments was Ridley showing out in his first game with the Jaguars. After nearly two full seasons off due to injury and suspension, many wondered if there would be rust. Instead, Ridley saw 11 targets, catching eight passes for 101 yards and a touchdown. He looks like the Alpha receiver that Trevor Lawrence and the Jaguars have been hoping he’d be, and I’m pumped for it.

Now on to the Monday night matchup.

For our first Monday night game of the season, we get the Buffalo Bills at the New York Jets, a great clash of AFC East opponents. The Bills and Josh Allen come into the season, again, as contenders in the AFC. The Jets, meanwhile, acquired Aaron Rodgers to pair with a spectacular defense in order to give themselves a shot at the playoffs or a title.

As for this game, I’m getting more on the defense. Usually, the defense has a little edge to start the season, and both these teams are known for defense. I wouldn’t be surprised to see this one end up in the teens. That creates some fantasy questions.

For the Bills, you’re starting Allen. I’m also starting Stefon Diggs, who should be a top receiver. Among backs, I’d bet on James Cook, I guess, but hopefully you had better options. I’m also waiting to see how the target share plays out between Gabe Davis, Dawson Knox and Dalton Kincaid before I’m relying on anyone.

For the Jets, I’m starting Garrett Wilson. I think Rodgers will have a good season, but I see him more as a mid-range QB2 in this one. I’m not sure I’m counting on any other receiver in this one. I want to see how the targets play out. The backfield is also something of a question. I’d prefer Dalvin Cook, but it feels like more of a committee with Breece Hall and Michael Carter. And, again, I don’t see many points this week.

As for the game, I’m picking the Bills! Enjoy the final game of Week 1.

Matthew Fox is a graduate of the Radio, Television and Film program at Biola University, and a giant nerd. He spends his free time watching movies, TV, and obsessing about football. He is a member of the FSWA. You can find him @knighthawk7734 on Twitter and as co-host of the Fantasy Football Roundtable Podcast.

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