2017 Buccaneers fantasy forecast: WR, Mike Evans
Key Games
Of course, if you draft this Bucs player, you’re going to start him every single week in fantasy football.
There may be some tough weeks though, but there will also be some great ones.
Sure Things:
Week 13 @ Green Bay Packers
As sure things go, this matchup for the Bucs will have some “what-ifs” involved.
If Tampa walks into the “Frozen Tundra”, then this may go to the other side of this discussion. If not though, Evans should have a field day against this defense.
The Packers surrendered the most receiving yards in 2016 and was third-worst giving up 32 receiving touchdowns.
If the snow stays away, Evans is your play.
Week 14 vs Detroit Lions
One of the teams the Bucs face which was more pass friendly than the Packers, is the Detroit Lions.
Allowing 33 scoring receptions in 2016 means every receiver facing this defense will be chomping at the bit to take advantage.
Add in the playoff implications coming in Week 14, and Evans is just one of the players who should rise to the occasion.
Uphill Battles:
Weeks 9 and 17 vs New Orleans Saints
It may seem strange I’d suggest Evans might struggle a bit when the Bucs face the Saints in 2017, but here we are.
In his three seasons, Evans has two scores against this division rival.
His last game against the Saints was his best against them. He brought in seven catches for 97-yards and a score. Perhaps this is a sign of things to come, but history says he’s more likely to be held out of the endzone in these matchups.
Week 4 vs New York Giants
In a key early season matchup, the Bucs host the New York Giants who could be called the NFC East’s version of the Bucs.
Improved passing game, defense on an upswing, and lots of playoff aspirations. Some questions at running back though.
This accurately describes both teams. However, only one held receivers to the lowest touchdown total in the entire NFC.
That was the Giants of course, who allowed just 15 scoring catches in all of 2016.
Analysis:
Like I said, if you have Evans on our season-long roster, you’re going to start him every week. So there really isn’t a place to sit the Bucs’ best receiver.
If you play daily or re-draft leagues, he’s got two tough contests in what would be the fantasy football playoffs.
Perhaps a late season trade involving this Bucs stud is in order, but if you’re a fan like I am, it’s going to be a tough deal to make.