Regardless of name, number of off-field endorsement deals or years of experience, for quarterbacks, it’s key that the ball—as often as possible—remain in possession of the offense at all times.
Interceptions are obviously nothing new to the game, but this year’s league-wide interception totals—in particular, the man who’s leading the damning column—is nothing short of jaw-dropping. That’s right, Peyton Manning takes the proverbial cake as The Shield’s most intercepted quarterback.
But this week, however, the chances for the most turnover-ridden game can’t come from Denver, seeing as how the Broncos have a bye. Instead, fantasy owners should look for quarterback woes to rear their ugly heads at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland.
According to the Tampa Bay Times, erroneous throws are likely to play a key role in the Week 7 matchup between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Redskins. Interestingly enough, when both Jameis Winston and Kirk Cousins manage to avoid interceptions altogether, their teams are 2-0.
Unfortunately, for Redskins’ fans and fantasy owners, Cousins is fourth amongst all NFL quarterbacks this season with a whopping eight interceptions. Worse, he’s managed to throw multiple picks in four different NFL games through a mere six weeks of regular season play.
Things aren’t much better in Tampa Bay, though. Winston, coming in with seven interceptions of his own, openly recognizes there’s plenty of room for change. Once again, via the Tampa Bay Times, says Winston of his play out on the field, “I’m really nobody in this league yet, so they [the Redskins] don’t have to worry about me.”
Furthermore, speaking specifically of the ability to safeguard the ball when his team has it, says Winston, “Hopefully one day I can, but for right now, I’m just trying to get better every year and trying to get some wins under my belt. I’m just trying to do my role, play my part.”
In the end, whichever quarterback can step outside of himself and limit turnovers will place his team in the best position to win. As far as fantasy owners are concerned, this means that the Bucs and Redskins defensive units will likely be seen as mid-range fantasy options come Week 7, due to the incredible turnover potential this fixture presents.