Matthew Stafford (QB, DET) - Week 2 Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 14-Team Leagues

OWNED IN: 26% of Leagues

ANALYSIS: Last week's game against the Cardinals could be a predictor of future performance for Matthew Stafford. Stafford has thrown for over 4,200 yards in every season since 2011, except last season's downtrodden performance where he finished with 3,777 yards and 21 touchdowns. This season, he will likely get back on track as he has another year of familiarity with Kenny Golladay and has added a formidable slot receiver in Danny Amendola.

On Sunday, Stafford seemed to have an immediate rapport with Amendola as he targeted the slot-man 13 times resulting in seven completions for 104 yards and a touchdown. If Stafford continues to trust him, we could see great production from both. The same can be said for targeting Golladay on the outside. He was targeted nine times resulting in 4 receptions for 42 yards and a touchdown. The nine targets were tied for the fifth-most targets Golladay has received in a game and shows Stafford is getting more comfortable with.

Aside from the rapport Stafford is building with his receivers, the Lions also face some favorable pass defenses this season including matchups against the Eagles, Chiefs, Buccaneers, and Raiders. Each of these defenses allowed nearly 300 points to the quarterback position in 2018. Additionally, they have favorable matchups against the Redskins and Giants, and play nine more games in domed environments.

Look for Stafford to rebound from a rather forgettable 2018 and become fantasy relevant again in 2019. If you're in a 14-team league and he is available, you should be able to feel comfortable moving forward with him as your backup and bye-week replacement.