:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/37948340/454089276.0.jpg)
Fantasy football is officially back. You've drafted your team(s) and now all you have to do is watch those fantasy points roll in and think of new ways to insult your opponents. Each week, we'll take a look at the upcoming 49ers game and highlight the fantasy players of note. My fortune telling certificate has yet to arrive so these posts will be more for discussion.
San Francisco starts the year against a defense figured to be one of the worst in the NFL. However, Dallas' offense is certainly capable of covering up the team's defensive struggles. If the 49ers can't stop Dez and company we are looking at a shootout. The over/under is currently at 51 points (fourth highest in week 1). This game should be a buffet of fantasy points so here are the players to watch.
Must Starts
Frank Gore
Gore likely won't see a friendlier matchup all season. Dallas was one of the worst teams against the run last year and could actually be worse this year. If things go the 49ers way early, look for Gore to get a lot of work. I like his chances to finish just outside the top 10 running backs this week.
Dez Bryant
The San Francisco secondary isn't as frightening as their front seven. Dez could finish #1 among fantasy wide receivers this week as the Cowboys will likely be playing from behind. Star wide receivers fared well against the 49er secondary last year. Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, Roddy White and Larry Fitzgerald all had at least 100 yards and a TD against the 49ers in 2013. Start Dez with confidence.
Colin Kaepernick
Can #7 deliver fantasyland a consecutive week 1 gem? The offense is better, he is more experienced and his passing attempts have no where to go, but up. He is being ranked in the top 5 of quarterbacks this week and for good reason. Kaep should be able to torture the Cowboy defense in a high scoring affair.
Solid Starts
Michael Crabtree
The calf news is concerning, but I doubt Crabtree misses a chance to go nuts in his hometown. A 10+ reception day wouldn't be too surprising given the scenario. A healthy Crabtree is a solid WR2 most weeks, but he could finish among the top 10 at his position week 1.
DeMarco Murray
Murray may have the longest road to fantasy stardom in this game, but his versatility will keep him involved in the game plan. Running backs running routes have caused San Francisco problems in the past. He'll be more valuable in PPR formats, but I'd put his ceiling at 100 combined yards and a TD.
Tony Romo
It's been awhile since the 49ers had the pleasure of Mr. Romo's company. When they last met, Romo was knocked out the game only to return and rip out our hearts in tremendous fashion. He again looks to put up decent numbers as he will be playing at home and his defense will give him few reasons to let off the gas. There are a few new faces in the 49er secondary and they will need to get it done without the benefit of Aldon Smith's pass rush. It's actually not a bad scenario for Romo. Another 275+ yard 2TD 1 INT sounds about right.
Vernon Davis
I'm not high on Vernon Davis in fantasy this year, but there isn't a man on Dallas' defense that can cover him. I like Crabtree to get the most looks, but Davis is a better bet to grab a TD.
Jason Witten
Speaking of touchdowns, Witten might be allergic to them. His fantasy value relies on steady volume from Romo. However, he did cross the plane 8 times last year and the San Francisco defense has trouble with tight ends in the red zone. He should remain a top 10 tight end and quality pick for budget savvy weekly players.
Weekly Fantasy Picks
Weekly fantasy games are becoming increasingly popular. Instead of playing with a team you drafted in the preseason, you use a budget to create the best team you can each week. Here are a few players going for relatively cheap that may help you bring in the bucks. All prices are courtesy of Fan Duel.
Tony Romo $8,300
Over $1,000 cheaper than the Top 3 QBs and could end up in the Top 5. Roll the dice with Romo and use the saved budget for a better RB/WR.
Frank Gore $7,200
Should be equal to or better than DeMarco Murray this week and he is going for $1,600 less. Strong RB2 play with a great chance for 80 yards and a TD.
Terrance Williams $6,100
A bargain buy for your WR3 position. Dez should draw most of the attention and Williams has delivered big for fantasy owners in the past.
If you have any lineup questions drop a comment and good luck week 1!
Editor's Note: SB Nation's partner FanDuel is hosting a $100,000 Fantasy Football Contest for Week 1's NFL games. It's only $10 to join and first prize is $10,000. Starts Sunday, September 7th at 1pm ET. Here's the link.