5 DraftKings Studs to Target in Week 1
Matt Ryan, QB, Atlanta Falcons
DraftKings Price: $6,900
Projected Points: 25.4
After the Atlanta Falcons were historically great in 2016, Matt Ryan could be due for some statistical regression this season. He'll also be getting comfortable with a new offensive coordinator, Steve Sarkisian, who is a first-year NFL play-caller.
That said, Ryan and the Falcons could come out of the gates firing as they have a great matchup in Week 1.
In 2016, the Chicago Bears ranked in the bottom half of the league in both overall defense and pass defense, per our schedule-adjusted metrics. They managed to intercept a mere eight passes a year ago, and they allowed opposing quarterbacks to average 7.2 yards per attempt, slightly worse than the league average.
Ryan averaged a league-best 9.3 yards per attempt last season and has been above 7.5 yards per pass for three straight seasons. Atlanta's offense should be able to pick up large chunks of offense through the air.
The Falcons have the highest implied team total (28.25 points) this week, and they are favored by 7.0 points. Ryan should have no problem returning value and can be an anchor in DFS lineups.
