Week 1 NFL Advanced Analytics Superstars

Running Back: Darren Sproles

Darren Sproles, RB, Philadelphia Eagles
5 Rushes, 50 Yards, 7 Receptions, 76 Yards, 9 Targets
NEP: +9.40

A mismatch all game, Philadelphia's Darren Sproles was able to beat the Atlanta defense rushing and receiving on nearly every touch he was given. Finishing the day with 5 rushes for 50 yards while tacking on 7 receptions for 76 receiving yards, Sproles averaged over 10-plus yards per touch making for an impressive season opener on Monday Night Football.

More impressive was that he was able to outproduce both DeMarco Murray and Ryan Mathews by a longshot, as both struggled. Murray (8 rushes for 9 yards) and Mathews (3 rushes for 4 yards) were both able to hit paydirt, but had a tough time securing yards against an active Falcons defensive front eager to play for new head coach Dan Quinn.

However, the offensive line continuously found ways to provide holes for Sproles as the veteran speedster picked up big chunk plays with each carry. Center Jason Kelce is one of the few athletic centers in the league capable of pulling on sweeps, but made some big plays that allowed Sproles to pick up big yardage.

Finishing the night with 19.6 points per reception (PPR) fantasy points, Sproles wasn't the highest fantasy producer -- that honor belonged to Carlos Hyde on his 26-carry, 168-yard, 2-touchdown stat line with 2 receptions for 14 yards picking up 32.2 points -- but was this week's most efficient, leading all running backs with 10.90 Total NEP.

Sproles provided a solid output for those confident to start him and showed up in a way none of the other Eagles running backs could. He may not be a consistent fantasy producer, but Sproles will continue to have PPR flex appeal in games moving forward in which Philadelphia faces favorable opponents and potential game scripts.

Honorable Mention
Matt Forte, RB, Chicago Bears
24 Rushes, 141 Yards, 1 Touchdown, 5 Receptions, 25 Yards, 8 Targets
NEP: +9.28