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Andy Richardson

Gabriel versus Sanu versus Hogan

Which secondary receiver will be best?

Most will agree that Julio Jones is the top receiver playing in Super Bowl LI, and the safest bet for the No. 2 is Julian Edelman. Yes Chris Hogan was much bigger in the Patriots offense a week ago, but if you're in a competition where you're starting three wideouts, Jones and Edelman look like the clear top-2 options.

The question is, who is No. 3?

Their final regular-season numbers were pretty similar. The three show up within 16 spots of each other in yardage at the position. Hogan caught 38 passes for 680 yards and 4 TDs, Sanu 59-653-4, Gabriel 35-579-6.

Hogan's huge game last week has him at 13-275-2 in the playoffs, while Sanu is at 9-96-2 and Gabriel very quiet (6-95-0). Most will probably favor Hogan; gotta respect the hot hand.

Over the last eight games (including the playoffs) for each player, here's how the numbers shake out.

SANU, LAST EIGHT
NoTgtYdsTD
22140
88650
23260
33440
34560
44321
57521
45441
31363333
GABRIEL, LAST EIGHT
NoTgtYdsTD
15761
45752
56440
36821
36601
34150
23240
46710
25414475
HOGAN, LAST EIGHT
NoTgtYdsTD
45700
45231
571291
12180
15220
44270
44950
9121802
32445644

Major takeaway is that Gabriel -- though he can sneak free for a big play at any time -- looks like the No. 3. None of his touchdowns have come in the last three, and he's been over 25 yards in just one of those. Gabriel does have a rushing score and is the best bet for one of those kinds of plays, but seems a notch behind the others, especially in PPR formats.

In contrast, Sanu and Hogan have each caught 4 balls in three straight games, Sanu has scored in three straight, and Hogan has gone over 90 yards twice.

Looks like Sanu has the highest floor, especially against a defense that will likely focus on trying to contain Jones. Seems a lock for plenty of targets and catches. Hogan has the hot hand and a higher ceiling.

Think I'll have it Hogan-Sanu-Gabriel in Standard, maybe Sanu higher in PPR (or at least very close).

Fantasy Index