We've got this new Fantasy Index Blackout competition. You can enter it under Your Stuff at the top right of the screen. It's similar to our old SuperLeague competition, except you're prevented from using sure-fire, slam-dunk superstars. There are still some of those types of players, right?
Two weeks in, I'm not doing very well; middle of the pack I think. It's not all my fault -- using Jordy Nelson at Atlanta seemed like a reasonable enough decision at the time. Nothing kills a lineup quicker than somebody like Nelson or Greg Olsen getting hurt early on. But luck happens, so here's hoping it will be with me this time around.
Quarterback: Can't use Aaron Rodgers. That's OK. I want to use the player who's facing the Saints every week (Cam Newton), and will go with Derek Carr at Washington. Big fan of Oakland's offense in this matchup, as outlined in the Weekly.
Running back: Hmm, nobody is blacked out here. I'm not sure if I'm just early, or there really are no great running backs anymore. Whatever: I'm taking LeVeon Bell against Chicago's run defense that's already lost two starting inside linebackers to pectoral injuries, and Kareem Hunt (because probably he'll be blacked out every other week this season). Carlos Hyde and Jay Ajayi also viable.
Wide receiver: No Antonio Brown. I'm taking Michael Crabtree, I'm aware he's coming off a 3-TD game, but I think he'll get the better matchup in the game in Washington. I will also go with DeVante Parker against the Jets. I am intrigued by Green Bay at home, but Nelson's status is uncertain. For now I'm looking at Kelvin Benjamin against the Saints, but I reserve the right to change my mind.
Tight end: Gronk and Kelce are both blacked out. I'm going to hold my nose and go with Coby Fleener, who scored 3 TDs against the Panthers a year ago, and Zach Ertz, because he's Philadelphia's best receiver. Plenty of viable choices this week.
Kicker: No Stephen Gostkowski. I will opt for Mason Crosby at home against the Bengals and Graham Gano (sensing a theme here?) against the Saints.
Defense: The Ravens are blacked out, but the advice I will give the Blackout Police going forward is to see who the Jets are facing and black that puppy out. Miami is available, so I'm taking them. The Patriots at home against the Texans also look very sound.
Good luck to the rest of you.