Week 3 brings an NFC South clash between the Atlanta Falcons and Carolina Panthers. Atlanta is leaning on their ground game, while Carolina is beginning to showcase some exciting rookie pass-catchers. With both teams still figuring out their identities, this game offers plenty of fantasy intrigue. Here’s the Start/Sit breakdown with projected stat lines.
Starts for Panthers vs. Falcons
WR Tetairoa “T-Mac” McMillan, Panthers (Rookie)
The rookie wideout has quickly become Bryce Young’s favorite outside target, racking up volume and efficiency in his first two games. His size and route-running make him a mismatch against Atlanta’s corners. He should continue to see a healthy target share.
Projected Stat Line:
• 5 receptions, 70 yards, 1 TD
• ~12–15 PPR points
RB Bijan Robinson, Falcons
Robinson is the heartbeat of Atlanta’s offense. Carolina has been vulnerable to explosive runs, and Bijan’s dual-threat ability makes him a near lock for RB1 production this week. Expect Arthur Smith to ride him early and often.
Projected Stat Line:
• 20 carries, 105 rushing yards, 1 TD
• 2 receptions, 12 yards
• ~18–22 PPR points
TE Kyle Pitts, Falcons
Pitts is slowly getting more involved and should be leaned on in the middle of the field and in red-zone looks. With the Panthers’ defense focusing on stopping Bijan, Pitts has a chance to find space and make impact plays.
Projected Stat Line:
• 5 receptions, 65 yards, 1 TD
• ~10–13 PPR points
Sits for Panthers vs. Falcons
RB Chuba Hubbard, Panthers
Hubbard is splitting time and hasn’t turned limited touches into meaningful production. Against Atlanta’s sturdy run defense, he’s unlikely to return flex value this week.
Projected Stat Line:
• 9 carries, 28 rushing yards
• 1 reception, 7 yards
• ~4–6 PPR points
WR Xavier Legette, Panthers
Despite seeing targets, Legette hasn’t been efficient. Drops and low separation numbers make him risky against a Falcons defense that can cover well in the slot.
Projected Stat Line:
• 3 receptions, 36 yards
• ~5–7 PPR points
RB Tyler Allgeier, Falcons
With Bijan firmly controlling the workload, Allgeier is little more than a change-of-pace back. He’s touchdown-dependent, and against Carolina’s front, that’s not a bet worth making.
Projected Stat Line:
• 6 carries, 24 rushing yards
• 1 reception, 4 yards
• ~3–5 PPR points
Sleeper Pick
TE Ja’Tavion Sanders, Panthers
Sanders’ role is growing: he’s seen increased targets and looks particularly dangerous in red-zone sets. If Bryce Young leans on his tight end to move the chains, Sanders could pay off as a deep-league sleeper.
Projected Stat Line:
• 4 receptions, 52 yards, 1 TD
• ~9–11 PPR points
Final Takeaway
This game projects to be Falcons-favored, but that doesn’t mean there’s no fantasy juice for Carolina. Start Bijan Robinson, Kyle Pitts, and rookie Tetairoa McMillan with confidence. Sit Chuba Hubbard, Xavier Legette, and Tyler Allgeier. And if you’re looking for a deep sleeper, Ja’Tavion Sanders is gaining enough usage to warrant a dart throw with the TE position having a slow start overall this season..
