Los Angeles Rams @ Indianapolis Colts
Final Score: Rams 29, Colts 23
Writer: Brian Hartman (@TooMuch_Brian on Twitter)
The Los Angeles Rams found themselves in a thrilling showdown with the Indianapolis Colts in Week 4, coming away with a 29-23 overtime victory. Matthew Stafford led the charge despite battling through a painful hip injury. Stafford displayed unwavering grit, delivering 319 passing yards and a critical 22-yard touchdown pass to rookie sensation Puka Nacua for a walk-off win. Nacua’s historic performance continued as he broke the record for most receptions (39) and yards (501) in his first four NFL games, solidifying his status as a fantasy gem and the primary target in Stafford’s dynamic offense. The Rams’ running game, led by Kyren Williams, added more fantasy firepower with 103 rushing yards and two touchdowns, making him a consistent standout in the backfield.
Colts’ rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson showcased his impressive arm strength and rushing ability, collecting 200 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one rushing score. His resilience in the second half fueled the Colts’ comeback effort. Fantasy managers can appreciate Richardson’s multi-dimensional skill set and dynamic contributor potential. Stafford’s injury scare raised questions, but he persevered through the adversity, leaving no doubt about his leadership and reliability for fantasy owners. The game’s fantasy implications also extend to the promising Zack Moss, who played 81% of the snaps for the Colts, and Nacua’s counterpart in Indianapolis, Drew Ogletree, who secured four receptions for 48 yards and a touchdown. Ultimately, it was a hard-fought battle with fantasy stars shining brightly, ensuring a captivating matchup that delighted fans and fantasy enthusiasts alike.
Rams’ rookie running back Kyren Williams continued his impressive season, putting up two rushing touchdowns, contributing to his six-touchdown season total. Williams has solidified his role as a valuable fantasy asset with his consistent scoring production. Stafford connected with his go-to target, Puka Nacua, on several occasions, showcasing their growing chemistry. Nacua’s standout performance cements his status as a must-start in fantasy leagues. Meanwhile, Colts’ rookie sensation Anthony Richardson continues to make NFL history with his dynamic play, putting up 200 passing yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score. Richardson’s versatility and fantasy potential shine brightly, making him a captivating player to watch. The Rams’ Aaron Donald was a force on the defensive side, delivering seven pressures and a sack. Fantasy managers who roster Donald enjoyed a significant boost from his elite performance. The game was an exciting clash of fantasy stars, delivering a thrilling display for fantasy enthusiasts and football fans.
Three Up
- Anthony Richardson– The number four overall pick from this past draft is proving his worth. He has now scored a rushing touchdown in his first three starts, a feat no other quarterback has ever done. He’s prone to rookie decision-making and wild decisions with the football, but the rushing floor he offers limits his chances of busting his fantasy managers each week.
- Kyren Williams – Since Kyren has taken over this backfield, he has looked increasingly like he’ll be a league winner because of his cost. A true Waiver Wire Super Hero! Not only is he racking up volume by rushing the ball, but he’s also a factor in the receiving game, which makes him a lock in fantasy lineups until further notice.
- Puka Nacua – What is there to say about this kid that hasn’t been already? We haven’t seen Puka and Cooper Kupp on the field simultaneously, so who is to say it’s not the same person? On a serious note, I’m not sure if this guy is getting enough hype. The number of receptions he’s brought in through four games is unparalleled.
One Down
- Colts Pass Catchers – The tight end position saw 40 percent of the total targets today, so between that and Richardson only competing 11 passes, Colts wide receivers are becoming much less appealing from a fantasy football perspective.
Los Angeles Rams
Quarterback
Matthew Stafford showcased his resiliency by playing through a painful hip injury, leading the Rams to victory with 319 passing yards and a game-winning touchdown. Stafford remains a reliable fantasy option despite injury scares in past years. His leadership and determination make him effective on the field, which yields production for his fantasy football managers.
Running Back
Kyren Williams continued his impressive season, notching two rushing touchdowns and solidifying his status as a valuable fantasy asset. His consistent scoring production keeps him in the fantasy spotlight, offering reliability to fantasy managers at a position that seemingly gets thinner every year.
Wide Receiver/Tight End
Puka Nacua is emerging as a fantasy standout with his record-breaking performances, surpassing Anquan Boldin’s record for most receptions in a player’s first four games. With another 163 receiving yards and his first career touchdown, Nacua has solidified his role as a must-start fantasy option.
Van Jefferson played a complementary role in the Rams’ passing attack, providing depth to their receiving corps. That’s about all the nice things that can be said for Jefferson, who offers near-zero utility in fantasy football lineups.
Tutu Atwell contributed with key receptions in the passing game, demonstrating his potential in the Rams’ offense. Unfortunately, his lack of touchdowns and significant yardage were disappointing for those fantasy managers who claimed him off of waivers.
Tyler Higbee remained an integral part of the Rams’ tight end rotation, making five receptions in the game. His astounding total of 11 targets keeps him relevant from a fantasy perspective and makes him an ideal streaming tight end going forward, where available.
Brycen Hopkins: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 5 Yards
Indianapolis Colts
Quarterback
Anthony Richardson, the Colts’ rookie quarterback, continues to make NFL history with his multi-dimensional skills, including his elite rushing ability and strong arm. His 200 passing yards, two touchdowns, and a rushing score further highlight his promising fantasy potential.
Running Back
Zack Moss played a significant role for the Colts, taking 81 percent of the snaps in this game. While his recent target share may be lower, his consistent rushing opportunities continue to make him a valuable fantasy asset.
Trey Sermon: 3 Carries, 7 Yards
Wide Receiver/Tight End
Michael Pittman Jr. faced a tough day with just one catch for 15 yards, but his 20.8 percent target share shows his importance in the Colts’ offense. He did reel in a two-point conversion to help pad his stat line for fantasy managers. Despite the challenging performance, Pittman remains a key figure in fantasy football.
Josh Downs played a larger role in the Colts’ offense as the clear number two receiver but was unable to truly showcase his versatility as a receiving option. When the quarterback only completes 11 passes, there are downstream effects, and Downs’ ability to produce has not been spared.
Alec Pierce contributed to the Colts’ receiving corps, demonstrating his ability to make impactful plays. even on very limited touches. He should remain on waiver wires in most leagues.
Drew Ogletree had a notable game, catching a crucial touchdown pass for the Colts.
Mo Alie-Cox made an impressive catch for a 35-yard touchdown, showcasing his potential as a red-zone target. Unfortunately, the Colts tend to divide up their tight end touches, rendering all of them virtually useless for fantasy purposes.
Isaiah McKenzie: 3 Targets, 1 Reception, 6 Yards