Sit ‘Em – Tyler Boyd
This hurts my heart, for reals. I have long been a Tyler Boyd truther and still feel like he is one of the five best slot receivers in the league. However, within the framework of this offense, Boyd’s role has been somewhat diminished.
The emergence of Ja’Marr Chase as not only a deep threat, but a receiver capable of working the short areas of the field have cut into Boyd’s opportunities. Factor in that Joe Burrow has taken a shine to C.J. Uzomah and we are seeing fewer opportunities for Boyd.
Just looking at the numbers, Boyd is the WR2, but does it feel like it? Thirty-two catches for 329 yards and a touchdown leads Tee Higgins (minus touchdowns), but all signs point to Zac Taylor trying to get Higgins more involved in the offense. Higgins also missed two games due to injury, for what it’s worth.
The thought before the season was this offense could support three fantasy relevant receivers, but who envisioned Ja’Marr Chase balling out like this? Who pictured C.J. Uzomah having five touchdowns and being a legitimate threat down the seam?
No, no you didn’t, and neither did I. That’s why we study, look at the numbers, and make adjustments.
Tyler Boyd will still have a big game or splash play now and then, but trying to predict when is like trying to predict Cincinnati weather. Don’t bother, you’re just going to be wrong. Leave T-Boyd on the bench for now and hope his role gains definition after Thanksgiving.
There you go kids, my best attempt at NOT being wrong. Who ever thought we would be discussing playoffs or fantasy relevant Bengals at Halloween?
Let’s just enjoy the ride and attempt to will our team to another victory.