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Calvin Johnson, Matthew Stafford, Golden Tate's Post-Week 12 Fantasy Reaction

Timothy Rapp@@TRappaRTX.com LogoFeatured ColumnistNovember 23, 2014

Detroit Lions wide receiver Golden Tate warms up before an NFL football game against the New England Patriots Sunday, Nov. 23, 2014, in Foxborough, Mass.  (AP Photo/Stephan Savoia)
Stephan Savoia/Associated Press

Golden Tate has definitely found a home in Detroit. And he should have found a home in your fantasy starting lineup, too. 

For the sixth time in his last eight games, Tate reached double-digit fantasy points, establishing himself as a weekly WR2. Even with Calvin Johnson back in the fold, Tate has proven to be the Lions' most consistent offensive player.      

Week 12: Golden Tate and Calvin Johnson Stats
PlayerReceptionsReceiving YardsTargetsRushesRush YardsTDFantasy Points
Golden Tate49711113010
Calvin Johnson458100005

Frankly, he's been the one player in Detroit's erratic passing attack you can really trust this season. While Calvin Johnson still has far more upside, his series of injuries this season has made him a riskier player to own than in years past. He'll remain a WR1 every time he steps on the field, but his owners have to be disappointed with the return they've gotten on their investment thus far.

Week 12: Matt Stafford Stats
CompletionsAttemptsYardsTDINTFantasy Points
1846264019

You can double the disappointment for Matt Stafford owners. He's scored 20 or more fantasy points just twice. He's scored 15 or more fantasy points just five times. Sure, Stafford was always a bit erratic for fantasy owners, but there were always far more highs than lows.

This season, that has been reversed. At this point, he's nothing more than a QB2 with QB1 upside. Until he starts reaching that upside, keep him on your bench. 

Hit me up on Twitter—I'll answer your fantasy questions and make some corny jokes, too. It's more fun than imagining what Mike Evans will do for an encore after his monstrous rookie season.

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