NFL Splits Tool, Week 5: Red Rifle in Blue and Black

Each week I’ll be using the FTN Fantasy Splits Tool to evaluate different teams, monitoring some of the most critical situations around the league.

The Splits Tool is a great way to evaluate the impact of different situations and environmental factors by comparing and contrasting historical data based on pre-game spreads/totals, locations, coaching changes, current and former teammates, etc. It’s a must-have for serious fantasy football managers and sports betters, especially when it comes to making difficult start/sit decisions or trying to gain an edge against the books.

Dalton Keeps Pounding

The bar for Carolina was relatively low entering the season, but the offense looked even worse than anyone could have imagined early on, averaging less than 200 yards (196.5) and 6.5 points per game over the first two weeks. Their 26.6% success rate was the lowest mark by any team in their first two games in over a decade, dating all the way back to 2013. After a 26-3 beatdown by the Chargers in Week 2, it was clear a change had to be made, even if it meant moving on from the 2023 No. 1 overall pick Bryce Young The decision to bench Young was a big leap of faith by the front office, but it’s paid off well thus far, with the Panthers finally looking like a competent offense with Andy Dalton under center.

Diontae Johnson, WR

No player has benefited more from the transition to Andy Dalton than Diontae Johnson, who is tied for first in the NFL in targets over the last two weeks (27), trailing only Malik Nabers in target share (33.8%) during that span. He’s finished as a top-10 wide receiver in back-to-back games, averaging 7.5 receptions on 13.5 for 102.5 yards and a touchdown with the Red Rifle.

Chuba Hubbard, RB

The Panthers rushing offense has also drastically improved with Andy Dalton at the helm, totaling 130-plus yards on the ground in back-to-back weeks. The more competitive game environment has led to a lot more work for Chuba Hubbard, who has seen 48 opportunities over the last two weeks, averaging 24 touches, 145 yards from scrimmage, and a touchdown during that span. He’s been a top-eight running back in both games with Dalton, posting a season-high 71.4% snap share in the most recent outing.