NFL Week 4 predictions, fantasy sleepers, upset picks, buzz - ESPN

We're headed into Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season, and we're sure you are fully prepared for the loaded slate. But just in case you need some last-minute intel, our NFL analysts have you covered at the 11th hour.

First, analytics writer Seth Walder breaks down five stat trends that could be pivotal this weekend. Fantasy football writer Eric Moody runs through five players who are rostered in fewer than 50% of ESPN fantasy football leagues as of Saturday who could be picked up and started in a jam this weekend. That's followed by NFL analyst Matt Bowen pointing to five potential surprises that could happen and NFL analyst Ben Solak picking out one team on upset watch. Finally, insider Jeremy Fowler gives the latest buzz, rumors and news you might have missed.

Jump to a topic:
Stat trends | Fantasy sleepers
Potential surprises | Upset watch
Latest buzz

Will someone on this Cincinnati defense help Trey Hendrickson slow down the suddenly hot Carolina offense?

Hendrickson is tied for second in pass rush win rate at edge (33%) with Aidan Hutchinson, just behind Myles Garrett (34.9%). But Hendrickson also has been doubled more than Garrett and Hutchinson, which is partly due to the Bengals not generating much pass rush elsewhere.

Sam Hubbard ranks second to last in PRWR at edge (5%). Defensive tackles B.J. Hill (8%, missed Week 3 with injury), Zach Carter (3%), Jay Tufele (4%) and Sheldon Rankins (0%, missed Week 3 with injury) are not cutting it, either. Carolina should be a get-right game for the Bengals' defense, but Hendrickson needs help from somewhere to take advantage.

Can Jordan Love beat Brian Flores' blitz-heavy defense?

The one thing everyone knows about the Vikings defense is that it will bring the blitz — a lot. The