Matt Ryan: Poised for First Top-5 Fantasy Season?

Matt Ryan produces steady fantasy numbers year-in, year-out; however, could he be poised for a breakout 2015 season?

Many fans consider Julio Jones as a unanimous fantasy monster every year, but Matt Ryan warrants consideration for being a fantasy star this season. Although Ryan never finished a season ranked higher than seventh for QB, he seems poised to become a top-5 option this season. Through two games this season, Matt Ryan ranks 12th overall at quarterback, but his steady numbers hint that he is a breakout game away from elite status.

Matt Ryan averaged 17.5 fantasy points through the first two weeks, but if it were not for a Kiko Alonzo interception in the end zone in week 1, Ryan’s average would hover around 20 points per game (PPG). Notably this season, Ryan’s passing yards per game are elite, averaging 330.5 yards per game (661 passing yards through two games). Also, in Week 2, Matt Ryan threw a pass to Julio Jones where he was ultimately stopped at the goal line, furthering the argument that his numbers this season do not paint the full picture on his performances thus far.

Over Matt Ryan’s previous four seasons, Ryan threw for 4000 yards or more in each season, while having no less than 26 touchdowns per season. He put up stellar numbers each of his last four seasons even with a horrible offensive line and a defense that seemed absent. By Dan Quinn implementing a new defensive scheme, the defense of the Atlanta Falcons looks better than it has in the past, allowing Ryan the chance to stay on the field more than in year’s past.

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Although Dan Quinn’s Falcons team wants to use two-wide sets more this season, the team still relies on a pass-first offense. Not to bash Tevin Coleman or Devonta Freeman, but Matt Ryan and Julio Jones are the bread winners when it comes to offense. The Ryan to Jones combination is one of the most lethal combos in pro football, and if Julio can stay healthy, expect he and Ryan to become consistent contributors this season.

In addition to Julio Jones’ big-play ability, Matt Ryan takes care of the ball really well. During his 8-year career, Ryan averages two passing touchdowns per interception. With Coleman suffering a rib injury last week, the Falcons could again turn to a pass-heavy offense, because Freeman has not looked overly impressive in his time on the field. Matt Ryan looked impressive in the preseason, and it seems that it is carrying over to the regular season.Â

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