Between the Lines: Week 6 Snap Count Analysis

NFC South

Atlanta Falcons - Smith Sees Biggest Opportunity

Quarterback: Matt Ryan (100%)

Running Backs: Tevin Coleman (57%), Ito Smith (46%)

Wide Receivers: Julio Jones (76%), Justin Hardy (54%), Mohamed Sanu (49%), Marvin Hall (22%), Calvin Ridley (10%)

Tight End: Austin Hooper (81%)

For those with Tevin Coleman on their teams, I'm not sure there has been a name more worthy of old-man fist shaking than Ito Smith. Coleman has been given a golden opportunity to showcase his skills this year with Devonta Freeman's injuries, yet Smith continues to eat into his work. Smith not only scored a touchdown for the third week in a row, but he out-touched Coleman 11-10 in the running game and 2-1 in the passing game. With Freeman now on injured reserve, Smith has a huge chance to continue proving himself. It is very plausible that he and Coleman could see close to a 50-50 split going forward, and if he's absolutely worth a pickup if you are thin at running back.

Carolina Panthers - Broken Foot? What Broken Foot?

Quarterback: Cam Newton (100%)

Running Backs: Christian McCaffrey (100%)

Wide Receivers: Devin Funchess (97%), Torrey Smith (70%), Jarius Wright (62%), D.J. Moore (45%)

Tight End: Greg Olsen (98%)

While I'd normally highlight a running back playing 100% of a team's offensive snaps (kudos to you, Mr. McCaffrey), the biggest news for the Carolina Panthers in this game was the return of tight end great Greg Olsen. Anybody worried that Olsen would be eased into his normal workload quickly had their fears quelled. Olsen played a remarkable 98% of the Panthers' offensive snaps, finishing the day with 4 catches for 48 yards on 7 targets. His rapport with Cam Newton looked as strong as ever, making Olsen a must start going forward at the thinnest position in fantasy.

New Orleans Saints - Bye Week

Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Brate Scores, but Sees Second-Lowest Snap Count of Season

Quarterback: Jameis Winston (100%)

Running Backs: Peyton Barber (62%), Ronald Jones (18%), Jacquizz Rodgers (15%)

Wide Receivers: Mike Evans (86%), Adam Humphries (77%), Chris Godwin (56%), DeSean Jackson (52%)

Tight Ends: O.J. Howard (52%), Antony Auclair (35%), Cameron Brate (33%)

Heading into Week 6, Cameron Brate was among the most-hyped tight ends in fantasy. He was available in leagues, had low salaries in daily, was supposedly without O.J. Howard, and had an enticing matchup against the Falcons on the slate. Howard ended up playing, however, and while Brate scored, he saw just one target and was on the field for just 33% of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' snaps. Howard caught all four of his looks for 62 yards and a score, solidifying his role as the TE1 on the roster. Brate deserves a spot on your bench if you have room for it, but he likely shouldn't be starting for you if his usage stays this low.