Who Will Shine Individually In Week 1? 

With college football just around the corner, people who play fantasy football at that level are taking a look at guys who could break out in week 1.

There are several marquee matchups scheduled to kick off the season, so here is a look at how some of the top individuals will fare in those games. 

Jameis Winston (vs. Oklahoma State in Arlington, Texas) 

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner will be playing in the marquee game in week 1 when Florida State goes up against Oklahoma State in Arlington, Texas. Winston will have a lot of pressure on him after being in the news throughout the offseason. With a new playoff format, Florida State knows that every game matters if they want to repeat as national champions. Winston should be able to have success against a mediocre defense from the Cowboys. They are going to be inexperienced the season, and it certainly will not be easy to ease into going up against arguably the most talented player in college football. 

Todd Gurley (vs. Clemson) 

As far as running backs are concerned, Todd Gurley might be the man with the best chance to contend for the Heisman Trophy. The only way he can contend as if his Georgia Bulldogs beat the best teams on their schedule. It starts off early against Clemson, as the 2 will meet once again to kick off the year. Clemson won on their home turf last season 38-35, but now Georgia is the team with the home contest. 

Gurley could have some trouble getting off to a strong start, as Clemson has a very strong line and a good group of linebackers. Their weakness is in the secondary, so Georgia might opt for a more aerial attack. 

Melvin Gordon (vs. LSU at Houston, Texas) 

Wisconsin will be traveling to Texas to take on LSU to kick off the 2014 season. This is a battle that could be a very good one, even if plenty of newcomers will be starting their 1st college football game. No one is quite sure what to expect out of LSU, so that might be the perfect time for Melvin Gordon to pounce. 

Gordon has done a pretty good job replacing Montee Ball as a consistent running back in the system for the Badgers. At this point in time, LSU figures to be built more around defense than offense. It is going to be a struggle for Gordon going up against a strong SEC opponent, but his fantasy football numbers will improve throughout the year. 

Nick Marshall (vs. Arkansas) 

There are very few conference games in week 1, but Auburn will be hosting Arkansas in a SEC battle. After coming up just short of a national title a year ago, Auburn will be looking to bounce back quickly. Quarterback Nick Marshall returns with a lot of experience, but he will be hampered a little bit by the slowdown offense run by Arkansas. The good news is that Auburn will try to counteract everything by speeding the game up. The clash of styles should sway in the favor of Auburn since they are the better team. Look for Marshall to have a very strong outing in fantasy football to kick off the 2014 year. 

---

Jesse Dameon is a freelance fantasy football writer.

---