With EJ Manuel sidelined due a knee injury, Bills quarterback Thad Lewis has been promoted off the practice squad to make his second career start Week 6 vs. Cincinnati. Lewis' only other start came for the Browns last year in a 24-10 loss at Pittsburgh, as he completed 22 of 32 passes for 204 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
The Bengals will be a tough challenge for Lewis. Cincinnati held future Hall of Fame quarterback Tom Brady to 197 passing yards and no touchdowns Week 5. Through five games against the Bengals, quarterbacks are averaging 240.6 passing yards and 15.2 Fantasy points per week, which is the 13th-lowest average in the NFL. Only Jay Cutler and Brian Hoyer have thrown multiple touchdowns against Cincinnati.
Bills coach Doug Marrone said he chose Lewis to start Sunday because he feels Lewis "can extend plays" and "run the read option." Well, Lewis will have to be on top of his game Sunday if he wants to upset the Bengals. Cincinnati will likely load the box to stop the run game, giving Lewis the opportunity to beat them through the air. However, unless you need a desperation bye-week Fantasy replacement in deeper formats, Lewis is not a recommended Fantasy option Week 6.