At this point it's well-documented how wide receiver Rome Odunze was not a core part of the Chicago Bears' offensive explosion against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9, with zero catches on three targets. He still found a way to contribute, of course, but doing good work as a blocker in the run game doesn't pay the fantasy football bills or satisfy any other box score mavens.
Since a fast start to the season, with five touchdowns in the first four games, Odunze has scored less than 5.5 fantasy points (full PPR) in three of four games since the Bears' bye week. Things would look a little different if a touchdown in Week 6 hadn't been erased by an illegal formation penalty, and another touchdown in Week 9, which he theoretically should've/could've caught, was tipped.
Mix in a heel injury that may be getting progressively worse, and the addition of an ankle injury on the first practice report heading into Week 10, and there's easy concern about Odunze's recent production trend and how much longer it might last.
Week 10 looks like a fantastic rebound spot for Rome Odunze
In Week 10, the Bears' offense gets another nice-looking matchup against the New York Giants. They are allowing the seventh-most fantasy points per game to wide receivers this season, including the third-most receptions (117), the fourth-most receiving yards (1,509) and tied for the fourth-most touchdowns (eight) to the position. 12 wide receivers have posted at least 14 PPR points against them.
As it pertains more directly to Odunze, ESPN fantasy analyst Liz Loza highlighted how generous the Giants have been to perimeter wide receivers this season.
"The Giants have allowed the second-most catches (89) and the third-most yards to outside receivers (1,086)."
Odunze lines up in the slot a good bit (170 snaps so far this season, according to Pro Football Focus), but he has lined up 64.6 percent of the time on the outside (324 snaps). After Cor'Dale Flott, the Giants' cornerback room has a steep drop-off in coverage prowess, and his status for Sunday has to be considered up in the air after he missed Week 9 with a concussion.
Read more: Ben Johnson sends a clear message about Colston Loveland after Week 9 breakout
Loza highlighted the volatility that now exists for Odunze from a fantasy perspective, which is undeniable. But after the disappointing doughnut in Week 9, and his general post-bye week downturn, Week 10 is lined to bring a nice positive correction for the Bears' No. 1 wide receiver.