Since I have Reggie Wayne on one of my teams (and in my lineup), I was thrilled to see him score twice in the opener last night.

Of course, he was an easy choice to start. Others are not quite so simple.

Here's my thought on starting lineups, especially in the opening week: The matchups are less important than the players. If you drafted a player in the early rounds, don't look to see what team he's playing against; Just put him in your lineup.

If you drafted Vincent Jackson as your WR2, don't put him on the bench because he's going up against the stout Bears defense. Don't replace him with a WR4, such as Derrick Mason, simply because the Ravens are playing the Bengals' weak secondary. If Thomas Jones is your RB2, he's still a better start despite playing the Patriots than Lamont Jordan against the suspect Lions defense.

The reason I don't hold matchups in high regard in the first week or two is that poor defensive units change from year to year, and expecting a low-scoring game or a high-scoring one often doesn't work out early in the season. Just ask owners of any of the Saints, none of whom produced many points Thursday night against the Colts.

Of course if there's not much difference in your WR3 or your flex positions (receivers or runner), go ahead and use the matchups to pick a starter. 

What's your take? Any early advice for military fantasy owners? Send your ideas or questions to football@stripes.osd.mil, or leave a comment below.