Week 1 in fantasy football is always a time when owners panic. Players underperformed or a key player sustains an injury. While it's only one week, patience is a virtue. So, is it time to panic or is it time to stay the course. Here's a breakdown of some situations that may have owners panicking.

Peyton Manning, Panic Meter: Ultra High
Analysis: The Colts QB is out for months, perhaps the year. Owners invested big in him and are scrambling. Now is the time to panic if you own Manning. If you didn't back him up with a quality QB2, do so now. Scour your waiver wire for an adequate replacement. Candidates include Rex Grossman, Cam Newton or maybe Ryan Fitzpatrick in shallower leagues. If you can't find someone, his replacement Kerry Collins is probably there, but requires a certain amount of panic too. In short, beg, borrow, steal, but panic now if you own Manning, because patience will only cost you your season with him.

Chris Johnson & Adrian Peterson, Panic Meter: High
These elite RBs have owners shaking their heads after single-digit performances in week 1. But, while the panic meter is high, extreme patience is required. Do not act on your instincts or do anything rash. Peterson and CJ2K will live up to their billing. Stats, generally, don't lie and these two are elite RBs for a reason. They will perform as such in the near future. Relax.

All Colts offensive players, Panic Meter: High
Dallas Clark, Reggie Wayne and Pierre Garcon owners are not happy. With Peyton Manning's absence, their stats are suffering. Wayne owners should remain calm. He is still a top-tier WR and put up good stats in Week 1. He is still a must-start. Clark and Garcon owners have reason for concern. Both players drop a notch in my rankings and if there are other options for you, you should explore them. Clark is still going to put up top 10 numbers for a TE, but of this trio, it's Garcon I'm most concerned with. Without Manning, Garcon is nothing better than a flex/bye week substitute until I see more from him.

Pittsburgh Steelers defense, Panic Meter: Medium
If you took a defense early, you likely grabbed the Steelers. They've always been steady eddy when it comes to fantasy production from team defense. They got absolutely torched by the Ravens offense and looked old. That's because the Steelers defense is old. The panic meter is on medium with this squad. They won't be a top 5 defense, but they are still a top 15 defense. No reason to panic. But if you have two defenses on your team, maybe you consider playing the match ups.

Jimmy Dinsmore can be found on Twitter. Follow him on Twitter @wheelseditor

Fantasy Football peyton manning, fantasy football, fantasy advice