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Welcome back RotoBallers to our Week 8 matchups analysis and Start Em, Sit Em column for fantasy football. Last week was an absolute gauntlet for fantasy, featuring a ton of injuries, several underwhelming performances, and stunning losses for the Buccaneers, Packers, and Patriots. There are two new teams on bye this week including the Kansas City Chiefs and Los Angeles Chargers, which sidelines several key fantasy options across all four offensive positions, making some of the lesser options more intriguing.
For those who are unfamiliar, each week we'll be analyzing every game from the Sunday slate, helping you optimize your fantasy lineups and take down your opponent. Be sure to check back regularly for any updates on player injuries or other pertinent information.
I will be covering the entire Sunday slate of games plus the Monday Night Football game. There is also a separate article for the Thursday Night Football game each week, so be sure to read that as well. Hopefully, you survived the war last week waged and your team is prepared for another wild week, which is what we'll be doing here. If you have any additional lineup questions, follow me on Twitter @JoshCon, and feel free to ask away. Let's dive into the matchups.
Editor's Note: Our incredible team of writers won two writing awards and received 12 award nominations by the Fantasy Sports Writers Association. A big congrats to our very own Byron Lindeque (Golf) and Jordan McAbee (NASCAR) for both winning Writer Of The Year awards! Be sure to follow RotoBaller's analysis and advice all year long, and win more. Win More With RotoBaller!
Matchups Analysis - 9:30AM ET Game (London)
Denver Broncos at Jacksonville Jaguars
Spread: Jaguars -2.5
Implied Total: Broncos (18.5) vs. Jaguars (21)
Pace: Broncos (24th) vs. Jaguars (18th)
Broncos Off. DVOA: -5.7% Pass (26th), 14.6% Rush (26th)
Jaguars Off. DVOA: 25.9% Pass (7th), -6.2% Rush (18th)
Broncos Def. DVOA: -25.7% Pass (3rd), -6.1% Rush (18th)
Jaguars Def. DVOA: 9.5% Pass (18th), -7.1% Rush (15th)
Matchups We Love:
Travis Etienne (RB, JAX)
The writing was on the wall for James Robinson after receiving zero touches last week. He joins the Jets to help their backfield, leaving Etienne firmly in place as the lead back. JaMycal Hasty is expected to be promoted to the secondary back role, but his level of involvement won't impact Etienne's value because he is so explosive and requires fewer touches to produce. Etienne jumps into the top 12 against Denver, whose defense is much tougher against the pass than the run.
Matchups We Hate:
Trevor Lawrence (QB, JAX)
Lawrence threw for over 300 yards last week, finding the end zone on the ground again. He's put together a stretch of better games in recent weeks, but now faces the Broncos' deadly pass defense, taking him out of streaming consideration.
Jaguars WRs
After two weeks of reduced involvement, Christian Kirk bounced back with 10 targets. It was his first nice game since Week 3, in large part because Lawrence threw for the second-highest number of completions and the highest amount of passing yards he has all year. Unfortunately, neither of those statistics is likely to be repeated against the Broncos, plus Kirk could see Patrick Surtain II in coverage, dropping him outside of the top 24. Zay Jones received 10 targets of his own, keeping him in play as a volume-based flex option.
Other Matchups:
Broncos WRs
As anticipated Courtland Sutton dealt with Sauce Gardiner in coverage, which resulted in a down game despite being targeted nine times. It also simultaneously allowed Jerry Jeudy to step up with seven catches for 96 yards on 11 targets. Russell Wilson is expected back, which, if healthy, is a better option than Bretty Rypien. Both receivers are top-36 options in a decent matchup against the Jaguars.
Broncos RBs
Melvin Gordon resumed his role as the lead back, however, Latavius Murray mixed in with eight carries. He was also the one who found pay dirt. They each had three or more targets, although it's difficult to extrapolate this performance given the quarterback transition. With Mike Boone out, they'll both have an opportunity to catch passes, keeping them inside the top 36.
Greg Dulcich (TE, DEN)
Dulcich became a focal point of the offense in only his second NFL start, finishing as the TE12, following up his TE9 finish in Week 6. He's a talented tight end who is receiving volume, placing him in the top 12 this week given the injuries and byes.
Evan Engram (TE, JAX)
He's had six or more targets and 40-plus yards in each of the past three games, earning himself streaming consideration in spite of the matchup.
Injuries:
Russell Wilson (hamstring)
Matchups Analysis - 1:00 ET Games
Carolina Panthers at Atlanta Falcons
Spread: Falcons -4.0
Implied Total: Panthers (18.5) vs. Falcons (22.5)
Pace: Panthers (8th) vs. Falcons (27th)
Panthers Off. DVOA: -26.8% Pass (32nd), -0.3% Rush (15th)
Falcons Off. DVOA: 14.5% Pass (15th), 10.4% Rush (4th)
Panthers Def. DVOA: 13.6% Pass (22nd), -8.7% Rush (13th)
Falcons Def. DVOA: 26.5% Pass (32nd), 1.2% Rush (26th)
Matchups We Love:
DJ Moore (WR, CAR)
The hope for Moore was that with Robbie Anderson and Christian McCaffrey traded, he would become a target hog. He led the team with 10 targets, resulting in a 47.6% share. Additionally, he managed to find the end zone. Furthermore, this occurred in a positive game script where they were tied or winning the entire game. Moore is facing the league's worst pass defense and warrants a spot in the top 36 against Atlanta.
Matchups We Hate:
Falcons Passing Attack
It would be wonderful if one day they could find themselves in another section of the matchup, but so long as the volume remains as unimaginably low as it has been, it's just not possible. Just when it seemed like it could not get worse, the Falcons got down by three scores and somehow finished the game with only 13 passing attempts. No one in the passing game belongs in your lineup.
Other Matchups:
Panthers RBs
D'Onta Foreman and Chuba Hubbard both rushed the ball nine or more times while averaging over seven yards per carry for a total of 181 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown. Hubbard opened as the starter but left with an ankle sprain. You would expect him to remain the starter again this week, making him the preferred option, but given the plus-matchup and potential for them to be competitive against Atlanta, both are inside the top 36.
UPDATE: Hubbard has been ruled out, meaning Foreman will have the backfield to himself. He moves into the top-24 based on his volume and opportunity.
Falcons RBs
Despite trailing the entire game, they maintained their commitment to run with 29 rushing attempts, six of which came from Marcus Mariota. It was the first time that Tyler Allgeier took on a lead-back role, he played on 62% of their offensive snaps and out-carried Caleb Huntley 16 to six. The matchup is about average, so given the volume and philosophy of the team, Allgeier becomes an interesting flex option.
Injuries:
Damien Williams (ribs)
Cordarrelle Patterson (knee)
Baker Mayfield (ankle)
Chuba Hubbard (ankle)
Chicago Bears at Dallas Cowboys
Spread: Cowboys -9.5
Implied Total: Bears (16.5) vs. Cowboys (26)
Pace: Bears (20th) vs. Cowboys (9th)
Bears Off. DVOA: -25.6% Pass (31st), -7.0% Rush (19th)
Cowboys Off. DVOA: 4.8% Pass (20th), 6.0% Rush (8th)
Bears Def. DVOA: 0.8% Pass (12th), 0.1% Rush (24th)
Cowboys Def. DVOA: -29.9% Pass (1st), -9.7% Rush (12th)
Matchups We Love:
Cowboys RBs
The Cowboys were able to dominate the Lions thanks to their elite defense, allowing them to pound the rock repeatedly in the second half. Ezekiel Elliott had 12 carries while Tony Pollard had 15 to go along with his two targets. It's been clear since Week 1 that Pollard is the more explosive back but three times on Sunday when the drive reached the goal line, they pulled Pollard out and handed the ball to Elliott, who scored twice. So long as this trend continues, Pollard will need to do his damage between the 20s and in the receiving game, which he is more than capable of doing. The matchup is great and Dallas is projected to have a massive lead again, placing both inside the top 24. If Elliot, who is dealing with knee soreness, cannot play, Pollard would become a must-start back.
UPDATE: Elliott has been ruled out, making Pollard an absolute must-start with top-five upside as the lead back.
Matchups We Hate:
Bears Passing Attack
Chicago and Justin Fields were extremely impressive in their win over the Patriots Monday night. So much so that members of their passing attack are once again fantasy relevant. Unfortunately, they now travel to Dallas to take on the league's top pass defense, forcing everyone onto your bench.
Bears RBs
The matchup is a little bit better for the rushing attack but this backfield is becoming more of a split between David Montgomery and Khalil Herbert, lowering the upside of both in a game they are expected to be losing and struggling in. Montgomery received 15 touches on 40 offensive snaps, compared to 13 touches on 33 snaps for Herbert. He's still the lead back moving forward but it's worth monitoring based on the praise Herbert has received from the coaching staff. Montgomery is a top-36 volume play with Herbert a few spots behind him.
Other Matchups:
Dak Prescott (QB, DAL)
Prescott got off to a slow start and picked it up midway through the game but he was never really needed for them to win. The same situation should play out again this week, although he will probably feel more comfortable and start better. Additionally, the matchup hasn't been very good for quarterbacks, so he's toward the back end of the top 12 this week.
Dalton Schultz (TE, DAL)
Schultz took a few scary hits but made it through unscathed and seems healthy. It is a difficult matchup for tight ends and the passing attack in general, but at full health, with Prescott back, he returns to the top 12.
UPDATE: Schultz is active.
CeeDee Lamb (WR, DAL)
One of the biggest disappointments last week was Michael Gallup finishing with zero receptions on two targets. He was not part of the game plan, and the passing attack faded in the second half because they were up. CeeDee Lamb came through because of his big play ability as the No. 1 option, making him a top-24 receiver in a while Gallup is a desperation flex play.
Injuries:
Ezekiel Elliott (knee)
Miami Dolphins at Detroit Lions
Spread: Dolphins -3.5
Implied Total: Dolphins (27.5) vs. Lions (24)
Pace: Dolphins (23rd) vs. Lions (2nd)
Dolphins Off. DVOA: 34.0% Pass (3rd), -5.4% Rush (17th)
Lions Off. DVOA: 7.7% Pass (19th), 2.5% Rush (12th)
Dolphins Def. DVOA: 14.3% Pass (25th), -14.0% Rush (7th)
Lions Def. DVOA: 23.5% Pass (31st), 7.9% Rush (29th)
Matchups We Love:
Tua Tagovailoa (QB, MIA)
Tagovailoa was also making his return to action this week and had a mediocre outing as well. He started on fire leading Miami to a 10-0 lead, before cooling off for the remainder of the game. With one full game under his belt, he now gets the matchup Prescott just enjoyed when he travels to Detroit. He's in the top 12 again this week, especially with two of the star quarterbacks on a bye.
Dolphins WRs
Tyreek Hill was once again peppered with targets, finishing with 13, the third-highest on the week. He leads the league in both receptions (67) and receiving yards (773), locking him into your lineup. Jaylen Waddle made the most of his five targets, averaging 22 yards per catch as a downfield threat. He should have no problem against the Lions, thrusting him into the top 15.
Raheem Mostert (RB, MIA)
Mostert was about a yard away from a massive game with a second touchdown. That said, he still excelled and produced in the workhorse role he's been given. He played on 71% of offensive snaps, out-carried Chase Edmonds 16 to seven, and received five targets to Edmonds's two. In a great matchup, as the lead back on a rising offense, he jumps into the top 15.
Lions WRs
Amon-Ra St. Brown suited up only to leave very early with a suspected concussion. He was placed in the concussion protocol, however, reportedly did not suffer a concussion, but rather showed symptoms of instability. He appears on track to play, earning him a spot as a top-24 receiver in a plus matchup. Josh Reynolds is also expected to play, making him a potential flex play.
UPDATE: Reynolds will return to action with St. Brown also active.
T.J. Hockenson (TE, DET)
We know Hockenson benefits when there are fewer receiving options available, so seeing him produce a nice game without Reynolds and St. Brown makes sense. With both players expected back this week, he could struggle but the matchup is great so he remains a top-12 tight end.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Jared Goff (QB, DET)
Goff is hard to decipher because he's been forced to operate without a full complement of weapons the past two games against challenging defenses. He should have at least two of those weapons back, so in a good matchup, he's a streaming candidate.
Mike Gesicki (TE, MIA)
Gesicki now has back-to-back games with seven targets, which is sufficient to earn him streaming consideration. He's a strong option given the Lions are on deck.
Lions RBs
D'Andre Swift disappointed many fantasy managers by missing yet another game, especially considering he was coming off his bye week. Jamaal Williams was a goal-line fumble away from adding eight more fantasy points and having a decent game. If Swift can go, he'll be a top-24 back with additional risk given the injury, while Williams would still be a flex option, who enters the top-24 if Swift misses.
UPDATE: Swift has been removed from the injury report and will suit up for Sunday's game.
Injuries:
D'Andre Swift (ankle/shoulder)
DJ Chark (ankle)
Amon-Ra St. Brown (concussion)
Josh Reynolds (knee)
Arizona Cardinals at Minnesota Vikings
Spread: Vikings -3.5
Implied Total: Cardinals (22.5) vs. Vikings (26)
Pace: Cardinals (3rd) vs. Vikings (7th)
Cardinals Off. DVOA: -6.0% Pass (26th), -6.7% Rush (28th)
Vikings Off. DVOA: 11.3% Pass (17th), 5.7% Rush (9th)
Cardinals Def. DVOA: 14.8% Pass (27th), -15.9% Rush (6th)
Vikings Def. DVOA: 12.9% Pass (21st), -4.8% Rush (21st)
Matchups We Love:
DeAndre Hopkins (WR, ARI)
Hopkins timed his debut with the loss of Marquise Brown, opening the door for a huge game. He dominated the receiving corps in targets, receptions, and yards, immediately establishing himself as an elite receiver. Without significant competition for targets against the Vikings, he slots in as a top-12 receiver.
Zach Ertz (TE, ARI)
Ertz was one of the receiving options who faded with Hopkins back, seeing only four targets. He's still the No. 2 option in a high-scoring offense with a nice matchup, making him a top-12 tight end.
Kyler Murray (QB, ARI)
Murray started to find his rhythm with Hopkins back, particularly during the second and third quarters. The defense ran in back-to-back pick-sixes, ending their need to stay aggressive otherwise, it could have been a bigger day. Murray has only surpassed 250 passing yards twice this season and has seven passing touchdowns over the first seven weeks. We may not get a big blowup game from him, but with so few reliable quarterbacks available, he's firmly in the top 10.
Kirk Cousins (QB, MIN)
Cousins has thrown for more yards than he typically does but he's only averaging 1.5 passing touchdowns per game. The Cardinals present the opportunity for a nicer day, particularly because both teams should be able to score, evidenced by the higher over/under. Cousins ranks inside the top 12.
Vikings WRs
Justin Jefferson has been tearing it up since Week 3, averaging about nine receptions for 136 yards and zero touchdowns in his past three games. If he can start finding the end zone more often, he'll have a shot to be the overall WR1. We labeled Adam Thielen as touchdown-dependent entering his Week 6 matchup. He found a way to score in that game, which is what he'll need to do again this week to impress.
Irv Smith Jr. (TE, MIN)
He continues to average about four catches per game as a threat to find the end zone each week. The Cardinals are a fantastic matchup for tight ends, second only to Seattle in fantasy points allowed, putting him on the radar as a streamer.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Cardinals RB
James Conner and Darrel Williams both missed the game last week, providing another start for Eno Benjamin. With both backs back at practice, it's difficult to know who the starter will be at this point. The matchup is quite good, so whoever gets the nod will be a top-24 back.
UPDATE: Conner has been ruled out while Williams is active. Benjamin becomes a top-24 back with top-15 upside.
Dalvin Cook (RB, MIN)
Cook was seeing a decrease in usage entering the bye week, ceding work to Alexander Mattison. It's possible that this trend continues, which when combined with the tough matchup and potential for Mattison to close out the game if they're winning, drops him to the lower part of the top 12.
Injuries:
Marquise Brown (foot)
James Conner (ribs)
Darrel Williams (knee)
Las Vegas Raiders at New Orleans Saints
Spread: Raiders -1.5
Implied Total: Raiders (25.5) vs. Saints (24)
Pace: Raiders (14th) vs. Saints (12th)
Raiders Off. DVOA: 8.8% Pass (18th), 15.9% Rush (1st)
Saints Off. DVOA: -3.3% Pass (25th), 11.8% Rush (3rd)
Raiders Def. DVOA: 19.7% Pass (30th), -5.9% Rush (20th)
Saints Def. DVOA: 10.6% Pass (20th), -6.0% Rush (19th)
Matchups We Love:
Josh Jacobs (RB, LV)
Jacobs has the seventh-highest elusive rating, third-most missed tackles forced, and most yards after contact. He's been a stud, cementing himself as a must-start.
Davante Adams (WR, LV)
Adams was on his way to a vintage performance until the Raiders established a large lead, deciding instead to feed Jacobs and stop throwing the ball. The Saints are giving up the fifth-most fantasy points to receivers, locking Adams into your lineup. Hunter Renfrow also benefits from the matchup, placing him in the top 36.
UPDATE: Adams is active.
Derek Carr (QB, LV)
The matchup isn't quite as good for quarterbacks but Carr's still in a nice spot with a game featuring a high over/under. The Saints should be able to compete, resulting in the Raiders needing to throw to keep pace, making Carr a streaming option.
Andy Dalton (QB, NO)
The matchup is as good as it gets for Dalton, who despite throwing three interceptions last week, finished as the QB2. He's firmly in play as a streamer this week as well.
Chris Olave (WR, NO)
Olave is a rising star, clearly leading the way among the rookie receivers. He's seventh in yards per run route with 2.46, which is unheard of for a rookie. He's the alpha in the offense, even once Jarvis Landry and Michael Thomas are back in the lineup. Olave is a top-15 receiver in a great matchup.
Alvin Kamara (RB, NO)
Kamara's receiving role has grown with the injuries to the team's wideouts. He's coming off back-to-back games with nine targets and over 100 scrimmage yards. The only thing holding him back has been his inability to find pay dirt, with zero touchdowns on the year. Kamara's a top-15 back against Las Vegas.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Darren Waller (TE, LV)
Waller missed another game last week, but practiced Wednesday and Thursday, providing optimism about his status. He hasn't been as elite this season but he's still a top-12 tight end against New Orleans.
UPDATE: Waller has been ruled out, this makes Foster Moreau a potential streamer.
Taysom Hill (TE, NO)
Hill remains a dart-throw option that needs to score to produce, which he did against the Cardinals. He's a streaming candidate against the Raiders.
Injuries:
Darren Waller (hamstring)
Michael Thomas (foot)
Jarvis Landry (ankle)
Davante Adams (illness)
New England Patriots at New York Jets
Spread: Patriots -2.5
Implied Total: Patriots (21.5) vs. Jets (19)
Pace: Patriots (31st) vs. Jets (4th)
Patriots Off. DVOA: 2.6% Pass (22nd), -0.9% Rush (16th)
Jets Off. DVOA: 0.6% Pass (23rd), 3.4% Rush (11th)
Patriots Def. DVOA: -16.0% Pass (5th), 7.5% Rush (28th)
Jets Def. DVOA: 0.4% Pass (10th), -7.2% Rush (14th)
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
Jets Passing Attack
Without Elijah Moore active, there was more optimism for the volume of Garrett Wilson and Corey Davis. Davis suffered a knee injury that ruled him out, opening the door for Wilson, who managed four catches for 22 yards on five targets. Zach Wilson completed only 16 passes, spreading the ball around to seven different players. The low volume, difficult matchup, expected return of Moore, and tendency to run the ball, make everyone a fade with the receivers as risky flex options.
Patriots Passing Attack
Mac Jones is slated to be the starter against the Jets, which may or may not be in the best interest of their receiving corps. Regardless of who is slinging the rock this week, it's not a good matchup, plus DeVante Parker is likely to see coverage from Sauce Gardiner, limiting his upside. Jakobi Meyers hasn't been a lock for a volume like he was earlier in the season either, so he's a flex option with a low floor.
UPDATE: Kendrick Bourne is off the injury report and Nelson Agholor is active.
Other Matchups:
Jets RBs
The loss of Breece Hall cannot be understated for the offense and the backfield. The team immediately acquired James Robinson to mix in with Michael Carter and Ty Johnson but this situation becomes one where the sum of the parts is greater than the individual pieces. The matchup is actually quite good, so with Robinson having just arrived Carter becomes a top-36 back. Robinson is best left on the bench until he's had a chance to integrate into the offense and we see what his usage looks like.
Patriots RBs
Rhamondre Stevenson has been dominating without Damien Harris and nothing changed on Monday with Harris active. Harris was returning from injury so that is certainly a factor to consider but the backfield takeover began weeks ago and seemed inevitable leading up to the injury. Stevenson played on 62% of offensive snaps in Week 3 and 55% in Week 4. He ranks 14th in elusive rating, 11th in missed tackles forced, and sixth in yards after contact despite opening the year as the backup. He's the tailback to start as a top-24 option in an okay matchup, leaving Harris as a top-36 play.
Injuries:
Ty Montgomery (ankle)
Nelson Agholor (hamstring)
Corey Davis (knee)
Kendrick Bourne (toe)
Pittsburgh Steelers at Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: Eagles -10.0
Implied Total: Steelers (16.5) vs. Eagles (26.5)
Pace: Steelers (11th) vs. Eagles (19th)
Steelers Off. DVOA: 4.1% Pass (21st), -20.7% Rush (30th)
Eagles Off. DVOA: 27.5% Pass (6th), 9.2% Rush (5th)
Steelers Def. DVOA: 6.9% Pass (15th), -10.7% Rush (9th)
Eagles Def. DVOA: -27.5% Pass (2nd), -1.0% Rush (22nd)
Matchups We Love:
Jalen Hurts (QB, PHI)
Much like Josh Allen, fantasy managers will be pleased to welcome back Hurts, who has a favorable matchup against Pittsburgh. He resumes his spot as a top-five quarterback.
Eagles WRs
A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith are one of the best receiver duos in the league. They're both capable of blowing up and winning you a week, evidenced by a WR1 finish for Smith in Week 3 and a WR6 finish for Brown in Week 1. The matchup and potent offense, make both must-start receivers.
Dallas Goedert (TE, PHI)
Goedert tends to be the third option behind that duo but because he's a tight end, the volatility is more tolerable. He has 60-plus yards or a touchdown in all but one game this season, keeping him in the top 10.
Matchups We Hate:
Steelers WRs
The offense had its moments in Miami last week but the distribution is far too vast for the passing volume to support the number of players being targeted. Diontae Johnson, George Pickens, and Chase Claypool are all involved, capping the upside of all three. Pickens is the most explosive, averaging 13.0 yards per reception, so he's the preferred start but all three are outside the top 24 facing the Eagles.
Other Matchups:
Miles Sanders (RB, PHI)
Sanders doesn't see much work in the receiving game but has fifteen or more carries in every game since Week 2. He's also found the end zone four times. He'll continue to compete with Boston Scott and Hurts for red zone carries but he's a top-24 receiver because of the offense and the projected game script.
Pat Freiermuth (TE, PIT)
Much like Goedert, inconsistency at the tight end position is to be expected. His ceiling and target share (18.7%) place him in the top 10 despite the difficult matchup.
Najee Harris (RB, PIT)
Harris had one of his better games, totaling 80 scrimmage yards on 20 touches. He remains inefficient but if he can maintain a larger workload, he'll have a chance to be successful again this week, especially if he's utilized as a receiver. He's a top-36 back taking on the Eagles' defense, which has been easier to run on.
Injuries:
None
Matchups Analysis - 4:00 ET Games
Tennessee Titans at Houston Texans
Spread: Titans -2.0
Implied Total: Titans (21.25) vs. Texans (19.25)
Pace: Titans (32nd) vs. Texans (25th)
Titans Off. DVOA: 15.6% Pass (12th), -8.4% Rush (22nd)
Texans Off. DVOA: -6.0% Pass (27th), -11.5% Rush (25th)
Titans Def. DVOA: 9.0% Pass (17th), -19.5% Rush (3rd)
Texans Def. DVOA: 14.1% Pass (24th), 16.3% Rush (32nd)
Matchups We Love:
Derrick Henry (RB, TEN)
After a slow start to the season, Henry has proven he is still an elite back with massive upside. He's cleared 100 rushing yards in three consecutive games and now faces the Texans, who just gave up three touchdowns to Josh Jacobs last week. He's a must-start.
Matchups We Hate:
Titans Passing Attack
The Titans have been a run-first team for a long time, reducing the opportunity for their passing options. Furthermore, the Texans are very susceptible to the run and the Titans are favored, all of which points to limited volume for the receivers, who have yet to step up anyway. Robert Woods is the best option but even he's a risky flex option.
UPDATE: Ryan Tannehill (ankle/illness) has been ruled out. Malik Willis will get the start, he becomes a risky, high-ceiling streamer/QB2 because of his rushing ability.
Other Matchups:
Dameon Pierce (RB, HOU)
Pierce did it all once again, he had 20 carries and four receptions for over 100 scrimmage yards. Tennessee has a stout run defense that has limited opponents, but his volume locks him into the top 24.
Brandin Cooks (WR, HOU)
Cooks is currently the subject of trade rumors, which could increase his value. The downward trend in targets continued, dropping to five last week. He's never been a touchdown threat so without secure volume, he becomes a flex option with upside because of the positive matchup and his role in the offense.
UPDATE: Nico Collins has been ruled out while Cooks is active.
Injuries:
Treylon Burks (toe)
Nico Collins (groin)
Washington Commanders at Indianapolis Colts
Spread: Colts -3.0
Implied Total: Commanders (18.25) vs. Colts (21.25)
Pace: Commanders (13th) vs. Colts (10th)
Commanders Off. DVOA: -7.9% Pass (29th), -20.4% Rush (29th)
Colts Off. DVOA: -20.2% Pass (30th), -28.6% Rush (32nd)
Commanders Def. DVOA: 15.2% Pass (29th), -18.6% Rush (4th)
Colts Def. DVOA: 8.4% Pass (16th), -13.9% Rush (8th)
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
Commanders RBs
Brian Robinson is still the lead back but Antonio Gibson is eating into his workload, plus he actually performed better. There are too many players in the backfield to get excited about any one of them in a difficult matchup. Robinson and Gibson are flex options.
Other Matchups:
Colts WRs
We knew what to expect with Matt Ryan at the helm, however, with Sam Ehlinger taking over, there's more uncertainty in the offense. The expectation is less volume because he can scramble and run, plus a higher risk of inaccuracy and an inability to run the offense. Ryan committed far too many turnovers so that's not an issue, but the unknown of Elhinger lowers the ceiling for both Michael Pittman Jr. and Alec Pierce. Pittman remains in the top 36 while Pierce becomes a flex option.
Jonathan Taylor (RB, IND)
Much like the receivers, Taylor's usage could change dramatically. After a season-high eight targets last week, it's fair to question whether that's repeatable. They may lean on the rushing attack more, and they are favorites, so despite the more difficult matchup, Taylor remains a top-12 back.
Commanders WRs
Taylor Heinicke proved to be an upgrade for Terry McLaurin, restoring his value with five catches for 73 yards and a touchdown. The offense as a whole looked better, resulting in a win. McLaurin jumps into the top 24 while Curtis Samuel stays a flex option.
Injuries:
Carson Wentz (finger)
Jahan Dotson (hamstring)
San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams
Spread: 49ers -1.5
Implied Total: 49ers (22) vs. Rams (20.5)
Pace: 49ers (29th) vs. Rams (26th)
49ers Off. DVOA: 17.8% Pass (11th), -10.4% Rush (24th)
Rams Off. DVOA: -0.5% Pass (24th), -9.9% Rush (23rd)
49ers Def. DVOA: 0.1% Pass (9th), -16.9% Rush (5th)
Rams Def. DVOA: 2.4% Pass (14th), -20.4% Rush (2nd)
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
Darrell Henderson (RB, LAR)
Henderson was an exciting play in Week 6 because Cam Akers was ruled inactive. He had 12 carries and three targets, producing 54 yards and a touchdown. The team handed seven carries to Malcolm Brown and one to Ronnie Rivers. Henderson does not appear to be the workhorse back we had hoped, and now faces a stingy 49ers defense, making a top-36 back with touchdown upside.
UPDATE: Cam Akers has officially been ruled out again as expected.
Matthew Stafford (QB, LAR)
Stafford has yet to prove he deserves a spot in your lineup. He's thrown for multiple touchdowns only once this season, with two games where he threw for none, one of which was against the 49ers in Week 4. He's a full bench.
Tyler Higbee (TE, LAR)
Higbee was banged up entering their game against Carolina, so the bye week should help him return to form. He was also utilized more as a blocker, which is cause for concern. The matchup isn't great so it's a little harder to put him back in your lineup but he's inside the top 15.
Other Matchups:
George Kittle (TE, SF)
Kittle hit nine targets against the Chiefs, trailing only Brandon Aiyuk, resulting in another great game. The addition of McCaffrey could shake up the target share, so it will be interesting to see how it unfolds this week. That matchup is also tougher because the Rams are allowing the fewest fantasy points to tight ends, but Kittle is too involved and too talented to drop outside the top 10.
Christian McCaffrey (RB, SF)
McCaffrey read through the playbook on his flight to San Francisco, allowing him to learn enough to play 22 offensive snaps, only six fewer than Jeff Wilson Jr. He turned 10 touches into 62 yards, providing a sample of the efficiency he'll have in the Shanahan system. The matchup is brutal for running backs but McCaffrey is the exception to the rule, he's a must-start.
Cooper Kupp (WR, LAR)
Kupp returns to the field, fresh off a bye week, ready to resume his fantasy dominance. Much like McCaffrey, the matchup is difficult but he's matchup-proof.
UPDATE: Van Jefferson will make his return to action, he's a risky flex option.
49ers WRs
Deebo Samuel is battling an injury that has kept him sidelined from practice on Wednesday and Thursday. If he cannot suit up, both Kittle and Brandon Aiyuk would benefit, making Aiyuk a top-30 receiver. Jauan Jennings would be the next man up, but he'd be a flex option.
UPDATE: Samuel has been ruled out, thrusting Aiyuk into the top-30, near the top-24. Jennings is also a flex option.
Injuries:
Elijah Mitchell (knee)
Deebo Samuel (hamstring)
New York Giants at Seattle Seahawks
Spread: Seahawks -3.0
Implied Total: Giants (20.75) vs. Seahawks (23.75)
Pace: Giants (21st) vs. Seahawks (17th)
Giants Off. DVOA: 21.6% Pass (8th), 8.2% Rush (6th)
Seahawks Off. DVOA: 33.4% Pass (4th), 4.9% Rush (10th)
Giants Def. DVOA: 14.4% Pass (26th), 8.1% Rush (30th)
Seahawks Def. DVOA: 9.9% Pass (19th), -6.1% Rush (17th)
Matchups We Love:
Kenneth Walker III (RB, SEA)
Walker III was already having a great day when he broke off a 74-yard touchdown run. He has 265 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns over the past two games since becoming the full-time starter. With the Giants lining up across from him this week, he's a must-start back.
Saquon Barkley (RB, NYG)
Barkley isn't far behind Walker III with 193 rushing yards over the past two weeks, continuing his dominant year as a top-five back. Seattle has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points to running backs, but some of that is skewed because Taysom Hill is a "tight end" so his 122 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns aren't included. Barkley remains a top-five option.
Daniel Jones (QB, NYG)
Jones is doing everything well, winning games, scoring fantasy points, and taking better care of the ball. Jones has been unleashed as a runner, carrying the ball six-plus times in every game, which adds massive upside to his fantasy value. In a plus matchup against Seattle, he enters the top 12.
Geno Smith (QB, SEA)
Smith was better against the Chargers, finding Marquise Goodwin on both of his passing touchdowns. Facing the Giants will offer him another opportunity for success, keeping him in that top-12 range as well, even though he'll likely be without DK Metcalf.
Tyler Lockett (WR, SEA)
Lockett was questionable entering the game for the second consecutive week and did not look like himself. Thankfully, he practiced in full on Thursday, indicating he is feeling better and should return to form. Without Metcalf, he becomes the No. 1 option in a nice matchup, pushing him into the top 24 with top-15 upside.
UPDATE: In a surprising turn of events, both Metcalf and Lockett are active.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Wan'Dale Robinson (WR, NYG)
The concern for Robinson entering their game against the Jaguars was his snap count. He played on 69% of the offensive snaps, behind only Marcus Johnson, signaling he's healthy and ready to go. As the most talented receiver on the team, he's an intriguing top-36 option, especially in full-PPR formats.
Injuries:
Daniel Bellinger (eye)
Kenny Golladay (knee)
Kadarius Toney (hamstring)
DK Metcalf (knee)
Matchups Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Green Bay Packers at Buffalo Bills
Spread: Bills -11.0
Implied Total: Packers (18.5) vs. Bills (29.5)
Pace: Packers (28th) vs. Bills (5th)
Packers Off. DVOA: 14.9% Pass (14th), 1.1% Rush (14th)
Bills Off. DVOA: 47.4% Pass (1st), -18.8% Rush (28th)
Packers Def. DVOA: 0.6% Pass (11th), 10.9% Rush (31st)
Bills Def. DVOA: -20.8% Pass (4th), -23.0% Rush (1st)
Matchups We Love:
Josh Allen (QB, BUF)
Managers who looked for a replacement last week will be grateful to have their superstar quarterback returning with a fantastic matchup. The Packers have been torched by fantasy quarterbacks and have no hope of slowing down Allen. The only downside is he might not play in the fourth quarter.
Bills WRs
Stefon Diggs is an autostart while Gabe Davis is a boom-bust top-24 option with top-10 upside. The real question here is Isaiah McKenzie versus Khalil Shakir. Shakir was impressive when McKenzie was out and seemed to be gaining ground on him for the slot receiver role. Both are risky flex options until there is a clear starter.
Matchups We Hate:
Packers RBs
Aaron Jones was the lone bright spot in the offense last week, doing his damage as a receiver. Unfortunately, the matchup is terrible and the offense is unlikely to sustain drives. He falls outside the top 15. AJ Dillon on the other hand has not been involved, earning him a spot on your bench.
Packers Passing Attack
Aaron Rodgers is struggling immensely, so a date with the Bills is not what you want to see on the schedule. He also put his young receivers on blast, Romeo Doubs in particular. There isn't a reason to start Rodgers or Doubs, and with Allen Lazard expected to be out, the whole passing attack is best left on the bench.
UPDATE: Lazard has been ruled out as expected.
Other Matchups:
Devin Singletary (RB, BUF)
It's a wonderful matchup for Singletary but he doesn't tend to do much when they're heavy favorites, winning easily. They seem to rely on him more in close games against tougher opponents, so it's hard to expect much from him. He's still a top-36 back but should be higher in this good of a matchup.
Dawson Knox (TE, BUF)
Knox will likely need a touchdown in order to satisfy fantasy managers, which is something he's capable of doing on any given week. He's a touchdown-dependent streamer.
Injuries:
Randall Cobb (ankle)
Christian Watson (hamstring)
Allen Lazard (shoulder)
Sammy Watkins (hamstring)
Matchups Analysis - Monday Night Football
Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns
Spread: Bengals -3.0
Implied Total: Bengals (24) vs. Browns (21)
Pace: Bengals (25th) vs. Browns (13th)
Bengals Off. DVOA: 21.4% Pass (9th), -8.2% Rush (20th)
Browns Off. DVOA: 13.7% Pass (16th), 13.0% Rush (2nd)
Bengals Def. DVOA: -8.8% Pass (7th), -10.6% Rush (10th)
Browns Def. DVOA: 15.0% Pass (28th), 6.1% Rush (27th)
Matchups We Love:
Joe Burrow (QB, CIN)
Cincinnati has been passing more than any other team in the league the past two weeks, resulting in two QB1 finishes for Burrow. Unfortunately, he loses his No. 1 receiver, Ja'Marr Chase. He still has sufficient weapons to succeed but it definitely lowers his ceiling. The matchup is favorable, keeping him in the top 12.
Bengals WRs
The absence of Chase opens the door for Tee Higgins, who turns into a top-12 receiver, along with Tyler Boyd, thrusting him into the top-24. It also makes Mike Thomas a viable flex option.
Hayden Hurst (TE, CIN)
The other receiving option that moves up the depth chart because of Chase's injury is Hurst. He excelled in games that Higgins was out, so in the same vein, he should see more volume without Chase. He finds himself in the top-12 against the Browns.
UPDATE: Hurst practiced again on Friday and is listed as questionable for Monday's game. He is expected to play.
Joe Mixon (RB, CIN)
Mixon could also benefit from the available targets, adding more touches to his already huge workload. The Browns are an awesome matchup, setting Mixon up as a top-12 back.
Matchups We Hate:
Browns WRs
The Bengals are a tough team to pass against, and Jacoby Brissett is not an above-average quarterback. Amari Cooper was okay last week but fell behind David Njoku and Donovan Peoples-Jones in targets. Cooper and Peoples-Jones drop outside the top 24 with Cooper as the preferred option.
Nick Chubb (RB, CLE)
Chubb bounced back nicely against the Ravens, primarily because the game remained close. The Bengals are a difficult matchup and the game could play out poorly for Cleveland, dropping Chubb outside the top 10.
Other Matchups:
Harrison Byrant (TE, CLE)
With Njoku, sidelined Bryant emerges as the starting tight end, in an offense that frequently targets the position. Bryant is a talented player, who immediately becomes a streaming option.
Injuries:
David Njoku (ankle)
Ja'Marr Chase (hip)
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