Navigating the complexities of fantasy football requires making informed decisions about which players to start and sit each week. This guide offers recommendations for Week 8, helping fantasy managers optimize their lineups. Considering factors such as matchups, injuries, and recent performance, these suggestions aim to provide a competitive edge (needs verification).
Quarterbacks: Start 'Em, Sit 'Em
In fantasy football, selecting the right quarterback can be the difference between winning and losing your week. Identifying favorable matchups and understanding a player's recent performance are key factors in making informed decisions. Here, we delve into quarterbacks you should consider starting and those who might be better left on your bench for Week 8.
Start 'Em: Quarterbacks to Watch
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Patrick Mahomes (KC): As always, Patrick Mahomes remains a top-tier QB1 option. Facing the Broncos, who have struggled defensively, Mahomes is poised for a big game. His ability to extend plays and find receivers downfield makes him a threat to any defense.
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Josh Allen (BUF): Despite a tough matchup against the Patriots, Josh Allen's dual-threat ability makes him a must-start. His rushing upside provides a safe floor, and his arm talent can unlock explosive plays at any moment.
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Geno Smith (SEA): Geno Smith has been a pleasant surprise this season. This week, against the Browns, Smith should find plenty of opportunities to exploit the defense. Smith's connection with his receivers has been stellar, making him a solid start.
Sit 'Em: Quarterbacks to Avoid
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Russell Wilson (DEN): Russell Wilson has struggled to find consistency this season. Facing a tough Chiefs defense, Wilson's upside is limited, and his risk of turning the ball over is high. It may be wise to keep him on the bench this week. — Week 15 NFL Kicker Rankings For Fantasy Football
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Matthew Stafford (LAR): Matthew Stafford and the Rams face a formidable Cowboys defense. With injuries plaguing the Rams' offense, Stafford's options are limited. Expect a tough day at the office for the veteran quarterback.
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Deshaun Watson (CLE): Deshaun Watson has not lived up to expectations since joining the Browns. Against the Seahawks, who have a knack for disrupting quarterbacks, Watson could struggle. Consider other options for your fantasy lineup.
Running Backs: Start 'Em, Sit 'Em
The running back position is crucial in fantasy football, and making the right start/sit decisions can significantly impact your team's success. Evaluating matchups, potential volume, and the overall offensive environment are critical factors. In this section, we'll identify running backs to confidently insert into your lineup and those who should remain on the sidelines for Week 8.
Start 'Em: Running Backs to Watch
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Christian McCaffrey (SF): Christian McCaffrey is an elite fantasy option every week. Against the Bengals, his versatility as a runner and receiver makes him a constant threat. Start him with confidence.
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Bijan Robinson (ATL): Bijan Robinson has quickly become a focal point in the Falcons' offense. Facing the Titans, who have struggled against the run, Robinson should see plenty of volume. Expect a productive outing.
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D'Andre Swift (PHI): D'Andre Swift has emerged as the lead back in Philadelphia. Against the Commanders, who have a vulnerable run defense, Swift could have a breakout game. His explosiveness makes him a valuable start.
Sit 'Em: Running Backs to Avoid
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AJ Dillon (GB): AJ Dillon has been largely ineffective this season. Facing the Vikings, who have a solid run defense, Dillon's upside is limited. Consider other options with more favorable matchups.
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Miles Sanders (CAR): Miles Sanders has struggled to find consistency in Carolina. Against the Texans, who have been surprisingly stout against the run, Sanders could face a tough day. It may be best to keep him on the bench. — Where To Watch Suns Vs. Kings? TV Channels & Streaming Options
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Antonio Gibson (WAS): Antonio Gibson's role in the Commanders' offense has been unpredictable. Against the Eagles, who boast a strong defensive front, Gibson's opportunities could be limited. Look for more stable options.
Wide Receivers: Start 'Em, Sit 'Em
Selecting the right wide receivers is vital to fantasy football success. Factors such as target share, quarterback chemistry, and defensive matchups play crucial roles in determining a receiver's fantasy potential. In this segment, we'll pinpoint wide receivers poised for strong performances and those who may underperform in Week 8.
Start 'Em: Wide Receivers to Watch
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Ja'Marr Chase (CIN): Ja'Marr Chase is a top-tier WR1 option. Against the 49ers, who can be vulnerable to elite receivers, Chase has the potential for a massive game. His connection with Joe Burrow is undeniable.
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Cooper Kupp (LAR): Cooper Kupp remains a focal point in the Rams' passing game. Facing the Cowboys, Kupp's consistent target share makes him a reliable start, even in a tough matchup. His route-running skills give him an edge.
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DK Metcalf (SEA): DK Metcalf has been a consistent performer this season. Against the Browns, who have shown vulnerabilities in the secondary, Metcalf should find opportunities to make big plays. His size and speed make him a constant threat.
Sit 'Em: Wide Receivers to Avoid
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Michael Thomas (NO): Michael Thomas's production has been inconsistent this season. Facing the Colts, who have a solid pass defense, Thomas's upside is limited. Consider other options with more favorable matchups.
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Kadarius Toney (KC): Kadarius Toney's role in the Chiefs' offense remains uncertain. Even against the Broncos, who have struggled defensively, Toney's lack of consistent targets makes him a risky start. Look for more stable options.
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Allen Lazard (NYJ): Allen Lazard has struggled to make an impact with the Jets. Against the Giants, who have a capable secondary, Lazard's opportunities could be limited. It may be best to keep him on the bench.
Tight Ends: Start 'Em, Sit 'Em
The tight end position can be a challenging one in fantasy football, as consistent production can be hard to find. Evaluating target share, red-zone opportunities, and matchups are key factors in making start/sit decisions. In this section, we'll identify tight ends to confidently start and those who should remain on your bench in Week 8.
Start 'Em: Tight Ends to Watch
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Travis Kelce (KC): Travis Kelce is the gold standard at tight end. Against the Broncos, who have struggled to contain tight ends, Kelce is poised for a big game. Start him with confidence.
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Darren Waller (NYG): Darren Waller remains a focal point in the Giants' passing game. Facing the Jets, Waller's size and athleticism make him a mismatch for linebackers and safeties. Expect a solid performance.
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Jake Ferguson (DAL): Jake Ferguson has emerged as a reliable target in the Cowboys' offense. Against the Rams, who have shown vulnerabilities against tight ends, Ferguson could have a breakout game. His role is expanding each week.
Sit 'Em: Tight Ends to Avoid
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Dalton Schultz (HOU): Dalton Schultz's production has been inconsistent this season. Against the Panthers, who have a solid defense, Schultz's upside is limited. Consider other options with more favorable matchups.
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Tyler Higbee (LAR): Tyler Higbee has struggled to find consistency in the Rams' offense. Against the Cowboys, who have a tough defense, Higbee's opportunities could be limited. Look for more stable options.
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Logan Thomas (WAS): Logan Thomas's role in the Commanders' offense has been unpredictable. Against the Eagles, who boast a strong defensive front, Thomas's opportunities could be limited. It may be best to keep him on the bench.
Defense/Special Teams (DST): Start 'Em, Sit 'Em
The Defense/Special Teams (DST) position can be a valuable asset in fantasy football. Targeting favorable matchups, high-turnover offenses, and teams playing at home are key strategies for success. In this segment, we'll pinpoint DSTs to confidently start and those that should remain on your bench in Week 8.
Start 'Em: DSTs to Watch
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Kansas City Chiefs DST: The Chiefs' defense has been impressive this season. Against the Broncos, who have struggled offensively, the Chiefs' DST has a high ceiling. Expect sacks and turnover opportunities.
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Dallas Cowboys DST: The Cowboys' defense is a force to be reckoned with. Facing the Rams, who have struggled with injuries, the Cowboys' DST could dominate. Their pass rush is among the league's best.
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Philadelphia Eagles DST: The Eagles' defense is always a strong option. Against the Commanders, who have been turnover-prone, the Eagles' DST could have a big game. Their defensive line is disruptive.
Sit 'Em: DSTs to Avoid
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Green Bay Packers DST: The Packers' defense has been inconsistent this season. Facing the Vikings, who have a potent offense, the Packers' DST could struggle. Consider other options with more favorable matchups.
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Los Angeles Rams DST: The Rams' defense faces a tough test against the Cowboys. With injuries plaguing the Rams, their DST could be vulnerable. It may be best to keep them on the bench.
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New York Jets DST: The Jets' defense has been up and down this season. Against the Giants, who have a capable offense, the Jets' DST could face challenges. Look for more stable options.
Week 8 Fantasy Football FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions that fantasy football managers have regarding start and sit decisions for Week 8.
Which Quarterbacks Have the Most Favorable Matchups in Week 8?
Patrick Mahomes against the Broncos presents a very favorable matchup due to Denver's defensive struggles. Josh Allen, despite facing the Patriots, remains a strong start due to his dual-threat capabilities. Also, Geno Smith against the Browns offers a chance to exploit defensive vulnerabilities.
Are There Any Deep Sleeper Running Backs That Could Be Worth Starting?
In deeper leagues, consider Khalil Herbert if he is available and has a favorable matchup. Additionally, keep an eye on injury reports that could elevate a backup running back into a starting role, providing unexpected value. Always analyze the potential workload and matchup before making a decision.
Which Wide Receivers Should I Avoid Starting Due to Tough Defensive Matchups?
Avoid starting Michael Thomas against the Colts, as they have a solid pass defense. Kadarius Toney's inconsistent role in the Chiefs' offense makes him a risky start, even against weaker defenses. It's better to look for receivers with more guaranteed targets and better quarterback chemistry.
What Defenses Should I Target for Streaming in Week 8?
Look for defenses playing against turnover-prone quarterbacks or struggling offenses. The Kansas City Chiefs DST against the Broncos, or the Philadelphia Eagles DST against the Commanders are prime examples. Matchup is key when selecting a streaming defense, so prioritize those with high potential for sacks and turnovers.
How Much Should Weather Conditions Factor Into My Start/Sit Decisions?
Weather conditions can significantly impact passing and kicking games. Heavy rain or strong winds can reduce the effectiveness of deep throws and make field goal attempts more challenging. Monitor weather forecasts closely and adjust your lineup accordingly, especially for quarterbacks, kickers, and wide receivers who rely on long passes.
What Impact Do Thursday Night Football Games Have on Sunday's Start/Sit Decisions?
Thursday Night Football games provide an early look at player performance and potential injury concerns. Use the game as an additional data point when making start/sit decisions for Sunday. It can help you identify players who might be trending up or down based on their recent performance and usage.
How Can I Best Manage My Injured Players When Setting My Week 8 Lineup?
Stay updated on injury reports and player statuses throughout the week. Use reliable sources like team announcements, injury reports, and fantasy football news outlets. Have backup options ready in case your injured players are ruled out, and be prepared to make last-minute adjustments to your lineup. — Bengals Playoff Chances: What's Their Path To The NFL Playoffs?
What Role Do Bye Weeks Play in Determining My Optimal Lineup?
Bye weeks significantly impact your lineup decisions, as key players will be unavailable. Plan ahead by identifying potential replacements for your bye-week players. Use the waiver wire to find suitable fill-ins and consider trading for players to address bye-week gaps in your roster.
