RADIO
Welcome back, RotoBallers, to another start'em and sit'em piece as we look ahead to Week 9! With the Pittsburgh Steelers and San Francisco 49ers on bye this week, fantasy managers will have to replace George Pickens, Najee Harris, Deebo Samuel Sr., and George Kittle in their lineups. This Week 9 matchups analysis and Start 'Em, Sit 'Em piece will help you make the right lineup decisions this weekend.
Last week, players like Ladd McConkey, Kirk Cousins, and Jameis Winston all made the love list. McConkey went on to score 29.1 PPR fantasy points behind a two-touchdown day, while Cousins (QB3) and Winston (QB10) both finished as top-10 fantasy quarterbacks in Week 8.
So let's dive into every Week 9 game (Sunday through Monday) and analyze the best starts and sits. This article will go through every player in every game to determine which players you should be starting in fantasy this weekend.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Matchups Analysis - Sunday 1:00 EST Games
Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills
Spread: Bills -6
Matchups We Love:
Dolphins RBs
Although the Bills have done a better job stopping the run in recent weeks, this is still a defense that has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to running backs this season. Buffalo has also given up the most receiving yards (434) to the position through eight weeks. As a result, De'Von Achane should be in for a strong fantasy day after scoring 29.5 PPR fantasy points the last time these two teams played back in Week 2.
As for Raheem Mostert, he has some sneaky flex potential in 12-plus team leagues. Buffalo is allowing over 4.5 yards per carry on the ground this year, and Mostert is the clear goal-line back in this Miami offense. The veteran played 46% of the team's snaps and scored two touchdowns in Week 8.
RB James Cook
James Cook dominated the Dolphins defense back in Week 2, as the third-year running back scored three touchdowns en route to an RB3 fantasy finish. Now, he'll try to replicate that success against a Miami defense that has allowed seven rushing touchdowns over the last five games. Therefore, Cook is a strong start in Week 9.
Matchups We Hate:
Tua Tagovailoa hasn't been able to do much against the Bills in his career. Over his last three meetings facing that secondary, Tagovailoa is averaging only 9.6 fantasy points. That includes him scoring only 8.5 fantasy points against them earlier this year. As a result, this is a tough matchup for the 26-year-old, especially considering Buffalo has allowed only one quarterback to finish as a top-14 option against it in 2024.
Other Matchups:
QB Josh Allen
If you have Josh Allen, you are starting him in Week 9 against the Dolphins. The Bills didn't need Allen to do much the last time these two teams met, as he threw only 19 times in the blowout victory. However, things should be different this time around. So make sure to get him in your lineups this weekend.
WR Tyreek Hill
Many fantasy managers expected more from Tyreek Hill in Week 8, as the wideout caught just six passes for 72 yards. But you should continue starting him in all formats this weekend against the Bills. Even though Tagovailoa has struggled against the Bills in his career, Hill has scored over 20 PPR fantasy points in two of the past four regular-season games against this secondary. So he'll be a strong WR1 option this weekend.
It has been hard to trust Jaylen Waddle in fantasy this year. Even with Tagovailoa back last week, Waddle finished as the WR52 in PPR formats. As a result, he'll enter Week 9 as a low-end WR2 option. The Bills have given up the sixth-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts while allowing only two wide receivers to finish as a top-18 option this season.
Bills WRs
This Bills will have three wide receivers (Amari Cooper, Khalil Shakir, and Keon Coleman) who are viable plays in Week 9 against the Bills. However, Cooper will be the riskiest option of the three. He only caught one pass for three yards last week and will likely be matched up against Jalen Ramsey in this game.
Keon Coleman at the top of the screen pic.twitter.com/71XbquBBAF
— Nate Tice (@Nate_Tice) October 27, 2024
Shakir is the safest play of all three wideouts, considering he has scored at least 10 PPR fantasy points in six of seven games this season. But also keep in mind that the Dolphins have allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game to slot wideouts. As for Coleman, he is a solid flex play this weekend. His snap share continues to increase, and he has scored at least 11 PPR fantasy points in three of the past four games.
Things have been better for Dalton Kincaid in recent weeks. He has totaled double-digit fantasy points in PPR formats in two of the past three games while seeing at least six targets in five straight games. Now, Kincaid gets a matchup against a Dolphins defense that just allowed nine catches and 124 yards to Trey McBride a week ago. Given his 20.6% target share this season, he'll be a low-end TE1 option in Week 9.
TE Jonnu Smith
Jonnu Smith will be a sneaky TE1 option in deeper leagues in Week 9 against the Bills. Smith played a season-high 66% of the Dolphins' offensive snaps last week while seeing at least six targets in three straight games. Given that Buffalo has allowed 16 receptions to tight ends over the last two weeks, the Dolphins playmaker has some potential in fantasy this weekend.
Injuries:
None
Denver Broncos at Baltimore Ravens
Spread: Ravens -9.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Bo Nix
Bo Nix has finished as a top-10 fantasy quarterback in three of the past four weeks. Now, he will go up against a Ravens defense that hasn't been able to stop the pass. Baltimore has given up the third-most fantasy points per game to quarterbacks while allowing a top-10 fantasy quarterback in four straight weeks. In those last four games, opposing quarterbacks are averaging 341 pass yards per game. As a result, Nix is a sneaky QB1 option.
Given Baltimore's woes in the secondary, Courtland Sutton could be in for a strong fantasy day in Week 9. The Ravens have given up the second-most fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season, and Cedric Tillman just totaled 99 yards and two touchdowns against that secondary last week. With Sutton seeing 11 targets in Week 8, he is a solid WR2 option this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
Javonte Williams couldn't do much on the ground last week against a bottom Panthers defense, averaging only 2.6 yards per carry on 17 attempts. With a matchup now against the Ravens, Williams should be sat in most leagues in Week 9. Baltimore is allowing only 3.2 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season, and not one running back has rushed for over 55 yards against this defense in 2024.
Diontae Johnson should make his team debut on Sunday after being traded from the Panthers to the Ravens earlier this week. However, it's best to keep him on the bench in Week 9 against the Broncos. For starters, he will likely play limited snaps as he learns the playbook. On top of that, he will be matched up against Patrick Surtain II on snaps that he does play. So he's a risky start in fantasy this weekend.
Other Matchups:
Lamar Jackson is the QB1 through the first eight weeks and will remain a must-start in all formats. Even though the Broncos have not allowed a top-16 fantasy quarterback in seven straight weeks, Jackson will still come in as the top quarterback of the week. He is dealing with a back/knee issue, so keep an eye on his practice status on Friday.
The Broncos have done a great job stopping the run this season. Opposing running backs are only averaging 3.9 yards per carry, and only one back (J.K. Dobbins) has scored more than 15 fantasy points over the last seven weeks against Denver. However, Henry remains a strong RB1 option in Week 9. The veteran has scored a touchdown in every game this season.
WR Zay Flowers
Zay Flowers has scored at least 18.5 PPR fantasy points in three of the past four games while seeing at least 12 targets in two of those contests. So he'll be a strong WR2 option in Week 9. Given that Flowers also plays primarily in the slot, he'll avoid Surtain in this game. His matchup instead will be against Ja'Quan McMillian, who has allowed at least six catches in three of the past six games.
TE Mark Andrews
Mark Andrews has finished as a top-12 fantasy tight end in three straight games while catching at least four passes in three of the past four weeks. Last week, Andrews also played 74% of the team's snaps and ran 27 routes (his most since Week 1). With things trending up, the veteran is a solid TE1 option this weekend. As for Isaiah Likely, he shouldn't be started after failing to finish top-20 at the position in six of the past seven weeks.
Injuries:
- Lamar Jackson (back/knee)
Los Angeles Chargers at Cleveland Browns
Spread: Chargers -2
Matchups We Love:
None
Matchups We Hate:
QB Jameis Winston
In his first start since Week 3 of the 2022 season, Winston looked solid. He threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns while finishing with 23.6 fantasy points. However, don't expect a big game like that every week from the veteran, especially in Week 9. The Chargers have allowed the seventh-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season. So the Browns signal-caller is a low-end QB2 this week.
RB J.K. Dobbins
The efficiency hasn't been there for Dobbins in recent weeks, as he is averaging only 3.16 yards per carry over the last five games. Now, he gets a tough matchup against the Browns run defense in Week 9. Cleveland has only allowed one top-18 running back finish and one running back (Henry) to rush for over 70 yards against it this season. As a result, Dobbins will be a risky RB2 option this weekend.
RB Nick Chubb
Nick Chubb played 61% of the Browns' offensive snaps last week while seeing 16 carries and rushing for a season-high 52 yards. However, he might struggle on the ground in this game against a Chargers defense that has allowed the third-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. With Chubb still ramping up, he'll be a low-end RB2 in Week 9.
WR Cedric Tillman
Tillman is coming off a big game and should be a solid flex play for the rest of the season. But fantasy managers might need to temper expectations in Week 9. The Chargers have allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game to outside wide receivers, and wideouts like Marvin Harrison Jr. (5.1 PPR points) have struggled against this secondary in recent weeks. Still, the Browns playmaker is a flex play in 12-plus team leagues.
Both Jerry Jeudy and Elijah Moore had solid games last week. Jeudy totaled five catches for 79 yards, while Moore totaled eight catches for 85 yards on 12 targets. Even though the Chargers are allowing the fewest fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season, both Jeudy and Moore could be flex plays in 14-plus team leagues this weekend.
Other Matchups:
Justin Herbert's stats are up since the Chargers' Week 5 bye. He has completed at least 20 passes and thrown for over 275 pass yards in two of the past three games. He is also averaging 35 pass attempts per game during those three contests, which is up from his 22.75 average in the first four weeks. Given that the Browns have allowed a top-18 fantasy quarterback in seven of eight weeks, Herbert is a strong option in Superflex formats.
WR Ladd McConkey
McConkey is coming off the best game of his young career, catching six passes for 111 yards and two touchdowns. With Herbert's stats up since the bye, that should only help the rookie moving forward. He will be matched up against Greg Newsome II in the slot in this game, but Newsome has allowed 360 receiving yards already this year with a 130.7 passer rating. So the Chargers wideout is a low-end WR2 this weekend.
TE Will Dissly
If Hayden Hurst (groin) remains out for Week 9, Will Dissly will be a sneaky TE1 option in deeper formats. With Hurst out over the last two games, Dissly has seen 18 targets to go with 13 receptions and 122 receiving yards. While the matchup against the Browns is tough -- considering Cleveland has allowed the sixth-fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends -- that secondary just allowed 10 receptions to Baltimore tight ends a week ago.
TE David Njoku
With Cooper gone, David Njoku has seen 21 targets over the past two games. In those two contests, Njoku finished as the TE1 and TE7 in PPR formats. As a result, he'll be a strong TE1 option in Week 9 against the Chargers. Los Angeles is tied for seventh in receptions allowed to tight ends this season (44). Be sure to check if the Browns tight end plays this week after missing Thursday's practice with an ankle issue.
Injuries:
- Hayden Hurst (groin)
- Deshaun Watson (Achilles)
- David Njoku (ankle)
New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers
Spread: Saints -7
Matchups We Love:
QB Derek Carr
Derek Carr (oblique) should return in Week 9 after missing the past three games, and he should be a high-end QB2 option against the Panthers. Carolina has given up the fifth-most fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season while allowing a top-12 fantasy quarterback in four of the past five weeks. Given that Carr finished as the QB6 back in Week 1 against this secondary, he is a solid start in Superflex formats.
RB Alvin Kamara
Alvin Kamara will continue to be a strong RB1 option in Week 9 against the Panthers. Carolina has given up the most fantasy points to opposing running backs this season, and that defense has also allowed 13 rushing touchdowns through eight weeks. With Kamara's involvement in the passing game as well, he should be started in all formats this weekend in a great matchup.
It remains to be seen if Jonathon Brooks (knee) will play in Week 9. Either way, though, Chuba Hubbard should be in for a solid fantasy day against a Saints defense that has allowed at least 16.5 PPR fantasy points to six different running backs since Week 3. Even if Brooks is back, Hubbard should see enough volume to be a solid RB2 option.
Saints TEs
Both Juwan Johnson and Taysom Hill can be solid plays in deeper formats this weekend. The Panthers have given up the second-most fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends and the most receiving touchdowns (six) to the position. Given that Johnson has caught at least three passes in four straight games and Hill saw eight touches in his first game back last week, both could be in for a nice game.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Bryce Young
Bryce Young will officially start for the Panthers in Week 9, but he should only be started in deeper Superflex formats this weekend. Young has scored less than 16 fantasy points in 17 of 19 career starts, and the Saints have allowed more than 15 fantasy points in only two games this season. So he's a risky play this weekend.
WR Chris Olave
Chris Olave will be glad to have Carr back under center this week. However, he did catch eight passes for 107 yards last week while seeing a season-high 14 targets. In Week 9, Olave will be a strong WR2 option against a Panthers secondary that has allowed a top-20 fantasy wideout in eight straight weeks. With Rashid Shaheed (knee) out for the year, the third-year wideout should be heavily involved in a great matchup.
Panthers WRs
With Diontae Johnson now gone, Xavier Legette, Jalen Coker, and Adam Thielen (ankle) should see more opportunities in the passing game. However, given that Young is starting for Carolina this week, all three Panthers wide receivers are risky plays in Week 9.
Legette comes in as a flex play in 12-plus team leagues after seeing seven targets last week. As for Coker, he could be a sneaky play in deeper leagues. The Saints have allowed the fourth-most fantasy points per game to slot wideouts this season, and the rookie is coming off a season-high 78 receiving yards. So there is some potential for both young wideouts in Week 9. Thielen will be a flex option in deeper leagues as well.
Injuries:
- Adam Thielen (ankle)
- Jonathon Brooks (knee)
Las Vegas Raiders at Cincinnati Bengals
Spread: Bengals -7
Matchups We Love:
Bengals RBs
This Bengals backfield might be a true 50/50 split moving forward, as Zack Moss (52%) and Chase Brown (50%) played almost even snaps in last week's loss. However, Brown appears to be the preferred rusher on this offense, and Moss is more of the pass-catcher. The former has seen double-digit carries in five straight games, while the latter has caught at least three passes in five of the past six contests.
With the Raiders allowing over 4.6 yards per carry on the ground this year, Brown is a solid RB2 option in Week 9. Moss is also a potential flex play this weekend, especially since Las Vegas has allowed the seventh-most receptions to running backs (40) this year.
TE Brock Bowers
Brock Bowers will continue to be a strong TE1 option in Week 9 against the Bengals. Cincinnati has given up the seventh-most fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends while allowing 31 catches to tight ends over the last four weeks. So Bowers should be in for a strong game this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
Gardner Minshew II shouldn't be started in most one-quarterback leagues this week. However, he isn't a bad option in Superflex formats. The Bengals have given up the fourth-most fantasy points per game and the most rush yards (301) to opposing quarterbacks this season. With Minshew coming off a two-touchdown performance, he is a low-end QB2 this week.
QB Joe Burrow
Joe Burrow hasn't put up strong fantasy numbers in recent weeks, but he will be a solid QB1 option in Week 9 against the Raiders. Las Vegas has allowed a top-10 fantasy quarterback in four of the past seven weeks, and Burrow is averaging over 32.9 pass attempts per game through the first eight weeks. So get him into your lineups this weekend.
Head coach Antonio Pierce confirmed that Alexander Mattison will remain the Raiders starting running back in Week 9. Although Mattison only totaled 15 rush yards a week ago, he has played over 65% of the team's offensive snaps in three straight games. He has also caught at least five passes in two of the past three contests. Given that Cincinnati has allowed six rush touchdowns over the last six weeks, Mattison is a solid flex play.
Ja'Marr Chase is a must-start every week. He has finished as a top-12 fantasy wide receiver in four of the past six weeks and just caught nine passes for 54 yards and one touchdown in Week 8. So he is a strong WR1 option this weekend.
Jakobi Meyers returned from a two-game absence last week and finished with 17.2 PPR fantasy points. So he'll be a strong flex play in Week 9 against a Bengals secondary that has allowed at least 85 receiving yards to three different wide receivers over the past two games. Cincinnati has also allowed the 13th-most receiving yards (1,173) to opposing wideouts this season.
WR Tee Higgins
Tee Higgins (quad) didn't play last week due to a quad injury, and he is currently day-to-day. But if he plays, you are likely starting him in most formats. Higgins has totaled at least 12 PPR fantasy points in each of the last four games while seeing 39 targets during that span. Even though the Raiders have allowed the eighth-fewest fantasy points to wideouts this season, the Bengals wideout is a solid WR2 option.
TE Mike Gesicki
Mike Gesicki should only be in lineups this week if Higgins doesn't suit up. In three games without the Bengals wideout, Gesicki has caught 17 passes for 182 yards. In five games with Higgins in the lineup, the 29-year-old tight end has caught eight passes for 71 yards. So, if he's ruled out, the veteran playmaker will be a low-end TE1 in 12-plus team leagues. The Raiders also just allowed a 10-catch day to Travis Kelce a week ago.
Injuries:
- Tee Higgins (quad)
Washington Commanders at New York Giants
Spread: Commanders -3.5
Matchups We Love:
The last time Jayden Daniels played the Giants was back in Week 2, and he only managed to score 13.4 fantasy points. However, expect a better performance from Daniels in this matchup in Week 9. New York has allowed a top-12 fantasy quarterback in four of the past five games, and the rookie has scored at least 20 fantasy points in each of his last five full games played. So he'll be a strong QB1 option this weekend.
Brian Robinson Jr. continues to battle through a knee issue that has kept his snap share under 50% in three straight games. But his snap share reached 47% last week, and he appears to be getting healthier. So he'll be a solid RB2 option against a Giants defense that just allowed 114 rush yards to Harris last week. Robinson also rushed for 133 yards back in Week 2 against this New York front seven.
WR Malik Nabers
Malik Nabers torched Washington's secondary for 127 yards and one touchdown back in Week 2. He'll look to replicate that success against cornerback Benjamin St-Juste in this game. St-Juste has been better in coverage in recent weeks, but he still ranks 70th in yards per reception allowed while giving up 31 receptions on the year. Nabers is a strong WR1 option in Week 9.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Daniel Jones
Despite finishing as the QB6 the last time he faced the Commanders, Daniel Jones is not a great start in most formats this weekend. For starters, Jones has not thrown a touchdown pass in three straight games, and he has finished outside the top 23 at the position in four of the past five weeks. On top of that, Washington's defense has allowed one passing touchdown or less in five straight contests. He is a riskier QB2 option.
TE Zach Ertz
Fantasy managers shouldn't necessarily sit Zach Ertz because he is in this section. However, he does have a tough matchup against a Giants secondary that has allowed the fourth-fewest fantasy points per game to tight ends this season. New York has also given up only 12 receptions to the position over the last three weeks, making Ertz a riskier TE1 option in Week 9.
Other Matchups:
Austin Ekeler has done just enough to be a flex play in 12-plus team leagues this season, thanks to his usage in the passing game. Ekeler has caught at least two passes in every game while scoring at least 10 PPR fantasy points in five of seven contests. In Week 9, he'll be a viable flex play in 12-plus team leagues. The Giants have allowed the sixth-most receiving yards (309) to running backs in 2024.
Giants RBs
It remains to be seen if Tyrone Tracy Jr. (concussion) will be able to suit up in Week 9. If he can, Tracy would be a solid RB2 option against a Commanders defense that has allowed the sixth-most rush yards (936) to running backs this year. Washington has also allowed a top-24 running back in seven of eight weeks, and the rookie is coming off a 145-rushing yard day last week. If he's out, Devin Singletary is a low-end RB2 in his place.
Wan'Dale Robinson won't light up the box score, but he does just enough to be a solid flex play each week in PPR formats. Robinson has caught at least five passes in six straight games and now goes up against a Commanders defense that is allowing 13.8 PPR fantasy points per game to slot wideouts this season. As a result, the Giants wideout is a flex play in 12-plus team leagues (PPR leagues only).
Terry McLaurin has been a strong WR2 option for fantasy managers this year, scoring at least 15.5 PPR fantasy points in five of the past six games. He'll now draw the Deonte Banks shadow in Week 9, but Banks has struggled to defend the pass this year. He has allowed 385 yards through eight games while allowing a 128.6 passer rating. McLaurin is a strong WR2 option.
Injuries:
None
Dallas Cowboys at Atlanta Falcons
Spread: Falcons -2.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Kirk Cousins
Cousins has scored 64 fantasy points in two games against the Buccaneers but only 68 fantasy points against the other six teams he has faced. However, this could be another strong game from the veteran. The Cowboys have given up the sixth-most fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks, and four different quarterbacks have finished as a top-four option against them this year. So, Cousins will be a sneaky QB1 option.
QB Dak Prescott
Dak Prescott has been a big disappointment this year and currently ranks as the QB19 in fantasy. Nevertheless, Prescott will come in as a low-end QB1 in Week 9 against the Falcons. Atlanta has given up at least two pass touchdowns in four straight games while allowing a top-10 fantasy quarterback in three of the past four games. Given that the Cowboys quarterback is averaging 37.4 pass attempts per game, he is a solid play.
The Cowboys haven't been able to stop the run this year, and that's great news for Bijan Robinson in Week 9. Dallas has given up the fourth-most fantasy points per game to opposing running backs while allowing a top-10 fantasy running back in back-to-back games. So, Robinson is a strong RB1 play this weekend.
Cowboys WRs
After last week's performance, CeeDee Lamb will continue to be a must-start option. But Jalen Tolbert also has some sneaky flex potential in this game. The Falcons have given up the eighth-most fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts, and Tolbert has totaled at least 40 receiving yards in three straight games. With Dallas likely passing a lot in this game, the young playmaker could be a flex play in 12-plus team leagues.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
RB Rico Dowdle
Rico Dowdle didn't play in last week's game due to an illness, but he'll be back in Week 9. Still, he is a riskier flex option against the Falcons. Dowdle played only 28% of the snaps the last time we saw him, and if that low snap share continues, he won't have much upside. The good news for him, though, is that Atlanta has allowed the fourth-most receptions (47) to running backs this year.
WR Drake London
Drake London is coming off a rough game in Week 8, only catching four passes for 34 yards. However, he'll continue to be a strong WR1 option in Week 9 against the Cowboys. He has caught at least six passes in six of seven games and will be matched up against multiple Dallas corners in this game. So, he is a must-start this weekend.
Darnell Mooney has had many up-and-down fantasy weeks this year. He has finished as a top-14 fantasy wide receiver in two of the past four games but also outside the top-50 at the position in two of the past five weeks. In Week 9, though, Mooney is a solid WR2 option against a Cowboys secondary that has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to outside wide receivers.
TE Kyle Pitts
Kyle Pitts has been a strong TE1 option in recent weeks, scoring at least 10 PPR fantasy points in each of the last four games. Last week, he finished with a season-high 25.1 PPR fantasy points. So, he'll enter Week 9 as a solid TE1 option in all leagues against the Cowboys. Dallas has allowed four touchdowns to tight ends over the last three games, and George Kittle just had 128 yards against that secondary in Week 8.
It has been a couple of quiet weeks for Jake Ferguson, as he has caught just nine passes for 34 yards over the last two games. But the Cowboys tight end will be a low-end TE1 in Week 9 against the Falcons. Atlanta has allowed at least 65 receiving yards to a tight end in back-to-back games, including a nine-catch, 81-yard, two-touchdown performance to Cade Otton in Week 8.
Injuries:
None
New England Patriots at Tennessee Titans
Spread: Titans -3.5
Matchups We Love:
RB Tony Pollard
Tony Pollard has been a solid RB2 option for fantasy managers this year, and he'll be a strong start in Week 9 against the Patriots. New England has given up the fifth-most fantasy points per game to opposing running backs while allowing at least 75 rush yards to six different running backs since Week 5. With Pollard scoring at least 14.5 PPR fantasy points in three of the past four games, he is a solid RB2 option this week.
Matchups We Hate:
Calvin Ridley is coming off his best receiving game in a Titans uniform, catching 10 passes for 143 yards. However, he has a tough matchup ahead of him in Week 9 against Christian Gonzalez. Gonzalez should be shadowing him in this game, and the Patriots corner ranks 20th in passer rating allowed this season. So, Ridley will be a riskier WR3 option this weekend.
TE Hunter Henry
Hunter Henry has been a much better fantasy option in recent weeks, especially with Drake Maye under center. Henry has scored at least 9.5 PPR fantasy points in three straight games. But he'll be harder to trust as your TE1 in Week 9. The Titans have given up the fifth-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends while only allowing one tight end (Sam LaPorta) to finish as a top-16 option this year.
Other Matchups:
Titans QBs
It remains to be seen if Mason Rudolph or Will Levis (shoulder) will start for the Titans in Week 9. Either way, though, both quarterbacks should only be started in Superflex formats. Levis hasn't totaled more than 16 fantasy points in any of his starts this year, and Rudolph will be a low-end QB2 after totaling 21.5 fantasy points a week ago.
QB Drake Maye
Maye is officially in the concussion protocol, but he has a chance to suit up in Week 9. Although the Titans have allowed only one quarterback to finish as a top-16 option over the past four games, the rookie will still be a solid QB2 option this weekend. He scored over 20 fantasy points in his first two starts and was well on his way to another 20-point fantasy day last week before leaving early.
Rhamondre Stevenson took back full control of this Patriots' backfield after playing 81% of the team's offensive snaps last week. That led to Stevenson having his best fantasy game of the season (23.5 PPR fantasy points). As a result, he'll be an RB2 option in Week 9 against a Titans defense that has allowed four rush touchdowns over the past two games.
Whether you should play Demario Douglas in deeper PPR leagues this weekend will depend on whether Maye suits up. If he doesn't, Douglas should be sat in most cases, considering the Patriots wideout hasn't really done much with Jacoby Brissett under center. If the rookie does play, he is a solid flex play in 14-plus team leagues. In his one full game with Maye this year, the second-year wideout totaled 21.2 PPR fantasy points.
Injuries:
- Drake Maye (concussion)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Afternoon Games
Chicago Bears at Arizona Cardinals
Spread: Cardinals -1
Matchups We Love:
Caleb Williams has been an inconsistent fantasy option this year. However, the rookie has dominated weaker secondaries to start his career, which included finishing as the QB6 (Panthers) and QB1 (Jaguars) against two bottom pass defenses. Well, the good news for Williams is that the Cardinals have allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks. So, he'll be a high-end QB2 in Week 9.
D'Andre Swift has finished as a top-12 fantasy running back in four straight games. During that span, Swift has scored four touchdowns while averaging 133.25 scrimmage yards per game. Now, he'll go up against a Cardinals defense that has given up the sixth-most fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. Arizona also just allowed 147 yards from scrimmage to Achane a week ago, so the Bears back is a must-start this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
QB Kyler Murray
Kyler Murray has been much better for fantasy managers, as he has scored over 21 fantasy points in three of the past four games. But he has a tough matchup against the Bears in Week 9. Chicago has given up the second-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season and only Daniels -- thanks to a Hail Mary -- has finished as a top-12 fantasy quarterback against them this year. So, Murray is a risky QB1 this week.
WR Marvin Harrison Jr.
Harrison finally came to life last week and totaled his second 100-yard game of the season. However, he'll be a riskier WR2 option this week against the Bears. Chicago has allowed the ninth-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts, and the rookie will likely be matched up against Jaylon Johnson. Johnson has allowed only 12 receptions all year while ranking toward the top of the league in passer rating allowed (35.8)
Other Matchups:
RB James Conner
The Bears have allowed some big fantasy games to running backs this season, so James Conner will be a solid RB2 option in Week 9. Opposing running backs are averaging over 4.7 yards per carry against Chicago's front seven this year, and four different running backs have finished as a top-12 option against them.
Bears WRs
It's hard to trust any Bears wide receivers (DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze) in fantasy this weekend. But given that this is a great matchup for Williams, Moore and Allen could be potential starts in Week 9.
Although Moore has had back-to-back rough performances, he will be a solid WR2 option in Week 9. As for Allen, he is a sneaky flex option in 14-plus team leagues because Arizona has allowed the seventh-most fantasy points per game to slot wideouts. However, fantasy managers should only start Odunze in deeper leagues this week, considering the rookie has totaled under 10 PPR fantasy points in four straight games.
TE Cole Kmet
Cole Kmet is more of a TE2 option this week against the Cardinals. Despite Arizona allowing a top-10 fantasy tight end in two of the past four weeks, the target share remains a concern for the Bears playmaker. He will enter Week 9 with a 14.4% target share (19th amongst tight ends), and he has finished outside the top 20 at the position in three of the past four games.
TE Trey McBride
If you have McBride, you are starting him in Week 9 against the Bears. He has seen at least six targets in every game this season while finishing as a top-five fantasy tight end in two of the past three weeks. Chicago also just allowed seven catches for 77 yards to Ertz a week ago, making the Cardinals playmaker a must-start option.
Injuries:
None
Jacksonville Jaguars at Philadelphia Eagles
Spread: Eagles -7.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Jalen Hurts
Jalen Hurts finished as the overall QB1 last week, and there's a good chance he finishes in that spot again in Week 9. The Jaguars have given up the second-most fantasy points per game and the 10th-most rush yards (210) to opposing quarterbacks this season. Given that Jacksonville has also allowed a top-7 fantasy quarterback in five of the past six weeks, Hurts is the overall QB1 this weekend.
Saquon Barkley is a must-start every week and also has a great matchup on deck against the Jaguars. Jacksonville has given up the third-most fantasy points per game to opposing running backs, and this defense has allowed a top-six fantasy running back in three of the past four games. So, he'll be a strong RB1 option.
If you have an Eagles player in this game, you should be starting them in your fantasy lineups. That includes both A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. Brown has totaled at least 80 receiving yards in all four of his games, while Smith has scored at least 14.5 PPR fantasy points in five of six games this season. With the Jaguars allowing 39 fantasy points per game to wideouts through eight weeks, both Brown and Smith are must-starts.
It remains to be seen if Dallas Goedert (hamstring) will play in Week 9. He has missed the past two games due to a hamstring injury, and the veteran didn't practice on Wednesday or Thursday. If he plays, though, he is a low-end TE1 in a great matchup. The Jaguars have allowed a top-12 fantasy tight end in four straight weeks.
Matchups We Hate:
Although Trevor Lawrence has been better for fantasy managers lately -- finishing as a top-16 fantasy option in five straight games -- he will be a riskier QB2 option in Week 9. The Eagles have been a different defense since their Week 5 bye. They held Jones to only 99 pass yards two weeks ago, and Burrow only finished with 13.9 fantasy points last week. So, Lawrence might struggle through the air in this one.
Jaguars RBs
There's a good chance that Travis Etienne (hamstring) returns in Week 9. However, it's probably best to stay away from this Jaguars backfield until we see how it plays out. Will Tank Bigsby still be the team's RB1? What will Etienne's role look like in his return? On top of that, the Eagles haven't allowed a top-22 fantasy running back in five straight games. So, both running backs will be risky flex plays in Week 9.
Other Matchups:
Jaguars WRs
There are a lot of question marks about the Jaguars wide receiver room entering the week, especially since Kirk is out for the year and Brian Thomas Jr. (chest) is dealing with an injury. If Thomas winds up playing, he is a strong WR2 option against the Eagles secondary. The rookie has scored at least 15 PPR fantasy points in four of the past five games.
If Thomas plays, Gabe Davis would be a boom-or-bust flex play. However, Davis becomes a much better flex option if the rookie can't go. That also makes Parker Washington an option in extremely deep leagues. This is also a solid matchup for all Jaguar playmakers, as the Eagles have allowed the 11th-most fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts.
TE Evan Engram
Evan Engram does have a tougher matchup in Week 9 against the Eagles. Philadelphia has given up the third-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. However, this secondary has allowed six catches to Otton (Week 4), five catches to Njoku (Week 6), and seven catches to Gesicki (Week 7) in three of the past four games. So, Engram is still a solid TE1 play, especially with Christian Kirk (collarbone) out for the season.
Injuries:
- Dallas Goedert (hamstring)
- Travis Etienne (hamstring)
- Christian Kirk (collarbone)
- Brian Thomas Jr. (chest)
Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers
Spread: Lions -3.5
Matchups We Love:
Lions RBs
Both David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs are must-starts against the Packers in Week 9. Green Bay is giving up over 4.6 yards per carry to opposing running backs this season, and this defense has allowed four 100-yard rushers this season. So, make sure to get both Gibbs and Montgomery in your lineups this week.
WR Jayden Reed
Whether you should start Jayden Reed in this game will depend on if Jordan Love (groin) plays. If he does, Reed is a solid WR2 option in all formats. The Lions have given up the most fantasy points per game to slot wide receivers this year, and slot wideouts like Cooper Kupp, Chris Godwin, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Lamb all totaled at least seven catches against that Detroit secondary in 2024.
Most Receptions of 30+ Yards this Season:
🥇 George Pickens - 8
🥈 Ja'Marr Chase - 6
🥈 Jayden Reed - 6 pic.twitter.com/s9OfQ3Spzl— PFF Fantasy & Betting (@PFF_Fantasy) October 30, 2024
WR Romeo Doubs
If Love plays in this game, Romeo Doubs would be a solid flex play in 12-plus team leagues. He has totaled at least 10 PPR fantasy points in three straight games and now gets a matchup against a Lions defense that has allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. If the Packers quarterback is out, though, Doubs is almost unplayable in most formats.
TE Sam LaPorta
Is LaPorta back? He saw a season-high six targets last week and caught six passes for 48 yards and one touchdown. With Jameson Williams (suspension) still out for this game, the Lions tight end is a solid TE1 option in a great matchup against the Packers. Green Bay has given up the fourth-most catches (48) to tight ends this year while allowing a top-12 fantasy tight end in three of the past four weeks.
Matchups We Hate:
RB Josh Jacobs
Josh Jacobs being on this list doesn't mean you should be benching him in Week 9. However, expectations should be tempered against a top-run defense. The Lions have given up the second-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. The reason Jacobs will still be an RB2 option, though, is because Kenneth Walker III, Aaron Jones, and Pollard all rushed for at least 80 yards against Detroit over the past three weeks.
TE Tucker Kraft
Tucker Kraft has been a reliable TE1 option this season, but he has a tough matchup in Week 9 against the Lions. Detroit has given up the second-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends while allowing only one tight end (AJ Barner) to finish as a top-20 option at the position this season. As a result, Kraft will be a riskier TE1 play this weekend.
Other Matchups:
QB Jared Goff
Jared Goff has thrown for at least two touchdowns in five straight games, and he'll enter Week 9 as a high-end QB2 option in Superflex formats. The Packers have done a great job against fantasy quarterbacks this season, only allowing a top-10 fantasy quarterback twice over the last seven weeks. But, given Goff's potential to throw for over 275 yards and two touchdowns, he'll be a solid play this weekend in two-quarterback leagues.
Packers QBs
It remains to be seen if Love will play in Week 9. He was seen participating in practice on Thursday, and the Packers quarterback is doing all he can to play against the Lions this weekend. If he plays, he'll be a low-end QB1. Detroit has yet to allow more than one pass touchdown in a game this season. If he is ruled out, Malik Willis will likely draw the start, but he should only be started in deeper Superflex leagues this weekend.
Christian Watson/Dontayvion Wicks
It's hard to play either Christian Watson or Dontayvion Wicks in Week 9. Even though the Lions have allowed the third-most fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this season, both Packer wide receivers are just too risky to trust as flex options this weekend. Watson has caught four passes or less in all seven games this season, while Wicks played only 30% of the Packers' offensive snaps last week.
Fantasy managers should definitely be Amon-Ra St. Brown in fantasy this week. He has scored a touchdown in five straight games and remains a solid WR1 option moving forward. So, keep him in your lineups against the Packers in Week 9.
Injuries:
- Jordan Love (groin)
Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks
Spread: Rams -2.5
Matchups We Love:
Matthew Stafford got both of his wide receivers back last week, and the veteran threw four touchdown passes in the win. As a result, he'll be a high-end QB2 option in Week 9 against a struggling Seahawks secondary. Seattle has allowed a top-14 fantasy quarterback in four of the past five weeks while giving up 10 passing touchdowns during that span. So, Stafford could be in for a nice fantasy day this weekend.
You are starting Kyren Williams in Week 9 against the Seahawks. Seattle has given up the seventh-most fantasy points per game to opposing running backs this season while allowing a 100-yard rusher in three of the past four games. With Williams playing over 85% of the team's offensive snaps this season, he is a must-start in a great matchup.
WR DK Metcalf
DK Metcalf (knee) did not play in last week's game due to a knee injury, but the Seahawks remain optimistic that he can suit up in Week 9 against the Rams. If he does, he is a strong WR2 option against a Rams secondary that has allowed at least 115 receiving yards to four different wide receivers this year. So, get Metcalf in your lineups if he is healthy.
TE Noah Fant
Noah Fant is a potential TE1 option in deeper formats this week, as the 26-year-old has caught 13 passes over the last three games. Now, he goes up against a Rams secondary that has given up the third-most fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends this season. Los Angeles has also allowed a top-12 fantasy tight end five times in 2024.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
QB Geno Smith
Geno Smith has been a solid QB1 option for fantasy managers this season. In Week 9, he'll be a low-end QB1 against a Rams secondary that has allowed some big fantasy games to quarterbacks this season. Both Murray and Brock Purdy scored over 25 fantasy points against Los Angeles' defense this year, making Smith a potential play in most formats.
Walker has been on another level this year, finishing as a top-10 fantasy running back in four of six games this season. So, he'll continue to be a solid RB1 option in Week 9 against the Rams. Los Angeles has allowed a top-10 fantasy running back in two of the past three weeks while giving up six rush touchdowns on the season.
WR Puka Nacua
It was nice to see Puka Nacua back on the field last week, as he caught seven passes for 106 yards in limited snaps. Now, Nacua should see more snaps in Week 9 against the Seahawks. So, he is a strong start in most formats this week. Los Angeles has also allowed big games to outside wide receivers like Coleman (18 PPR fantasy points) and Darius Slayton (26.7 PPR fantasy points) in recent weeks.
Update: Nacua suffered a knee injury in Thursday's practice (the same knee he missed time with this year). His status is now to be determined in Week 9.
WR Cooper Kupp
Kupp was also welcomed back to the field last week, and the veteran caught five passes for 51 yards and one touchdown. Despite Seattle allowing the 11th-fewest fantasy per game to slot wideouts this season -- thanks to cornerback Devon Witherspoon -- Kupp is still a strong start in Week 9. He'll be a solid WR1 option on Sunday.
WRs Tyler Lockett/Jaxon Smith-Njigba
With Metcalf out last week, Tyler Lockett totaled one catch, while Smith-Njigba caught six passes for 69 yards. However, both would be viable plays if the star wideout were to miss again. If Metcalf does play, though, both are riskier options. Lockett and Smith-Njigba would only be potential flex plays in 12-plus team leagues.
Injuries:
- DK Metcalf (knee)
Matchup Analysis - Sunday Night Football
Indianapolis Colts at Minnesota Vikings
Spread: Vikings -5.5
Matchups We Love:
QB Joe Flacco
The Colts named Joe Flacco as the team's starter moving forward, and he'll likely be a solid QB2 option moving forward. Flacco has finished as the QB15, QB4, and QB18 in his three games this year and now faces a Vikings defense that has had a hard time stopping the pass. Minnesota is giving up 284 pass yards per game while allowing a top-10 fantasy quarterback in three of the past four games. So, Flacco is a QB2 play in Week 9.
QB Sam Darnold
Sam Darnold has been a solid quarterback option this year, scoring above 17 fantasy points in five of his past six games. Now, he gets a Colts defense in Week 9 that has allowed at least 285 pass yards in four of the past six weeks. Indianapolis has also given up the 10th-most fantasy points per game to quarterbacks, making Darnold a low-end QB1 option.
WR Josh Downs
With Flacco now starting, Josh Downs gets a major boost. He has scored 22.2 PPR fantasy points, 15.9 PPR fantasy points, and 19.5 PPR fantasy points in three games with the veteran under center. As a result, he'll be a solid WR2 option in Week 9 against the Vikings. Minnesota has allowed the second-most fantasy points per game to slot wideouts this season.
Michael Pittman Jr. gets a nice fantasy boost with Flacco under center. Pittman has scored 17.3 PPR fantasy points, 14.7 PPR fantasy points, and 12.5 PPR fantasy points with the veteran under center. Given that the Vikings have allowed the most fantasy points per game to wideouts this season, Pittman is a solid WR3 option in Week 9.
Justin Jefferson is a must-start every week and will continue to be in Week 9 against the Colts. Indianapolis has certainly had its struggles in the secondary this season, and that defense has given up four different 100-yard receivers this season. So, Jefferson is a strong WR1 play this weekend.
T.J. Hockenson (knee) will make his season debut in Week 9 against the Colts. While we don't really know what to expect from him in his first game back, Hockenson could be started in deeper leagues this weekend. Indianapolis has given up the fourth-most fantasy points per game to tight ends this season, and the Vikings playmaker is not expected to be on a snap count this weekend.
Matchups We Hate:
None
Other Matchups:
RB Aaron Jones
Jones will remain a strong RB2 option in Week 9 against the Colts. Jones played a season-high 92% of the team's offensive snaps last week while seeing 21 touches. Given that usage, the veteran should be started in most cases this weekend against an Indianapolis defense that has allowed the third-most rush yards to running backs this season.
Overall, the Vikings have done a good job stopping the run this season. They have allowed the eighth-fewest fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. However, teams have been able to run on Minnesota's defense in recent weeks, as Williams and Gibbs have finished as top-10 fantasy running backs against them in back-to-back weeks. So, Taylor is still a solid RB1 option in Week 9.
Most fantasy managers should be sitting Jordan Addison this week, even in a solid matchup against the Colts secondary. Addison hasn't caught more than three passes in any game this season while failing to see more than four targets in four of five games. So, he is a risky flex play in most leagues this weekend.
Injuries:
None
Matchups Analysis - Monday Night Football
Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Kansas City Chiefs
Spread: Chiefs -9
Matchups We Love:
Patrick Mahomes scored a season-high 19.2 fantasy points last week, which landed him as the QB15 on the week. The good news for fantasy managers is that Mahomes is a solid QB1 option against the Buccaneers in Week 9. Tampa Bay has given up the most fantasy points per game to opposing quarterbacks this season while allowing a top-12 fantasy quarterback in five of the past six weeks.
RB Kareem Hunt
Kareem Hunt will continue to be a solid RB2 option in Week 9 against the Buccaneers. Hunt has finished as a top-24 fantasy running back in three straight weeks, and Tampa Bay has allowed eight different running backs to finish top-24 at the position this year. So, Hunt is a strong start in most formats this weekend.
DeAndre Hopkins only played 24% of the Chiefs' offensive snaps in his first game with the team last week. But the expectation is that that number will increase in Week 9. With that being the case, Hopkins is a strong flex play in 12-plus team leagues against a Buccaneers secondary that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers this year.
TE Cade Otton
Fantasy managers should be starting Otton in most leagues this week. He has caught 17 passes for 181 yards and two touchdowns over the past two games while seeing a whopping 20 targets. Now, he goes up against a Chiefs secondary that has given up the most fantasy points per game to opposing tight ends. So, Otton is a top-five fantasy tight end in Week 9.
TE Travis Kelce
Kelce is coming off his best game of the season, catching 10 passes for 90 yards and one touchdown. As a result, he'll remain a strong TE1 option in Week 9 against the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay has allowed a top-6 fantasy tight end in five of the last six weeks. So, get Kelce in your lineups this week.
Matchups We Hate:
Buccaneers RBs
Both Rachaad White and Bucky Irving have been solid plays in recent weeks, but both are risky options in Week 9 against the Chiefs. Kansas City has allowed the fewest fantasy points per game to running backs this season, and not one running back has finished as a top-18 running back against this defense in 2024.
Given, though, that White caught five passes and Irving caught seven passes last week, they are both potential flex plays in 12-plus team leagues.
Buccaneers WRs
It's best to stay away from all Buccaneers wide receivers (Jalen McMillan, Sterling Shepard, and Trey Palmer) in Week 9 against the Chiefs. None of those wideouts really established themselves as Baker Mayfield's go-to target with Godwin (ankle) and Mike Evans (hamstring) out last week. So, they are all risky plays this week against a tough Kansas City secondary.
Other Matchups:
QB Baker Mayfield
Mayfield put together a solid fantasy day last week without his top two wide receiver options. However, he could have a tough time in Week 9 against the Chiefs. Kansas City has allowed only one top-12 fantasy quarterback over the past five games. As a result, the Buccaneers quarterback is more of a QB2 option on Monday.
Things appear to be trending up for Xavier Worthy in fantasy. He has seen eight targets in back-to-back games and just caught a season-high four passes in Week 8. Now, he'll face a Buccaneers secondary that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. While Worthy remains a risky boom-or-bust option, he could be a fine flex play in 12-plus team leagues in Week 9.
Injuries:
None
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