Week 8 Fantasy Football: 50 Start/Sit Decisions to Dominate Your League
The midway point of the season is here, and with it comes crucial decisions that can make or break your fantasy football season. Week 8 is packed with intriguing matchups, making it even more important to analyze every player and make the right start/sit calls. Don't let uncertainty cripple your lineup - let's dive into 50 key decisions to help you crush your Week 8 matchups!
Key Matchups and Considerations
Before we get into the nitty-gritty of individual players, it's important to acknowledge some overarching themes that will impact your lineup decisions:
- Bye Weeks: The impact of bye weeks continues, with Atlanta, Buffalo, Carolina, and New Orleans off this week. Double-check your roster to ensure you're not starting any players who aren't playing!
- Matchup Toughness: Some matchups are easier than others. For example, Tom Brady and Tampa Bay face a tough Baltimore defense this week, while Justin Herbert and the Chargers have a more favorable matchup against a struggling Denver defense.
- Injuries: Keep an eye on the injury reports! Christian McCaffrey, Saquon Barkley, and Travis Kelce are just a few players who have been dealing with injuries. Don't assume a player will be good to go - check the latest news before locking in your lineup.
50 Start/Sit Decisions:
Here's a breakdown of 50 key start/sit decisions to help you make those crucial lineup calls:
Quarterbacks:
- Start: Patrick Mahomes (KC), Josh Allen (BUF), Lamar Jackson (BAL), Jalen Hurts (PHI)
- Sit: Dak Prescott (DAL), Derek Carr (LV), Russell Wilson (DEN)
Running Backs:
- Start: Christian McCaffrey (SF), Derrick Henry (TEN), Nick Chubb (CLE), Jonathan Taylor (IND)
- Sit: David Montgomery (CHI), Khalil Herbert (CHI), James Robinson (JAC)
Wide Receivers:
- Start: Justin Jefferson (MIN), Davante Adams (LV), Cooper Kupp (LAR), Stefon Diggs (BUF)
- Sit: DJ Moore (CAR), Elijah Moore (NYJ), Mecole Hardman (KC)
Tight Ends:
- Start: Travis Kelce (KC), Mark Andrews (BAL), Kyle Pitts (ATL)
- Sit: T.J. Hockenson (MIN), Evan Engram (JAC), Dawson Knox (BUF)
Defense/Special Teams:
- Start: San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens
- Sit: Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos
Key Considerations for Each Position:
Quarterbacks:
- Consider starting a streaming quarterback in a favorable matchup. For example, Kirk Cousins against the Washington Commanders might be a good option.
Running Backs:
- Monitor the workload of committee backfields. Rhamondre Stevenson has been seeing more work than Damien Harris in New England.
- Don't be afraid to start a running back with a favorable matchup, even if they're not a top-ranked player. Jamaal Williams and the Detroit Lions face a favorable Green Bay defense.
Wide Receivers:
- Trust your gut on players with high upside, even if they're facing tough matchups. Ja'Marr Chase could still explode against the Cleveland Browns.
Tight Ends:
- If you have a tight end who's been consistently producing, stick with them. Dalton Schultz has been a steady option for the Dallas Cowboys.
Defense/Special Teams:
- Look for defenses facing struggling offenses. The Los Angeles Rams could be a good option against the Seattle Seahawks.
Final Tips for Success:
- Utilize all available resources: Read expert articles, watch analysts on YouTube, and consult with your fantasy football league mates.
- Trust your own gut: You know your league, your players, and your own tendencies. Don't be afraid to make a bold move if you feel good about it.
- Stay flexible: Things can change rapidly in fantasy football. Be prepared to adjust your lineup based on the latest news and developments.
Week 8 is an important turning point in the fantasy football season. Make informed decisions, stay up-to-date, and prepare for the ultimate showdown!