Sit or Start for Week 8

QBRBWRTEKD/ST

Sit Michael Penix Jr. vs Dolphins He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). It doesn't sound like an overly serious issue for the Falcons' quarterback, and it's unclear if it will keep Penix from playing next Sunday against the Dolphins. Penix didn't miss a snap in Sunday night's loss to the 49ers but appeared to pick up the injury in the fourth quarter. If Penix is unable to go against Miami, Kirk Cousins would get the start for Atlanta.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 21 31 67.74 229 9 1 1

Sit C.J. Stroud vs 49ers Fresh off of a season-high, four-touchdown performance against the Ravens, Stroud reverted to inconsistent pocket play in a deflating loss to the Seahawks. The 23-year-old failed to complete 50 percent of his passes while finishing as many touchdown drives as the dominant defense playing behind him. Stroud didn't get much help from his ground game, actually finishing Monday's loss as the Texans' leading rusher ahead of Woody Marks (10-15-0) and Nick Chubb (5-16-0). He also lost top wideout Nico Collins early in the fourth quarter to a concussion, a situation worth monitoring ahead of next Sunday's tilt against the 49ers. Stroud's stock would suffer further in Week 8 if Collins is unable to clear the league's concussion protocol.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 20 32 62.5 211 6 1 1

Risks...

Jayden Daniels vs Chiefs
-  The Chiefs rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Daniels' MRI on Monday came back clean after he was injured on the opening drive of the second half of Sunday's loss to the Cowboys. He wanted to go back in the game against Dallas, but the score was already somewhat lopsided, so the Commanders kept him out and let Marcus Mariota play the bulk of the second half. If Daniels is unable to play against Kansas City, Mariota would likely draw the start.

Lamar Jackson vs Bears
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Jackson remains sidelined at practice despite the Ravens coming off a Week 7 bye, and coach John Harbaugh having said that "the hope" is that the franchise quarterback will be back in the lineup for Sunday's matchup against Chicago, per Jonas Shaffer of TheBaltimoreBanner.com. That said, Baltimore's first official practice of Week 8 will occur Wednesday, so the team may simply be taking a cautious approach with Jackson's activity level until that date. In any case, fantasy managers will need to monitor Jackson's practice status closely, as, if he were unable to suit up against the Bears, backup quarterback Cooper Rush would draw another start. Jackson hasn't logged practice activity since injuring his hamstring Week 4 against the Chiefs.

Drake Maye vs Browns
-  The Browns rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. His completion percentage of 91% set a new franchise record for the Patriots. Oh, and they once had a guy named Tom Brady throwing the ball. It's been a simply meteoric rise for Maye, who has 12 touchdowns and just two interceptions on the season. He has been simply fantastic for the Patriots, who are 5-2 and looking like one of the best teams in the NFL. Maye is quickly reaching lineup lock status as a QB1 and his dynasty value is rising by the week.

J.J. McCarthy vs Chargers
- McCarthy has been sidelined since he suffered a high right-ankle sprain during a Week 2 loss to the Falcons, but he was able to practice in a limited capacity all of last week, which marked his first notable on-field work in more than a month. Fill-in QB Carson Wentz also was listed as limited Monday due to his lingering left shoulder injury, but at this stage he appears to be the better bet to continue leading Minnesota's offense Thursday at the Chargers, especially after Adam Schefter of ESPN reported Sunday morning that McCarthy's initial six-week recovery timeline remains intact, which would mean a return to action Week 9, at best, on Sunday, Nov. 2 at Detroit. In the end, McCarthy clearly is getting back into the swing of things and closing in on a return to action.

Brock Purdy vs Texans
-  The Texans rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Purdy last saw game action Week 4 and thus looks iffy, at best, to return this weekend, with added context on that front set to arrive no later than Wednesday when the 49ers return to practice. He was limited at practice last week before being ruled out for this past Sunday's 20-10 win over the Falcons, a game that marked Mac Jones' third straight start and fifth overall this season.

Tua Tagovailoa vs Falcons
-  The Falcons rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The fact this had to be announced tells you just about everything you need to know about the state of the franchise. Tua was awful this week, throwing for just 100 yards with no touchdowns and three interceptions in a blowout loss to the Browns. The ship is sinking here quickly with both Tua and coach Mike McDaniel on the hot seat. The concern with Tua has always been his health but it's now clearly being combined with poor play on the field. However, the Dolphins are stuck. They want to get the ball out of his hands quickly to keep him healthy but his game is much better throwing deep. Tua's dynasty value is decreasing and could be headed for a major freefall.

Bryce Young vs Bills
-  The Bills rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Pelissero added that Young's sprain typically requires a recovery timeline of 2-to-4 weeks, and Andy Dalton is expected to start against Buffalo. Young was injured on a third-quarter sack Sunday, though X-rays did come back negative. Young being sidelined shouldn't significantly impact the fantasy outlook of the Panthers' pass catchers, as Dalton is a reliable veteran backup.

Start Justin Herbert vs Vikings The 420 yards were a career high for Herbert, exceeding the 405 yards he racked up in 2023 during a Week 3 meeting with the Vikings, and his 37 completions were a franchise single-game record. Most of that production came in the second half Sunday, including all three of the QB's touchdowns -- strikes to Quentin Johnston and Keenan Allen in the third quarter and Oronde Gadsden in the fourth, all in the red zone -- as the Chargers tried in vain to rally from a 23-3 halftime deficit. Herbert will take a 13:6 TD:INT through seven starts into a Week 8 meeting with the 2025 edition of a Minnesota defense that just got torched by Jalen Hurts.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 25 37 67.56 295 18 3 0

Start Bo Nix vs Cowboys The Cowboys rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Nix bounced back with a monstrous four-score game following a couple weeks of pedestrian stat lines. The 25-year-old fired off a season-high 50 pass attempts in the thrilling comeback victory, but it was his rushing production (5-48-2) that truly made his fantasy score stand out in Week 7. Nix had scored just one rushing touchdown while averaging 20.7 rushing yards over his previous six starts, so managers shouldn't expect gaudy rushing totals on a regular basis. That said, we could be in store for another strong fantasy performance from Nix next Sunday against the Cowboys' 32nd-ranked pass defense.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 24 36 66.66 288 27 3.02 0

Start AARON RODGERS vs Packers The Packers rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Rodgers was outshined by fellow graybeard signal-caller Joe Flacco, but the former still tied a season high in touchdown passes. Rodgers connected with Pat Freiermuth for half his scoring tosses -- from 19 and 68 yards out -- and his other two TD strikes went to Freiermuth's position mates Jonnu Smith (10 yards) and Darnell Washington (two yards). Rodgers made several impressive throws throughout the night, including the second touchdown to Freiermuth and his game-ending Hail Mary attempt, corroborating he still has plenty of arm and continues to demonstrate his mostly difficult 2024 season with the Jets may have just been a hiccup. Rodgers and his teammates will next turn their attention to a Week 8 home showdown against his old Packers squad on Sunday night, Oct. 26.

Player Expected Output Comp. Att. Comp % Pass Yds Rush Yds TDs INTs 23 32 71.87 277 6 2 0

Rewards...

JOE FLACCO vs Jets
-  After playing it safe last week, the Bengals just unleashed Flacco and hoped for the best. It worked out great in this one as he torched the Steelers through the air, connecting with Ja'Marr Chase on a ridiculous 16-of-23 targets. There are going to be up and down days with him but he's raised the floor on this offense and looks like a decent QB2 until further notice.

Jalen Hurts vs Giants
- This was the best day Hurts has had this season by a longshot. He finally unleashed deep balls to both AJ Brown and DeVonta Smith, who combined for 304 receiving yards. Hurts ended up with -10 rushing yards as the Eagles had him running around burning the last few seconds off the clock but dynasty managers won't complain much. He's solidified himself as an elite QB1 again with today's effort. For what it is worth, when he last played the Giants, he passed for 283 and tossed 1 TD passes.(He also ran for 13 yards and scored on the ground as well.)

PATRICK MAHOMES vs Commanders
- Mahomes had a very efficient day and jumped on the Raiders early, leading touchdown drives in each of the Chiefs' four possessions. He completed three passes of more than 20 yards, including a 44-yard connection with Travis Kelce on the team's first possession, and had passing scores from two, eight and three yards away. After throwing for only one touchdown in the first three games of the season, he has at least three passing scores in three of his last four contests. With Rashee Rice back in the mix and Xavier Worthy healthy, the Chiefs' offense should have the chance to take off in the second half of the campaign.

BAKER MAYFIELD vs Saints
- Mayfield went into the game with both Mike Evans and Emeka Egbuka available despite their respective hamstring injuries, but he ended up losing the former to a shoulder injury -- which Rick Stroud of the Tampa Bay Times reports was subsequently diagnosed as a broken collarbone -- and a concussion in the first half. Mayfield had already been struggling to get the ball to Evans considering the pass on which he suffered the pair of injuries was his fourth target without a catch, and the veteran signal-caller displayed only modest improvement over the rest of the night even though the Lions were playing with an extremely short-handed secondary. Mayfield saw a two-game interception-less streak come to an end as well on a controversial play that originally appeared to be a Cade Otton reception, and it remains to be seen if he'll at least have Chris Godwin (fibula) at his disposal to help offset the loss of Evans in a Week 8 road matchup versus the Saints on Sunday.

DAK PRESCOTT vs Broncos
- Prescott welcomed his favorite target CeeDee Lamb (ankle) back with open arms and a beautifully placed ball for a 74-yard touchdown on Dallas' final possession of the first quarter. The 31-year-old Prescott finished the contest registering at least three touchdown passes for the fourth consecutive week. A red-hot Prescott upped his season totals to 1,881 passing yards and 16 touchdowns on a career-best 72 percent completion rate through seven starts. With all of his weapons back at full strength, Prescott should be treated as a top-10 fantasy QB heading into next Sunday's tilt against Denver.

Sit Chase Brown vs Jets Brown left a mostly frustrating first six games of the season in the rearview mirror Thursday, posting a season high in rushing yards by a wide margin. Prior to Thursday, Brown hadn't even cracked 47 rushing yards in any contest, but he blew past that threshold on his way to his first 100-yard tally since Week 9 of last season, with the help of a season-long 37-yard run. Brown's overall workload still remained modest, however, but Cincinnati doesn't figure to have to take as much of a pass-heavy approach when the Bengals return to action in a Week 8 home matchup against the Jets on Sunday, Oct. 26.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 14 47 2 9 0

Sit Tony Pollard vs Colts The Colts rank #4 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Pollard slipped into an even workload with Tyjae Spears on the ground, though the Titans attempted only 12 rushes as a team. Instead, Pollard earned most of his fantasy value as a pass catcher, with six catches marking his highest total since Week 14 of the 2023 campaign. While it was a positive for Week 7, the likelihood of Pollard repeating this performance consistently moving forward is slim. Given the state of the Titans' offense and the split in workload, Pollard has lost much of his fantasy appeal since Spears has returned.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 13 45 2 8 0

Sit Rhamondre Stevenson vs Browns The Browns rank #2 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Stevenson's carry and rushing yard totals were both season highs, and for the second straight game the running back (who had recorded three lost fumbles over the first five weeks of the season) didn't put the ball on the carpet. As long as he continues to demonstrate improved ball security, Stevenson should provide fantasy utility while leading a New England backfield that also includes rookie TreVeyon Henderson and Terrell Jennings, who both were on the field for just nine snaps versus Tennessee while Stevenson logged 49 of 65 snaps on offense Sunday, per Mike Reiss of ESPN.com. Next up for the 5-2 Patriots is a Week 8 home game against the 2-5 Browns, who have limited opponents to an average of 82.4 rushing yards per game to date.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 12 37 2 7 0

Risks...

Bucky Irving vs Saints
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). The announcement doesn't come as much of a surprise, given that Irving has been held out of practice while working through foot and shoulder injuries. In his absence, Rachaad White will continue to operate as the Bucs' lead option out of the backfield while Sean Tucker serves in a reserve role. Irving's next opportunity to play is Week 8 against the Saints on Sunday, Oct. 26.

Kimani Vidal vs Vikings
-  After a huge Week 6 performance against the Dolphins as the Chargers' lead back, Vidal had much less success in Week 7. While he still led Los Angeles in carries, Justin Herbert actually led the team in rushing yards with a meager 31. With Omarion Hampton (IR, ankle) likely still more than a month away from his return, Vidal will maintain his spot at the top of the depth chart heading into a Week 8 clash with a Vikings defense that just held Saquon Barkley to 44 rushing yards and 2.4 yards per carry.

Jaylen Warren vs Packers
-  The Packers rank #3 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Warren came just two yards short of his single-game career high in rushing yards, which he set against the Browns back on Nov. 19, 2023. The versatile back was in outstanding form against a Bengals defense that had been particularly prone to allowing chunk plays on the ground, compiling a season-high yardage total with the help of four runs of 10+ yards and a co-game-long 37-yard scamper. Warren also has at least four catches in three of the last four contests, and Thursday's performance affords him plenty of momentum heading into a Week 8 home showdown against the Packers on Sunday night, Oct. 26.

Start Breece Hall vs Bengals The Jets are a mess and Hall is in the midst of a simply terrible season as a result. He's gone from a potential RB1 to hardly playable in dynasty leagues at this point. He needs to be traded prior to the deadline to salvage any kind of return this season and the Jets have to be considering it at this point. Hall is likely going to be playing elsewhere next season, so dynasty managers could have a buy low opportunity at the moment.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 16 81 3 27 1

Start Cam Skattebo vs Eagles The rookie RB become the focal point of the Giants offense with Jaxson Dart getting his first career NFL start under center and Tyrone Tracy (shoulder) sidelined, with Skattebo's 27 touches representing a huge increase on the career-high 16 he got last week. That volume on the ground came in a contest that New York led from its opening possession, however, a game script that may not be repeated too often in 2025. Devin Singletary got seven carries as the backup with Tracy out, but Skattebo should remain the unquestioned top option in the backfield Week 5 against the Saints.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 16 84 2 8 1

Start Javonte Williams vs Broncos Williams got back on track following last week's dud against Carolina (13-29-0) with his second 100-plus yard rushing game of the year. The 25-year-old kicked off the scoring with a short touchdown scamper on the Cowboys' opening drive, then proceeded to eat chunks of yardage throughout the contest. Williams is experiencing a true breakout fantasy campaign with a stellar 111-592-6 rushing line off of a career-best 5.3 YPC through seven starts in 2025. The 2021 second-round pick will get a chance to flex his newfound success against the team that drafted him when the Cowboys visit the Broncos next Sunday.

Player Expected Output Att. Yards Rec. Rec. Yards TDs 16 72 3 15 1

Rewards...

De'Von Achane vs Falcons
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. The Dolphins' point total and the fact Tua Tagovailoa managed only 100 passing yards while throwing three interceptions essentially tells the tale of the type of day it was for Miami's offense as a whole. Therefore, Achane's solid numbers served as the one bright spot for Mike McDaniel's squad, and the speedy running back gained well more than half his total on a 46-yard run late in the first quarter. Achane has rattled off 210 rushing yards and a pair of Week 6 rushing touchdowns on 29 carries over his last two games, but the Dolphins' reeling offensive unit faces an unenviable Week 8 road matchup against the Falcons next Sunday afternoon.

J.K. Dobbins vs Cowboys
-  The Cowboys rank #32 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Dobbins responded well from his worst outing of the season against the Jets last week (14-40-0), averaging 5.8 yards a carry while leading his team in rushing against the Giants. The veteran starter was held out of the end zone in consecutive games for the first time this season, which is the only negative takeaway from Sunday's win. Backup RJ Harvey poached a receiving touchdown on his only reception, but he generated zero rushing yards on four attempts as the Broncos backfield continues to belong to Dobbins. The Ohio State product checks in as a safe starting option in fantasy for Week 8 in a soft matchup against the Cowboys next Sunday.

DERRICK HENRY vs Bears
-  The Bears rank #28 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. The Ravens' offensive game plan was to feed Henry as much as possible, limiting the need for Cooper Rush to take to the air. That was effective in the first half, as Henry delivered 18 carries for 90 yards while Baltimore also controlled time of possession. Game script ultimately got away from the team, but this was a needed performance from Henry, both in terms of volume and efficiency. He recorded three rushes of more than 10 yards to top 50 yards for the first time since Week 1. Henry's 25 touches were also his most of the campaign, and he should benefit from the expected return of Lamar Jackson (hamstring) in Week 8, following the team's bye.

Chuba Hubbard vs Bills
-  The Bills rank #30 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. More importantly, Hubbard started the game over the red-hot Rico Dowdle. Hubbard didn't do nearly as much as Dowdle but the Panthers seemed content to just rotate their backs on every series. It's a great opportunity for Carolina to keep their runners fresh but this could create a nightmare in fantasy leagues. Hubbard is looking like a flex player at this point.

Jordan Mason vs Chargers
- Mason saw opportunities limited somewhat by game script at certain points, but the offseason addition put together a serviceable performance that he rounded out with his fourth rushing touchdown of the season via a one-yard run late in the third quarter. He has topped out at Sunday's rushing yardage total in the last three games following a 116-yard, two-touchdown tally versus the Bengals in Week 3, but he should remain the lead back in a Week 8 road matchup against the Chargers on Thursday night as long as Aaron Jones (hamstring) remains on injured reserve.

Christian McCaffrey vs Texans
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. The levee finally broke in terms of McCaffrey's ground game as he cracked the century mark in rushing for the first time this season. It was also the dual-threat superstar's first game with multiple trips to the end zone in 2025, bringing his rushing touchdown total on par with the three receiving scores he has provided fantasy managers so far. McCaffrey also served as the 49ers' leading receiver in a truly dominating performance from start to finish. CMC has been an absolute monster in fantasy this season with over 900 combined yards from scrimmage, making him virtually matchup-proof heading into next Sunday's tilt against a stingy Houston defense.

Bijan Robinson vs Dolphins
-  The Dolphins rank #31 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Robinson struggled to find room to run, with a long gain on the ground of only eight yards. As a result, he failed to reach 70 yards on the ground for only the second time this season and for the first time since Week 1. However, he continued to excel as a pass catcher, highlighted by a 10-yard touchdown reception halfway through the third quarter. Robinson has at least six receptions in half of his six games this season and now has four total touchdowns on the campaign.

Jonathan Taylor vs Titans
-  The Titans rank #29 in our Run Defense Power Rankings. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. It was Taylor's second three touchdown game in the past three weeks and gives him ten rushing scores on the season. In short, Taylor is putting together an MVP level season and has been a one-man wrecking crew since week one. With Daniel Jones playing the best football of his career, Taylor has a chance to be the overall RB1 this season. He's currently nearly untouchable in dynasty leagues.

Sit Jordan Addison vs Chargers Addison led the Vikings across the board in receptions, receiving yards and targets with figures that also all qualified as season highs. The third-year pro's longest catch went for 34 yards, so he consistently was able to record significant gains during the high-scoring, back-and-forth affair. Addison has displayed excellent chemistry with fill-in quarterback Carson Wentz after the wide receiver's suspension-delayed start to the season, and he's likely to continue working with him in a Thursday night Week 8 road matchup against the Chargers since J.J. McCarthy (ankle) is unlikely to be ready to return with the short turnaround.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 35 0

Sit Jauan Jennings vs Texans The Texans rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Jennings was dealing with a myriad of minor injuries before being cleared of all designations leading up to Sunday's kick off. The 27-year-old operated as the 49ers' top wideout with Ricky Pearsall (knee) and Brandon Aiyuk (knee) still unavailable for Week 7. Jennings' 31 receiving yards and seven targets led all San Francisco receivers not named Christian McCaffrey, who carried the offense with 201 yards from scrimmage and two touchdowns. Look for Jennings' production to improve alongside his health as the season progresses. Up next is a road tilt against the Texans next Sunday.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 45 0

Sit Deebo Samuel vs Chiefs The Chiefs rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Samuel was able to draw the questionable tag for Week 7 after logging a limited practice Friday, but the seventh-year wideout will not travel with the team to Dallas due to a lingering heel injury. The Commanders will be without Samuel, Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin) for Sunday's NFC East tilt, which leaves Luke McCaffrey, rookie fourth-rounder Jaylin Lane and Chris Moore as the top wideouts in the passing game for Jayden Daniels. Tight end Zach Ertz would also be in line for more work on offense in the absence of Samuel, but the former is listed as questionable for Week 7 due to foot and shoulder injuries. Samuel's next opportunity to play is Week 8 against the Chiefs on Monday, Oct. 27.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 48 0

Sit Jaylen Waddle vs Falcons The Falcons rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Tua Tagovailoa threw for just 100 yards while barely completing more than 50.0 percent of his passes before giving way to Quinn Ewers in garbage time, so Waddle's line is slightly less alarming within that context. Nevertheless, the veteran receiver's numbers were season lows across the board, and his catch total was also a new career-worst mark. The Dolphins offense had its worst day of the season overall Sunday, and even though Waddle could bounce back to an extent in a Week 8 road matchup against the Falcons, meaningful production will remain hard to come by if Tagovailoa continues to struggle with ball security and efficiency.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 4 48 0

Risks...

KENDRICK BOURNE vs Texans
-  The Texans rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Bourne failed to extend his unlikely streak of recording exactly 142 yards to three games in Sunday's win. The drop-off was drastic for the veteran wideout after finishing with a season-low two targets. The victory was led by San Francisco's defense and rushing attack, resulting in poor receiving lines for every position player outside of RB Christian McCaffrey (7-72-0). Bourne's role could reduce further in Week 8 if Ricky Pearsall (knee) is able to return from injury. For now, consider Bourne a deep-league option against the Texans next Sunday.

Kayshon Boutte vs Browns
-  The Browns rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Boutte saw only two targets, his lowest total since Week 2. However, he still managed to turn in a productive effort thanks primarily to a 39-yard touchdown just before halftime to give the Patriots a lead they wouldn't concede. Boutte has now found the end zone in consecutive games, also logging his second- and third-best yardage totals of the season in those contests.

Nico Collins vs 49ers
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Collins hit his head hard on the turf on a contested catch attempt early in the fourth quarter. He was evaluated in the medical tent before walking to the locker room for further evaluation. Collins now will face a short week to pass the league's protocols ahead of a Week 8 matchup against San Francisco.

STEFON DIGGS vs Browns
-  The Browns rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Diggs had almost all of his production in the third quarter, tallying three receptions for 49 yards. That was enough for him to lead the team in all receiving stats, with his only shortcoming being his inability to reach the end zone. While it has taken Diggs some time to settle into the New England offense, he now has at least six catches in three of his last four games while posting 344 receiving yards in that span.

Josh Downs vs Titans
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). The same applies to Ashton Dulin (chest), a context that results in Michael Pittman and Alec Pierce being slated to lead the Colts' Week 7 WR corps. Adonai Mitchell is on track to be active and contribute Sunday, while Anthony Gould is available to mix in. Additionally, Laquon Treadwell and Coleman Owen represent possible practice-squad elevations.

Chris Godwin Jr. vs Saints
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Godwin will be sidelined for a second consecutive game due to a fibula injury that he picked up during the Buccaneers' Week 5 win over the Seahawks. The injury isn't related to the fibula that he broke during the 2024 campaign, but the Bucs will continue to play things cautiously with the veteran wideout. With Tampa Bay on a bye in Week 9, the Buccaneers could hold Godwin out for Week 8 against the Saints to give the veteran wideout more time to heal, per Greg Auman of Fox Sports. With Godwin and Bucky Irving (foot/shoulder) both ruled out, Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers may have to rely more heavily on Rachaad White, Sterling Shepard, Tez Johnson and Cade Otton in the offense depending on the statuses of Mike Evans (hamstring) and Emeka Egbuka (hamstring), both of whom are considered game-time calls for Monday night's game in Detroit.

Christian Kirk vs 49ers
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Kirk appeared to tweak his hamstring during Friday's practice, and the injury was severe enough to keep the veteran wide receiver off the field for Saturday's session and rule him out for Monday night's game. Kirk's absence opens the door for Xavier Hutchinson, Jayden Higgins and Jaylin Noel to see more offensive snaps and looks in the passing game from quarterback C.J. Stroud, especially if the Seahawks' defense hones in on top wideout Nico Collins. Kirk will look to progress enough in his recovery to play in the Texans' Week 8 home clash against the 49ers on Sunday, Oct. 26.

Xavier Legette vs Bills
-  The Bills rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The 2024 first-round pick had the best game of his pro career in the Week 7 win, setting personal highs in both receptions (nine) and receiving yards (92). He led the Panthers' receiving corps in catches, yards and touchdowns, while Tetairoa McMillan, Jimmy Horn and Jalen Coker combined for just four catches for 41 yards on nine targets. Legette has now hauled in 17 of 31 targets for 142 yards and two touchdowns across five appearances this season. He's expected to continue operating as the Panthers' No. 2 wideout and primary deep threat heading into the Week 8 matchup against the Bills.

TERRY MCLAURIN vs Chiefs
-  The Chiefs rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). McLaurin was listed as a limited participant on Wednesday's practice estimate, but he didn't participate Thursday when the Commanders actually held a practice. He then warmed up for practice Friday, before moving to a side field once his teammates started going through drills. Commanders coach Dan Quinn said Friday that McLaurin is getting closer to a return, but it doesn't seem the wideout was all that close to playing this Sunday. Next week could be a different story, with the benefit of an extra rehab day before facing the Chiefs on Monday Night Football (Oct. 27).

Tetairoa McMillan vs Bills
-  The Bills rank #2 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. The eighth overall pick in the 2025 Draft was the unquestioned top wideout for the Panthers right out of the gate, as he led the team in targets, catches and receiving yards in a mostly disappointing day for Bryce Young and the passing game. McMillan will need better performances from his quarterback to turn that kind of volume into consistent production, but it was still an encouraging start to his pro career. He'll look to make a bigger impact on the road Week 2 against the Cardinals.

DJ Moore vs Ravens
-  Moore went from still being in a DC-area hospital Tuesday morning following the Bears' Week 6 win over the Commanders to pacing Chicago in receiving yards and sharing the team lead in receptions Sunday. Moore didn't look any worse for wear after suffering a groin injury versus Washington, and he's now cleared 40 receiving yards in consecutive games for the second time this season. The Bears' passing attack remains a relatively low-volume one most weeks, but Moore will remain an important target for Caleb Williams in a Week 8 road matchup against the Ravens next Sunday afternoon.

Ricky Pearsall vs Texans
-  The Texans rank #4 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Pearsall was unable to practice last week before being ruled out for the 49ers' Week 7 win over the Falcons. At this stage, the wideout's status for this weekend's game is cloudy, with added context regarding his chances of returning to the lineup set to arrive no later than Wednesday's injury report. In Pearsall's absence versus Atlanta, Jauan Jennings and Kendrick Bourne led the team's WR corps, with Demarcus Robinson, Malik Turner and Skyy Moore mixing in.

Darius Slayton vs Eagles
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Slayton has not practiced since injuring his hamstring during the Giants' Week 5 loss to the Saints. The seventh-year wideout will be sidelined for a second straight game due to his injury, and he'll work to progress enough in his recovery to return in Week 8 against the Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 26. Lil'Jordan Humphrey should be elevated from the practice squad to the active roster for a second-straight week to join the Giants' wide receiver corps that consists of Wan'Dale Robinson, Jalin Hyatt, Beaux Collins and Gunner Olszewski.

Start Emeka Egbuka vs Saints The rookie first-round pick had been ascendant since he first stepped on a Buccaneers practice field this offseason, and Egbuka delivered handsomely in his first career regular-season contest. The Ohio State product first struck from 30-yards out just past the midway point of the second quarter, and he subsequently added what would turn out to be a game-winning 25-yard scoring grab with just under a minute remaining. The poise and polish that Egbuka has repeatedly been commended for was on display on his way to a team-leading yardage total, and he'll be in line to play another significant role during a Week 2 marquee interconference road matchup against the Texans on Monday night, Sept. 15.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 102 1

Start Chris Olave vs Buccaneers The Saints haven't played well but you can hardly blame Olave, who is vying for Comeback Player of the Year honors. Spencer Rattler is limiting the offense but Olave has found a way to post a 44/440/3 line through seven weeks. While his ceiling is limited, Olave is finding a way to post high floors every week. His ADP is rising, despite his injury risk.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 99 1

Start DeVonta Smith vs Giants Finally. The Eagles made every effort to get the ball to Smith and AJ Brown (4/121/2) this week and it paid off handsomely. While his touchdown total of two on the season leaves a bit to be desired, Smith has now posted two 100-yard efforts in the last three weeks. Any chance to buy low on Smith has likely passed. For what it is worth, when he last played the Giants, he racked up 49 receiving caught 0 TD passes.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 96 1

Start COURTLAND SUTTON vs Cowboys The Cowboys rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Sutton got back on track after being held to just 17 receiving yards against the Jets in London last week. The 29-year-old helped play the role of hero when he corralled a 22-yard pass from QB Bo Nix on the penultimate play before a game-winning field goal from kicker Wil Lutz. Sutton has been providing WR2 production for fantasy managers with a 33-469-3 receiving line through seven weeks. Consider the physical wideout a plus play for next Sunday's tilt against a porous Dallas pass defense.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 7 104 1.02

Rewards...

KEENAN ALLEN vs Vikings
-  The targets, catches and yards were all season highs for the veteran wideout, who was Justin Herbert's most reliable option in the second half as the Chargers tried to mount a comeback from a 23-3 halftime deficit. Allen snapped a three-game scoring drought with the performance, and he'll carry a 44-435-4 line on 65 targets through seven contests into a Week 8 clash with a Vikings secondary that just surrendered a combined 13-304-3 line to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.

Ja'Marr Chase vs Jets
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Well, apparently someone told Joe Flacco to just throw the ball to Chase whenever possible and hope it works. It certainly did on Thursday and Chase just dominated the Steelers. Flacco has clearly given Chase an avenue to still thrive, something he just couldn't do with Jake Browning at the helm. He's always been a must-start, but Chase could somehow still end up being the overall WR1, which is a testament to just how talented he really is.

Keon Coleman vs Panthers
-  Coleman tied for the team lead in receptions and targets, but as his final line indicates, those opportunities were essentially for naught. The second-year wideout has endured an underwhelming season to date that's included a Week 5 benching for that game's opening series, and Coleman notably couldn't make an impact Monday despite the Bills being without Dalton Kincaid (oblique) and Curtis Samuel (neck, ribs) to begin the game and then losing Joshua Palmer (ankle) during the contest. Coleman and Josh Allen will have a Week 7 bye to work on their chemistry before returning to action Sunday, Oct. 26 on the road against the Panthers.

Troy Franklin vs Cowboys
-  The Cowboys rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Franklin's day in London got off to a rubbish start when he coughed up the first fumble of his career on his first reception of the contest. The silver lining for fantasy managers was that the wideout remained involved offensively following the turnover, receiving three more touches in the narrow win. Franklin has shown flashes of upside early in his sophomore campaign, but Sunday's dud is an example of the inconsistency he can exhibit. The 22-year-old's value is likely limited to deeper formats in next Sunday's tilt against the Giants.

Justin Jefferson vs Chargers
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Jefferson posted a team-high 40-yard reception during the close contest, but he ultimately played second fiddle to Jordan Addison, who finished with a 9-128-0 line on 12 targets, all team-high figures. Nevertheless, Jefferson's day wasn't a total washout by any stretch, and he extended his streak of 75-plus-yard tallies to five games while also getting to at least five receptions for the fourth consecutive contest. Jefferson hasn't found the end zone since Week 1 against the Bears, however, a matter he'll look to rectify Thursday night when the Vikings and Chargers open the Week 8 slate in Los Angeles.

CeeDee Lamb vs Broncos
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. We actually expected more as Lamb did all of his damage in the first half. Still, he looked healthy and took right back over as the WR1 immediately. Lamb is a candidate for the overall WR1 each and every week (and for the season). Any chance to add him on the cheap has clearly passed.

Drake London vs Dolphins
-  London logged double-digit targets for the fourth time in six games this season, so lack of opportunity wasn't the reason for his poor line. However, he struggled to connect with Michael Penix both deep and in short areas of the field, leading to his inefficient day and his lowest yardage total of the campaign. The Falcons' passing game appeared to be getting on track in Weeks 5 and 6, making this a particularly disappointing step back.

Ladd McConkey vs Vikings
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. The second-year wideout set new season highs in targets and receptions, although the increased volume didn't result in increased production -- McConkey finished third on the Chargers in receiving yards behind rookie tight end Oronde Gadsden (7-164-1 on nine targets) and Keenan Allen (11-119-1 on 14 targets), while Quentin Johnston was on the other end of Justin Herbert's third TD. It's been a disappointing sophomore campaign so far for McConkey, but he's posted a 21-206-2 line on 31 targets over the last three games, giving him momentum heading into a Week 8 clash with a Vikings secondary that just surrendered a combined 13-304-3 line to A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith.

DK Metcalf vs Packers
-  The Packers rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. On a night when Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins mostly stole the headlines in conjunction with Joe Flacco, Metcalf was almost a forgotten man, even on his own team to an extent. While the star wideout's yardage total was second on the night for the Steelers, he wasn't on the receiving end of any of Aaron Rodgers' quartet of scoring tosses, which all went to tight ends. Nevertheless, Metcalf and Rodgers have already flashed plenty of strong chemistry early on in their working relationship, as evidenced by the 22-406-4 receiving line on 36 targets Metcalf will take into a Week 8 home matchup against the Packers on Sunday night, Oct. 26.

Marvin Mims Jr. vs Cowboys
-  The Cowboys rank #32 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Mims checked in as the Broncos' second-leading receiver in Sunday's comeback victory, finishing only behind Courtland Sutton's 6-87-0 receiving line. The 23-year-old Mims added 13 yards on his fourth rushing attempt of the season to finish as Denver's highest yardage producer. That said, Mims finished with two or fewer receptions in four out of his last five appearances, highlighting the playmaker's weekly volatility. Fantasy managers are hoping for one of Mims' "boom" games in a soft matchup against the Cowboys next Sunday.

Rashee Rice vs Commanders
-  This was Rice's first game back after missing 22 contests with a torn ACL and serving a suspension. It was clearly a monster return for Rice, who looks the part of a WR1 moving forward yet again. While Patrick Mahomes seems content spreading the ball around, it's hard to look at Rice and think he's not the #1 option in the passing game moving forward. Savvy dynasty managers bought on Rice a long time ago and those who didn't are likely kicking themselves.

CALVIN RIDLEY vs Colts
-  The Colts rank #29 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. With Ridley out, look for Elic Ayomanor and Van Jefferson (ankle) -- if available -- to lead the Titans' WR corps versus New England. Chimere Dike and Tyler Lockett also should mix in, as was the case Week 6 when Ridley exited after just six snaps. Ridley's next chance to play will occur Sunday, Oct. 26 against the Colts.

Wan'Dale Robinson vs Eagles
-  Robinson paced the Giants in receptions and yardage for the second week running, this time also surpassing Lil'Jordan Humphrey in targets. The 24-year-old Robinson is now averaging 5.7 receptions and 69.7 yards in three games since taking over for for Malik Nabers (knee) as the Giants' top wideout. Robinson provides enough upside in his current role to warrant flex consideration against the Eagles next Sunday.

Rashid Shaheed vs Buccaneers
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Shaheed was the surprise leader in targets on the afternoon for New Orleans while curiously posting four catches for the sixth consecutive game. The speedy fourth-year pro has just two catches of more than 20 yards this season after compiling five in just six 2024 games before his campaign was cut short. The way Spencer Rattler is being asked to manage the offense certainly has something to do with that downturn, but Shaheed should remain a steady contributor in a Week 8 home matchup against the Buccaneers next Sunday afternoon.

Arian Smith vs Bengals
-  The Bengals rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Smith got the final kickoff return opportunity of the game for the Jets after Kene Nwangwu (hamstring) got hurt and Xavier Gipson lost a costly fumble on a kickoff return. Smith's speed could help the rookie fourth-round pick out of Georgia factor in as a deep threat on offense down the line, but his contributions will likely be limited primarily to special teams early on.

Garrett Wilson vs Bengals
-  The Bengals rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Wilson, who leads the Jets with 56 targets through six games, suffered a hyperextended knee last weekend and was unable to practice Wednesday through Friday before being designated as doubtful for Sunday's contest. Now that he's been made inactive, Josh Reynolds will likely work as the Jets' top wide receiver versus Carolina, with Arian Smith, Allen Lazard, Tyler Johnson and Isaiah Williams also in the mix for added opportunities at the position. Additionally, TE Mason Taylor and RB Breece Hall could see an uptick in targets in the contest, as the Jets look to fill the void created by the absence of their top pass catcher.

Sit HUNTER HENRY vs Browns The Browns rank #5 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Henry finished second on the team in targets and managed his highest target total since Week 3. He was a reliable option for Drake Maye, helping the Patriots get out from their own goal line with a 12-yard catch early in the second quarter while also converting on third down with an eight-yard reception two quarters later. While he plays a key role in the team's offense, Henry has failed to reach 50 receiving yards in four straight contests.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 34 0

Sit Theo Johnson vs Eagles Johnson was the beneficiary of good fortune when he caught a tipped pass that was not intended for him for a 41-yard touchdown. It was the 24-year-old's fourth touchdown reception in as many weeks, providing a hot stretch of play for fantasy managers over that span. Johnson continues showing great rapport with rookie QB Jaxson Dart as the team prepares to face Philadelphia for the second time this season. The Eagles have allowed just 6.0 points per game to opposing tight ends … they have given up just 31.4 yards per game to tight ends, the third-fewest in the league. Despite Johnson’s recent uptick in usage, this is a matchup where even a decent TE may struggle.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 3 31 0

Risks...

ZACH ERTZ vs Chiefs
-  The Chiefs rank #3 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Ertz was one of the few bright spots on either side of the ball for the Commanders in the blowout loss. The veteran starter cashed in his second touchdown in as many weeks, bringing his season receiving line up to 23-229-4 in seven appearances. Ertz showed no limitations from the shoulder injury that plagued him during the practice week, setting him up for another start against the Chiefs on Monday Night Football in Week 8.

T.J. Hockenson vs Chargers
-  The veteran tight end finished second on the Vikings in receptions and third in both receiving yards and targets. Hockenson's final line would have looked a lot better had a diving attempt at a touchdown catch that he made with just over three minutes remaining would have survived instant replay review. He did match his season high in catches and set a new high-water mark in targets, so he's trending up heading into an intriguing Week 8 road matchup against the Chargers on Thursday night.

Cole Kmet vs Ravens
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Prior to that, Kmet caught his only target for 16 yards. While he's sidelined, Colston Loveland and Durham Smythe are available to handle the Bears' tight-end duties versus New Orleans.

DARREN WALLER vs Falcons
-  The Falcons rank #1 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Per Marcel Louis-Jacques of ESPN.com, Waller suffered a hip strain this week, and the injury setback will be enough to sideline the tight end Week 1. In Waller's absence versus Indianapolis, fellow TEs Julian Hill and Tanner Conner are in line for added opportunities, while Greg Dulcich and Hayden Rucci are potential practice-squad elevations.

Start Tucker Kraft vs Steelers Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. While the third-year tight end wasn't exactly efficient with his team-high target volume, Kraft did come up big when it counted, hauling in a seven-yard TD from Jordan Love early in the fourth quarter. Kraft has four touchdowns in six games to begin the season, posting a 23-326-4 line on 32 targets, and he figures to be productive again in Week 8 against a Steelers defense that's been vulnerable to TEs this season. The Steelers have allowed multiple TEs to beat them for 10+ points, including one in each of their last two games. Kraft’s target share is improving and this matchup gives upside.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 5 64 1

Start Tyler Warren vs Titans Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Warren has seen more offensive involvement and gets a matchup where he could be an under-recognized value play.

Player Expected Output Receptions Rec. Yards TDs 6 68 1

Rewards...

Jake Ferguson vs Broncos
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Ferguson continued his red zone prowess Sunday, extending his scoring streak to four games while recording his sixth touchdown over that span. The 26-year-old is on pace for a career year with 51 receptions, 334 yards and a career-high six touchdowns in just seven games played this season. Fantasy managers should probably continue playing with house money and start Ferguson without question against the Broncos next Sunday.

TRAVIS KELCE vs Commanders
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we expect him to post nice fantasy stats this week. Kelce looked to be in for a big game, as he made two catches for 51 yards on the Chiefs' first offensive possession, highlighted by a long reception of 44 yards. However, he essentially went silent from there, with the offense instead running through Rashee Rice and several other different pass catchers. Nevertheless, Kelce has over 50 receiving yards in three consecutive games.

Dalton Kincaid vs Panthers
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). Kincaid was a late scratch before the team's Week 6 loss in Atlanta, while Palmer was injured after getting off to a hot start. For fantasy purposes, Kincaid is the one who matters, as he was the overall TE2 through five weeks. Oblique injuries can be tricky, but it seems reasonable to believe Kincaid will be able to heal enough during the bye week to be in line to return in Week 8 against the Panthers. The Panthers have allowed five tight ends to score at least ~9.9 fantasy points this season. Kincaid (when healthy) has a defined role in Buffalo’s offense and should get red-zone targets. That combination (volume + matchup) supports a start.

Dalton Schultz vs 49ers
-  Schultz saved his best for the bright lights of Monday Night Football, coming out of the loss with new season highs in targets, receptions and yardage. The veteran tight end also finished as the Texans' leading receiver after Nico Collins (concussion) was forced out of the contest early in the fourth quarter. Schultz had been a high-floor option in deeper formats prior to Monday's outburst, but his target share could be elevated in Week 8 if Collins is unable to suit up against the 49ers on Sunday.

JONNU SMITH vs Packers
-  The Packers rank #30 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Although Smith's fantasy production remained somewhat limited Thursday, he tied for the team lead with six targets, which matched his season-best mark, while also racking up a season-high 28 receiving yards in the loss. Over the first six games of the 2025 campaign, Smith has secured 20 of 26 targets for 117 yards and two touchdowns while rushing once for 10 yards, putting him well behind the pace he set with the Dolphins last year, when he secured 88 of 111 targets for 884 yards and eight scores. Smith has split work with Pat Freiermuth and Darnell Washington early in the season, and the three tight ends will be difficult to rely on in fantasy as long as that trend continues.

Mason Taylor vs Bengals
-  The Bengals rank #28 in our Pass Defense Power Rankings. Taylor wasn't significantly involved as a pass catcher in his NFL debut, as Garrett Wilson was the only player to exceed 38 receiving yards for the Jets. Among the team's tight ends, Jeremy Ruckert had two catches for 16 yards. Taylor has substantial long-term upside, but the rookie second-round pick could face a learning curve out of the gate.

Sit HARRISON BUTKER vs Commanders Butker went a third straight week without attempting multiple field goals in a game, connecting on his only attempt from 38 yards in the victory. The kicker has now made 12 of 15 field-goal tries while going 18-for-21 on PATs over seven games this season.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 1 2 3

Sit JAKE ELLIOTT vs Giants Elliott missed a 42-yard field-goal try in the fourth quarter, which would prove to be his only attempt of the day. The kicker has now attempted one or fewer field goals in six of the team's first seven games this season, ultimately carrying a rather low floor from a fantasy perspective.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 1 2 3

Risks...

CHRIS BOSWELL vs Packers
-  The kicker drilled a 41-yard field goal early in the second quarter that put the Steelers up 10-0. Boswell has now made 10-of-12 field goals and all 16 extra-point attempts in 2025. The veteran is a reliable option in fantasy football. Pittsburgh faces Green Bay on Sunday Night Football in what should be a defensive battle. The Packers' defense has been solid, and the Steelers' offense has struggled to find consistency. Primetime games between two defensive-minded teams often feature low scoring and limited kicking opportunities. There are safer streaming options with higher floors this week.

MATT GAY vs Chiefs
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. The kicker did not get a chance to attempt a field goal. Gay has yet to miss an extra point this year, going 18-for-18, though he has missed four field goals (10-for-14).

BRANDON MCMANUS vs Steelers
-  He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). He is currently listed as Questionable on the injury report, and may wind up being a dreaded GTD (Game Time Decision). McManus thus will miss his second contest in a row due to the right quadriceps that he tweaked at the beginning of Week 6 prep. In McManus' stead, Lucas Havrisik will fill again after striking true on both field-goal attempts and all three point-after tries during last Sunday's win against the Bengals. McManus' next opportunity for game action is next Sunday's road matchup with the Steelers.

Will Reichard vs Chargers
-  Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. Analyzing various factors very carefully, we do not expect him to post quality fantasy stats this week. The kicker made a 59-yarder in the first quarter before hitting from 34, 28, 35 and 29 yards, respectively. Reichard has only missed one kick this year, going 13-of-14 on field goals 12-of-12 on extra points. He should get more opportunities in Minnesota's Week 8 Thursday night clash with the Chargers.

Start WIL LUTZ vs Cowboys The Broncos' offense struggled for most of Sunday's game but came alive in the fourth quarter with 33 points. Quarterback Bo Nix led a four-play drive late in the fourth quarter to set up Lutz for a 39-yard field goal, which the latter hit right through the middle of the uprights to improve Denver's record to 5-2. Lutz has not missed a kick in six of the first seven games of the regular season and is 9-for-10 on field-goal attempts and 16-for-16 on extra-point tries.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 3

Start Evan McPherson vs Jets The kicker also connected on field goals from 49, 23 and 45 yards, respectively. McPherson did not have many opportunities with a struggling Bengals offense before Thursday night, but he finally got the chances that fantasy managers perhaps expected before the season. If Joe Flacco can continue to lift Cincinnati's attack, McPherson stands to benefit.

Player Expected Output FGM FGA XPM 3 3 2

Rewards...

BRANDON AUBREY vs Broncos
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Aubrey continued his terrific start to the season, making field goals from 47, 61 and 29 yards in the victory. The 61-yarder was particularly significant, as the kicker now has five career kicks of 60-plus yards, the most in NFL history. Aubrey has been nearly perfect this year, making all 15 of his field-goal attempts, including five makes from 50-plus yards, while going 23-for-24 on PATs over seven games.

MICHAEL BADGLEY vs Titans
-  The kicker's miss came after Indianapolis scored on its first drive of the game. After that, he did make every kick, including a 36-yard field goal in the second quarter that put the Colts up by 20. In two games since replacing the injured Spencer Shrader (knee), who is out for the season, Badgley is 2-for-2 on field-goal tries and 7-for-8 on extra-point attempts, which should be good enough to help him keep the job for another week. The Colts host Tennessee as a whopping 14-point favorite with the highest team total of the week currently set at 30.75. Mike Badgley is in a fantastic spot to add to your rosters, and he's free in 88% of Yahoo leagues. The Colts host Tennessee as a whopping 14-point favorite with the highest team total of the week currently set at 30.75. Mike Badgley is in a fantastic spot to add to your rosters, and he's free in 88% of Yahoo leagues

Cameron Dicker vs Vikings
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. The kicker's field goal came from 43 yards out. Dicker has yet to miss a kick in 2025, going 15-of-15 on field-goal tries and 14-of-14 on extra-point attempts. He'll try to stay perfect on Thursday Night Football this week against the Vikings.

Tyler Loop vs Bears
- Tyer Loop has been pretty automatic, converting 9-of-10 field goals and 15-of-16 extra points. Between both the Ravens' bye and their recent scoring issues, Loop is available in most fantasy leagues. He has a 14% roster percentage on Yahoo! and 27% roster percentage on ESPN. With Lamar Jackson back and healthy, Baltimore's offense should be firing on all cylinders at home against a Bears defense that can bend but not break—perfect for field goal opportunities.

EDDY PIÑEIRO vs Texans
-  He should be a NO BRAIN start this week and every week unless he is on a bye or injured. Three of Pineiro's four field goals came in the first half -- two of which were from 50-plus yards -- which helped keep the 49ers in striking distance heading into halftime. He connected on a 29-yard chip shot midway through the third quarter to cut the deficit to one point, but he wasn't brought out to kick after that, as the 49ers offense sputtered down the stretch. Pineiro has connected on four field goals in back-to-back games and is a perfect 15-for-15 across five regular-season contests. Pineiro and the 49ers will head back to San Francisco to host the Falcons on Sunday, Oct. 19.

Parker Romo vs ?
- The Atlanta Falcons have an extremely friendly matchup against the Miami Dolphins this week, who allow the most fantasy points to kickers (9.86) on average.

Sit Denver Broncos vs Cowboys Denver's defensive unit has been one of the league's surprises. However, Dallas has been consistent on offense and leads the league in points. Something has to give and we expect this to slide toward the median.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Sit Washington Commanders vs Chiefs KThis is a nightmare matchup. Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs' offense protect the ball exceptionally well, and Mahomes hasn't thrown an interception since Week 5. Kansas City at Arrowhead in primetime rarely makes mistakes, meaning Washington's defense will have limited opportunities for fantasy points while likely giving up significant yardage and points.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 1 0 0

Risks...

San Francisco 49ers vs Texans
- The Texans offense hasn't been good, but the banged up 49ers defense is due for a let down.

Miami Dolphins vs Falcons
- The Dolphins appear to be mailing it in for the season.

Carolina Panthers vs Bills
-  The Panthers played great against the Jets offense last week, but this is the Bills. Don't expect them to feast like that.

New Orleans Saints vs Buccaneers
- Tampa Bay's offense, led by Baker Mayfield, has been explosive this season. Even without some weapons, the Buccaneers can score points and move the ball effectively. The Saints' defense has struggled to contain opponents, and this matchup could turn into a high-scoring affair that limits defensive fantasy points.

Tennessee Titans vs Colts
- The Colts offense has been good all season so don't expect the Titans to step up this week.

Start Buffalo Bills vs Panthers The Panthers are taking on the Bills in Buffalo and this is a streaming-start scenario. Carolina's offense has been inconsistent all season and likely starts backup Andy Dalton (or, a compromised Bryce Young). Meanwhile, Buffalo's defense has had an extra bye week to prepare and figures to get some reinforcements back in the lineup. The Bills' pass rush should create havoc, and their secondary can capitalize on mistakes.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 3 1 1

Start Indianapolis Colts vs Titans This is one of the largest spreads of the week for good reason. Tennessee's offense has been abysmal, and the Colts defense has been playing excellent football. Indianapolis' protection unit was stout in the team's Week 7 win over the Los Angeles Chargers, and their confidence is soaring. The Titans struggle to protect the quarterback and move the ball consistently - prime conditions for defensive fantasy points.

Player Expected Output Sacks Interceptions Fumble Recoveries 4 1 2

Rewards...

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Saints
- The banged up Bucs should still be a good bet against a weak Saints offense.

Philadelphia Eagles vs Giants
- The Eagles are hungry for revenge after their surprising loss earlier this month. Philadelphia's defensive line can dominate, and they'll be fired up at home. The Giants' offense lacks weapons and struggles to protect the quarterback. Expect the Eagles to make a statement with multiple sacks and potential turnovers.

New England Patriots vs Browns
- Cleveland's offense has been a disaster this season. Whether it's Dillon Gabriel or another quarterback under center, the Browns can't move the ball efficiently. The Patriots at home should be able to generate consistent pressure and capitalize on Cleveland's offensive woes. This is a high-floor play.

 Sound Off!

 Click here to visit our message boards and post your Sit or Start questions!