As we move into Week 8 of the NFL season, fantasy football fans everywhere are taking stock of their teams and deciding their fates. Some key players are stepping up big time, and matchups are making a huge difference thus far for fantasy production. Mike, FSWA Hall of Fame member and veteran of all forms of media, is lending us his vast expertise. He’s dropping great gaming knowledge that will help you at the next conventions!
The big issue fantasy managers face this week. Monangai has proven to be mercurial, at best, leading him to be anything but an NFL lock. Incoming, Tampa Bay’s WRs a refreshed matchup versus a susceptible New Orleans cornerback corps. Players like Puka Nacua and Jaxon Smith-Njigba have shown consistent performance, with both reaching 14 fantasy points against Houston this season.
Player Performance and Matchup Analysis
Few have drawn the fantasy intrigue like these players have this season. Quentin Johnston has scored a whopping 14.9 fantasy points. At the same time, Ja’Marr Chase and A.J. Brown are in the negative with -7.3 and -9.3 points, respectively. On the other hand, Garrett Wilson’s had a real bummer of a season up to this point with only 4.3 fantasy points so far.
One major topic of discussion is Atlanta’s defense, which has allowed the second-least fantasy points to wide receivers. However, their man-heavy defense hasn’t just stymied teams, it’s created real life challenges for opposing offenses. Due to this, managers are forced to think deeply about their strategic roster/player decisions when encountering them.
Denver’s pass defense stands out as one of the league’s best, allowing the fewest yards per target at 6.1, just one touchdown, and minimal fantasy points to wide receivers. As a result, matchups vs DEN have been particularly difficult for receiver-scarce teams.
Lineup Locks and Recommendations
As we head into shaky performances in Week 7, there are a few players who have cemented their places as lineup locks in Week 8. Fantasy managers need to have Bijan Robinson, De’Von Achane, Drake London and Jaylen Waddle in their lineups without question this week. Their steady play has helped them to serve as solid, steady options even in a league that feeds on the idea of boom or bust.
In his analysis, Mike recognized how important these Commonwealth players are, writing,
“Fantasy scoop: Bo Nix is a lineup lock for Week 8.” – Mike Clay
Flacco will be back under center as the starter. Perhaps more than anyone, this change should raise Tee Higgins’ fantasy ceiling, making him a player worth watching closely in the coming weeks.
Shadow Reports and Player Projections
While teams are still getting a better understanding of their circumstances heading into game week, shadow reports are essential for fantasy decision-making. One interesting sub-matchup is between Christian Benford and McMillan, with the former likely shadowing McMillan this week. This is a positive development that would drastically increase McMillan’s possible output and should be considered heavily when making a lineup.
The more strategic analysis offered by professionals, such as Mike, really drives home the need to know your opponent’s player matchups as the season advances. Week 8 already, and fantasy managers can’t afford to miss anything. Watch out for injury updates, shadow assignments, and performance trends to get the most out of your lineups!
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