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Fantasy Football Week 8: Who to Start, Who to Sit, and Sleepers
National Football League

Fantasy Football Week 8: Who to Start, Who to Sit, and Sleepers

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 9:37 p.m. ET

Oct 23, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) gestures after a catch against the San Francisco 49ers during the third quarter at Levi’s Stadium. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the San Francisco 49ers 34-17. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

The Buccaneers came away with a decisive win against the 49ers in Week 8, and wide receiver Mike Evans led all Bucs in fantasy football scoring with 29.6 points (3rd overall).

Davante Adams’ surprise performance for the Green Bay Packers led all fantasy football scoring with nearly 40 points as his team took down the Chicago Bears on Thursday Night in Week 7.

Jameis Winston had one of his better performances of the year and placed sixth among quarterbacks for the week with his 20.7 point performance.

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This week, the Buccaneers take on the Oakland Raiders in Tampa and face Top-5 fantasy quarterback Derek Carr, Top-10 receiver Michael Crabtree and of course look to see if their own Russell Shepard can continue his success in place of Vincent Jackson.

In his first week as a starting receiver for the Bucs, Shepard turned in 13.7 points. It wasn’t enough to see his ownership rate rise above 5% in Yahoo! Leagues however, as he’s still available in 97% of those.

We’re near the halfway mark of the NFL season and about six weeks from fantasy football playoffs. Let’s look at some players and how they look heading into their Week 8 match-ups.

Oct 23, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) looks to pass the ball during the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Jets defeated the Ravens 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

SLEEPER – Ryan Fitzpatrick, New York Jets

New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

Fitz-Magic is back and it’s going to be beautiful! At least that’s what Jets fans and the franchise are hoping.

Comments were made this week about Ryan Fitzpatrick being the league’s best back-up quarterback, but he’s the starter once again and facing a defense which looks to be built of mostly second-string caliber talent.

What better way for Fitzpatrick to return to the starting stage than to launch a 300-yard multi-touchdown performance against a Browns defense allowing an average of 21.3 points per week to opposing fantasy quarterbacks?

More than half of the QBs who’ve faced Cleveland have thrown for over 300-yards, and every single one has thrown at least two touchdowns.

If you’re looking for a streaming option Fitzpatrick might be an option, and if you’re looking for a money saving option at quarterback to let you splurge elsewhere on your DFS roster, then Fitz-Magic might be just what you need.

SLEEPER – Brock Osweiler, Houston Texans

Houston Texans vs Detroit Lions – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

Brock Osweiler’s best performance of the season came just two weeks ago when he threw for 269 yards and two touchdowns against the Indianapolis Colts and their eighth worst fantasy football pass defense.

This week they face the worst defense against fantasy quarterbacks as the Detroit Lions visit Houston.

Six of the seven starting quarterbacks to face the Lions’ passer friendly defense have found the endzone at least twice, and four have also reached or exceeded 300-yards on their day against Detroit.

As if this weren’t inept enough, the visiting defense has only picked off their opponents three times this year, including Carson Wentz’ first career turnover.

More from The Pewter Plank

    Osweiler finished 16th amongst fantasy quarterbacks when he faced the Colts. This week he could crack the Top-10.

    START – Carson Palmer, Arizona Cardinals

    Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

    Carson Palmer had a Top-15 finish despite playing to a 6-6 tie against the Seattle Seahawks which saw him throw zero touchdowns despite totaling 342-yards passing.

    Carolina’s secondary has just been one part of the defending NFC Champion’s team which hasn’t performed up to snuff this season, and the bye week certainly gives them a chance to get better.

    However, this is a defense who has allowed multiple touchdown passes by half the quarterbacks to face them.

    If Palmer can pull out a Top-15 performance against Seattle, then Carolina certainly provides him an opportunity to reach the Top-10 or better.

    SIT – Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

    San Diego Chargers @ Denver Broncos – Sunday, October 30th @ 4:05 PM EST

    The Denver Broncos have allowed just one passer to eclipse 250-yards, and none have scored more than one touchdown through the air.

    In fact, the only quarterback to score twice against them is Cam Newton in Week 1, and we’re a long way from Week 1.

    Brandon Marshall, Aqib Talib, and DeMarcus Ware are all questionable to play against their division rivals, but I’d expect at least two of the three to suit up.

    Rivers is low on weapons and the ones he does have are all banged up.

    Travis Benjamin, Tyrell Williams and Hunter Henry are all questionable as well. The difference here is the Chargers’ offense cannot survive these injuries nearly as well as Denver’s defense can.

    Advantage Broncos, disadvantage to Rivers owners.

    START – Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

    Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons – Sunday, October 30th @ 4:25 PM EST

    Oct 20, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) drops back to pass during the first quarter against the Chicago Bears at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

    Only Cam Newton and Paxton Lynch have thrown for less than 250-yards against the Falcons defense.

    In Newton’s defense, he got concussed by Deion Jones in their match-up and he combined for well over 300-yards passing with his replacement Derek Anderson.

    Lynch and Philip Rivers are the only two quarterbacks to not throw for at least two touchdowns against Atlanta, but Rivers’ 371-yards still saw him finish in the Top-15 for the week.

    Now Aaron Rodgers gets his crack at them coming off a Top-5 performance against the Bears a week ago.

    Rodgers didn’t reach 250-yards once before the Packers’ bye-week, but has hit at least 259-yards in the three weeks since. He’s also tossed six touchdown passes in the same time-span.

    Look for him to continue this post-bye week success against a Falcons team looking to avoid falling under .500 after a 4-1 start to their season.

    SIT – Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

    Detroit Lions @ Houston Texans – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

    The Houston Texans defense has been surprisingly effective against opposing quarterbacks, and are allowing just 13 points on average to fantasy football opponents this season.

    Matthew Stafford has thrown for over 300-yards twice this year and only twice has been held under 250.

    He’s also thrown multiple touchdowns in four of the seven games he’s appeared in this year, while the Texans have only allowed two quarterbacks to top 250 yards and one has thrown two touchdown passes.

    The best performance against this defense in 2016 was Sam Bradford’s Week 6 showing which placed him just 11th amongst his position group for that week.

    Stafford doesn’t seem matched up much better, and if you’re aiming for an 11th place finish then you’re aiming for a loss.

    Oct 13, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Denver Broncos running back Devontae Booker (23) runs the ball during the second half of the game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. San Diego won 21-13. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

    SLEEPER – Devontae Booker, Denver Broncos

    Denver Broncos vs San Diego Chargers – Sunday, October 30th @ 4:05 PM EST

    While it may have been coming for a few weeks now, Devontae Booker is officially the Broncos’ starting running back with C.J. Anderson’s move to the IR.

    17 carries for 83-yards and a score against the Houston Texans seems to show the potential this rookie running back has, and his nine catches on the year for 69-yards are a good display of his ability to impact both the rushing and passing offense.

    He won’t be leading the team in receptions anytime soon, but does have some ability as a receiver.

    The Chargers are allowing 23.3 points on average to running backs, giving Booker a prime opportunity in his first career start.

    San Diego is definitely more vulnerable to receiving backs more than they are one-dimensional rushers.

    Mark Ingram of the Saints rushed for just 56-yards on 18 carries but added another 49-yards on six catches to give him competitive fantasy numbers the week he faced this defense.

    Booker has a real shot at making a dent in this game, so keep him in mind if you’re looking for an RB2 this week.

    SLEEPER – Matt Forte, New York Jets

    New York Jets @ Cleveland Browns – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

    As running backs go Matt Forte has been one of the most consistent fantasy football options throughout his career. Until this year that is.

    In 2016 Forte has three performances of 100-yards or more and three others with less than 30.

    He’s got five touchdowns on the year, but they’ve all come in two separate games with a four-game scoring drought in between them.

    He has a chance though this week to turn-in back-to-back 100+ yard performances with a score.

    Cleveland is on a streak of their own having allowed a rushing touchdown in their last five games of the season.

    Jeremy Hill ripped off 168-yards against the Browns just last week, and Forte could be in for similar production on the road against one of the NFL’s most fantasy friendly units around.

    SIT – Jordan Howard, Chicago Bears

    Chicago Bears vs Minnesota Vikings – Monday, October 31st @ 8:30 PM

    Jordan Howard exploded onto the fantasy football scene with three straight performances of 100-yards or more, including more than 160-yards of offense against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 5.

    Since that game however, he’s failed to compile 100-yards in the last two games combined.

    Against the Packers in Primetime the rookie running back carried the ball just seven times for 22-yards in a 26-10 loss.

    He gets another crack at Primetime football, but this time it’s against a Minnesota Vikings defense allowing just 14.4 points total to running backs on average.

    Minnesota’s stout defense hasn’t let a single rusher to total more than 100-yards offense yet, and Howard will have a hard time doing so considering the Bears seem to lose offensive weapons every week.

    Only one rushing touchdown has been surrendered by the Vikings as well, but if Howard wants to stay on the fantasy radar he’ll need to find a way to get the second.

    Oct 23, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Christine Michael (32) leaps in the air as he celebrates a first down against the Arizona Cardinals at University of Phoenix Stadium. The game ended in a 6-6 tie after overtime. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

    START – Christine Michael, Seattle Seahawks

    Seattle Seahawks @ New Orleans Saints – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

    Christine Michael has made most forget Thomas Rawls ever existed, and seems to have a strangle hold on the Seahawks’ starting running back position.

    The New Orleans Saints are surrendering a league worst 27.1 points to opposing runners making Michael a must start this week as Seattle travels to the Big Easy.

    The Seattle back has been touchdown dependent this season and has broken 100-yards only once in 2016.

    Five touchdowns on the year have saved his fantasy relevance, and as he heads into this match-up he’ll look to put both yards and scores on the board for his real team, and fantasy football teams everywhere.

    The Saints have let three of the last four rushers they’ve faced more than 75-yards rushing while surrendering seven touchdowns in the same span.

    Michael should benefit from New Orleans’ recent spurt of generosity to running backs, and make his fantasy owners happy in the process.

    SIT – Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers

    Carolina Panthers vs Arizona Cardinals – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

    Jonathan Stewart’s return against the New Orleans Saints led to an 85-yard performance with two touchdown runs in a loss to their division rivals in Week 6.

    Now, with a bye-week under his belt he’s looking to come back stronger than ever against another NFC rival as he hopes to help get his team’s playoff chances back on track.

    More importantly for fantasy owners of Stewart, they’re hoping he can keep their own playoff hopes alive as he faces the Cardinals this week.

    Arizona is the second-best defense against running backs this year, and has only allowed two such players total more than 100-yards of total offense to this point.

    Only one – LeSean McCoy – has rushed for over 100, and this defense has let just four touchdowns against them come on the ground.

    Stewart is one dimensional in that he possess little use in the passing game. This singular line of play means the Arizona defense has little to worry about outside of direct handoffs, and can key on to his early touches as they look to force Carolina into passing situations.

    Stewart did well against the Saints, but this week is a whole different story.

    START – Spencer Ware, Kansas City Chiefs

    Kansas City Chiefs @ Indianapolis Colts – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

    Spencer Ware is fantasy football’s 10th best running back in 2016 and has turned in regular RB1 performances so far this season.

    Three straight running backs have rushed for over 100-yards and five straight have accrued more than 100 in total offense.

    Running backs have also found the endzone at least once per week against the Colts defense, and most are not Top-10 players this year.

    For Ware, his talents have been used on the ground both on the ground and in the air as he’s tallied just one 100+ yard rushing performance, but has five performances of 90-yards or more this year in total offense.

    His seven touchdowns have also helped his team get out to their 4-2 start despite missing Jamaal Charles for just about the entire season as he continues to deal with regular injury problems.

    With Charles out again for Week 8, Ware is the man in KC, and the start to make this weekend.

    Oct 9, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Washington Redskins wide receiver Jamison Crowder (80) returns a punt for a touchdown during the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports

    SIT – Jamison Crowder, Washington Redskins

    Washington Redskins @ Cincinnati Bengals – Sunday, October 30th @ 9:30 AM EST

    Jamison Crowder has been the best receiver option from the Redskins’ fantasy football pool, but he’s been boom or bust to say the least.

    This week against the Bengals he’s got bust written all over him, which is why all fantasy owners in leagues and playing DFS should stay away from him.

    Only two receivers in the NFL have gone over 100-yards against the Bengals defense, and they both came in the same game when Demaryius Thomas and Emmanuel Sanders each eclipsed the century mark and combined for three touchdown catches.

    Since that night only three receivers have totaled even 50-yards receiving and only two have found the endzone.

    Crowder has been Washington’s leading wide receiver and second on the team behind tight end Jordan Reed, but this week isn’t the week to take a flier on the return specialist who just recorded his first 100-yard game a week ago.

    SLEEPER – Stefon Diggs, Minnesota Vikings

    Minnesota Vikings @ Chicago Bears – Monday, October 31st @ 8:30 PM EST

    Stefon Diggs started his 2016 campaign with back-to-back 100-yard performances against the Titans and Packers.

      Beginning in Week 3 the second-year receiver hasn’t had more than 47-yards in one game and hasn’t found the endzone since September 18th.

      This week however, he draws the Chicago Bears defense which is allowing 28.3 points per week to opposing receivers.

      12 receivers in seven games have brought in five catches or more with three of them going over 100-yards and another six gaining at least 70.

      The Bears defense has allowed 10 touchdown passes this year, and eight of those have gone to receivers.

      With the success teams have found on the outside in their passing games, Diggs looks set to have a good weekend, and his owners the same.

      START – Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

      Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Oakland Raiders – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

      Mike Evans comes into Week 8 as the Buccaneers only consistent passing target and the fifth best fantasy football receiver as we near the half way mark of the NFL Season.

      The Raiders defense was built to wreak havoc on opponents with Khalil Mack and Bruce Irvin causing pressure and Sean Smith patrolling the secondary looking for turnover opportunities.

      Quite the opposite has occurred though, as receivers are tallying 26.5 points per week on average.

      Evans has five games of over 70-yards receiving and has a touchdown catch in all but one of Tampa Bay’s contests.

      Even without Vincent Jackson on the field to demand attention from the defense Evans turned in 96-yards last Sunday and two touchdowns to help lead his team to a victory in San Francisco.

      In a game which looks like a high scoring affair, look for Evans to grab more touchdowns and another 100+ yard performance.

      START – Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals

      Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

      Larry Fitzgerald just seems like a man who could play his whole life if he wanted to.

      Through seven games this year the 33-year old has 46 catches for 480-yards receiving with five touchdowns.

      He’s caught no fewer than five passes in any game, has only been held under 50-yards in one, and has at least one 20-yard reception in three.

      The Carolina Panthers meanwhile, have allowed five touchdown receptions in the last three games and over 500-yards to each teams’ primary receivers combined.

      With John Brown and Michael Floyd banged up, and Jaron Brown on the IR, you can believe Fitzgerald’s targets will go up before they ever go down.

      With veteran savvy and a vulnerable secondary, Fitz as they call him will certainly will have his opportunity for a big game in Week 8.

      Oct 23, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Indianapolis Colts receiver T.Y. Hilton (13) celebrates after a win against the Tennessee Titans at Nissan Stadium. The Colts won 34-26. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

      SLEEPER – T.Y. Hilton, Indianapolis Colts

      Indianapolis Colts vs Kansas City Chiefs – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

      T.Y. Hilton is fantasy football’s fourth leading receiver to the half-way point, and comes into a Week 8 match-up against the Kansas City Chiefs who are the eighth friendliest defense to face as a wide receiver.

      The Chiefs have allowed a receiver to go over 70-yards in each game but one against the New York Jets.

      The Jets are also the last offense to not get a touchdown pass to one of their receivers against this team an one of just two not to take advantage of their opportunity.

      As Andrew Luck’s primary – and really his only – target, Hilton figures to play a big role and move around regularly as they look to take advantage of mismatches all day long.

      SIT – Jeremy Maclin, Kansas City Chiefs

      Kansas City Chiefs @ Indianapolis Colts – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

      The Colts aren’t exactly known for their defense, but surprisingly enough they’re one of the best when it comes to stopping opponents from racking up fantasy football points at the receiver position.

      Only Cameron Meredith has over 100-yards against them, and just three have touchdown scores, including two in one game.

      Jeremy Maclin not only doesn’t have a 100-yard game this year, he hasn’t even gone over 80, while passing the 70-yard mark just once. He also has just one touchdown catch coming in their Week 1 game against the Chargers.

      Meanwhile, Spencer Ware has taken center stage as the Chiefs best offensive weapon and Tyreek Hill seems poised to gain more attention from Alex Smith as the season moves forward.

      Maclin simply isn’t what he used to be, and what he seemed on his way to becoming.

      Oct 23, 2016; Cincinnati, OH, USA; Cleveland Browns tight end Gary Barnidge (82) is tackled by Cincinnati Bengals free safety George Iloka (43) in the first half at Paul Brown Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports

      SLEEPER – Gary Barnidge, Cleveland Browns

      Cleveland Browns vs New York Jets – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 AM EST

      Gary Barnidge hasn’t been quite the fantasy football stud he was a year ago, but his production has been pretty consistent.

      Averaging 4.3 catches per game and 51.5 yards, his stat line each game has been just around that total.

      The biggest hole in his statistical data has been in the TD column as he’s recorded zero touchdowns to date.

      This week however, Josh McCown is getting the start for Cleveland and should serve to increase Barnidge’s production as he looks to find the Browns’ first win of the year.

      Last season with McCown under center Barnidge averaged 65.2 yards per game and nearly five catches along with nine touchdown catches in 2015.

      Now, with the veteran quarterback under center once again, Barnidge should get targeted early and often as the Browns try to take down the Jets.

      SIT – Coby Fleener, New Orleans Saints

      New Orleans Saints vs Seattle Seahawks – Sunday, October 30th @ 1:00 PM EST

      Since starting the year with three catches for 35-yards in their first two contests, Saints tight end Coby Fleener has seen an uptick in his production as of late.

      Specifically, the first year member of the New Orleans roster has no fewer than 44-yards in three of his teams last four games and has found the end zone twice in the same span.

      These performances have moved him into the Top-12 among tight ends in the NFL when it comes to fantasy football scoring, but this week he’s going on the bench against a tough Seattle defense.

      The Seahawks have brought their usual brand of tough defense forcing teams to fight, claw, and even beg sometimes for precious few scoring opportunities.

      While Fleener’s participation in the Saints offense has increased over the past few weeks, this week he faces more than just being new to the team.

      START – Jordan Reed, Washington Redskins

      Washington Redskins @ Cincinnati Bengals – Sunday, October 30th @ 9:30 PM EST

      If Jordan Reed is playing then he’s one of the best tight ends in the league – if not the best.

      He was cleared Thursday to travel with the Redskins to London as they take on the Cincinnati Bengals across the pond.

      Reed hasn’t played since Week 5 when he had eight catches for 52-yards and suffered a concussion against the Baltimore Ravens.

      Before then he had compiled 33 catches for 316-yards and two touchdown catches, and was on his way to a pretty good season.

      Keep an eye on the early injury reports and updates from London if you insert Reed into your lineup.

      If he plays, he’s going up against a good defense, but one which has surrendered over 250-yards to tight ends in the last two weeks.

      Oct 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson (21) reacts to fans during the second half against the New York Jets at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

       

      START – Arizona Cardinals D/ST

      Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers – Sunday, October 31st @ 1:00 PM EST

      The Carolina Panthers offense has been about as inept as they come so far, and even coming out of the bye week I don’t believe they’re going to have an answer.

      As long as Cam Newton insists on doing everything himself, defenses are going to continue getting in his face, and the young frustrated star will continue making mistakes.

      Despite having the week off last week, Carolina is still second in the NFL with 10 interceptions thrown. Arizona currently sits second with nine passes picked off by their own defense, making this a recipe for disaster considering the Panthers’ style of play.

      As far as the running game is concerned, the Cardinals have shown they’re a strong run defense holding opponents to under 100-yards per game and giving up just six rushing touchdowns on the year.

      This unit has also forced five fumbles on the season, ranking them fifth among all 32 NFL defenses.

      Carolina has an opportunity to get back to winning, but there’s much more pressure on them to perform, and offenses under pressure don’t typically fare well against this defense.

      SLEEPER – New England Patriots D/ST

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        New England Patriots @ Buffalo Bills – Sunday, October 30th @ 4:05 PM EST

        The Buffalo Bills have been a hard out all season long and LeSean McCoy’s great play has helped get this team off to a 4-3 start heading into their eighth game of the year, and second against the New England Patriots.

        This game looks to be much different than the first though, as Marquise Goodson is out with a concussion and McCoy himself is listed as doubtful with a hamstring injury.

        Without those two weapons to help quarterback Tyrod Taylor navigate the field, the Patriots defense is going to have significantly less to worry about going up against the Buffalo offense.

        The game may be in northwest New York, but the Pats should find plenty of friendly play if these two playmakers don’t suit up for the Bills.

        SIT – Philadelphia Eagles D/ST

        Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas Cowboys – Sunday, October 31st @ 8:30 PM EST

        The Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys go head-to-head with two rookie quarterbacks leading their teams onto the field.

        Dak Prescott and Carson Wentz may not feel like an NFC East marquee match-up, but this game will have a big impact on who wins a division stacked with every team over .500 nearing the midway point.

        The Eagles defense has been one of the better units this year, but in this game the offense will need to pick up their own production a bit as the Cowboys offense will look to put up points in bunches.

        With Ezekiel Elliott leading the NFL in rushing as a rookie, the Philadelphia front-seven will have their hands full trying to stop the former Buckeye as he looks for his fifth straight 100+ yard performance.

        When the Eagles stack the box to stop Zeke, Prescott will look to take advantage of open coverage zones and pass the Dallas offense down the field.

        Whomever wins this game, there will be points scored, and because of this neither defense will be very high on fantasy football boards this weekend.

        Oct 23, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) throws a pass against the Seattle Seahawks in the first half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

         

        Let’s Recap our selections for this weekends’ match-ups…

        START:

        October 23, 2016; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Mike Evans (13) catches a pass against San Francisco 49ers cornerback Keith Reaser (27) during the fourth quarter at Levi’s Stadium. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers defeated the San Francisco 49ers 34-17. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports

        QB, Carson Palmer, Arizona Cardinals

        QB, Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers

        RB, Christine Michael, Seattle Seahawks

        RB, Spencer Ware, Kansas City Chiefs

        WR, Larry Fitzgerald, Arizona Cardinals

        WR, Mike Evans, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

        TE, Jordan Reed, Washington Redskins

        D/ST, Arizona Cardinals D/ST

                                                                                     SIT:

        Oct 2, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Chicago Bears running back Jordan Howard (24) hauls in a pass while being defended by Detroit Lions defensive tackle Haloti Ngata (92) during the second half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

        QB, Philip Rivers, San Diego Chargers

        QB, Matthew Stafford, Detroit Lions

        RB, Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers

        RB, Jordan Howard, Chicago Bears

        WR, Jamison Crowder, Washington Redskins

        WR, Jeremy Maclin, Kansas City Chiefs

        TE, Coby Fleener, New Orleans Saints

        D/ST, Philadelphia Eagles D/ST

        SLEEPERS:

        Sep 18, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) celebrates against the Green Bay Packers at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Packers 17-14. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

        QB, Brock Osweiler, Houston Texans

        QB, Ryan Fitzpatrick, New York Jets

        RB, Matt Forte, New York Jets

        RB, Devontae Booker, Denver Broncos

        WR, Stefon Diggs, Minnesota Vikings

        WR, T.Y. Hilton, Indianapolis Colts

        TE, Gary Barnidge, Cleveland Browns

        D/ST, New England Patriots D/ST

        Next: DAILY LINEUP

        Oct 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald (11) reacts during the second half against the New York Jets at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

        DAILY LINEUP 

        Playing daily fantasy football games are not as simple as plug and play. It’s a delicate balance of fiscal responsibility and talent management. Here we provide a couple options which should prove affordable and full of possibilities.

        The Pewter Projection

        Your weekly lineup provided by the analysis and projections The Pewter Plank brings you every week.

        QB – Aaron Rodgers @ Atlanta Falcons

        RB – Devontae Booker vs San Diego Chargers

        RB – Christine Michael @ New Orleans Saints

        WR – T.Y. Hilton vs Kansas City Chiefs

        WR – Larry Fitzgerald @ Carolina Panthers

        WR – Mike Evans vs Oakland Raiders

        TE – Gary Barnidge vs New York Jets

        K – Adam Vinatieri vs Kansas City Chiefs

        D/ST – Arizona Cardinals D/ST @ Carolina Panthers

        Oct 27, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Blake Bortles (5) passes against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

        So there we have it. Week 8 NFL action already has one game in the books as the Tennessee Titans defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars on Thursday Night.

        Send your questions, comments and individual analysis to our official Twitter feed, to any of our contributors or experts. We can’t get to them all of course, but we’ll get to as many as we can each week.

        Which of our starters will hit pay-dirt for your fantasy football team, which of our sits will bust through the doubt and put up top numbers anyway, and which of our sleepers will give a burst to your daily fantasy lineups? Come back next week to see our recap and get your Week 9 insight and advice!

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