The⁢ game environment serves as the essential backdrop for making decisions‍ about fantasy football lineups. Therefore, I will categorize each⁣ game on the slate into‌ three segments: Binge, ‌Stream, and Skip.

Games you want to “binge” are ⁣akin ‌to a must-see ⁣series; ‍you tune in right when‌ it starts and ⁣may end up watching ‍all the episodes​ in a single weekend. These games ‍are the ones where you should ⁣start all your ⁣key players, featuring storylines that could define the season.

“Streaming” games resemble ⁤those shows you definitely watch from beginning to end, but you might take your time to ⁣get through them. These games may not have numerous “must-start” players, yet​ they present‌ opportunities to selectively choose players who could impact the NFL playoff landscape.

the “skip”⁢ games​ are those ‍that you’re considering passing up, though you might occasionally watch an episode⁣ (or opt for reading online recaps to keep up with‌ popular ‌culture). While there may be one or two surprising standout players in ⁤these matchups, they generally do not provide the best fantasy football setting.

Let’s jump into my ‍Week 8 Fantasy Football Viewer’s Guide.

BINGE

Chicago Bears at ‍Washington Commanders

Analyzing​ this game without knowledge of whether⁢ Jayden Daniels will play for the Washington Commanders proves challenging. He participated in practice on Friday and ‍may be ⁢available‌ despite ⁣a rib injury sustained in Week 7.

Fans are eager to witness a showdown ⁤between the first and second overall picks; however, Washington may benefit‌ from adopting a long-term perspective at this stage. This team could still win a weaker NFC East, even if they lose this ⁤game.

Additionally, it’s worth noting how ⁢effectively Marcus Mariota​ performed in relief duty last week. ⁣Although it was ​against the struggling Panthers, Mariota and the ‌Commanders thoroughly dominated ⁣that⁤ defense ⁤throughout the game. With a passer rating‍ of 132.8, the veteran’s performance marked the​ eighth-best of his‌ career,⁤ and he contributed 34 rushing yards. It was his most⁢ impressive ⁢game in years.

The‍ narrative surrounding this matchup ⁣shifts significantly if Mariota is the starting quarterback, yet ‌his presence wouldn’t dissuade me from starting main fantasy players in Washington, such as Brian Robinson Jr. and Terry McLaurin.

On the flip side, the Bears are coming off their bye week, and they should feel⁢ optimistic⁢ about their offense. Chicago’s ‌“sink or swim” approach with Caleb Williams is beginning to show positive results.

According to Next Gen Stats, Williams⁤ has recorded a +29.4​ EPA on ‌in-breaking routes (including In, Slant, Post, Angle, ⁣and Crossing routes), ranking him third among quarterbacks this season. Furthermore, his 10.8 ‌yards⁤ per⁤ attempt is the highest among rookies since 2018. He is exhibiting an elite​ level of quarterback play with impressive throws over the middle. His accuracy was ⁤particularly evident during the⁤ Week 6 matchup against⁤ Jacksonville.

Williams has an ⁢excellent understanding of this offense, and credit goes to Shane Waldron for streamlining its execution. In Weeks 5 and 6, only DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, Rome Odunze, and⁣ Cole Kmet ran routes on over 50% of⁢ the team’s dropbacks, according to Fantasy Points Data. No other⁤ wide receiver ⁣participated in these two games. D’Andre Swift had a route participation rate of 49.3% and was primarily used on screens instead of ill-suited option routes. ⁤Depth tight ends Gerald Everett and Marcedes Lewis collectively⁣ ran just 18 routes. The ⁣three wideouts and Kmet are the only significant options at receiver and tight end.

This scenario⁢ presents challenges for fantasy players.⁣ While all these individuals are⁣ talented and Swift will receive designed touches, no ‌player is guaranteed‍ consistent target opportunities. However, this setup‍ could foster​ a‌ dynamic​ passing game overall. ⁤I ‍anticipate a post-bye bump for rookie Odunze, given his impressive film, but ⁣it’s challenging to project⁢ him for​ eight to ten targets per game unless another player’s role ‌is diminished.

Atlanta Falcons at Tampa‌ Bay Buccaneers

During their‌ last encounter, these ⁣two teams provided an exhilarating ⁣Thursday Night Football shootout, and we can expect a similar⁢ outcome.‌ However, injuries ⁢within the Buccaneers’ wide receiver group complicate the​ situation.

There isn’t a direct ⁢replacement for ⁣Chris Godwin; his absence significantly impacts the offense.‌ This was especially evident when Mike Evans exited with⁢ a hamstring injury against the Ravens, causing the entire field to shrink. ‍Nonetheless, given the quality of this well-structured offense ⁣and a‍ quarterback performing at a⁢ high level, ⁣we must evaluate the potential roles of the remaining players.

As mentioned in ​the video,‌ my intuition is that Sterling Shepard will take over ⁢the slot⁤ position as the most dependable option among the revamped receiving corps. He would likely be my top⁤ pick for targets⁢ among the wideouts. However, the real beneficiary may be‌ Cade Otton, ‌who leads ⁤the team in screen targets and​ is a full-time player among wide receivers⁤ and tight ends. He may even find ‌himself ranked ⁢among⁣ the top-12 tight ends for the remainder of the season. Rachaad White is another option who should see​ an‌ uptick in volume this week, particularly in the absence of Bucky Irving.

On the ‌Falcons’ side, they are well-equipped to exploit ⁢the Bucs’ defense once again. Todd Bowles’ zone and blitz-heavy scheme is particularly‍ susceptible⁣ to an‌ experienced quarterback like Kirk ‍Cousins, who has faced similar schemes⁢ before. This was evident earlier in the season, and there is no⁢ indication that this will change now.

Drake London has achieved a first ⁢down on 11% of‌ his ​first ​downs this season, based on‍ TruMedia data. While he ⁣predominantly operates in zone coverage over the middle, ‌he has been targeted‌ on 30.4% of his routes against man coverage. As ⁢a versatile receiver, he ranks⁣ among‌ the top five fantasy plays available ‌this week.

The ​outcome⁣ of this game will significantly⁣ impact the race for the NFC South ‍title. Given the critical roles of‍ Godwin and Evans,⁤ one must ponder whether the Buccaneers can endure ​without them. A ⁣victory over ‌the Falcons would restore ⁢confidence—if it has been shaken by their absence.

STREAM

Buffalo Bills at‌ Seattle Seahawks

Most important Bills storyline: Amari⁤ Cooper ⁤participated ⁣in‌ only 12 ⁢dropbacks⁢ during his first game ⁤with the Bills,​ yet he was ⁣prioritized when on the field. Josh ‌Allen targeted him on 42% of those passing plays, ⁣averaging 5.5 yards per route run. If this trend continues,⁤ he‍ should establish himself as the clear​ No. 1 option on​ this ⁣team. The ⁣Bills are⁣ expected to continue leveraging his abilities.

While Cooper’s target share is projected to be 23% or higher, he is undeniably positioned ​as a WR2 at minimum, boasting a significant weekly⁢ upside.

Most important Seahawks storyline: Is⁢ this the moment for Jaxon Smith-Njigba? The 2023 Round 1 selection for ​the Seahawks ‌hasn’t performed poorly,⁢ but⁢ in my ‍view, he has only been adequate. Seattle will require ​more than that. Should DK Metcalf ‌not be‍ at full ‍capacity, we ‍can ⁣expect⁣ JSN to see a substantial increase in opportunities, given the extensive use of ⁣the receiver corps‌ in this offense.

A receiver like Smith-Njigba, ⁤who has‍ a sub-9.0 aDOT, requires a ‍high ‍volume of targets to ⁢become a true fantasy standout. ​Targets further down​ the field would enhance his margin for error.⁢ Analyzing his routes, I believe he can excel in the intermediate range. ​If he doesn’t receive more of these opportunities while Metcalf is limited⁢ or out, it becomes clear that the coaching staff sees things differently.

This⁣ situation should be the perfect opportunity for JSN, yet it hasn’t materialized​ so far.

Indianapolis Colts at Houston Texans

Most important Colts storyline: We witnessed a transformed Colts offense compared to the early season. ​In Weeks 1 and 2, Anthony Richardson had minimal designed ‍runs, but this changed dramatically in Week 7.

The Colts need to implement strategies to⁤ help⁣ Richardson regain his⁢ composure. He is currently playing⁤ too hastily, which exacerbates his already‍ unpredictable accuracy.⁤ One method to ‌calm his play‌ is to eliminate RPOs, allowing him ​a mental respite, while increasing designed ​rushing attempts will enhance overall offensive efficacy. Positive down-and-distance situations ‍are essential.

Reducing some of the pressure on Richardson to advance the ball as aggressively as he did in the ​early ⁤weeks ‍could be beneficial. While there’s no guarantee​ of success, this strategy might contribute to a ⁣solution.

Most important Texans storyline: The ⁣Texans’ offensive line presents concerns. In Week 7 against the Packers, Houston had⁤ significant trouble with blitzes and ‌stunts. This isn’t to undermine Green ⁣Bay’s ​defensive ⁤strategy, ‍which I​ found ​rather basic. My main worry lies with how Houston is approaching their offensive line play. If⁢ this protection issue ‌remains unaddressed, it⁤ will create continuous obstacles preventing Houston from maximizing ‌its potential as a passing‍ team.

Philadelphia Eagles at Cincinnati Bengals

Most important Eagles ‌storyline: The Eagles rank 30th in neutral pass rate over the past two weeks, and⁢ this makes perfect sense. Given Saquon ‌Barkley’s performance, the offensive line’s effectiveness, and the limitations within the ⁢passing game, it’s ‍reasonable to focus more on the run.

This shift has created a volume squeeze in the passing game, and currently, A.J. Brown is ‌dominating the opportunities. In his three games this season, Brown has accounted for 56.3% of the⁣ air yards⁢ and 31.1% of the targets,‌ making him the​ highest-scoring ⁣wide receiver in this span. If this trend‍ continues, DeVonta Smith may experience inconsistency‌ as‌ a WR2. He’s undoubtedly a talented player who will have standout weeks, but⁣ Brown ‌is operating at an elite level,⁢ outpacing nearly every⁣ wideout in the league.

Most important Bengals storyline: Over the last two weeks, ⁢the Bengals’⁢ offense has ⁣managed just ⁢38 points and averaged 173.5 net passing yards per​ game. After nearly securing a victory in a high-scoring overtime match against the Ravens in Week 5, ⁣it seemed this unit ⁣was finding its rhythm, but the follow-up performance ‍has been lackluster. While this matchup appears to have the potential for a‍ high-scoring affair, the Bengals’ inconsistency combined with the Eagles’ run-heavy approach could result in less fantasy production than the high-profile players suggest. Although you’ll still start⁢ the key figures in this​ offense, we have yet ⁣to⁢ see a game​ where both Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins⁢ have ⁤truly excelled ⁢together. Higgins ⁤is currently questionable ‌due⁢ to a new quad injury​ reported on Friday.

Baltimore Ravens at Cleveland Browns

Most important‍ Ravens storyline: The Ravens ⁤boast the ⁤most formidable offense in the league. Derrick ‌Henry ⁤leads the NFL with 873 ⁤rushing yards,⁢ while Lamar ‍Jackson ⁣is on⁤ track for⁢ his third MVP award. Additionally, both Zay ​Flowers and⁤ Rashod Bateman rank ​among‌ the top-24 fantasy receivers. Although there may be some inconsistency ​with these receivers,‍ their presence elevates⁤ the offense’s potential.

Mark Andrews is also starting to re-establish ​his role‍ within ‍the offense.⁤ While he hasn’t participated in every route nor has he been heavily targeted in any single game,‌ he⁣ remains a key figure in the red zone. Although he may not be the vintage Mark Andrews we once‌ revered, he’s regained enough trust to be‍ considered a TE1 in‍ fantasy. Being part of this ⁣ offense⁤ certainly boosts his value.

Most important Browns storyline: Following the Amari Cooper trade, Cedric Tillman⁢ and David Njoku have ⁢seen significant volume increases. Tillman has taken on the X-receiver role​ that​ Cooper left behind, leading the team⁣ with ​a remarkable ⁤36.7% share of air yards ⁤on 12 targets. He appears to be the most promising option moving forward, resembling a Courtland Sutton-style X-receiver. Nevertheless, Jerry Jeudy and Elijah Moore will still ⁢play important⁤ roles, even as Tillman holds more untapped potential. Njoku,‌ on the‌ other ‌hand, topped the team with 14‍ targets, garnering the⁢ majority of⁤ designed opportunities in space.‍ With ⁢Jameis Winston now at the ⁢helm, Njoku may be poised for a resurgence akin to the late surge⁣ seen ⁤with Joe Flacco last year,⁣ where he was one of the⁣ most productive tight ends.

Arizona Cardinals at Miami Dolphins

Most important Cardinals storyline: ‍ The reason behind Marvin Harrison Jr.’s​ inconsistent production: coaching, Kyler Murray’s⁤ subpar performance,⁣ or rookie struggles?

Yes!

We’re experiencing a scenario‌ where “all things hold​ true” concerning the fourth overall pick.

Despite the challenges, I ⁤still believe Harrison will‌ develop into an exceptional wide receiver. He excels⁢ at separating on​ over-the-middle routes against man coverage; however, he is ⁢not utilized enough in those situations. ‍The role he occupies offers little room for error, and combined with inconsistent play from both himself and his quarterback, this‌ has eliminated any potential for ​consistent production. While Harrison can maintain fantasy starter status due to the likelihood of occasional standout weeks, we can no longer expect steady results.

Most important Dolphins storyline: Tua​ Tagovailoa is slated to return in Week 8. The offense ​has ⁤significantly faltered during his⁣ absence, raising concerns.

Will his‌ mere return restore their standing in the circle of​ trust?

In‌ theory, Mike McDaniel and the‌ coaching staff have kept the offensive structure unchanged,‍ even while utilizing backup quarterbacks with divergent play styles. This isn’t⁤ necessarily a strong endorsement of McDaniel’s prowess ‌as an offensive designer. However, it​ should facilitate the integration ⁤of Tagovailoa back into⁤ the lineup. Keep in mind, though, that this unit ranked‍ in the bottom half for success rates in Week 1 and was overwhelmed in Week 2. There may be deeper issues in Miami that extend beyond Tua’s return.

Green Bay Packers at Jacksonville Jaguars

Most ⁤important⁣ Packers storyline: It’s crucial for the fantasy community to reassess the Packers’ ‌wide receiver situation. ‍Romeo Doubs and⁤ Jayden Reed⁤ have emerged as the ⁢clear leading⁣ receivers, with the former deserving greater acknowledgment.

Doubs plays ​a pivotal‌ role in this offense. As⁢ the top choice for the X-receiver‌ position, he efficiently creates space for his teammates underneath and has also evolved into a reliable target in the ⁢middle of the ​field. While he ⁢faced challenges ⁢with drops ‍during his rookie ‍year, he ‍now arguably possesses the most⁢ dependable hands on the ⁤team. Doubs brings a level of toughness and the ability to handle contact ‍at⁢ the catch point that ⁢some peers, like Christian Watson and⁣ Dontayvion Wicks, may lack. This is why Doubs is ⁢likely to continue⁢ leading⁢ this group in snap counts.

Most important Jaguars storyline: Tank⁤ Bigsby had⁣ a⁢ standout performance last week under excellent​ conditions. The Jaguars committed to the running game, even while facing a minor deficit at the outset. ​It has become clear ‍that ‍Bigsby⁣ can be sidelined in ⁣trailing scenarios, even in the⁢ absence of Travis Etienne Jr. This fact raises concerns⁢ this⁤ week against a formidable‍ Packers offense. Additionally, Green Bay’s defense has improved⁢ at defending against explosive rushing plays this season,‌ currently sitting at ‍seventh in EPA⁤ per⁢ rush ​allowed. Despite this, Bigsby remains a top-24 running ⁣back, which ​means he can still fit into your fantasy lineup, but it’s vital to keep the potential for volatility in mind.

Dallas Cowboys at San Francisco 49ers

Most important ⁣Cowboys storyline: The Cowboys needed a bye week, even if their⁣ owner kept them in the public eye with various statements. The coaching staff benefited from this pause to ‍evaluate ‍necessary changes throughout the roster. Although the Mike McCarthy era has had ‍its shortcomings, they have ⁢generally‌ fared well after the‌ bye ⁤week.

Dallas must reassess its ‍passing strategies, particularly​ regarding how CeeDee Lamb⁤ is utilized. There⁢ have been few ​straightforward, ⁢easy slant routes for Lamb, which⁣ were routine last ⁣season. ⁣It’s ⁣also worth considering if, coming out ‌of the bye‍ week, ⁤they will increase Rico Dowdle’s​ workload as the starting running back.‍ The victory over Pittsburgh was ⁣unremarkable due to⁤ turnovers, yet it felt ⁤like one of those games ⁤where ⁣the‍ offense operated at a solid pace. In‍ that⁤ game, ‍Dowdle was⁢ prominently featured,⁤ while⁢ Lamb ​was repositioned to create opportunities for Jalen Tolbert.

Most important 49ers storyline: The 49ers’ wide receiver group is⁤ experiencing changes, particularly with ‍Brandon Aiyuk now on

IR and Deebo Samuel are‌ both coming ⁢off a hospital stint. Jauan Jennings has stepped‌ up with significant contributions⁤ this year during his time on the field, yet he is currently dealing with a hip injury and has been declared‍ out for this ‍matchup.

This situation ​likely places a heavy workload on rookie Ricky Pearsall, who is expected ⁤to take many snaps.

In his inaugural NFL game, Pearsall was the‍ leader among receivers in routes run, a development that definitely wasn’t anticipated‌ following his lengthy ⁢recovery after being shot in August. ​The⁣ 49ers envision Pearsall as a versatile option route runner in ​the slot as well as ‌a formidable outside man-beater, but he is still in ⁢the process of finding his​ rhythm. While his time might not​ be immediately at hand, ⁢it is on the horizon. Considering the injuries​ within the⁤ receiving corps and a⁣ lackluster Dallas ⁤defense, this ‌seems like an opportune game‍ to hand Jordan Mason the ball ⁢more than 20 times.

New York Giants at Pittsburgh ‌Steelers

Key Giants‍ storyline: ⁤ During Weeks 1-6, Daniel Jones faced pressure on 36% of his dropbacks according to PFF, resulting in a mere 4.1 yards per attempt. With Andrew Thomas back to⁣ provide support, Jones enjoyed a solid 16.7%​ pressure-to-sack ratio. However, this changed dramatically last week when he encountered pressure on‍ 47% of ‍his dropbacks ‍against the Eagles, who were without Thomas. While Jones managed to ​maintain ​a similar 4.2 YPA, he ⁣was sacked on 50% of his pressured​ attempts. Jones is capable ⁣of managing a functional offense, but when he is under pressure and loses trust in his protection, the entire operation collapses.

All quarterbacks⁣ tend‍ to ​struggle when pressured, but ‍Jones is particularly vulnerable. Next Gen Stats ⁤revealed that the Eagles defense achieved all their⁤ sacks with just a‍ four-man rush, boasting the highest ‌sack rate ⁢(21.6%) with such a rush in a game this season. I worry that a declining offensive ⁤line may⁤ hinder what has otherwise been⁤ a respectable season for Jones, potentially bringing down all skill-position players along with it.

Key Steelers storyline: Russell Wilson has noticeably upgraded the ⁢Steelers’ quarterback role due to his proficiency with play-action⁢ passes.

Wilson​ showcases a distinct “veteran-ness” in his execution of play-fakes. He skillfully sells them⁣ while making swift decisions—either launching the ball or opting for a check-down—once ⁤he turns back to face the defense. There is an artistry⁣ to⁢ that.

Critics may argue⁤ that many ⁣of the successful ‍play-action attempts were merely long throws to George Pickens, with ‌the receiver doing most of ‌the heavy ⁢lifting at the point of catch. Nonetheless, this is exactly why having George Pickens on‍ your roster is valuable. He can track ⁣those deep,⁣ arcing passes that Wilson favors, giving him the⁣ opportunity to excel downfield.

SKIP

Tennessee‍ Titans at Detroit Lions

One⁣ reason to maybe ⁢watch: ⁢ Jameson Williams will be sidelined for⁣ the next two games due to ‍a suspension ‌for performance-enhancing substances. With Williams⁣ out, could this mean⁤ an increased workload for ​Sam LaPorta?‌ As a rookie, LaPorta participated in 70.8% of routes during dropbacks and‌ was targeted on 26% of them, according to Fantasy Points Data. Currently, his route participation has dipped to⁢ 66.2% ⁢and he’s seeing targets⁤ on​ just ​11% of ⁣his routes. The noteworthy change ‍in the ‍passing strategy is Williams stepping up​ as a primary ‍target, contributing to a more vertically oriented offense. LaPorta’s situation hasn’t shifted; ⁤it’s merely the circumstances surrounding him that have changed. At least, that’s my​ perspective. If he remains involved at a ⁣similar level, we might ​have a different topic⁤ for discussion.

New York Jets at New England Patriots

One reason to maybe watch: We continue to monitor the Drake Maye journey in New England. The‍ rookie quarterback has ​achieved a completion rate of 66% over the ‍past two weeks, averaging 7.4 yards per attempt. He has faced ‍pressure ‌but ⁢remains poised, delivering passes downfield ‌effectively. The game seems​ manageable for⁣ him, and any assertion that he was years away​ from being⁢ a competent professional appears misplaced. Despite his best receiver, DeMario Douglas, missing significant time ⁢due to illness, Maye performed well against Jacksonville. A‍ fit⁢ Douglas would certainly enhance his ⁣performance​ against a formidable Jets pass defense. As Sal Vetri noted on​ the Yahoo Fantasy Forecast, ⁣Maye could serve⁣ as a viable ⁢option for ⁢those who​ drafted ‌an underwhelming QB1 ‌this season.

Carolina Panthers at Denver Broncos

One reason to maybe watch: Javonte Williams demonstrated the second-best success rate among running backs‍ with over ten carries last week ⁣and ⁢shared fourth place with Aaron‍ Jones ‌for‍ the percentage ⁢of carries⁤ resulting in‍ ten or more yards (21.4%). He has⁤ been performing well ⁣as a runner, and the Broncos’ ground​ game has noticeably⁤ improved ‍with him taking on the‌ lead role. Additionally, Williams ranks third among running⁢ backs in targets this year. While he may not reach RB1 status, he possesses a strong fantasy profile. With ⁢a game against the Panthers approaching, ⁢this is an ⁣opportune moment to include​ him⁣ in lineups.

Kansas City Chiefs at Las Vegas Raiders

One ⁤reason to maybe watch: The Chiefs have acquired DeAndre Hopkins, and ‌it appears he might ‌play this week. Andy Reid noted that Hopkins’⁤ understanding of ⁣spatial dynamics was a significant factor⁤ in his fit with the offense.

awareness of space has ⁣emerged as a significant selling point for ⁤his integration ‌into the offense, indicating the roles that JuJu Smith-Schuster and Rashee ​Rice fulfilled this season. This suggests that Hopkins is likely to take on responsibilities as a power slot receiver. Simultaneously, he ⁤remains a favorable matchup as an X-receiver, capable ⁣of winning jump balls on the⁢ outside.

Regardless,‌ Hopkins has ⁣various opportunities to make an early impact on the​ field. His high football IQ allows ​him to⁤ excel on quick routes and to be in the optimal ⁤positions. This⁢ skill set is not‍ commonly‌ found among the other wide receivers on the Chiefs.

New Orleans Saints at Los Angeles⁣ Chargers

One reason to‌ maybe watch: It⁤ appears the ‍Saints are set​ to⁤ welcome⁣ back some key players shortly.

Reintroducing No. 1 ‌wide receiver‌ Chris Olave⁣ into⁣ the lineup will be immensely beneficial, especially since​ big-play threat Rashid Shaheed⁣ is currently on⁤ IR. Olave has had limited playtime with Spencer⁤ Rattler, and his ability to consistently⁤ create separation will be ​essential as they⁤ work to support the​ rookie quarterback.

The return of a healthier offensive ‍line could prove to be even more ‌significant. Initially, we were​ thrilled by the ​potential for deep play-action passes and motion at ‍the beginning ​of the season, but those strategies relied heavily on an effective ⁢zone-running scheme. If Alvin Kamara ⁣finds his rhythm once more, it will create numerous opportunities for the passing game.