Fantasy Football Week 9: Start 'Em Or Sit 'Em?

Hey fantasy football fanatics! Week 9 is upon us, and you know what that means: tough decisions, nail-biting moments, and the eternal question of who to start and who to sit. Don't sweat it, because we're diving deep to dissect the key matchups, analyze player performances, and give you the lowdown on the players you need to have in your starting lineup and those who might be better off on your bench. We'll explore the start sit week 9 scenarios, providing you with the insights necessary to dominate your fantasy league. Get ready to make some game-winning calls, guys!

Quarterbacks: Gunslingers and Gamble

The Must-Starts

Let's kick things off by highlighting some quarterbacks you absolutely need to have in your starting lineup this week. These are the guys with favorable matchups, high floors, and the potential to explode for huge fantasy numbers. Firstly, consider Patrick Mahomes. He's facing a defense that's been generous to opposing quarterbacks. With his arm talent and a plethora of weapons, Mahomes is primed for a massive performance. Expect a high-scoring affair with plenty of passing touchdowns. Another top-tier start is Josh Allen. Allen's dual-threat ability makes him a fantasy goldmine. He's got a great matchup this week, and his rushing ability gives him a safe floor, making him a must-start every single week. Lastly, Jalen Hurts should be in your starting lineup. Hurts is a fantasy juggernaut due to his rushing touchdowns. His dual-threat capabilities combined with his offensive line are a recipe for success. Expect Hurts to have a dominant game.

The Risky Starts

Now, let's look at some quarterbacks who present a bit more risk. These players might have enticing matchups, but factors like injury concerns, inconsistent play, or tough defensive opponents could make them a gamble. For instance, Justin Fields is an interesting case. While his rushing upside is undeniable, his passing accuracy can be a liability. If he's healthy and the matchup is right, he could deliver. But proceed with caution. Trevor Lawrence is another name to keep an eye on. He's been improving, but the matchup is tough. Consider the overall value of his opponent defense before committing to starting him. Lastly, consider Brock Purdy if you have him. Purdy will play a team that he is used to playing against. His familiarity with his receivers and the 49ers' offensive scheme make him a potential value play, but there is always a chance of him underperforming. Evaluate your other options and make a decision based on the safety and value you are looking for.

The Bench Warmers

On the other side of the coin, there are some quarterbacks you should consider sitting this week. Some quarterbacks are playing against tough defenses. The risk of turnovers, low scoring potential, and overall struggles are high. The main sit is Deshaun Watson. Watson is playing against a tough defensive opponent. Watson has had issues with his performance, causing him to be a sit in week 9. Another player to consider benching is Bryce Young. Young has been struggling. Consider the matchup and the other potential starting players before starting him. Consider the overall value and make the best decision for your team.

Running Backs: The Ground and Pound

The Must-Starts

Running back decisions are often the most crucial in fantasy football. Let's look at some RBs you should definitely be starting in Week 9. First off, Christian McCaffrey is an absolute lock. His receiving ability gives him a ridiculously high floor, making him a must-start every week. Austin Ekeler is another must-start, assuming he's healthy. He's a receiving threat, giving him plenty of fantasy value. Saquon Barkley also falls into this category. He's a workhorse back with a knack for finding the endzone. Keep a close eye on his health, but if he's playing, start him!

The Risky Starts

Now, let's explore some running backs who present some risk. These players may have favorable matchups, but factors like injury concerns, inconsistent play, or uncertain workloads could make them a gamble. Consider starting Najee Harris. He has had a good history against his opponent. Another player to consider is Kenneth Walker III. Walker's performance is dependant on his injuries. If he is healthy, he is a start, if not, he is a sit. Make sure you know if he is playing before starting him. Isiah Pacheco is another player that may or may not start. He is not a great start and can be risky. Only start him if you do not have any other options.

The Bench Warmers

Conversely, some running backs should be benched this week. Dameon Pierce is a sit, his offensive scheme is not good, making him a low floor. Another player to consider sitting is Alexander Mattison. He has been struggling, making him less of a viable fantasy option. The last player is James Conner, but only if he is not playing. His value is very high, but if he is not playing, you should sit him for your benefit.

Wide Receivers: The Catch-22

The Must-Starts

Wide receivers are essential for any fantasy team. Let's delve into which players you should be starting in Week 9. First, Tyreek Hill is a must-start. He's a speedster who always gets the job done. His ability to create big plays makes him a weekly fantasy monster. Stefon Diggs is another must-start wide receiver. Diggs' consistency and target volume make him a safe bet for a solid fantasy performance. His ability to make contested catches and his route running is a huge factor. Another player to start is Justin Jefferson. If he is healthy, he is a must start. If he is injured, it is a sit. However, his overall value is very high.

The Risky Starts

Here are some risky start wide receivers. Davante Adams has struggled. Consider his history against his opponent before starting him. DeAndre Hopkins is another player to consider. Hopkins is a good player, but he also has the potential to disappoint. Mike Evans is also a consideration. He has a high ceiling, but also a low floor.

The Bench Warmers

It's time to consider the sit wide receivers. Courtland Sutton has struggled. Consider the value of his opponent before starting him. Christian Kirk is another player to consider sitting. He is a high-risk player. Zay Flowers is another player to consider sitting. His ceiling is not high, so consider his overall value.

Tight Ends: The Hidden Gems

The Must-Starts

Tight ends can often be a boom-or-bust position. Let's look at some tight ends you should start in Week 9. Travis Kelce is a must-start. He is consistently one of the top tight ends in the league. His chemistry with his quarterback and his ability to make big plays make him a weekly starter. Mark Andrews is another must-start. Andrews is a reliable target in a pass-heavy offense. His ability to find the endzone makes him a valuable fantasy asset. Another player to consider is George Kittle. He's a dominant blocker and a reliable receiver, making him a solid start every week.

The Risky Starts

Now, let's explore some tight ends who present some risk. These players may have favorable matchups, but factors like injury concerns, inconsistent play, or uncertain workloads could make them a gamble. Consider starting Dallas Goedert. His performance is a gamble because he plays a tough team. T.J. Hockenson is another consideration. He is a high-risk, high-reward player. Darren Waller is another tight end who is risky. His health is questionable.

The Bench Warmers

It's time to consider the sit tight ends. Hunter Henry is a sit. He is not a great option due to his offense. Tyler Higbee is another player to consider sitting. His offense struggles, causing him to not be a valuable player. Cole Kmet is also a consideration. His health has been questionable.

Week 9 Defense/Special Teams (D/ST) Streamers

Top Tier

These defenses have favorable matchups and high upside for points. Consider starting the Dallas Cowboys. They are going against a team that is not great on offense. Consider the San Francisco 49ers. They have a good matchup and are a good streaming option.

Mid Tier

These defenses have a mid-level floor. Consider starting the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Their overall play has been good. Consider starting the New York Jets. They are a good option as well.

Low Tier

These defenses have a low floor. Consider sitting the New Orleans Saints. They have had some issues. Consider sitting the Chicago Bears. Their matchup is tough.

Important Considerations

• Monitor Injury Reports: The most important piece of advice is to stay glued to injury reports. Things can change in an instant, and a late scratch can ruin your entire week. Keep an eye on the news leading up to kickoff. Some players may have been injured, changing their value. Some key players' injury status can change quickly, so pay attention. This information is key to your success.
• Check Matchups: Don't just blindly start players based on name recognition. Dig into the matchups. Which defenses are tough against the run? Which ones are vulnerable to the pass? The right matchup can make all the difference.
• Trust Your Gut: Ultimately, you have to trust your instincts. You've done your research, you've assessed the risk, and you know your team better than anyone else. Make the call that feels right to you.
• Weather Conditions: Always check the weather forecast before making your final decisions. Rain, wind, and other conditions can significantly impact passing and kicking games.

Final Thoughts

Fantasy football is all about making the right choices. This week 9 start sit guide should provide you with the information you need. Remember, this is just a guide. No matter what, you need to make your own decision. Good luck this week, guys, and may the fantasy gods be with you!