When it comes to competition, one of the best ways to get an edge on the opposition is through prior preparation. In fantasy football, that way of thinking certainly applies. Here at Bet For The Win, we’re doing the preparation for you.
There were plenty of studs in Week 8 of the NFL season, and not nearly as many duds.
As Week 9 rolls around, there’s a chance we’ll be in for another tremendous week. We’re here to help you project who will ball, who will fall and who’s quietly flying under the radar ahead of this week.
Here’s a look ahead at Week 9’s studs, duds and sleepers.
Studs
QB Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs
Mahomes is rested and ready to continue proving why he is the best quarterback in the NFL. Don’t expect the Titans to do anything that would slow Mahomes or the Chiefs’ high-powered passing offense.
RB Austin Ekeler – Los Angeles Chargers
There aren’t many options left for Justin Herbert and the Chargers’ offense, given all of their injuries. Ekeler will see a ton of volume as both a runner and pass-catcher against the Falcons.
WR A.J. Brown – Philadelphia Eagles
A.J. Brown is having some kind of season in his first year with the Eagles. He’s caught at least eight passes and scored a touchdown in each of the past two games. His connection with Jalen Hurts will be on full display against Houston. However, there’s a good chance this ends up being a heavy run game for Philly.
TE Travis Kelce – Kansas City Chiefs
The best tight end in the league will be phenomenal on Sunday, as always.
Duds
QB Trevor Lawrence – Jacksonville Jaguars
The Jags were a feel-good story through three games but now they’re bumming me out. It would be cool to get better from Trevor Lawrence but I don’t see it happening against the Raiders, no matter how good the matchup may be.
RB Joe Mixon – Cincinnati Bengals
For whatever reason, Joe Mixon can’t string together any solid performances this season. He might be able to squeak his way into some value in full-PPR fantasy leagues based on how often Burrow is checking the ball down. But don’t get your hopes up for much more.
WR Davante Adams – Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders just can’t get it together. Temper your expectations for Davante this weekend.
TE T.J. Hockenson – Minnesota Vikings
In the long term, I do like this pickup for the Vikings and I think it’ll work out. But it’ll take time for him to get properly acclimated and into his role.
Sleepers
QB Tua Tagovailoa – Miami Dolphins
As long as Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill are on the football field, Tua will have a chance to have a big week. Don’t be surprised if he does against the Bears on Sunday.
RB Kenneth Walker III – Seattle Seahawks
Nobody should really be sleeping on Kenneth Walker III anymore. He’s a must-start player every week.
WR Mike Evans – Los Angeles Rams
Mike Evans has literally never had a bad game against the Rams. No, seriously — go check the stats.
TE Taysom Hill – New Orleans Saints
There’s always the “what if” with Taysom Hill. The possibility of him going off on Sunday exists.
