I have good news and bad news on Week 9 of fantasy football and the NFL teams with a bye.ย
The good news is this is the last week with six teams on bye. There are only three bye weeks left after this one.
The bad news is you have to survive without the New England Patriots, A.J. Green, David Johnson, Larry Fitzgerald and Jordan Reed.
Upon completing my rankings, I noticed just how ugly this week is without those key players. Plus, two teams loaded with fantasy talent, the Oakland Raiders (vs. Denver Broncos) and Detroit Lions (at Minnesota Vikings), have rough matchups this weekend.
You may be reaching a little deeper into your fantasy roster, so be sure to pay attention to my sleepers at each position and my late-week, under-the-radar waiver-wire options in Fridayโs Futures Report. Last week, J.J. Nelson of the Arizona Cardinals was featured before catching eight of 12 targets for 79 yards and two touchdowns.
This is the first look at my points-per-reception (PPR) rankings for Week 9. These will change throughout the week and up to Sundayโs action as we get more information about injuries and limitations, so make sure to bookmark this page.
Top 100
1 of 7
I present my top 100 players (minus quarterbacks) for the week as a way to help determine your flex spots. You may favor a certain position or player over another based on his role and/or your scoring rules.
As an additional tiebreaker, here are the teams I like as a whole this week based on their matchups:ย
- Green Bay Packers (vs. Indianapolis Colts)
- New Orleans Saints (at San Francisco 49ers)
- Atlanta Falcons (at Tampa Bay Buccaneers)
- Dallas Cowboys (at Cleveland Browns)ย
Week 9 Top 100 PPR Rankings
| 1 | Antonio Brown (PIT) | at BAL | WR1 | 2 | +1 |
| 2 | Julio Jones (ATL) | at TB | WR2 | 1 | -1 |
| 3 | Ezekiel Elliott (DAL) | at CLE | RB1 | 3 | 0 |
| 4 | Mike Evans (TB) | vs. ATL | WR3 | 4 | 0 |
| 5 | Le'Veon Bell (PIT) | at BAL | RB2 | 5 | 0 |
| 6 | Odell Beckham Jr. (NYG) | vs. PHI | WR4 | 6 | 0 |
| 7 | T.Y. Hilton (IND) | at GB | WR5 | 11 | +4 |
| 8 | Devonta Freeman (ATL) | at TB | RB3 | 8 | 0 |
| 9 | Dez Bryant (DAL) | at CLE | WR6 | 7 | -2 |
| 10 | Devontae Booker (DEN) | at OAK | RB4 | 18 | +8 |
| 11 | Brandin Cooks (NO) | at SF | WR7 | 15 | +4 |
| 12 | Jarvis Landry (MIA) | vs. NYJ | WR8 | 13 | +1 |
| 13 | Melvin Gordon (SD) | vs. TEN | RB5 | 14 | +1 |
| 14 | Brandon Marshall (NYJ) | at MIA | WR9 | 12 | -2 |
| 15 | DeMarco Murray (TEN) | at SD | RB6 | 9 | -6 |
| 16 | Demaryius Thomas (DEN) | at OAK | WR10 | 16 | 0 |
| 17 | Theo Riddick (DET) | at MIN | RB7 | 22 | +5 |
| 18 | Emmanuel Sanders (DEN) | at OAK | WR11 | 20 | +2 |
| 19 | Jay Ajayi (MIA) | vs. NYJ | RB8 | 21 | +2 |
| 20 | Donte Moncrief (IND) | at GB | WR12 | 27 | +7 |
| 21 | Todd Gurley (LA) | vs. CAR | RB9 | 23 | +2 |
| 22 | Michael Thomas (NO) | at SF | WR13 | 24 | +2 |
| 23 | Jordy Nelson (GB) | vs. IND | WR14 | 10 | -13 |
| 24 | Davante Adams (GB) | vs. IND | WR15 | 28 | +4 |
| 25 | Terrelle Pryor (CLE) | vs. DAL | WR16 | 33 | +8 |
| 26 | Christine Michael (SEA) | vs. BUF | RB10 | 26 | 0 |
| 27 | Amari Cooper (OAK) | vs. DEN | WR17 | 25 | -2 |
| 28 | Kelvin Benjamin (CAR) | at LA | WR18 | 19 | -9 |
| 29 | Carlos Hyde (SF) | vs. NO | RB11 | 45 | +16 |
| 30 | Greg Olsen (CAR) | at LA | TE1 | 30 | 0 |
| 31 | Stefon Diggs (MIN) | vs. DET | WR19 | 31 | 0 |
| 32 | Doug Baldwin (SEA) | vs. BUF | WR20 | 32 | 0 |
| 33 | Michael Crabtree (OAK) | vs. DEN | WR21 | 38 | +5 |
| 34 | Randall Cobb (GB) | vs. IND | WR22 | 47 | +13 |
| 35 | Tyrell Williams (SD) | vs. TEN | WR23 | 54 | +19 |
| 36 | Charcandrick West (KC) | vs. JAC | RB12 | 61 | +25 |
| 37 | Matt Forte (NYJ) | at MIA | RB13 | 17 | -20 |
| 38 | Jordan Matthews (PHI) | at NYG | WR24 | 34 | -4 |
| 39 | Delanie Walker (TEN) | at SD | TE2 | 37 | -2 |
| 40 | Ty Montgomery (GB) | vs. IND | WR25 | 74 | +34 |
| 41 | Mike Wallace (BAL) | vs. PIT | WR26 | 51 | +10 |
| 42 | Mark Ingram (NO) | at SF | RB14 | 48 | +6 |
| 43 | Travis Kelce (KC) | vs. JAC | TE3 | 40 | -3 |
| 44 | Kenny Britt (LA) | vs. CAR | WR27 | 57 | +13 |
| 45 | Willie Snead (NO) | at SF | WR28 | 36 | -9 |
| 46 | Frank Gore (IND) | at GB | RB15 | 41 | -5 |
| 47 | Jonathan Stewart (CAR) | at LA | RB16 | 43 | -4 |
| 48 | Marvin Jones (DET) | at MIN | WR29 | 35 | -13 |
| 49 | Kyle Rudolph (MIN) | vs. DET | TE4 | 56 | +7 |
| 50 | Allen Robinson (JAC) | at KC | WR30 | 29 | -21 |
| 51 | Darren Sproles (PHI) | at NYG | RB17 | 49 | -2 |
| 52 | Golden Tate (DET) | at MIN | WR31 | 39 | -13 |
| 53 | Tim Hightower (NO) | at SF | RB18 | 65 | +12 |
| 54 | Jeremy Maclin (KC) | vs. JAC | WR32 | 42 | -12 |
| 55 | Jimmy Graham (SEA) | vs. BUF | TE5 | 44 | -11 |
| 56 | Duke Johnson (CLE) | vs. DAL | RB19 | 59 | +3 |
| 57 | Latavius Murray (OAK) | vs. DEN | RB20 | 53 | -4 |
| 58 | Cole Beasley (DAL) | at CLE | WR33 | 67 | +9 |
| 59 | Gary Barnidge (CLE) | vs. DAL | TE6 | 60 | +1 |
| 60 | Bilal Powell (NYJ) | at MIA | RB21 | 72 | +12 |
| 61 | Corey Coleman (CLE) | vs. DAL | WR34 | 73 | +12 |
| 62 | Quincy Enunwa (NYJ) | at MIA | WR35 | 46 | -16 |
| 63 | Kendall Wright (TEN) | at SD | WR36 | 68 | +5 |
| 64 | Mike Gillislee (BUF) | at SEA | RB22 | 82 | +18 |
| 65 | Matt Asiata (MIN) | vs. DET | RB23 | 50 | -15 |
| 66 | Mohamed Sanu (ATL) | at TB | WR37 | 63 | -3 |
| 67 | Terrance West (BAL) | vs. PIT | RB24 | 52 | -15 |
| 68 | Eric Ebron (DET) | at MIN | TE7 | 84 | +16 |
| 69 | Devante Parker (MIA) | vs. NYJ | WR38 | 62 | -7 |
| 70 | Jack Doyle (IND) | at GB | TE8 | 76 | +6 |
| 71 | Derrick Henry (TEN) | at SD | RB25 | 85 | +14 |
| 72 | Sterling Shepard (NYG) | vs. PHI | WR39 | 77 | +5 |
| 73 | Isaiah Crowell (CLE) | vs. DAL | RB26 | 55 | -18 |
| 74 | Sammie Coates (PIT) | at BAL | WR40 | 86 | +12 |
| 75 | Kenneth Dixon (BAL) | vs. PIT | RB27 | 104 | +29 |
| 76 | C.J. Prosise (SEA) | vs. BUF | RB28 | 75 | -1 |
| 77 | Hunter Henry (SD) | vs. TEN | TE9 | 94 | +17 |
| 78 | Allen Hurns (JAC) | at KC | WR41 | 58 | -20 |
| 79 | T.J. Yeldon (JAC) | at KC | RB29 | 81 | +2 |
| 80 | Tavon Austin (LA) | vs. CAR | WR42 | 70 | -10 |
| 81 | Travis Benjamin (SD) | vs. TEN | WR43 | 64 | -17 |
| 82 | Antonio Gates (SD) | vs. TEN | TE10 | 89 | +7 |
| 83 | Marqise Lee (JAC) | at KC | WR44 | 92 | +9 |
| 84 | Jason Witten (DAL) | at CLE | TE11 | 78 | -6 |
| 85 | Steve Smith (BAL) | vs. PIT | WR45 | 91 | +6 |
| 86 | Robert Woods (BUF) | at SEA | WR46 | 95 | +9 |
| 87 | Chris Ivory (JAC) | at KC | RB30 | 90 | +3 |
| 88 | DeAndre Washington (OAK) | vs. DEN | RB31 | 97 | +9 |
| 89 | Anquan Boldin (DET) | at MIN | WR47 | 105 | +16 |
| 90 | Jerick McKinnon (MIN) | vs. DET | RB32 | 100 | +10 |
| 91 | Austin Hooper (ATL) | at TB | TE12 | 110 | +19 |
| 92 | Rashad Jennings (NYG) | vs. PHI | RB33 | 66 | -26 |
| 93 | Brian Quick (LA) | vs. CAR | WR48 | 93 | 0 |
| 94 | Torrey Smith (SF) | vs. NO | WR49 | 88 | -6 |
| 95 | Rishard Matthews (TEN) | at SD | WR50 | 87 | -8 |
| 96 | Dennis Pitta (BAL) | vs. PIT | TE13 | 99 | +3 |
| 97 | Ryan Mathews (PHI) | at NYG | RB34 | 80 | -17 |
| 98 | Tyler Lockett (SEA) | vs. BUF | WR51 | 103 | +5 |
| 99 | Antone Smith (TB) | vs. ATL | RB35 | 101 | +2 |
| 100 | Cameron Brate (TB) | vs. ATL | TE14 | 71 | -29 |
| ย | ย | ย | ย | ย | ย |
ย
Quarterbacks
2 of 7
Better Than Usualย
Philip Rivers, SD (vs. TEN)
To the surprise of no one, Rivers struggled against the Broncos in Denver last week, but thatโs been the norm for opposing QBs theyโve faced this season. Rivers managed to throw for 267 yards but completed just 20 of 47 attempts with two touchdowns and three interceptions. I didnโt expect him to throw for that many yards, so from a fantasy standpoint, it wasnโt that bad.
He shouldnโt have much trouble getting back on track this weekend when the Chargers host the Tennessee Titans. Over the last five weeks, Tennessee gave up an average of more than 294 yards and two touchdowns per game. Their last three opponents have thrown for at least 336 yards and two touchdowns. With the matchup working in his favor, Rivers should have a much better performance in Week 9.
Week 9 Projection: 285-295 yards, 2 touchdowns
Concernsย
Matthew Stafford, DET (at MIN)
Will Stafford be able to overcome a tough division matchup against the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday? Heโll have to go through a defense that remains one of the best in football against fantasy quarterbacks this season. In their last four games, the Vikings held QBs to fewer than 210 yards and under one touchdown per game. Jay Cutler got them for a surprising 252 yards and a touchdown.ย
Stafford was better in fantasy than reality in Week 8 and doesnโt come into this week flying high. In last weekโs loss to the Texans, Stafford completed 27 of 41 attempts for 240 yards and a touchdown. Through eight weeks, heโs averaging about 269 yards and two touchdowns per game. If he put that up against the Vikings, it would be a pleasant surprise.
Week 9 Projection: 240-250 yards, 2 touchdowns
Avoidย
Russell Wilson, SEA (vs. BUF)
Wilson was a fantasy savior in 2015 following a slow start for both himself and the Seahawks. Wilsonโs having another slow season, but that recovery doesnโt look like itโll happen anytime soon. In the Week 8 loss to the Saints in New Orleans, Wilson had 253 yards on 22-of-34 passing but had his third game in a row without a touchdown. He also ran for just 11 yards and has a total of 44 rushing yards on the season.
Wilson continues to play though multiple injuries, but head coach Pete Carroll said Wilsonโs mobility could be better without hisย ankle brace. His knee brace should be the next to go soon, according to Liz Mathews of 710 ESPN.
Without the rushing numbers or touchdowns, Wilsonโs become difficult to trust, and a matchup against Buffalo wonโt make things any better. Look for another starter.
Week 9 Projection: 235-245 passing yards, 1 touchdown, 10 rushing yards
Sleepers
Dak Prescott, DAL (at CLE)
Prescott played his worst game of the season last Sunday night against the Eagles but still managed to find Jason Witten for the game-winning touchdown to finish 19-of-39 passing for 287 yards with two touchdowns and an interception. His decision-making was suspect at times, but he should have a chance for a better outing Sunday when he heads to Cleveland.
The Browns allowed the second-most fantasy points to QBs over the last month. This could be more of a game for Ezekiel Elliott to carry the offense, but when Dak does take to the air, he should have success.ย
Week 9 Projection: 255-265 passing yards yards, 2 touchdowns, 22 rushing yards
Ryan Tannehill, MIA (vs. NYJ)
Tannehill hasnโt had much fantasy value over the last two weeks, but the Dolphins won both of those games thanks to Jay Ajayi's rushing for 200-plus yards against the Steelers and Bills. Over those two games, Tannehill was 39-of-57 passing for 456 yards with a single touchdown.ย
Could the Dolphins ask more of Tannehill this week because of the matchup? The short answer is yes, and thatโs because the Jets are beatable through the air, giving up more than 300 passing yards and two touchdowns per game over the last month. Plus, the Jets' run defense is still one of the better groups, giving up just 71 rushing yards to RBs in the last five weeks. ย
If the Jets can keep Ajayi in check, Tannehill becomes that much more important to the team. Heโs worth a shot if youโre hunting for a usefulย QB.
Week 9 Quarterback Rankings
| 1 | Aaron Rodgers (GB) | vs. IND | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Drew Brees (NO) | at SF | 2 | 0 |
| 3 | Matt Ryan (ATL) | at TB | 3 | 0 |
| 4 | Andrew Luck (IND) | at GB | 4 | 0 |
| 5 | Cam Newton (CAR) | at LA | 5 | 0 |
| 6 | Philip Rivers (SD) | vs. TEN | 6 | 0 |
| 7 | Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) | at BAL | 10 | +3 |
| 8 | Matthew Stafford (DET) | at MIN | 12 | +4 |
| 9 | Jameis Winston (TB) | vs. ATL | 7 | -2 |
| 10 | Dak Prescott (DAL) | at CLE | 8 | -2 |
| 11 | Marcus Mariota (TEN) | at SD | 9 | -2 |
| 12 | Ryan Tannehill (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 19 | +7 |
| 13 | Eli Manning (NYG) | vs. PHI | 11 | -2 |
| 14 | Sam Bradford (MIN) | vs. DET | 18 | +4 |
| 15 | Josh McCown (CLE) | vs. DAL | 20 | +5 |
| 16 | Derek Carr (OAK) | vs. DEN | 14 | -2 |
| 17 | Russell Wilson (SEA) | vs. BUF | 13 | -4 |
| 18 | Alex Smith (KC) | vs. JAC | 22 | +4 |
| 19 | Blake Bortles (JAC) | at KC | 15 | -4 |
| 20 | Trevor Siemian (DEN) | at OAK | 23 | +3 |
| 21 | Joe Flacco (BAL) | vs. PIT | 24 | +3 |
| 22 | Carson Wentz (PHI) | at NYG | 26 | +4 |
| 23 | Case Keenum (LA) | vs. CAR | 25 | +2 |
| 24 | Ryan Fitzpatrick (NYJ) | at MIA | 17 | -7 |
| 25 | Colin Kaepernick (SF) | vs. NO | 16 | -9 |
| 26 | Tyrod Taylor (BUF) | at SEA | 21 | -5 |
Running Backs
3 of 7
Better Than Usualย
Darren Sproles, PHI (at NYG)
If you donโt know by now, Sproles is the only Eagles RB worth having in your starting lineup, and that includes this weekโs matchup against the Giants. Even though the Giants gave up just one game of 100-plus yards, theyโve been vulnerable against pass-catching RBs. Over the last two weeks, they gave up 16 receptions for 102 receiving yards to RBs.
In last weekโs loss to the Cowboys, Sproles led the team with 15 carries for 86 yards and five receptions for 17 yards on seven targets while playing 82 percent of the snaps. Even though heโs already the clear, lead back, head coach Doug Pederson admitted he was โseriously consideringโ going to Sproles as his lead back, according to Reuben Frank of CSN Philly. Itโs the Sproles show until further notice, as it should be.ย
Week 9 Projection: 14 carries, 69 rushing yards, 5 receptions, 34 receiving yards
Concernsย
Frank Gore, IND (at GB)
In the last two games, Goreโs fantasy value has been directly tied to what heโs done as a receiver. In those two games, he posted seven receptions for 47 yards on eight targets with a pair of touchdowns. Gore has just one game of at least 100 rushing yards all season. He was limited to 37 yards on nine carries in the loss to the Chiefs.ย
Life doesnโt get any easier for Gore, as he takes on the Green Bay Packers this weekend. In their last four games, the Packers allowed just one team to go for more than 100 yards, and that was Ezekiel Elliott and the Cowboys back in Week 7. Another productive day as a receiver could offset any struggles he suffers as a runner.
Week 9 Projection: 16 carries, 84 rushing yards, 3 receptions, 20 receiving yards
Avoidย
Isaiah Crowell, CLE (vs. DAL)
In the last four games, Crowell hasnโt run for more than 63 yards and failed to hit at least 30 rushing yards in three of those games. He was saved by a touchdown in each of the last two games. Heโs also carried the ball just 45 times over the last four games, so volume isnโt coming his way.ย
With the Cowboys coming to town this weekend, it could be another struggle for Crowell. Dallas is a top-five defense against fantasy RBs, allowing just 227 rushing yards and one touchdown in the last four weeks. Crowell outsnapped Duke Johnson 57-43 percent, but with Josh McCown under center, we could be seeing more of Johnson. The bottom line is that Crowell is someone to shy away from using in Week 9.ย
Week 9 Projection: 11 carries, 33 yards
Sleepersย
Tim Hightower, NO (at SF)
If you snagged Hightower off the waiver wire this week but arenโt sure if you should use him, take a look at the fantastic matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. In the last four weeks, RBs gashed the 49ers for 646 rushing yards and seven touchdowns. So we know the matchup is good, but what about a possible split between Hightower and Mark Ingram?ย
When Ingram fumbled early last week (his second in as many games), the Saints benched him in favor of Hightower. Because Hightower did well (102 yards), head coach Sean Payton said Hightower is โdefinitelyโ in line for more carries, but Ingram will still have a key role. Ingram is the obvious play, but because this matchup is so good, there may be enough to go around for both.ย
Week 9 Projection: 14 carries, 69 rushing yards, 1 touchdown
Week 9 Running Back PPR Rankings
| 1 | Ezekiel Elliott (DAL) | at CLE | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Le'Veon Bell (PIT) | at BAL | 2 | 0 |
| 3 | Devonta Freeman (ATL) | at TB | 4 | +1 |
| 4 | Devontae Booker (DEN) | at OAK | 7 | +3 |
| 5 | Melvin Gordon (SD) | vs. TEN | 5 | 0 |
| 6 | DeMarco Murray (TEN) | at SD | 3 | -3 |
| 7 | Theo Riddick (DET) | at MIN | 10 | +3 |
| 8 | Jay Ajayi (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 8 | 0 |
| 9 | Todd Gurley (LA) | vs. CAR | 9 | 0 |
| 10 | Christine Michael (SEA) | vs. BUF | 11 | +1 |
| 11 | Carlos Hyde (SF) | vs. NO | 19 | +8 |
| 12 | Charcandrick West (KC) | vs. JAC | 22 | +10 |
| 13 | Matt Forte (NYJ) | at MIA | 6 | -7 |
| 14 | Mark Ingram (NO) | at SF | 18 | +4 |
| 15 | Frank Gore (IND) | at GB | 12 | -3 |
| 16 | Jonathan Stewart (CAR) | at LA | 13 | -3 |
| 17 | Darren Sproles (PHI) | at NYG | 15 | -2 |
| 18 | Tim Hightower (NO) | at SF | 24 | +6 |
| 19 | Duke Johnson (CLE) | vs. DAL | 21 | +2 |
| 20 | Latavius Murray (OAK) | vs. DEN | 14 | -6 |
| 21 | Bilal Powell (NYJ) | at MIA | 25 | +4 |
| 22 | Mike Gillislee (BUF) | at SEA | 30 | +8 |
| 23 | Matt Asiata (MIN) | vs. DET | 16 | -7 |
| 24 | Terrance West (BAL) | vs. PIT | 17 | -7 |
| 25 | Derrick Henry (TEN) | at SD | 31 | +6 |
| 26 | Isaiah Crowell (CLE) | vs. DAL | 20 | -6 |
| 27 | Kenneth Dixon (BAL) | vs. PIT | 38 | +11 |
| 28 | C.J. Prosise (SEA) | vs. BUF | 26 | -2 |
| 29 | T.J. Yeldon (JAC) | at KC | 29 | 0 |
| 30 | Chris Ivory (JAC) | at KC | 33 | +3 |
| 31 | DeAndre Washington (OAK) | vs. DEN | 35 | +4 |
| 32 | Jerick McKinnon (MIN) | vs. DET | 36 | +4 |
| 33 | Rashad Jennings (NYG) | vs. PHI | 23 | -10 |
| 34 | Ryan Mathews (PHI) | at NYG | 28 | -6 |
| 35 | Antone Smith (TB) | vs. ATL | 34 | -1 |
| 36 | Shaun Draughn (SF) | vs. NO | 37 | +1 |
| 37 | Terron Ward (ATL) | at TB | 41 | +4 |
| 38 | Mike Davis (SF) | vs. NO | 39 | +1 |
| 39 | Paul Perkins (NYG) | vs. PHI | 42 | +3 |
| 40 | Peyton Barber (TB) | vs. ATL | 40 | 0 |
| 41 | Zach Zenner (DET) | at MIN | 47 | +6 |
| 42 | Damien Williams (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 49 | +7 |
| 43 | Jalen Richard (OAK) | vs. DEN | 45 | +2 |
| 44 | Alfred Morris (DAL) | at CLE | 44 | 0 |
| 45 | DuJuan Harris (SF) | vs. NO | 43 | -2 |
| 46 | Fozzy Whittaker (CAR) | at LA | 52 | +6 |
| 47 | Don Jackson (GB) | vs. IND | 57 | +10 |
| 48 | DeAngelo Williams (PIT) | at BAL | 51 | +3 |
| 49 | Kapri Bibbs (DEN) | at OAK | 55 | +6 |
| 50 | Bobby Rainey (NYG) | vs. PHI | 48 | -2 |
| 51 | Reggie Bush (BUF) | at SEA | 46 | -5 |
| 52 | Jonathan Williams (BUF) | at SEA | 58 | +6 |
| 53 | Benny Cunningham (LA) | vs. CAR | 56 | +3 |
| 54 | Robert Turbin (IND) | at GB | 53 | -1 |
| 55 | Dwayne Washington (DET) | at MIN | 74 | +19 |
| 56 | Ronnie Hillman (MIN) | vs. DET | 60 | +4 |
| 57 | Kyle Juszczyk (BAL) | vs. PIT | 62 | +5 |
| 58 | Daniel Lasco (NO) | at SF | 81 | +23 |
| 59 | Wendell Smallwood (PHI) | at NYG | 70 | +11 |
| 60 | Travaris Cadet (NO) | at SF | 61 | +1 |
| 61 | Josh Ferguson (IND) | at GB | 82 | +21 |
| 62 | Jamize Olawale (OAK) | vs. DEN | 65 | +3 |
| 63 | Lance Dunbar (DAL) | at CLE | 63 | 0 |
| 64 | Dexter McCluster (SD) | vs. TEN | 64 | 0 |
| 65 | Justin Forsett (DET) | at MIN | 73 | +8 |
| 66 | Aaron Ripkowski (GB) | vs. IND | 50 | -16 |
| 67 | Javorius Allen (BAL) | vs. PIT | 75 | +8 |
| 68 | Kenjon Barner (PHI) | at NYG | 69 | +1 |
| 69 | Juwan Thompson (DEN) | at OAK | 59 | -10 |
| 70 | Kenyan Drake (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 72 | +2 |
| 71 | Andy Janovich (DEN) | at OAK | 80 | +9 |
| 72 | Mike Tolbert (CAR) | at LA | 79 | +7 |
| 73 | Kenneth Farrow (SD) | vs. TEN | 85 | +12 |
| 74 | John Kuhn (NO) | at SF | 87 | +13 |
| 75 | LeSean McCoy (BUF) | at SEA | 32 | -43 |
| 76 | James Starks (GB) | vs. IND | 68 | -8 |
| 77 | Spencer Ware (KC) | vs. JAC | 27 | -50 |
Wide Receivers
4 of 7
Better Than Usualย
Jarvis Landry, MIA (vs. NYJ)
The talk of the town in Miami has been running back Jay Ajayi, as it should be since heโs coming off back-to-back games with at least 200 yards on the ground. Thatโs made everyone else in the offense complementary players for the most part. Landryโs stayed busy with 12 receptions on 17 targets totaling 169 yards. Unfortunately, he hasnโt scored since Week 3, which is also his only TD this season.
Heโll have a chance to stay busy and possibly find the end zone in a great matchup with the Jets. Over the last four games, WRs average 17 receptions, almost 198 yards and better than a TD per game against the Jets. Their run defense is still strong and could contain Ajayi, which might give the Dolphins even more reason to throw the ball.ย
Week 9 Projection: 7 receptions, 87 yards, 1 touchdown
Terrelle Pryor, CLE (vs. DAL)
Even though the Browns get Corey Coleman back from a broken hand this week, you shouldnโt be shying away from Pryor. He should be a confident start on a weekly basis as long as Josh McCown is under center, as the veteran QB is easily their best option. McCown threw the ball 49 times last week, so even with Coleman's joining the fray, there are plenty of targets to go around.
Pryor draws a beat-up Cowboys secondary this weekend a week after taking the Jets for six receptions and 101 yards on 13 targets. Dallas has been a bottom-12 defense against fantasy WRs over the last four weeks. The Cowboys could be getting worse since theyโll be without cornerback Morris Claiborne (groin) and safety Barry Church (forearm), according to owner Jerry Jonesโ comments on 105.3 The Fan. Pryor is a strong play for Week 9.
Week 9 Projection: 6 receptions, 88 yards, 1 touchdown
Concernsย
Amari Cooper/Michael Crabtree, OAK (vs. DEN)
If you play the Broncos, the concern will always be there. No team is tougher on WRs than Denver, and the numbers are staggering. In the last four weeks, Denver allowed just 31 receptions, 316 yards and one touchdown. That came against San Diego (twice), Houston and Atlanta.
As talented as Cooper and Crabtree are, you canโt go into this matchup with a lot of confidence, even if it is at home. I doubt youโll be able to find suitable backup options to play, so suck it up and hope they put up respectable numbers in a brutal matchup.ย ย
Cooperโs Week 9 Projection: 5 receptions, 69 yards
Crabtreeโs Week 9 Projection: 4 receptions, 48 yards
Marvin Jones/Golden Tate, DET (at MIN)
Now that the Lions have both Theo Riddick and Eric Ebron back in the mix, thereโs some concern about having too many mouths to feed, which may have been the case last week. Tate got nine targets and caught seven for 42 yards while Jones caught three of his seven targets for 33 yards.ย
Will they be much busier against the Vikings? In the last four weeks (three games), Minnesota yielded just 29 receptions for 269 yards and three touchdowns. A strong Vikings defense will be a challenge for Matthew Stafford and his receiving corps, so donโt expect a lot out of Jones and Tate.ย
Jonesโ Week 9 Projection: 4 receptions, 60 yards
Tateโs Week 9 Projection: 6 receptions, 66 yards
Avoid
None of note.
Sleepersย
DeVante Parker, MIA (vs. NYJ)
While Landry has stayed fairly busy during the two-game historic pace Ajayi set, Parker has been quiet (eight receptions for 48 yards on 11 targets). Taking a shot on him this week isnโt a bad idea because of the Jetsโ struggles against WRs (fourth-most fantasy points allowed in last four weeks), and their run defense may be able to slow Ajayi down.
Give Parker a shot.
Week 9 Projection: 6 receptions, 78 yards
Week 9 Wide Receiver PPR Rankings
| 1 | Antonio Brown (PIT) | at BAL | 2 | +1 |
| 2 | Julio Jones (ATL) | at TB | 1 | -1 |
| 3 | Mike Evans (TB) | vs. ATL | 3 | 0 |
| 4 | Odell Beckham Jr. (NYG) | vs. PHI | 4 | 0 |
| 5 | T.Y. Hilton (IND) | at GB | 7 | +2 |
| 6 | Dez Bryant (DAL) | at CLE | 5 | -1 |
| 7 | Brandin Cooks (NO) | at SF | 10 | +3 |
| 8 | Jarvis Landry (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 9 | +1 |
| 9 | Brandon Marshall (NYJ) | at MIA | 8 | -1 |
| 10 | Demaryius Thomas (DEN) | at OAK | 11 | +1 |
| 11 | Emmanuel Sanders (DEN) | at OAK | 13 | +2 |
| 12 | Donte Moncrief (IND) | at GB | 14 | +2 |
| 13 | Michael Thomas (NO) | at SF | 15 | +2 |
| 14 | Jordy Nelson (GB) | vs. IND | 6 | -8 |
| 15 | Davante Adams (GB) | vs. IND | 18 | +3 |
| 16 | Terrelle Pryor (CLE) | vs. DAL | 19 | +3 |
| 17 | Amari Cooper (OAK) | vs. DEN | 16 | -1 |
| 18 | Kelvin Benjamin (CAR) | at LA | 12 | -6 |
| 19 | Stefon Diggs (MIN) | vs. DET | 20 | +1 |
| 20 | Doug Baldwin (SEA) | vs. BUF | 21 | +1 |
| 21 | Michael Crabtree (OAK) | vs. DEN | 25 | +4 |
| 22 | Randall Cobb (GB) | vs. IND | 28 | +6 |
| 23 | Tyrell Williams (SD) | vs. TEN | 31 | +8 |
| 24 | Jordan Matthews (PHI) | at NYG | 22 | -2 |
| 25 | Ty Montgomery (GB) | vs. IND | 40 | +15 |
| 26 | Mike Wallace (BAL) | vs. PIT | 30 | +4 |
| 27 | Kenny Britt (LA) | vs. CAR | 35 | +8 |
| 28 | Willie Snead (NO) | at SF | 23 | -5 |
| 29 | Marvin Jones (DET) | at MIN | 24 | -5 |
| 30 | Allen Robinson (JAC) | at KC | 17 | -13 |
| 31 | Golden Tate (DET) | at MIN | 26 | -5 |
| 32 | Jeremy Maclin (KC) | vs. JAC | 27 | -5 |
| 33 | Cole Beasley (DAL) | at CLE | 37 | +4 |
| 34 | Corey Coleman (CLE) | vs. DAL | 42 | +8 |
| 35 | Quincy Enunwa (NYJ) | at MIA | 29 | -6 |
| 36 | Kendall Wright (TEN) | at SD | 38 | +2 |
| 37 | Mohamed Sanu (ATL) | at TB | 34 | -3 |
| 38 | Devante Parker (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 36 | -2 |
| 39 | Sterling Shepard (NYG) | vs. PHI | 41 | +2 |
| 40 | Sammie Coates (PIT) | at BAL | 44 | +4 |
| 41 | Allen Hurns (JAC) | at KC | 32 | -9 |
| 42 | Tavon Austin (LA) | vs. CAR | 39 | -3 |
| 43 | Travis Benjamin (SD) | vs. TEN | 33 | -10 |
| 44 | Marqise Lee (JAC) | at KC | 47 | +3 |
| 45 | Steve Smith (BAL) | vs. PIT | 45 | 0 |
| 46 | Robert Woods (BUF) | at SEA | 48 | +2 |
| 47 | Anquan Boldin (DET) | at MIN | 55 | +8 |
| 48 | Brian Quick (LA) | vs. CAR | 50 | +2 |
| 49 | Torrey Smith (SF) | vs. NO | 46 | -3 |
| 50 | Rishard Matthews (TEN) | at SD | 49 | -1 |
| 51 | Tyler Lockett (SEA) | vs. BUF | 51 | 0 |
| 52 | Kenny Stills (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 43 | -9 |
| 53 | Tyreek Hill (KC) | vs. JAC | 53 | 0 |
| 54 | Russell Shepard (TB) | vs. ATL | 52 | -2 |
| 55 | Dorial Green-Beckham (PHI) | at NYG | 54 | -1 |
| 56 | Jeremy Kerley (SF) | vs. NO | 56 | 0 |
| 57 | Cordarrelle Patterson (MIN) | vs. DET | 57 | 0 |
| 58 | Adam Humphries (TB) | vs. ATL | 60 | +2 |
| 59 | Dontrelle Inman (SD) | vs. TEN | 61 | +2 |
| 60 | Victor Cruz (NYG) | vs. PHI | 59 | -1 |
| 61 | Terrance Williams (DAL) | at CLE | 63 | +2 |
| 62 | Devin Funchess (CAR) | at LA | 58 | -4 |
| 63 | Jeff Janis (GB) | vs. IND | 62 | -1 |
| 64 | Adam Thielen (MIN) | vs. DET | 65 | +1 |
| 65 | Phillip Dorsett (IND) | at GB | 64 | -1 |
| 66 | Andrew Hawkins (CLE) | vs. DAL | 68 | +2 |
| 67 | Seth Roberts (OAK) | vs. DEN | 70 | +3 |
| 68 | Tajae Sharpe (TEN) | at SD | 69 | +1 |
| 69 | Chris Conley (KC) | vs. JAC | 73 | +4 |
| 70 | Ted Ginn (CAR) | at LA | 66 | -4 |
| 71 | Markus Wheaton (PIT) | at BAL | 74 | +3 |
| 72 | Kamar Aiken (BAL) | vs. PIT | 67 | -5 |
| 73 | Marquise Goodwin (BUF) | at SEA | 71 | -2 |
| 74 | Breshad Perriman (BAL) | vs. PIT | 78 | +4 |
| 75 | Eli Rogers (PIT) | at BAL | 77 | +2 |
| 76 | Justin Hunter (BUF) | at SEA | 86 | +10 |
| 77 | Jermaine Kearse (SEA) | vs. BUF | 76 | -1 |
| 78 | Robby Anderson (NYJ) | at MIA | 79 | +1 |
| 79 | Nelson Agholor (PHI) | at NYG | 80 | +1 |
| 80 | Taylor Gabriel (ATL) | at TB | 72 | -8 |
| 81 | Darrius Heyward-Bey (PIT) | at BAL | 91 | +10 |
| 82 | Trevor Davis (GB) | vs. IND | 94 | +12 |
Tight Ends
5 of 7
Better Than Usualย
Kyle Rudolph, MIN (vs. DET)
Even though he hasnโt scored since Week 4, Rudolph remains one of the top targets for Sam Bradford. Last week, he caught five of six targets for 31 yards. He leads the Vikings with 54 targets and three touchdowns and seems to be in a 1A/1B situation with Stefon Diggs as the top options in Minnesotaโs passing attack.ย
Rudolph gets a boost in Week 9 because the Lions have struggled against TEs. In the last four games, theyโve given up 26 receptions, 260 yards and a pair of touchdowns to the position in games against the Texans, Redskins, Rams and Eagles. Reliability is in demand at the TE position, and you might have it in Rudolph.ย
Week 9 Projection: 6 receptions, 61 yards
Concernsย
Coby Fleener, NO (at SF)
Fleenerโs inconsistency has almost become accepted in the world of fantasy football, just as long as you know he canโt be trusted every week. In Week 6, he posted six receptions for 74 yards and two touchdowns (one rushing). Since then, he has six receptions for 80 yards on six targets without a score in games against the Chiefs and Seahawks.
The 49ers donโt have much on defense, but theyโve done a solid job against TEs. Over the last four weeks (three games), tight ends have just 11 receptions for 114 yards when facing the 49ers. From a talent standpoint, itโs not a great defense, so you shouldnโt be totally scared off by Fleener. But with so many mouths to feed for the Saints, you never know when heโs safe to use.ย
Week 9 Projection: 4 receptions, 42 yards
Avoidย
None of note.
Sleepers
Austin Hooper, ATL (at TB)
The only reason Hooper finds his way into the sleepers group for Week 9 is because veteran starter Jacob Tamme was ruled out with a shoulder injury. When Tamme went down early last week, Hooper found himself ย busy with five receptions for 41 yards on five targets. He had just two receptions for 56 yards on two targets in five previous games. Trusting a rookie TE isnโt easy, so you may shy away from using Hooper, but don't rush to judgement.
Iโm willing to take a shot on him because the Buccaneers have been a bottom-five defense against fantasy tight ends in the last four weeks. With Julio Jones playing through a knee issue and no guarantee Tevin Coleman is back on the field by Thursday night, Hooper could play an important role.ย
Week 9 Projection: 5 receptions, 70 yards
Week 9 Tight End PPR Rankings
| 1 | Greg Olsen (CAR) | at LA | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Delanie Walker (TEN) | at SD | 2 | 0 |
| 3 | Travis Kelce (KC) | vs. JAC | 3 | 0 |
| 4 | Kyle Rudolph (MIN) | vs. DET | 5 | +1 |
| 5 | Jimmy Graham (SEA) | vs. BUF | 4 | -1 |
| 6 | Gary Barnidge (CLE) | vs. DAL | 6 | 0 |
| 7 | Eric Ebron (DET) | at MIN | 11 | +4 |
| 8 | Jack Doyle (IND) | at GB | 9 | +1 |
| 9 | Hunter Henry (SD) | vs. TEN | 13 | +4 |
| 10 | Antonio Gates (SD) | vs. TEN | 12 | +2 |
| 11 | Jason Witten (DAL) | at CLE | 10 | -1 |
| 12 | Austin Hooper (ATL) | at TB | 16 | +4 |
| 13 | Dennis Pitta (BAL) | vs. PIT | 14 | +1 |
| 14 | Cameron Brate (TB) | vs. ATL | 8 | -6 |
| 15 | Coby Fleener (NO) | at SF | 7 | -8 |
| 16 | Julius Thomas (JAC) | at KC | 15 | -1 |
| 17 | Zach Ertz (PHI) | at NYG | 17 | 0 |
| 18 | Lance Kendricks (LA) | vs. CAR | 18 | 0 |
| 19 | Charles Clay (BUF) | at SEA | 19 | 0 |
| 20 | Virgil Green (DEN) | at OAK | 20 | 0 |
| 21 | Jesse James (PIT) | at BAL | 23 | +2 |
| 22 | Erik Swoope (IND) | at GB | 24 | +2 |
| 23 | Vance McDonald (SF) | vs. NO | 21 | -2 |
| 24 | Richard Rodgers (GB) | vs. IND | 22 | -2 |
| 25 | Will Tye (NYG) | vs. PHI | 32 | +7 |
| 26 | Clive Walford (OAK) | vs. DEN | 26 | 0 |
| 27 | Larry Donnell (NYG) | vs. PHI | 28 | +1 |
| 28 | Ladarius Green (PIT) | at BAL | 27 | -1 |
Defenses
6 of 7
Best Options Based on Matchupsย
Kansas City Chiefs (vs. JAC)
In their last four games, the Chiefs were challenged by the Indianapolis Colts, New Orleans Saints, Oakland Raiders and Pittsburgh Steelers with mixed results. They wonโt be challenged by Blake Bortles and the Jacksonville Jaguars on Sunday. In the last four weeks (three games), theyโve scored a total of 55 offensive points. Bortles is such a mess that heโs ruining the rest of the team, and thereโs probably not enough time to fix him.ย
Week 9 Projection: 3 sacks, 2 interceptions, 1 fumble recovery, 15-18 points allowed
Seattle Seahawks (vs. BUF)
Look for the Seahawks to get back on track in Week 9 when they take on the Buffalo Bills in the final game of the week on Monday Night Football. While Tyrod Taylor typically takes care of the ball (no interceptions since Week 3), this will be a tougher test than heโs faced in recent weeks against the New England Patriots, Miami Dolphins and San Francisco 49ers. He has to watch out for a pass rush that has 10 sacks in its last three games.ย
Week 9 Projection: 3 sacks, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery, 14-17 points allowed
Week 9 Defense Rankings
| 1 | Kansas City Chiefs (KC) | vs. JAC | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Seattle Seahawks (SEA) | vs. BUF | 3 | +1 |
| 3 | Denver Broncos (DEN) | at OAK | 4 | +1 |
| 4 | Minnesota Vikings (MIN) | vs. DET | 2 | -2 |
| 5 | Carolina Panthers (CAR) | at LA | 5 | 0 |
| 6 | Philadelphia Eagles (PHI) | at NYG | 6 | 0 |
| 7 | Dallas Cowboys (DAL) | at CLE | 7 | 0 |
| 8 | Miami Dolphins (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 9 | +1 |
| 9 | Green Bay Packers (GB) | vs. IND | 8 | -1 |
| 10 | Los Angeles Rams (LA) | vs. CAR | 10 | 0 |
| 11 | New York Jets (NYJ) | at MIA | 11 | 0 |
| 12 | Buffalo Bills (BUF) | at SEA | 12 | 0 |
| 13 | Pittsburgh Steelers (PIT) | at BAL | 13 | 0 |
| 14 | Oakland Raiders (OAK) | vs. DEN | 15 | +1 |
| 15 | Baltimore Ravens (BAL) | vs. PIT | 14 | -1 |
| 16 | Detroit Lions (DET) | at MIN | 16 | 0 |
| 17 | Tennessee Titans (TEN) | at SD | 17 | 0 |
| 18 | New York Giants (NYG) | vs. PHI | 18 | 0 |
| 19 | Jacksonville Jaguars (JAC) | at KC | 20 | +1 |
| 20 | San Diego Chargers (SD) | vs. TEN | 21 | +1 |
Kickers
7 of 7
Best Options Widely Available on the Waiver Wire
Ryan Succop, TEN (at SD)
Succop and the Tennessee Titans travel to San Diego this weekend in a battle of teams playing well entering the second half of the season. Succop has been kicking well over the last five weeks with 14 extra points and eight field goals. He hit three of those field goals and three extra points in last weekโs win over the Jaguars.
Heโs a nice play for Week 9.
Week 9 Kicker Rankings
| 1 | Adam Vinatieri (IND) | at GB | 1 | 0 |
| 2 | Mason Crosby (GB) | vs. IND | 3 | +1 |
| 3 | Dan Bailey (DAL) | at CLE | 4 | +1 |
| 4 | Justin Tucker (BAL) | vs. PIT | 5 | +1 |
| 5 | Matt Bryant (ATL) | at TB | 7 | +2 |
| 6 | Josh Lambo (SD) | vs. TEN | 10 | +4 |
| 7 | Stephen Hauschka (SEA) | vs. BUF | 2 | -5 |
| 8 | Cairo Santos (KC) | vs. JAC | 6 | -2 |
| 9 | Brandon McManus (DEN) | at OAK | 8 | -1 |
| 10 | Wil Lutz (NO) | at SF | 12 | +2 |
| 11 | Blair Walsh (MIN) | vs. DET | 9 | -2 |
| 12 | Ryan Succop (TEN) | at SD | 20 | +8 |
| 13 | Caleb Sturgis (PHI) | at NYG | 15 | +2 |
| 14 | Graham Gano (CAR) | at LA | 11 | -3 |
| 15 | Sebastian Janikowski (OAK) | vs. DEN | 13 | -2 |
| 16 | Chris Boswell (PIT) | at BAL | 14 | -2 |
| 17 | Matt Prater (DET) | at MIN | 17 | 0 |
| 18 | Robbie Gould (NYG) | vs. PHI | 16 | -2 |
| 19 | Phil Dawson (SF) | vs. NO | 19 | 0 |
| 20 | Andrew Franks (MIA) | vs. NYJ | 18 | -2 |
ย
Stats provided byย FantasyProsย andย NFL.com. Snap counts provided byย Pro Football Focus.
Do you have a fantasy football question?ย Follow @TheMattCampย
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