Fantasy Football Week 8 Picks: Expert Analysis and Recommendations

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As we approach Week 8 of the NFL season, fantasy football enthusiasts are keenly looking for insights and recommendations to make the best picks for their lineups. Based on expert analysis from sources like PFF, CBS Sports, and NFL.com, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your Week 8 fantasy football decisions:

1. Quarterbacks to Consider:

  • Desmond Ridder (Falcons): Despite a roller-coaster performance this season, Ridder is poised for a strong showing against the Titans, who have a bottom-10-ranked pass defense. The Titans have shown vulnerabilities against quarterbacks, making Ridder a high-end QB2 pick for this week.

2. Running Backs to Watch:

  • Dameon Pierce (Texans): Despite a lackluster season, Pierce has an opportunity to shine against the Panthers, who have been vulnerable against the run. The matchup presents Pierce with a chance to establish himself as an RB3.
  • Zack Moss (Colts): Moss has been consistent in the Colts’ offense and is set to face the Saints. Given the Saints’ recent struggles against the run, Moss emerges as a viable flex option, especially in deeper leagues.
  • Roschon Johnson (Bears): With the potential return of Johnson against the Chargers, he could capitalize on the Chargers’ weakness against pass-catching running backs. Johnson offers flex appeal for this week.
  • Jamaal Williams (Saints): Returning from an injury, Williams might see increased opportunities against the Colts, who have been vulnerable against running backs. Williams could be a flex consideration in deeper leagues.

3. Wide Receivers to Target:

  • Romeo Doubs (Packers): Despite recent challenges, Doubs remains a key figure in the Packers’ offense. Facing the Vikings, who rank in the bottom half against the pass, Doubs has low-end WR3 potential.
  • Calvin Ridley (Jaguars): Ridley, once a top fantasy pick, has had a subdued season. However, a matchup against the Steelers, who have been generous to wideouts, makes Ridley a flex consideration.
  • Jahan Dotson (Commanders): Despite inconsistent target numbers, Dotson remains a key figure in the Commanders’ offense. Facing the Eagles, Dotson could benefit from volume, making him a start in deep leagues.

4. Tight Ends to Look Out For:

  • Mayer (Raiders): Despite a recent dip in performance, Mayer’s matchup against the Lions, who have struggled against tight ends, makes him a high-end TE2.
  • Jake Ferguson (Cowboys): Ferguson’s role in the Cowboys’ offense against the Rams, who rank ninth in points allowed to tight ends, makes him a low-end TE1.
  • Hayden Hurst (Panthers): Despite sharing opportunities with Tommy Tremble, Hurst remains the leader in snaps and targets for the Panthers. Facing the Texans, who have been vulnerable against tight ends, Hurst emerges as a TE2 in deeper leagues.

5. Defensive Picks:

  • Chargers: Facing the Bears and their rookie QB Tyson Bagent, the Chargers’ defense could capitalize on potential mistakes, making them a viable pick for takeaways.
  • Dolphins: Despite challenges, the Dolphins’ defense, known for its high-pressure rate, faces the Patriots. Given their previous performance against New England and their ability to force sacks, the Dolphins emerge as a streaming option for defense.