Start or Sit: What To Do With These NFL Stars in Week 9?
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
Navigating start/sit decisions in fantasy football can be challenging, especially when evaluating players with tricky matchups or recent performance fluctuations. This week, we’ll look at a few players who have favorable matchups and others to consider benching. Here’s a breakdown of some key players to help you make the best choices for your lineup.
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Start: Rico Dowdle (RB) vs. Atlanta Falcons
Rico Dowdle may have let some fantasy managers down last week due to an unexpected illness, but he’s set to bounce back this week in a favorable matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Dowdle’s primary competition is Dalvin Cook, who has struggled to produce consistently. Cook’s performance with the Jets last year left much to be desired, and his current form hasn’t improved.
Fantasy Analysis: The Atlanta Falcons’ defense is vulnerable against the run, ranking 12th in rushing yards allowed per game, with the sixth-highest missed tackle rate and the 14th-highest explosive run rate. These stats position Dowdle well to exploit the Falcons’ defense. He’s likely to see touches in both the running and passing game, providing a solid floor for fantasy production.
Recommendation: Start Rico Dowdle. The combination of workload and matchup makes him a valuable play for Week 9. His potential for yardage and some involvement in the passing game add to his appeal.
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Sit: Javonte Williams (RB) vs. Baltimore Ravens
Javonte Williams is a player to avoid this week, as he faces a challenging matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. The Ravens’ defense has been stout against the run, and this could limit Williams’ fantasy upside.
Fantasy Analysis: Baltimore has proven to be one of the toughest defenses in the league, particularly against opposing running backs. Williams may see limited yardage opportunities, making it challenging for him to reach fantasy relevance this week. Even with his recent workload, the Ravens’ defense is likely to stifle his production.
Recommendation: Sit Javonte Williams. There are better options at running back this week, especially with players like Dowdle in favorable matchups.
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Start: Keon Coleman (WR) vs. Miami Dolphins
Keon Coleman has been on a tear recently, with two consecutive strong performances. Despite the arrival of Amari Cooper, Coleman has managed to carve out a significant role, posting 195 receiving yards and a touchdown over his last two games.
Fantasy Analysis: This week, Coleman faces the Miami Dolphins, whose primary defensive attention will likely focus on Amari Cooper. This leaves Coleman in a prime position to receive more targets. The Miami defense has shown vulnerability against secondary receivers, making Coleman a valuable start in this matchup.
Recommendation: Start Keon Coleman. His recent performance and favorable matchup make him a high-upside play this week.
Sit: Keenan Allen (WR) vs. Arizona Cardinals
Keenan Allen is typically a reliable starter, but this week, he faces a less-than-ideal situation. With Caleb Williams throwing the ball, Allen’s fantasy outlook becomes more uncertain.
Fantasy Analysis: Allen’s production may be inconsistent with a newer quarterback under center. The Arizona Cardinals’ defense isn’t elite, but Williams has been inconsistent. Allen’s target volume could suffer, making him a riskier option than usual.
Recommendation: Sit Keenan Allen if you have other viable options, especially in leagues where the inconsistency at quarterback could impact Allen’s usual high-floor value.
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Additional Insights and Summary
This week’s start/sit decisions revolve around analyzing matchups and player health:
- Start Rico Dowdle: Favorable matchup against a weak Falcons defense.
- Sit Javonte Williams: Tough matchup against a stout Ravens run defense.
- Start Keyon Coleman: Exploiting Miami’s defensive focus on Cooper.
- Sit Keenan Allen: Fluctuating quarterback production could hinder Allen’s outlook.
These recommendations provide flexibility and opportunity to maximize points in Week 9, whether you’re in a standard or PPR league.
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