Fantasy Football Week 8: Must-Start and Sit Players for 2024

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Fantasy football managers, it’s that time of the week again! Week 8 is here, and it’s time to dive into your roster to decide who will be the key difference-makers in your lineup and which players might need to ride the bench. As every experienced player knows, navigating matchups, injuries, and team dynamics is crucial for success. In this blog post, we’ll analyze key players to start and sit for Week 8 to maximize your chances of winning. We will also explore the technology that supports fantasy football, particularly through mobile applications development company which have revolutionized the fantasy football experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the fantasy football world, you’ll find invaluable advice and insights to help you optimize your team. Let’s break down each position and highlight the key players that should either be in your lineup or avoided for Week 8.

1. Quarterbacks

Must-Start: Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)

There’s a reason Patrick Mahomes is consistently considered a top-tier quarterback. With an offensive line that provides him ample time and weapons like Travis Kelce and a rejuvenated receiving corps, Mahomes remains a must-start every week, and Week 8 is no exception. He’s up against a middle-of-the-pack defense this week, which means Mahomes could post massive numbers, especially considering his ability to make explosive plays both inside and outside the pocket.

Look for Mahomes to exploit soft coverage and extend drives, keeping your fantasy score ticking upward. Mobile applications development companies have made tracking such elite performances a breeze, offering real-time stats and push notifications for touchdowns and big plays.

Sit: Daniel Jones (New York Giants)

If you have Daniel Jones on your roster, Week 8 might be the time to consider other options. The Giants’ offensive line has struggled with consistency, and Jones has been prone to turnovers when pressured. Facing a top-ranked defense this week, his upside is limited. Plus, with limited receiving options and a shaky running game, Jones might find himself scrambling for points. Trusting Jones to start for you this week is a risk that may not pay off.

2. Running Backs

Must-Start: Bijan Robinson (Atlanta Falcons)

The dynamic rookie Bijan Robinson has quickly established himself as one of the top running backs in the league. Week 8 sees him facing a defense that has struggled against the run, giving Robinson the perfect opportunity to rack up yards and touchdowns. His dual-threat ability as a pass-catcher out of the backfield adds to his value, especially in PPR (points per reception) leagues. Expect Robinson to see plenty of work both on the ground and through the air, making him a lock for your starting lineup.

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Sit: Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers)

It’s been a disappointing season for Najee Harris, and Week 8 doesn’t look promising. The Steelers’ offense has been inconsistent, and Harris hasn’t found the holes he needs to make an impact. Facing a strong front seven that specializes in shutting down the run, Harris could struggle to get going. Additionally, Pittsburgh has leaned more on the passing game, reducing Harris’ opportunities. Consider sitting him this week unless you’re short on other options.

3. Wide Receivers

Must-Start: A.J. Brown (Philadelphia Eagles)

A.J. Brown has been a dominant force in 2024, racking up impressive yardage and scoring at will. Week 8 is another favorable matchup for the Eagles’ wideout. Going up against a team that’s allowed generous points to wide receivers, Brown should be able to take advantage of mismatches on the outside and dominate his defenders. His deep-play ability combined with his red-zone usage makes him a no-brainer for your starting lineup.

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Sit: Gabe Davis (Buffalo Bills)

Gabe Davis is a boom-or-bust player, and this week, it’s likely he leans more toward bust. Despite being a deep threat in the Bills’ high-powered offense, Davis faces a stingy defense that has excelled in neutralizing wide receivers. His inconsistency, combined with a tougher matchup, suggests that Davis could struggle to find space or targets. With safer options available, it might be best to bench Davis for Week 8.

4. Tight Ends

Must-Start: Mark Andrews (Baltimore Ravens)

Mark Andrews continues to be a reliable target for Lamar Jackson, and Week 8 sees the Ravens facing a defense that has been vulnerable to tight ends. Andrews has been heavily involved in the passing game, particularly in the red zone, and has a good chance to find the end zone this week. His rapport with Jackson and consistent target share make him one of the best tight end options, and there’s no reason to bench him.

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Sit: Tyler Higbee (Los Angeles Rams)

Tyler Higbee’s production has been inconsistent this season, and Week 8 isn’t a great spot for him. The Rams’ offense has shifted focus to their wide receivers, leaving Higbee with fewer opportunities to shine. Coupled with a difficult matchup against a defense that excels at limiting tight ends, Higbee’s ceiling is quite low this week. Unless you’re desperate, it’s safer to keep him on the bench.

5. Defenses

Must-Start: San Francisco 49ers Defense

The 49ers’ defense has been a top-tier fantasy option throughout the season, and Week 8 presents another opportunity for a big performance. With a favorable matchup against a struggling offense, expect the 49ers to rack up sacks, force turnovers, and possibly score on defense. If you have the 49ers’ defense, lock them into your lineup for a potential game-changing performance.

Fantasy apps, built by mobile applications development companies, offer real-time defensive stats, so you can stay on top of every sack, interception, and fumble recovery, enhancing the excitement of watching the game.

Sit: New Orleans Saints Defense

The Saints have been solid defensively, but Week 8 sees them facing an explosive offense that’s difficult to contain. With multiple weapons at the opposing team’s disposal, the Saints’ defense could struggle to limit points and big plays. Additionally, their turnover potential is lower against this particular matchup, making them a riskier option. If possible, look for a defense with a better matchup for Week 8.

6. Kickers

Must-Start: Justin Tucker (Baltimore Ravens)

Justin Tucker is arguably the most reliable kicker in the NFL, and Week 8 presents an ideal scenario for him to shine. With the Ravens likely to move the ball well but possibly stall in the red zone, Tucker could be in line for multiple field goal attempts. His range and accuracy make him a must-start in all formats, especially in a game where every point will count.

Sit: Greg Zuerlein (New York Jets)

Greg Zuerlein has been serviceable, but the Jets’ inconsistent offense could leave him with limited opportunities in Week 8. Against a defense that excels at shutting down scoring drives, Zuerlein’s potential for field goals is reduced. Look elsewhere if you want to avoid a low-scoring performance from your kicker.

7. Flex Positions

Must-Start: Raheem Mostert (Miami Dolphins)

Raheem Mostert has been a revelation for the Dolphins’ offense, consistently putting up impressive numbers as both a runner and receiver. Week 8 presents a favorable matchup for Mostert, especially given the Dolphins’ high-octane offensive scheme. His big-play potential and consistent workload make him an excellent flex option this week.

Sit: Elijah Mitchell (San Francisco 49ers)

While Elijah Mitchell is a talented player, Week 8 doesn’t offer him the best opportunity to succeed. With the 49ers likely focusing their offensive attack through other playmakers, Mitchell’s role may be diminished. Additionally, the matchup doesn’t favor the 49ers’ run game, limiting Mitchell’s potential impact. He’s a risky flex play at best for Week 8.

8. Rookies to Watch

Must-Start: Jordan Addison (Minnesota Vikings)

Jordan Addison has shown flashes of brilliance as a rookie, and Week 8 is an opportunity for him to truly break out. With his ability to stretch the field and make big plays, Addison is a great high-upside option this week. The Vikings’ offense has been incorporating him more each game, and a favorable matchup boosts his chances of making a significant fantasy impact.

Sit: Tank Dell (Houston Texans)

While Tank Dell has shown promise in certain games, his Week 8 outlook isn’t as bright. Facing a defense that specializes in limiting big plays, Dell may find it difficult to get open deep downfield. His reliance on splash plays makes him a risky start this week, especially in tougher matchups like this one.

9. The Role of Technology in Fantasy Football

The Rise of Mobile Applications Development Companies

The fantasy football world would not be as engaging without the innovations driven by mobile applications development companies. These companies have transformed the way we manage our teams, with sleek apps that offer live scoring updates, waiver wire alerts, and matchup analytics. The ability to access these tools on-the-go has made it easier than ever for fantasy managers to adjust their lineups, make trades, and set waiver priorities at any time.

Additionally, mobile apps have streamlined the entire fantasy football experience, incorporating features like instant push notifications, expert analysis, and social integrations that allow managers to chat with league mates and make competitive decisions in real time.

The Power of Software Development in Fantasy Football

Behind every great fantasy football platform is the work of a software development company. These organizations are responsible for creating the algorithms that power player rankings, projections, and matchups. Software development companies work closely with fantasy football providers to ensure that data is presented in a user-friendly format, allowing managers to quickly assess the best course of action each week.

Without these innovations, the fantasy football experience would be far less immersive and strategic. From designing league management tools to developing advanced metrics that evaluate player performance, software development companies are the backbone of the fantasy football industry.

Conclusion

Fantasy football Week 8 presents several key opportunities for managers to get ahead. From must-start stars like Patrick Mahomes and Bijan Robinson to players you should sit like Daniel Jones and Najee Harris, every decision matters. Thanks to the innovations of mobile applications development companies and software development companies, managing your fantasy football team has never been easier or more fun.

Remember, staying informed and up-to-date with the latest data is crucial to success. Make use of all the tools at your disposal, and set yourself up for a winning week.