Fantasy Football Week 8: Must-Start and Sit Running Backs

As Fantasy Football Week 8 unfolds, players must identify the optimal running backs to start or sit to maximize their team’s potential. Below is a detailed overview of key matchups, providing insights into which running backs could exceed expectations or fall flat.

Must-Start Running Backs

• Cam Skattebo vs. Eagles (1 p.m. ET, Fox): Skattebo has emerged as a significant player in the Giants’ backfield, commanding a 42% touch share over the last month and averaging 19.2 points per game. He previously scored 31 points against the Eagles.
• Rachaad White at Saints (4:05 p.m. ET, Fox): With a leading role in the Buccaneers’ backfield since Bucky Irving’s injury, White is positioned as a top-10 fantasy option. The Saints’ defense has allowed several running backs to score more than 20 points this season.
• D’Andre Swift at Ravens (1 p.m. ET, CBS): Swift is outstanding recently, averaging 7.1 yards per rush and amassing 46.3 fantasy points over the last two games. The Ravens’ defense has allowed notable points to multiple running backs this year, making Swift an appealing choice.
• Breece Hall at Bengals (1 p.m. ET, CBS): Although the Jets’ offense struggles, Hall has a favorable matchup against the Bengals. Their defense has permitted ten runners to hit double digits this season.
• J.K. Dobbins vs. Cowboys (4:25 p.m. ET, CBS): Despite recent struggles, Dobbins faces a Cowboys defense vulnerable to running backs, with multiple players having scored over 17 points against them this season.

Critical Sits

• Alvin Kamara vs. Buccaneers (4:05 p.m. ET, Fox): Kamara’s production has dipped, averaging just 10.8 points per game and failing to exceed 13.7 points in six of seven games this season.
• Chuba Hubbard vs. Bills (1 p.m. ET, Fox): Hubbard’s effectiveness has waned, averaging a mere 2.2 yards per rush. While the matchup appears favorable, his performance against high-caliber defenses remains a concern.
• Rhamondre Stevenson vs. Browns (1 p.m. ET, Fox): After a solid showing last week, Stevenson faces a tough Browns defense. Only one opposing runner has surpassed 13.1 points against them this season.
• Tony Pollard vs. Colts (4:25 p.m. ET, CBS): Pollard’s performance has diminished, averaging just 10.7 points per game while losing touches to other players. The Colts’ defense is among the best at limiting fantasy points to running backs.
• Jacory Croskey-Merritt at Chiefs (Mon. 8:15 p.m. ET, ESPN): Croskey-Merritt has struggled in favorable matchups, with a tough game ahead against a Chiefs defense that has held notable players under ten fantasy points this season.

Schedule Notes

• Byes: Cardinals, Jaguars, Lions, Raiders, Rams, Seahawks

In conclusion, selecting the right running backs for your fantasy roster can significantly impact your team’s success in Week 8. Be sure to evaluate matchups closely and adjust your lineup accordingly to seize every opportunity for points this fantasy season.