The Yahoo Fantasy Football team has unveiled their bold predictions for Week 9, with expert insights from Scott Pianowski, Matt Harmon, Ray Garvin, Justin Boone, and Joel Smyth.
One of the highlighted predictions comes from Scott Pianowski, who puts his faith in the Las Vegas Raiders after their Week 8 bye. Despite the offense struggling in the past, he believes this period off will allow them to make adjustments, particularly concerning rookie running back Ashton Jeanty. Pianowski anticipates Jeanty to have a breakout receiving game, projecting at least seven receptions.
Justin Boone turns the spotlight on tight end Brock Bowers, who returns to the lineup just in time to face the Jacksonville Jaguars. Bowers, who has been recovering from injury, showcased impressive stats against Jacksonville last season, catching 11 of 13 targets for 99 yards. Boone suggests Bowers is poised for a strong performance and is no longer a low-value buy in fantasy leagues.
Ray Garvin expects Green Bay Packers wide receiver Christian Watson to score his first touchdown of the season. After returning from knee surgery, Watson has shown promise with a solid performance in Week 8, and with Green Bay favored in their matchup against Carolina, Garvin believes Watson will find the end zone, given the team’s effective play-action strategy.
For those considering running back Kareem Hunt, Matt Harmon suggests that Hunt could emerge as a top-15 option if Isiah Pacheco’s knee injury sidelines him. Despite the Chiefs’ unexciting run game, Hunt’s effectiveness running the ball could pay off against a struggling Buffalo defense, potentially leading to a goal-line touchdown.
Meanwhile, Joel Smyth sees a breakout opportunity for DJ Moore of the Chicago Bears. With defenses focused on teammate Rome Odunze, Moore could thrive against a Cincinnati Bengals team that has struggled to tackle effectively, leading to potential big plays for the veteran receiver.
Lastly, Chris Allen predicts that Jaxon Smith-Njigba will finish as the top wide receiver for Week 9. Smith-Njigba is leading the league in receiving yards and is expected to capitalize on a vulnerable Washington secondary, which has allowed significant yardage to wide receivers in recent weeks.
These expert insights signal an exciting week ahead in fantasy football, with several players looking to make their mark following the midseason break. Fantasy managers should keep an eye on these predictions as they set their lineups for Week 9.