Fantasy Football Week 10: Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em – Will C.J. Stroud’s Struggles Persist?
As the fantasy football regular season rapidly winds down, every lineup decision becomes crucial for playoff hopes. Here’s a look at some key players to consider for Week 10.
Quarterbacks
Start: Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers)
Purdy has been inconsistent this season but seems to be hitting his stride, scoring over 20 fantasy points in his last three games. With the potential return of Christian McCaffrey, the 49ers’ offense will remain strong against Tampa Bay’s defense, which has allowed the third-most passing yards and touchdowns in 2024.
Sit: C.J. Stroud (Houston Texans)
Stroud, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, has struggled this season, partly due to a banged-up Texans roster. Over the past three games, he’s failed to surpass 200 passing yards in two of them, with just one touchdown and two fumbles. A tough matchup against Detroit’s defense, which has allowed the fewest passing touchdowns and is second in interceptions, makes it wise to bench Stroud this week.
Running Backs
Start: Tyrone Tracy Jr. (New York Giants)
Tracy has emerged as a leading rusher for the Giants and faces a favorable matchup against Carolina, who has struggled all season to contain running backs. With the Panthers giving up the most rushing yards and touchdowns, and allowing the most fantasy points per game to running backs, Tracy has high upside.
Sit: Tony Pollard (Dallas Cowboys)
Pollard has been solid, but he faces a tough Chargers defense that has stifled opposing running backs. Los Angeles has allowed the second-fewest fantasy points to running backs and Pollard’s foot injury and potential competition from Tyjae Spears could limit his production this week.
Wide Receivers
Start: Khalil Shakir (Buffalo Bills)
Shakir has been a reliable target for Buffalo, posting over 10 fantasy points in seven of his eight games this season. With Keon Coleman potentially sidelined, Shakir should see a strong target share against a Colts defense that has struggled against wide receivers.
Sit: DeAndre Hopkins (Tennessee Titans)
Despite a recent standout performance, Hopkins faces a tough matchup against Denver’s top cornerback, Patrick Surtain II, who has been nearly unbeatable this season. If you have depth at the position, it may be worth sitting Hopkins this week.
Tight Ends
Start: T.J. Hockenson (Minnesota Vikings)
After returning from injury, Hockenson was quiet in Week 9, but he should see more involvement this week. Facing a Jaguars defense that has struggled against tight ends, Hockenson has a good chance to bounce back.
Sit: Sam LaPorta (Detroit Lions)
After a stellar rookie season, LaPorta has been underwhelming in 2024, with only two double-digit fantasy performances. The Lions’ offense, especially with the return of Jameson Williams, is unlikely to increase his target share, and the Texans have been one of the toughest defenses against tight ends this season.
