WHAT WE LEARNED THIS WEEK
The Miami Dolphins did it again. A few weeks after dominating the 49ers, the Dolphins destroyed Jared Goff and company to beat the Rams 28-17. The defense and special teams produced two interceptions, two fumble recoveries, two sacks, and two touchdowns to lead Miami to victory. Players who made important IDP contributions include Eric Rowe, Jerome Baker, Kyle Van Noy, Xavien Howard, Andrew Van Ginkel, and Christian Wilkins.
Philadelphia had a bittersweet night beating the Cowboys in week eight. On the night, the offense did not look great. However, the defense took care of business, racking up four sacks, two fumbles, a safety, and a touchdown in the game. There is a long way to go, but keep in mind that if your fantasy team makes a deep playoff run, Dallas plays the Eagles in championship week 16 this season. Philly stars of the game were T.J. Edwards, Rodney McLeod, and Brandon Graham.
On the other side of the state, Pittsburgh’s defense also produced an amazing game to win in Baltimore on Sunday. Over the 60 minutes of play, the Steeler D created four sacks, two interceptions, two fumbles, and a touchdown. If you roster Pittsburgh defenders like Stephon Tuitt, Robert Spillane, Minkah Fitzpatrick, et al., you are feeling quite satisfied this year.
TOP PLAYER PERFORMANCES
Robert Spillane – LB –PITTSBURGH STEELERS
Mentioned in this article a few weeks ago as the replacement for Devin Bush, Spillane paid immediate dividends by producing the top IDP performance of week eight on Sunday. His line included 11 total tackles, a TFL, a fumble recovery, an interception, two passes defensed, and a touchdown against the Ravens. If Spillane is still available on your waivers, he should be acquired, but be sure to keep an eye on the situation this week since Pittsburgh just traded for Avery Williamson after the game.
Trevon Diggs– CB – DALLAS COWBOYS
As a 22-year old 2nd round pick, Diggs 2020 production is quite remarkable so far. In week eight, he hit a career-high with four passes defended to go along with seven total tackles, and two interceptions against the Eagles. At this point, it may be too late to buy Diggs, but if you can find him for a good price, his long-term dynasty value looks super solid.
Bobby Wagner – LB – SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
There is nothing left to say about Bobby Wagner, the nine-year pro out of Utah State. As an IDP asset, he’s been phenomenal for years. This week, the 2012 2nd round pick was able to yield 11 total tackles, three TFLs, and two sacks in a battle with the 49ers.
NOTABLE INJURIES
Ja’Whaun Bentley – LB – NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
Bentley has been a pleasant starter for New England this season, averaging 6.4 total tackles per game this season. Unfortunately, the Purdue man had to leave the last game with a groin injury on Sunday. If the linebacker must miss time, Rookie Josh Uche may get a chance to produce in his absence.
Sheldon Rankins – DT – NEW ORLEANS SAINTS
Rankins suffered a mild MCL sprain on Sunday. The big man from Louisville did not practice on Wednesday and could miss time. Consequently, David Onyemata and Shy Tuttle are candidates to see increased snaps if Rankins can’t make it back to game action this week.
Maurice Hurst– DT – LAS VEGAS RAIDERS
Hurst, the third-year defensive tackle will be monitored through the week with an ankle injury suffered on Sunday. Hurst typically handles approximately 40% of the Raiders’ defensive snaps. If he misses time, there could be an opportunity for more production from Maliek Collins and Datone Jones.
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