As fantasy managers navigate the tumultuous waters of injuries and byes, it’s becoming increasingly challenging to assemble a competitive lineup. With four teams—Browns, Packers, Raiders, and Seahawks—on a bye this week, the pressure is on to find those hidden gems who can deliver big points. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through this tricky landscape with some players you might not have considered but who have favorable matchups this week.
Players to Target in Week 10
Looking ahead to Week 10, here are five players you didn’t draft or aren’t locked-in starters who you should consider this week. And for even more fantasy insights, be sure to catch Lindsay Rhodes and me on Fantasy Dirt five days a week, plus live on Sundays!
QB – Brock Purdy at Buccaneers
Brock Purdy is on fire! He’s scored **17-plus points** in three consecutive games, including two outings where he surpassed **24 points**. This week, he faces a Buccaneers defense that has allowed **24-plus points** to each of their last three opposing quarterbacks. In fact, Tampa Bay’s defense has surrendered the second-most points per game to quarterbacks this season. Can you say matchup heaven?
RB – Tyrone Tracy Jr. vs. Panthers (Germany)
Tyrone Tracy Jr. may not have had the best game last week, finishing with just **7.9 points**, but don’t let that fool you. He’s shown he can deliver big, with **22-plus points** in two of his previous three outings. This week, he faces a Panthers defense that has allowed **eight running backs** to score **17-plus points**, including six who hit the **20-point mark** in PPR formats. He’s a solid option to consider!
WR – Khalil Shakir at Colts
Khalil Shakir has been quietly consistent, scoring **11 or more points** in three straight games and averaging just under **13 points** per contest. With Keon Coleman nursing a wrist injury and Amari Cooper also dealing with some bumps and bruises, Shakir is poised to see plenty of targets against the Colts. Their defense has given up **six touchdowns** to slot receivers this season, making this a prime opportunity for Shakir to shine.
WR – Jauan Jennings at Buccaneers
Jauan Jennings is set to make his return after missing several weeks, and he couldn’t have asked for a better matchup. The Buccaneers have allowed the **sixth-most points** to wide receivers this season. In fact, they’ve let **eight different wideouts** score **14-plus fantasy points**, with five of those exceeding **20 points**. Jennings could be a sneaky play if you’re looking for upside!
TE – Jonnu Smith at Rams (Mon.)
Jonnu Smith has been a reliable target in the Miami offense, seeing at least **six targets** in his last four games and catching **five passes** in three of those contests. The Rams have struggled against tight ends, allowing **four touchdowns** and the **seventh-most points** per game to the position this season. If you’re in need of a tight end, Smith is worth a look in what could be a high-scoring affair.
As you prepare for Week 10, keep these players in mind as potential game-changers for your fantasy lineup. With injuries and bye weeks creating a challenging environment, it’s crucial to find those hidden gems who can help elevate your team. Whether it’s Purdy’s hot streak, Tracy Jr.’s favorable matchup, or Shakir’s consistent performance, there are plenty of options to consider. Good luck, and may your fantasy team soar to new heights this week!
