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Fantasy Football Week 8 Rankings: Cam Newton and Stars That Won't Let You Down

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There are a few frustrating things about being a fantasy owner. Mainly, you have absolutely no control over what players do.

You might start a stud quarterback against a week defense, only to have that team run the ball in the red zone. That's a nice way to lose some points.

But every week, there are some dependable options to go with. They may not end up getting the most points at their given position, but they are the most bankable options.


QB: Cam Newton

Drew Brees or Tom Brady would also be good bets, but their yardage and touchdown totals tend to fluctuate a little bit. Don't get me wrong, if you have those guys, play them. But for this week, I am liking Newton. 

With the exception of a Week 3 rainstorm, Newton's yardage totals have been consistently high this season. The Panthers need him to pass for a lot of yards. Even though they are pass-heavy teams, the Patriots and Saints can win without great statistical games from their quarterbacks.

I don't like the Vikings' chances of shutting Newton down. They have had a hard time defending the pass this season. Newton is for real.

What's the most likely scenario with Darren Sproles?

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RB: Darren Sproles

Because of his prowess as a pass catcher and runner, Sproles is one of the hidden gems of this year's fantasy season.

The matchup against the Rams is very favorable for Sproles. I see the Saints getting out to a big lead with his help and then milking the rest of the game, also with his help.

Sproles is just always one of the best running back options. His stats aren't necessarily traditional, but they are consistently dominant. 

WR: Mike Wallace

Now, I see the Patriots winning this game, but that doesn't mean that the Steelers won't have some bright spots. The Patriots have a hard time defending the pass, and if my prediction is true, the Steelers will be passing a lot.

Wallace is a big-play machine. He seems to come through with one or two every week. He's also a pretty reliable PPR option, although the last few weeks haven't been great for him in that regard.

TE: Vernon Davis

Vernon Davis will score 1.5 touchdowns on Sunday.

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I understand some reservation here. With the return of Braylon Edwards, there is a fear that Davis could lose some attention from the offense. I understand the reservation, I just don't buy it.

Davis is far and away the best receiver on the 49ers. He's a red-zone monster, and the Browns' corners will do a lot to shut those receivers down. That's where Davis will enter and have a huge day.

K: Phil Dawson

As a general rule, I still like the kicker opposing the 49ers in pretty much every matchup. Their pass defense has gotten better in recent weeks, but opponents still find themselves in position to score a lot.

Even in the terrible Seahawks versus Browns game last week, Dawson managed to make two kicks. I expect something similar this week, although three is the number I'll predict.

This will be a more open game than that one was.

DEF: Baltimore Ravens

In every game they have played this season, the Cardinals have surrendered multiple sacks. In all but one game they have played, the Cardinals have thrown an interception.

So, I am wondering how they are going to have any success against the Ravens. It's not that I am not expecting any points from the Cardinals, but their turnovers and sacks against the Baltimore defense will more than make up for it. 

Even in their loss last week, the Ravens defense was fine. Now, they are going to be playing with a chip on their shoulder.

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