This AFC West clash between the Las Vegas Raiders (2-6) and the streaking Denver Broncos (7-2) may look lopsided on paper, but it holds major significance for fantasy owners.
The Raiders’ offense, though struggling, flashed a new level of upside last week, which immediately elevates the fantasy profile of their key players. While the Broncos’ elite defense has been a unit to fear, a divisional rivalry on a short week always offers a chance for unpredictability.
Owners should view this game not as a potential blowout to avoid entirely, but as a high-leverage opportunity to stream options and leverage specific player matchups.
The fantasy star to watch for the Raiders is undoubtedly tight end Brock Bowers. After an injury layoff, the second-year tight end erupted last week for a massive performance, including three touchdowns, reminding everyone of his top-tier talent.
With the Raiders trading away Jakobi Meyers this week, Bowers is poised to command a huge target share, making him a must-start, even against a solid Denver defense.
In the backfield, rookie running back Ashton Jeanty has been somewhat of a disappointment this fantasy season, but demonstrates impressive ability to gain yards after contact. Though the Denver run defense is tough, Jeanty’s volume and nose for the end zone make him a strong flex play.
Outside of these two, quarterback Geno Smith is only a streaming option in deep leagues, but his reliance on Bowers is a major boost for the tight end’s outlook.
For the AFC West-leading Broncos, the key fantasy assets are found in both the rushing and receiving games. Running back J.K. Dobbins has been a picture of consistency, often hitting 60+ rushing yards per game and ranking near the top of the league in rushing yards. He remains a solid RB2 play against a vulnerable Raiders defense.
At wide receiver, Courtland Sutton is the primary target for quarterback Bo Nix, especially in the red zone. Sutton continues to rack up the targets and is a high-floor WR2/WR3 play, especially since the Raiders have struggled to limit opposing receivers.
Quarterback Bo Nix himself has been a steady fantasy producer due to his rushing upside and has a favorable matchup to exceed his passing touchdown projection.
Fantasy Football Start/Sit Recommendations
Start ‘em with confidence
- Bo Nix (QB – DEN)
- J.K. Dobbins (RB – DEN)
- Brock Bowers (TE – LV)
Start ‘em with caution
- Geno Smith (QB – LV)
- Ashton Jeanty (RB – LV)
- RJ Harvey (RB – DEN)
- Courtland Sutton (WR – DEN)
- Troy Franklin (WR – DEN)
Sit ‘em with confidence
- Dont’e Thornton (WR – LV)
Sit ‘em with caution
- Evan Engram (TE – DEN)
