Commanders vs Seahawks Fantasy Football Week 9: Start ‘Em & Sit ‘Em Picks
The Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks are set to battle on Sunday Night Football, creating an unconventional primetime matchup. The Seahawks face added challenges with a cross-country trip complicated by a time-zone switch, adding another layer of complexity to this game. To help fantasy football managers navigate the matchup, Sportskeeda has simplified the key player recommendations that could decide your fantasy outcome.
Important Injury Update
NFL insider Adam Schefter reports that Terry McLaurin is out for the contest, which means many of his targets will likely fall to Deebo Samuel. If Samuel is on your roster, it’s time to unleash him this week.
Start ‘Em Picks
- Deebo Samuel (WR, Commanders): With McLaurin sidelined, Samuel is positioned for a big night, absorbing more targets in the passing game.
- Jayden Daniels (QB, Commanders): Daniels is back in the lineup and has shown strong chemistry this season. Expect plenty of quality ball placements and a better-than-average fantasy performance.
- Luke McCaffrey (WR, Commanders): McCaffrey has flashed potential and with McLaurin out, could make a solid flex option this week.
- Sam Darnold (QB, Seahawks): The Seahawks’ quarterback is a must-start, especially given the favorable matchup and their desire to showcase his talents.
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba (WR, Seahawks): Smith-Njigba has formed an unbeatable connection with Darnold. Facing one of the weakest defenses in the league, he’s poised for a big game.
Sit ‘Em Picks
Neither the Washington Commanders’ nor the Seattle Seahawks’ defenses are recommended as viable fantasy options this week. Washington’s defense ranks near the bottom of the league in yards allowed per game, and Jayden Daniels is expected to challenge the Seahawks’ defense extensively at home.
If you’re looking to exploit easier matchups, there are better defensive options on the waiver wire. The Seahawks defense comes with some risk, so only start them if you feel comfortable taking that chance. Washington’s defense, however, should be avoided at all costs.
In addition, the game script likely favors passing attacks, with both teams aiming to highlight their quarterbacks. This scenario could limit opportunities for running backs and tight ends, especially in goal-to-go or short-yardage situations.
- Jacory Croskey-Merritt (RB, Commanders): With Washington likely to trail in the second half and lean heavily on the passing game, Croskey-Merritt’s touches and scoring chances will be limited.
- Zach Ertz (TE, Commanders): The focus on aerial attacks and other offensive weapons could reduce Ertz’s target share this week.
- Kenneth Walker III (RB, Seahawks): Seattle’s offense will prioritize showcasing Darnold and his connection with Smith-Njigba, which may decrease Walker’s goal-line chances and workload.
Summary
Must Start: Deebo Samuel, Jayden Daniels, Sam Darnold, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Luke McCaffrey
Must Sit: Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Zach Ertz, Kenneth Walker III, Washington D/ST
Make sure to pick your players wisely this week. This Sunday Night Football game could be the deciding factor for your fantasy matchup, so leverage these expert picks to maximize your chances of victory.