As we dive into Week 3 of the NFL season, fantasy football managers are grappling with the effects of injuries, performance shifts, and emerging opportunities. The latest injury news, particularly Kansas City Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco landing on IR with a fibula injury, has sparked a flurry of activity in fantasy leagues. The next few weeks are crucial for making smart pickups and adjustments to your roster. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the waiver wire and make strategic additions to bolster your fantasy team.

Running Backs

Isiah Pacheco Injury: What It Means for Your Fantasy Team

Isiah Pacheco, the Kansas City Chiefs’ promising running back, is expected to land on IR due to a fibula injury suffered in Week 2. The injury occurred in the final minutes of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals, and Pacheco was seen leaving the stadium with a walking boot and crutches. The Chiefs’ head coach, Andy Reid, confirmed that Pacheco would undergo further tests to determine the extent of the injury. The initial reports suggest that Pacheco could be sidelined for more than the minimum four weeks. This opens up a significant opportunity for other running backs in the Chiefs’ backfield.

Carson Steele: The Next Man Up

With Pacheco out, Carson Steele emerges as a strong candidate to lead the Chiefs’ backfield. Steele, an undrafted free agent from UCLA, has demonstrated his capability in early-down and short-yardage situations. Through the first two games of the season, Steele has shown impressive contact balance and leg strength, making the most of every rushing attempt. His solid performance in these critical situations makes him a valuable addition to fantasy rosters.

Kareem Hunt: A Potential Game Changer

The Chiefs are reportedly considering bringing back Kareem Hunt, a familiar face who previously played under Andy Reid. Hunt’s knowledge of Reid’s system could make him an effective short-term solution. However, his role is not yet confirmed, and it’s important to monitor any updates on this situation. If the Chiefs sign Hunt, they may not immediately hand him the starting role, which could limit his immediate fantasy value. For now, Carson Steele remains the preferred option, but Hunt’s potential addition is worth keeping an eye on.

Other Notable Running Backs to Consider

• Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers): Bucky Irving, currently rostered in 29.5% of ESPN leagues, is worth stashing on your bench. The Buccaneers drafted Irving with the intention of using him alongside Rachaad White. Despite a limited rushing performance against the Detroit Lions, offensive coordinator Liam Coen seems committed to incorporating both backs. Irving could become a valuable asset later in the season, making him a strategic addition to your roster.
• Rico Dowdle (Dallas Cowboys): Rico Dowdle, rostered in 37.3% of leagues, has been more productive than Ezekiel Elliott so far. Both backs have had similar touch counts, but Dowdle’s performance has been more efficient, with better yards per touch and after-the-catch stats. The Cowboys’ offensive line is performing well, ranking eighth in run block win rate. Dowdle’s productivity and potential for increased playtime make him a solid stash option.
• Antonio Gibson (New England Patriots): Antonio Gibson, rostered in 32.3% of leagues, has shown promise with 12 touches in Week 2, resulting in 11.3 fantasy points. While Rhamondre Stevenson remains the primary back, Gibson could become valuable if Stevenson misses time. The Patriots’ heavy reliance on the run makes Gibson a potential asset if Stevenson is unavailable.
• Dameon Pierce (Houston Texans): Dameon Pierce, currently rostered in 2.3% of leagues, is worth monitoring if Joe Mixon faces an extended absence. Pierce missed Week 2 due to a hamstring injury, but if Mixon is sidelined, Pierce could emerge as a key player. His health and the status of Mixon will determine his value in the coming weeks.
• Ty Chandler (Minnesota Vikings): Ty Chandler, rostered in 46.6% of leagues, has provided consistent production and is a solid flex option. Chandler has had double-digit touches in back-to-back games and should continue to play a significant role in the Vikings’ backfield.
• Trey Benson (Arizona Cardinals): Trey Benson, currently rostered in 43.5% of leagues, is a good stash if James Conner misses time. Benson’s potential increased role makes him worth considering, especially if Conner is sidelined.
• Ray Davis (Buffalo Bills): Ray Davis, rostered in 11.4% of leagues, is a stash option in case of an injury to James Cook. With the Bills’ high-scoring offense, Davis could see increased opportunities if Cook is injured.
• Braelon Allen (New York Jets): Braelon Allen, currently rostered in 7.4% of leagues, is worth stashing due to his future potential. His impressive performance in Week 2 suggests he could be a valuable player down the line.

Quarterbacks

If Justin Fields keeps winning, will he keep starting for the Pittsburgh Steelers?

Justin Fields (Pittsburgh Steelers): A Solid QB3 Pickup

Justin Fields, currently rostered in 32.0% of leagues, is a dual-threat quarterback with significant fantasy potential. Despite the Steelers’ offensive struggles, Fields’ dual-threat ability makes him a solid QB3 pickup for superflex leagues. His ability to make plays with both his arm and legs adds value, and his favorable upcoming schedule enhances his potential as a useful asset.

Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints): Thriving Under New System

Derek Carr, rostered in 21.6% of leagues, has been performing well under the new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak. Carr has already thrown three 50-plus yard touchdowns this season, showcasing his big-play ability. With a favorable matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 3, Carr is poised for another strong performance. He is a reliable starter for those in need of quarterback help.

Geno Smith (Seattle Seahawks): Reliable Midrange QB2

Geno Smith, currently rostered in 16.3% of leagues, has scored well in recent games and has a favorable Week 3 matchup. Smith’s performance, combined with the presence of talented receivers like DK Metcalf, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Tyler Lockett, makes him a solid midrange QB2. His consistent scoring and favorable matchup make him a valuable addition.

Wide Receivers

Demarcus Robinson (Los Angeles Rams): Potential Lead Target

Demarcus Robinson, rostered in 33.6% of leagues, could become the lead target in the Rams’ offense if Cooper Kupp remains sidelined. With Kupp’s recent injury, Robinson has the opportunity to step up as a key player. The Rams’ high volume of passing attempts further enhances Robinson’s potential value. He is a solid flex option for fantasy managers looking to fill the gap.

Romeo Doubs (Green Bay Packers): Leading in Targets

Romeo Doubs, currently rostered in 30.2% of leagues, is an every-down player for the Packers and leads the team in snaps, routes run, and targets. Despite a run-heavy approach in Week 2, Doubs’ consistent usage makes him a valuable addition. His potential for continued growth makes him worth adding to your roster.

Wan’Dale Robinson (New York Giants): Worth Stashing

Wan’Dale Robinson, rostered in 18.2% of leagues, has had limited targets but could become valuable in future matchups. Despite a challenging Week 3 against the Cleveland Browns, Robinson’s potential for better performances in upcoming games makes him a good stash candidate.

Alec Pierce (Indianapolis Colts): Strong Recent Performances

Alec Pierce, currently rostered in 13.5% of leagues, has shown strong performances in recent weeks. With increased targets and consistent fantasy points, Pierce is a valuable addition. His performance and involvement in the Colts’ offense make him a player to watch and consider for your roster.

Quentin Johnston (Los Angeles Chargers): Breakout Potential

Quentin Johnston, rostered in 6.9% of leagues, had a standout game in Week 2, making him worth stashing. While he faces tough matchups in the coming weeks, Johnston’s performance and potential for increased involvement make him a player to keep an eye on.

Jalen Nailor (Minnesota Vikings): Potential for Increased Role

Jalen Nailor, currently rostered in 0.5% of leagues, had a solid performance in Week 2, especially with Jordan Addison sidelined. If Justin Jefferson and Addison remain out, Nailor could become a valuable start in deeper leagues. His performance and potential role increase make him worth considering.

Tight Ends

Hunter Henry (New England Patriots): Strong Week 2 Performance

Hunter Henry, currently rostered in 10.1% of leagues, had an impressive Week 2 performance with 109 receiving yards and 18.9 fantasy points. His connection with Jacoby Brissett and increased target volume make him a potential TE1 if this trend continues. Henry’s strong performance and usage make him a valuable addition.

Colby Parkinson (Los Angeles Rams): Potential for Increased Targets

Colby Parkinson, rostered in 44.1% of leagues, may see more targets if Cooper Kupp remains out. Despite a disappointing Week 2, Parkinson’s potential involvement in the Rams’ passing game makes him a player to consider. Monitor Kupp

The sports television landscape is rapidly evolving, and this NFL season will highlight those changes. Just three years ago, the NFL signed a significant media rights deal that introduced Amazon Prime Video as the exclusive home of Thursday Night Football. This $13 billion, 11-year agreement was seen as a game-changer in sports broadcasting.

However, despite the rise of streaming platforms, the NFL continues to prioritize its strong connection with traditional TV networks. As part of the same media deal, the NFL announced a return to Disney’s ABC network for Monday Night Football, including airing the Super Bowl in 2027 and 2031. The league has maintained its partnerships with major broadcasters like CBS, Fox, and NBC, ensuring broad distribution of its games. Amazon’s Thursday Night Football games are also broadcast for free on local networks.

Hans Schroeder, NFL Media’s executive vice president and COO, emphasized the importance of a combined approach. “Our model is to be on both linear and digital platforms,” Schroeder said. He acknowledged the growth of streaming but stressed that traditional broadcasting remains a priority.

In recent years, the NFL has slowly expanded into streaming, a shift the league refers to as the “next step” in its strategy. Netflix, which previously showed little interest in live sports, signed a three-season deal with the NFL to air Christmas Day games, reportedly paying around $75 million per game. Meanwhile, Peacock will exclusively host a Friday night game during the season’s first weekend, following its success with an exclusive Wild Card playoff game last season.

Additionally, YouTube TV now holds the exclusive rights to NFL Sunday Ticket, which allows fans across the country to watch out-of-market games.

As the balance between traditional TV and streaming continues to evolve, the NFL is positioning itself to remain a dominant force in both spaces, ensuring fans can access games across multiple platforms.

The college football season is kicking off with a full slate of games, and the matchup between TCU and Stanford is set to be one of the highlights of Week 1. With the NFL season not starting until next week, college football is taking center stage, offering games every day from Thursday to Monday. Among these, the Friday night showdown between the TCU Horned Frogs and the Stanford Cardinal stands out, as it closes out Friday’s group of games and features two teams with much to prove.

TCU vs. Stanford Game Overview

This game marks the fourth meeting between TCU and Stanford, with TCU winning all three previous encounters. The most recent matchup was a thrilling 39-37 victory for TCU in the Alamo Bowl back in 2017. Both teams are looking to start their 2024 seasons strong, with TCU aiming to return to the success they had in 2022 when they reached the national championship game.

Predictions and Expert Picks

Various experts have weighed in on the game with predictions and betting advice:

• VSiN suggests taking Stanford with the points (+9.5), noting that TCU’s new defensive coordinator and a largely new defensive lineup might mean a closer game than expected. Adam Burke writes that TCU may not have the efficiency needed on both sides of the ball to win by double digits.
• Covers.com advises laying the points for TCU (-9.5) and taking the over at 60.5. JD Yonke believes that while Stanford will be competitive, they are not yet ready to upset a more talented and well-coached TCU team.
• Sports Illustrated also recommends taking the over, with Reed Wallach expressing uncertainty about the reliability of either team’s defense while acknowledging both offenses’ potential.
• Winners and Whiners favors TCU (-9) and predicts they will cover the spread. Mark Ruelle argues that TCU’s strengthened defensive line could force Stanford into a one-dimensional game, likely leading to a TCU victory.

Betting Odds and Lines

As of Thursday morning, TCU is favored to win with a spread of -9.5, a moneyline of -350, and an over/under of 59.5 points, according to BetMGM’s college football odds. For those interested in wagering, several top betting apps offer various promos and bonuses for NCAA football games in 2024.

How to Watch TCU vs. Stanford

• Date: Friday, August 30
• Location: Stanford Stadium, Stanford, California
• Time: 10:30 p.m. ET / 7:30 p.m. PT
• TV Channel: ESPN
• Streaming Options: FuboTV and Sling TV

This matchup between TCU and Stanford promises to be an exciting game as both teams look to set the tone for their seasons. Whether you’re a fan of the Horned Frogs or the Cardinal, make sure to tune in to see how this clash unfolds.