Selecting the right kicker can play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of a fantasy football matchup. As we gear up for Week 8, fantasy managers should weigh several factors beyond just recent performances. Considerations such as offensive efficiency, field conditions, coaching strategies, and potential field-goal opportunities are crucial. This week, Brandon Aubrey stands out as a top choice, while some familiar names may falter. Let’s dive into the kickers worth starting and those to leave on the bench.
Top Kickers to Start in Week 8
Brandon Aubrey, DAL (vs. ARI)
For Week 8, Brandon Aubrey is undoubtedly one of the safest bets among kickers. The Dallas Cowboys are set to face the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium, where the indoor climate eliminates any weather concerns, creating an ideal setting for kicking.
Aubrey benefits from Dallas's dynamic offense, which regularly makes its way into opponent territory. Expect him to receive ample opportunities for both field goals and extra points. With his ability to nail kicks from over 50 yards, Aubrey offers a ceiling that few can rival in terms of scoring potential.
The matchup against Arizona enhances his prospects further. The Cowboys are predicted to create several scoring chances, meaning that Aubrey should have multiple chances to shine. He’s a must-start kicker this week.
Cam Little, JAC (vs. IND)
Another kicker to keep an eye on is Cam Little, who had a solid performance before Jacksonville's Week 7 bye. In their previous game against Houston, he successfully converted his only field goal and made all four extra-point attempts. With only one miss this season, Little exhibits both accuracy and impressive leg strength—particularly useful for long-range attempts.
Jacksonville's bye week was likely a beneficial time for them to regroup, and they are now set to play against Indianapolis in Week 8. Little should capitalize on playing behind a capable offense that can generate scoring chances, making him an attractive starting option.
Chad Ryland, ARI (@ DAL)
Chad Ryland is making a case as a strong streaming candidate after a productive outing. During Arizona’s Week 7 matchup versus Denver, he converted all three of his field-goal attempts as well as a single extra-point try, contributing 10 of the 16 points his team scored. Although Arizona has struggled to finish drives consistently, this situation might play into the kicker's hands.
This week's challenge against Dallas will be tough, but if Ryland can continue to put the Cardinals into scoring positions without the team always finding the end zone, he may see a substantial number of attempts.
Kickers to Sit This Week
Drew Stevens, WAS (vs. PHI)
Drew Stevens has shown himself to be accurate, making 10 of 12 field goals along with a perfect performance on extra points. This includes a significant 51-yard field goal in Washington's Week 6 loss to San Francisco. However, facing Philadelphia poses a risk for him.
Considering the Eagles' defense, Washington may struggle to get into scoring positions. While Stevens has shown skill in making long attempts, the question is whether he will get enough chances. It might be wise to look for a kicker with a more favorable matchup.
Nick Folk, ATL (@ TB)
Nick Folk had a successful outing in Atlanta’s recent win over San Francisco, hitting all three field-goal attempts and two out of three extra points. Although he boasts a commendable 12-for-15 record on field goals this season, his upcoming matchup against Tampa Bay could limit his opportunities.
While Folk is not an automatic drop, considering the risk posed by Tampa Bay's defense could lead managers to search for kickers with more consistent scoring probabilities.
Cameron Dicker, LAC (vs. LAR)
Cameron Dicker remains a reliable kicker, but the Los Angeles Chargers' recent offensive struggles have impacted his output. He recently made both of his field-goal attempts in the Chargers' loss to Kansas City but only managed to account for six of the team’s total points.
Without enough offensive productivity to create scoring chances, relying on Dicker could be a gamble this week. It would be prudent for managers to hold off on starting him until the Chargers can demonstrate a more proficient offensive flow.
Bottom Line
The top recommendation for Week 8 is undoubtedly Aubrey. Little and Ryland present attractive alternatives due to their scoring potential and recent performances. In contrast, Stevens, Folk, and Dicker are facing matchup concerns that might make them options to sit this week. Focus on kickers associated with high-scoring offenses and stay attuned to any developments as the week progresses.