Week 8 Fantasy Football: Key Players Poised for Increased Targets

As the NFL season approaches Week 8, fantasy football enthusiasts are keen to identify players likely to receive more targets in their upcoming games. Utilizing advanced analytics from Pro Football Focus (PFF), we can pinpoint wide receivers and tight ends who are primed for increased attention based on their performances in previous weeks and their predicted target metrics.

Week 7 Overview

In Week 7, notable players experienced varying degrees of target success. Cooper Kupp recorded just one target, amounting to a mere 3.45% target share, while Tucker Kraft enjoyed a significant 10 targets, translating to a 35.71% target share. Isaiah Bond also had limited opportunities, receiving only one target as the Cleveland Browns struggled to throw the ball in adverse weather, completing just 18 passes.

These statistics provide insight into how target distribution can vary dramatically among players, emphasizing the potential for shifts in target share as teams adjust their strategies.

Potential Breakouts for Week 8

Looking ahead to Week 8, several players stand out as candidates for increased targets based on their previous performances. The analysis shows that players who were open significantly more than the targets they received in Week 7 tend to see an uptick in their target share in subsequent games.

A key player to watch is D.K. Metcalf, who has demonstrated a substantial deficit in his scripted Share of Predicted Targets (SPT). As the Seattle Seahawks prepare to face the Green Bay Packers, it is anticipated that Metcalf will receive a considerable number of early targets, particularly in scripted plays where coaches aim to maximize offensive potential.

Another player to consider is Chigoziem Okonkwo, lined up against the Indianapolis Colts, who are known for allowing the highest number of targets to tight ends. According to PFF’s Key Insights, the Colts also permit the second-highest yards per route run to tight ends, making Okonkwo a prime candidate for increased involvement in the upcoming matchup.

In addition to these players, the use of the Predicted Targets Model allows for detailed assessments of player deployment during games. This model shows that scripted SPT is approximately three times more stable than traditional target share, offering a more reliable prediction of future performance.

As a case study from Week 7, Chimere Dike displayed potential against a Cover 1 defensive scheme. Both Dike and teammate Elic Ayomanor were open on a key play, with Dike generating significant separation. While Ayomanor received the pass, Dike’s ability to create space suggests he could have been a more effective target under different circumstances.

Similarly, Lil’Jordan Humphrey found himself in a favorable position during a second-and-10 scenario, breaking through the Denver Broncos’ defenses with a 56% target probability. Although he did not receive the ball, his performance highlights the missed opportunities that can arise when quarterbacks do not fully utilize their options.

Overall, as the NFL approaches Week 8, understanding player dynamics and leveraging advanced analytics can provide fantasy football participants with a competitive edge. By identifying players like D.K. Metcalf and Chigoziem Okonkwo, teams can adjust their strategies for optimal performance in the weeks ahead.

For those looking to enhance their fantasy football experience, PFF offers premium statistics and tools, including a new Player Prop Tool, to assist users in making informed decisions.