With only two teams on bye in Week 9, fantasy football managers have more lineup options but also face tougher start-sit decisions. Balancing recent hot streaks, matchup history, and defensive weaknesses is critical for success.
Backup running backs have emerged as potential difference-makers. Kenny Gainwell posted 140 total yards, Tyler Allgeier tallied 191 yards and two touchdowns, and Braelon Allen added 153 yards and a touchdown in their most recent outings.
A proven computer model that simulates every NFL game 10,000 times has outperformed human experts over several seasons. The model previously identified breakout players such as A.J. Brown, Jonathan Taylor, Derrick Henry, Christian McCaffrey, Alvin Kamara, and Jahmyr Gibbs. It has now released its Week 9 rankings for the 2026 NFL season.
One surprise is the model's low ranking for Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. Despite being a top-15 fantasy wideout and started in over 80% of leagues, McMillan does not crack the top 35 at his position this week. He has been held under 60 yards in each of his last two games and has scored only one touchdown this season. A difficult matchup against the Denver Broncos, who rank among the top four teams in fewest fantasy points allowed to wide receivers, further dampens his outlook.
Conversely, the model is high on Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis, projecting him as a top-12 fantasy QB despite being started in just 19% of leagues last week. Willis has accounted for seven total touchdowns over his past three games, averaging the seventh-most fantasy points among quarterbacks in that span. He now faces the Detroit Lions, who have allowed the most passing yards, passing touchdowns, and fantasy points to opposing quarterbacks this season. Willis is ranked above even Josh Allen in the model's Week 9 rankings.
The model also identifies a surprising tight end projected to finish in the top five at the position, despite barely cracking the top 15 in positional fantasy points this season. This pick could be a league-winning difference.
