Fantasy Football Week 7 Studs: McCaffrey, Chase Dominate, Must-Start Advice for Week 8

Week 7 of the NFL season delivered some monster fantasy performances, and two names stand out above the rest: San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey and Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. Their dominant performances likely propelled many fantasy teams to victory, and understanding their usage is crucial for planning your Week 8 lineups.

Christian McCaffrey’s Historic Day: McCaffrey etched his name in NFL history, scoring a touchdown in every way possible – rushing, receiving, and passing. This incredible feat resulted in a massive fantasy output, making him the clear-cut RB1 of the week. While such a diverse scoring performance is unlikely to be repeated, McCaffrey’s consistent volume in both the running and passing game makes him a must-start every single week. He is the focal point of the 49ers’ offense and should continue to deliver high-end RB1 production. Heading into Week 8, expect the 49ers to continue feeding McCaffrey as their primary offensive weapon. Consider him matchup-proof.

Ja’Marr Chase Erupts: After a relatively slow start to the season, Ja’Marr Chase exploded in Week 7, showcasing his elite receiving skills and connection with quarterback Joe Burrow. His big-play ability was on full display, racking up significant yardage and multiple touchdowns. This performance signals a potential return to the dominant form we saw from Chase in previous seasons. With Burrow seemingly healthy and Chase re-establishing himself as the top target, he becomes an automatic WR1 in all fantasy formats. Keep an eye on the Bengals’ offensive game plan, but all signs point to Chase being heavily involved moving forward. Owners should feel confident starting him in Week 8, barring any unforeseen circumstances.

Week 8 Must-Start Considerations: Beyond McCaffrey and Chase, other players demonstrated consistent performance that warrants a starting spot in Week 8. Consider players like Travis Kelce (if healthy), Austin Ekeler, and Cooper Kupp if they are active. Monitor injury reports closely, as the NFL season takes its toll. Always prioritize players with consistent volume and a favorable matchup. Look for running backs who are involved in the passing game, and wide receivers who are the clear number one option for their team. Analyze team trends and defensive vulnerabilities to make informed decisions.

Don’t Overreact to One Week: While it’s tempting to make drastic lineup changes based on a single week’s performance, remember to consider the larger sample size of the season. One bad game doesn’t necessarily mean a player is no longer startable. Evaluate the context of the game, the opponent, and any other relevant factors before making a decision. Stick with proven performers whenever possible, and don’t be afraid to adjust your lineup based on matchups and injury news.