Updated: September 24, 2025
- While Gronk ails, Gordon and Edelman excel
- Thielen and Hopkins are on bye; who are the top WR plays
- Another rookie WR in the Bargain Bin
Week 10 is upon us and with it comes more new faces in new places. Not only will Week 10 provide us with our first look at Golden Tate in Philly but Dez Bryant has decided to bless the NFL and its fans by signing with the potent New Orleans Saints. If he has anything left in the tank, Drew Brees should be able to find it. I will be waiting and watching for a week before considering Dez for the top 100, though. Read on to find my Top 20 QBs and Top 100 PPR Flex plays heading into Week 10. If you’re looking to mix some fantasy football with more traditional wagers, head over to MyBookie where they have a “Fantasy Betting” option that will allow you to play over/unders on projected fantasy outputs for the week.
Week 10 Top 20 QBs
| Rank | Player (Team) | Opponent | Last Weeks Points | Points YTD | Current 2018 Position Rank | DFS Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drew Brees (NO) | @CIN | 31.4 | 180 | QB 5 | $6,300 |
| 2 | Matt Ryan (ATL) | @CLE | 28 | 198.2 | QB 2 | $6,200 |
| 3 | Cam Newton (CAR) | @PIT | 21.2 | 190 | QB 4 | $6,100 |
| 4 | Philip Rivers (LAC) | @OAK | 17.1 | 163.3 | QB 13 | $6,000 |
| 5 | Pat Mahomes (KC) | ARI | 26.8 | 243.7 | QB 1 | $7,200 |
| 6 | Jared Goff (LAR) | SEA | 29.3 | 194.5 | QB 3 | $6,100 |
| 7 | Aaron Rodgers (GB) | MIA | 19.2 | 168 | QB 10 | $6,400 |
| 8 | Ben Roethlisberger (PIT) | CAR | 25.2 | 171.2 | QB 9 | $6,300 |
| 9 | Russell Wilson (SEA) | @LAR | 19.5 | 143.4 | QB 15 | $5,700 |
| 10 | Carson Wentz (PHI) | DAL | BYE | 118.7 | QB 24 | $5,700 |
| 11 | Tom Brady (NE) | @TEN | 15.7 | 164.7 | QB 12 | $6,000 |
| 12 | Mitch Trubisky (CHI) | DET | 8 | 166.4 | QB 11 | $5,600 |
| 13 | Andy Dalton (CIN) | NO | BYE | 140.2 | QB 16 | $5,800 |
| 14 | Andrew Luck (IND) | JAX | BYE | 171.3 | QB 7 | $5,500 |
| 15 | Ryan Fitzpatrick (TB) | WAS | 24 | 144 | QB 14 | $5,900 |
| 16 | Baker Mayfield (CLE) | ATL | 17.9 | 105.8 | QB 26 | $5,400 |
| 17 | Alex Smith (WAS) | @TB | 16.4 | 120.5 | QB 22 | $5,300 |
| 18 | Matt Stafford (DET) | @CHI | 6.6 | 127.4 | QB 20 | $5,000 |
| 19 | Dak Prescott (DAL) | @PHI | 14.8 | 127 | QB 21 | $4,900 |
| 20 | Blake Bortles (JAX) | @IND | BYE | 130.9 | QB 18 | $4,900 |
Evaluating Defensive Matchups
At this point in the season we have a pretty good idea of what teams are, whether it’s good, bad, or, like the majority of the league, just inconsistent. But it’s the bad that provide the edge at QB when looking for a signal-caller cheaper than the likes of Pat Mahomes.
Defensive matchups can make or break fantasy picks. The Chiefs, known for their strong offensive lineup, face the Raiders, whose defensive struggles against the pass are well-documented. Expect Patrick Mahomes to target his WRs aggressively.
Similarly, the Dolphins' shaky pass defense makes them a prime target. If you've got a QB facing these teams, it's a green light. Exploit these favorable matchups for maximum fantasy points.
For instance, the Jon-Gruden-ruined Raiders sit 24th in the league against the pass. With the Los Angeles Chargers visiting this week, I am willing to bet that 24th rank gets worse.
The Raiders have struggled to stop anything all season long and offer the league’s worst run defense and second worst scoring defense.Philip Rivers to Keenan Allen for 54 yardspic.twitter.com/OX6dFCFjS8
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) November 4, 2018
Impact of Injury Updates on Rankings
Week 9 saw never-heard-of, third-strong quarterback Nick Mullens carve the Raiders up for three passing touchdowns in his first NFL start.
What a debut night for @49ers QB Nick Mullens ? pic.twitter.com/c9wfQ4LtRx
— FOX Sports (@FOXSports) November 2, 2018
Quarterbacks aren't immune to the mid-season injury bug. When a key player like Deshaun Watson or Baker Mayfield is sidelined, fantasy managers must scramble. Watson's rib injury has kept him in question, prompting fans to consider backup options like C.J. Stroud.
These changes aren't just a hit to lineups; they ripple through the rankings. A strong backup might get pushed into the spotlight, making them an unforeseen asset in weekly matchups.
With injuries affecting several teams, it's important to watch for backup QBs who might see action. Jimmy Garoppolo's status has been shaky, opening doors for Trey Lance to step up. Lance's mobility and arm strength provide a new dimension to the 49ers' offense.
Similarly, watch out for players like Andy Dalton, who could see increased playtime if injury trends continue. Having potential replacements ready can keep your fantasy team competitive.
Week 10 the Raiders will lay out the red carpet for Philip Rivers and his 19:3 TD:INT ratio through 8 games. Sure it’s a divisional game but Gruden has the Raiders in such a state of flux there are college teams that could give them a whipping.
Other QBs poised to put up points in good situations this week: Drew Brees, Russell Wilson, Baker Mayfield, and Alex Smith.
Week 10 Top 100 PPR Flex Rankings
| Rank | Player (Team)(Pos Rank) | Opponent | Last Weeks Points | Points YTD | Current 2018 Position Rank | DFS Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Todd Gurley (LAR)(RB1) | SEA | 19.9 | 260 | RB 1 | $9,400 |
| 2 | Saquon Barkley (NYG)(RB2) | @SF | BYE | 203.6 | RB 4 | $8,600 |
| 3 | Kareem Hunt (KC)(RB3) | ARI | 33.1 | 198.5 | RB 5 | $8,500 |
| 4 | Melvin Gordon (LAC)(RB4) | @OAK | 19.3 | 181.8 | RB 7 | $9,000 |
| 5 | Alvin Kamara (NO)(RB5) | @CIN | 33.6 | 218.7 | RB 2 | $8,700 |
| 6 | James Conner (PIT)(RB6) | CAR | 29.3 | 208.5 | RB 3 | $8,300 |
| 7 | Ezekiel Elliot (DAL)(RB7) | @PHI | 15.2 | 141.6 | RB 9 | $7,500 |
| 8 | Christian McCaffrey (CAR)(RB8) | @PIT | 32.7 | 165 | RB 8 | $7,600 |
| 9 | Michael Thomas (NO)(WR1) | @CIN | 39.1 | 184 | WR 3 | $8,100 |
| 10 | Antonio Brown (PIT)(WR2) | CAR | 15.2 | 164.4 | WR 6 | $8,500 |
| 11 | Odell Beckham Jr (NYG)(WR3) | @SF | BYE | 156.6 | WR 9 | $7,900 |
| 12 | Julio Jones (ATL)(WR4) | @CLE | 25.1 | 158.3 | WR 8 | $8,300 |
| 13 | Tyreek Hill (KC)(WR5) | ARI | 12.5 | 173.5 | WR 4 | $7,300 |
| 14 | Davante Adams (GB)(WR6) | MIA | 16 | 173 | WR 5 | $7,800 |
| 15 | Joe Mixon (CIN)(RB9) | NO | BYE | 111.4 | RB 17 | $7,700 |
| 16 | James White (NE)(RB10) | @TEN | 28.3 | 197.6 | RB 6 | $7,300 |
| 17 | David Johnson (ARI)(RB11) | @KC | BYE | 116.2 | RB 15 | $6,800 |
| 18 | Mike Evans (TB)(WR7) | WAS | 2.6 | 147.6 | WR 12 | $7,000 |
| 19 | Keenan Allen (LAC)(WR8) | @OAK | 21.2 | 121.4 | WR 21 | $7,100 |
| 20 | Brandin Cooks (LAR)(WR9) | SEA | 23.4 | 137.9 | WR 15 | $6,700 |
| 21 | Travis Kelce (KC)(TE1) | ARI | 28.9 | 161.1 | TE 1 | $7,000 |
| 22 | Nick Chubb (CLE)(RB12) | ATL | 16 | 68.8 | RB 38 | $5,500 |
| 23 | Juju Smith-Schuster (PIT)(WR10) | CAR | 14.8 | 134.2 | WR 16 | $6,900 |
| 24 | Cooper Kupp (LAR)(WR11) | SEA | 19.9 | 126.2 | WR 18 | $6,400 |
| 25 | Jarvis Landry (CLE)(WR12) | ATL | 11 | 126.8 | WR 17 | $6,200 |
Analysis of Recent Trades and Their Effect
Julio Finally Hits Paydirt
Mid-season trades have reshaped several teams' dynamics. The move of Golden Tate to the Eagles brought fresh energy to their receiving corps. Tate's chemistry with QB Jalen Hurts was evident, with increased targets and solid yardage in his first game.
Similarly, Brandin Cooks joining the Texans offered a renewed spark. Monitoring these trades gives valuable insights into potential shifts, which can impact a player's usage and fantasy value.
Julio Jones’ pace after 8 games: 182 targets, 120 receptions, 1,866 yards, and 2 touchdowns. Mind-boggling numbers but the thing is, it’s not his first time approaching numbers comparable to that. Just last year Jones finished with a 88-1,440-3 line.
There is no doubt Julio is a top notch receiver, but I have plenty of doubt about his red zone prowess. It’s certainly not his ability and it’s certainly not his size, as he stands 6’3″ and weighs in around 220 pounds.Julio Jones, one of the best wide receivers in the #NFL, finally got his first TD of the season. Week 9.
This is a testament to the amount of weapons Matt Ryan has around him. A great QB surrounded by a well rounded team. pic.twitter.com/uxwnaAXg1X — WegENT (@WegrynENT) November 5, 2018
Emerging Players to Watch
So what it is it? I’m not sure.
As the season progresses, keep an eye on rising stars. Rookie WR Puka Nacua has caught attention with his explosive game against Seattle, showcasing speed and agility. Another rookie, Bijan Robinson, is making waves with the Falcons, proving to be a versatile RB option.
Frequent updates on their performances could give you the edge in your league. Both have shown they can be integral parts of their teams' successes.
All I know is I’m continuing to view him the same way going forward as a high-volume low-touchdown producer, and am certainly not expecting the flood gates to open because he finally found his way to a score.
| Rank | Player (Team)(Pos Rank) | Opponent | Last Weeks Points | Points YTD | Current 2018 Position Rank | DFS Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | Julian Edelman (NE)(WR13) | @TEN | 17.4 | 81.5 | WR 51 | $6,800 |
| 27 | Robert Woods (LAR)(WR14) | SEA | 12.5 | 152.7 | WR 10 | $6,600 |
| 28 | Zach Ertz (PHI)(TE2) | DAL | BYE | 143.4 | TE 2 | $6,300 |
| 29 | Tarik Cohen (CHI)(RB13) | DET | 2.3 | 116.5 | RB 12 | $5,500 |
| 30 | Tevin Coleman (ATL)(RB14) | @CLE | 32.6 | 116.3 | RB 13 | $5,400 |
| 31 | Adrian Peterson (WAS)(RB15) | @TB | 6.3 | 115.1 | RB 16 | $5,700 |
| 32 | Marlon Mack (IND)(RB16) | JAX | BYE | 75.7 | RB 34 | $6,000 |
| 33 | George Kittle (SF)(TE3) | NYG | 20.8 | 130.2 | TE 3 | $5,900 |
| 34 | Greg Olsen (CAR)(TE4) | @PIT | 19.6 | 77.8 | TE 18 | $5,100 |
| 35 | Josh Gordon (NE)(WR15) | @TEN | 24 | 82.3 | WR 50 | $6,000 |
| 36 | Tyler Boyd (CIN)(WR16) | NO | BYE | 141.3 | WR 14 | $7,500 |
| 37 | Calvin Ridley (ATL)(WR17) | @CLE | 19.7 | 123.2 | WR 19 | $5,900 |
| 38 | Dion Lewis (TEN)(RB17) | NE | 22.2 | 102.8 | RB 20 | $4,600 |
| 39 | Leonard Fournette (JAX)(RB18) | @IND | BYE | 13 | RB 72 | $6,300 |
| 40 | Kenyan Drake (MIA)(RB19) | @GB | 7.5 | 116.2 | RB 14 | $5,100 |
| 41 | Aaron Jones (GB)(RB20) | MIA | 8.6 | 58.1 | RB 47 | $5,000 |
| 42 | Sony Michel (NE)(RB21) | @TEN | INJ | 71.3 | RB 37 | $5,300 |
| 43 | TY Hilton (IND)(WR18) | JAX | BYE | 85.3 | WR 44 | $6,300 |
| 44 | Alshon Jeffery (PHI)(WR19) | DAL | BYE | 87.1 | WR 42 | $5,300 |
| 45 | Isaiah Crowell (NYJ)(RB22) | @BUF | 7 | 103.6 | RB 19 | $4,200 |
| 46 | Jordan Howard (CHI)(RB23) | DET | 16.7 | 91.6 | RB 27 | $4,700 |
| 47 | Marvin Jones (DET)(WR20) | @CHI | 12.6 | 107.3 | WR 27 | $5,500 |
| 48 | Sammy Watkins (KC)(WR21) | ARI | 11.4 | 113.7 | WR 24 | $5,400 |
| 49 | Golden Tate (PHI)(WR22) | DAL | BYE | 117.9 | WR 23 | $5,200 |
| 50 | Rob Gronkowski (NE)(TE5) | MIA | INJ | 77.8 | TE 12 | $5,600 |
Gordon On The Fringe Of WR1 Territory
With 18 catches on 32 targets over his last 4 games, Josh Gordon is finding his way in the Patriots offense.
With star tight end Rob Gronkowski nursing an injured back, leading to game time decisions the past few weeks, the Patriots have needed Gordon to step up, and he has.
In week 9, Josh Gordon ranked 1st in the league in yards after catch (14.9), 4th in air yards (15.6), and tied for 6th in targets (10) for a combined 5 receptions for 130 yards, 1 TD, & 21.5 fantasy points in 0.5 PPR leagues. #GoPats #NextGenStats #FantasyFootball pic.twitter.com/DUeDTKV99I
— ?FANTASY IN FRAMES (@FANTASYINFRAMES) November 6, 2018
Posting two 100-yard games in the Pats’ last three contests, carrying a YPC of 20.9 in that span, Gordon has earned Tom Brady’s trust as the top downfield option.
As Gordon continues to get more comfortable in the offense, his production will continue to improve. For now, he is a high-upside WR2, but should be played in lineups across all formats.
| Rank | Player (Team)(Pos Rank) | Opponent | Last Weeks Points | Points YTD | Current 2018 Position Rank | DFS Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 51 | Kerryon Johnson (DET)(RB24) | @CHI | 7.4 | 96.8 | RB 22 | $4,700 |
| 52 | Doug Martin (OAK)(RB25) | LAC | 7.9 | 31.2 | RB 67 | $4,200 |
| 53 | Chris Thompson (WAS)(RB26) | @TB | INJ | 66.2 | RB 40 | $5,400 |
| 54 | Matt Breida (SF)(RB27) | NYG | 5.7 | 90.4 | RB 28 | $5,000 |
| 55 | OJ Howard (TB)(TE6) | WAS | 21.3 | 105.2 | TE 6 | $5,300 |
| 56 | Kenny Golladay (DET)(WR23) | @CHI | 8.4 | 104.1 | WR 29 | $5,100 |
| 57 | Sterling Shepard (NYG)(WR24) | @SF | BYE | 108.2 | WR 26 | $4,900 |
| 58 | DeSean Jackson (TB)(WR25) | WAS | 5.2 | 122.5 | WR 20 | $4,900 |
| 59 | Doug Baldwin (SEA)(WR26) | @LAR | 11.7 | 41.6 | WR 96 | $5,200 |
| 60 | Devin Funchess (CAR)(WR27) | @PIT | 8.4 | 98.5 | WR 33 | $5,300 |
| 61 | Amari Cooper (DAL)(WR28) | @PHI | 16.8 | 73.7 | WR 54 | $5,000 |
| 62 | Larry Fitzgerald (ARI)(WR29) | @KC | BYE | 83.7 | WR 48 | $5,400 |
| 63 | Tyrell Williams (LAC)(WR30) | @OAK | 10.3 | 98.6 | WR 32 | $4,500 |
| 64 | Taylor Gabriel (CHI)(WR31) | DET | 7.5 | 95.2 | WR 36 | $4,900 |
| 65 | Tyler Lockett (SEA)(WR32) | @LAR | 5.2 | 108.7 | WR 25 | $4,800 |
| 66 | Mark Ingram (NO)(RB28) | @CIN | 2.6 | 42.3 | RB 61 | $4,500 |
| 67 | Mike Davis (SEA)(RB29) | @LAR | 17.7 | 72.6 | RB 36 | $4,300 |
| 68 | Duke Johnson (CLE)(RB30) | ATL | 29.6 | 84.6 | RB 29 | $4,700 |
| 69 | Austin Ekeler (LAC)(RB31) | @OAK | 4.4 | 93.2 | RB 25 | $4,000 |
| 70 | Wendell Smallwood (PHI)(RB32) | DAL | BYE | 73 | RB 35 | $3,400 |
| 71 | David Njoku (CLE)(TE7) | ATL | 9.3 | 82 | TE 10 | $4,200 |
| 72 | Trey Burton (CHI)(TE8) | DET | 10.8 | 96.3 | TE 7 | $3,900 |
| 73 | Danny Amendola (NE)(WR33) | @GB | 9.7 | 89.5 | WR 39 | $4,500 |
| 74 | Mohamed Sanu (ATL)(WR34) | @CLE | 8.5 | 84.5 | WR 47 | $5,300 |
| 75 | Corey Davis (TEN)(WR35) | NE | 12 | 87.5 | WR 41 | $4,500 |
Strategies for Flex Position Optimization
What To Do With Mark Ingram
Optimizing your flex position can give you a strategic advantage. Consider the versatility of dual-position players like Cordarrelle Patterson, who thrives in both rushing and receiving roles. His ability to adapt makes him a valuable flex player.
Balancing matchups and player consistency is key. Look for players with favorable Week 10 defenses, ensuring you capitalize on weaknesses. Analyze game scripts to predict high usage scenarios.
In addition to versatile players, consider the game environment when selecting flex options. High-scoring games can increase the value of RBs and WRs occupying flex positions. Target players involved in such matchups to maximize output.
A player like Jamaal Williams can be a hidden gem in games expected to have lots of scoring, providing consistent red-zone opportunities and short-yardage touchdowns. Evaluate both player consistency and team strategy to make informed flex decisions for week-to-week success.
Mark Ingram has been pretty quiet since his loud debut way back in Week 5.
The Saints sport one of the league’s most explosive offenses, in which Ingram gets at minimum 10 touches a game in.
Those 10 came last week in a game that Ingram lost a fumble reasonably early, and backfield mate Alvin Kamara was having a stellar day. Ingram hasn’t been his same old self in 2018, but his usage and situation make him an every week flex play with big upside.
But keep in mind the low floor exhibited in Week 9.
| Rank | Player (Team)(Pos Rank) | Opponent | Last Weeks Points | Points YTD | Current 2018 Position Rank | DFS Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 76 | Christian Kirk (ARI)(WR36) | @KC | BYE | 85.2 | WR 45 | $4,900 |
| 77 | Marquez V-Scantling (GB)(WR37) | MIA | 13.1 | 64.8 | WR 65 | $5,000 |
| 78 | Adam Humphries (TB)(WR38) | WAS | 28.9 | 85.9 | WR 43 | $3,900 |
| 79 | DJ Moore (CAR)(WR39) | @PIT | 5.8 | 61.2 | WR 65 | $4,700 |
| 80 | Jimmy Graham (GB)(TE9) | MIA | 15.5 | 86.5 | TE 8 | $4,600 |
| 81 | Jared Cook (OAK)(TE10) | LAC | 4 | 105.4 | TE 5 | $4,700 |
| 82 | Austin Hooper (ATL)(TE11) | @CLE | 7.1 | 86.2 | TE 9 | $3,800 |
| 83 | Evan Engram (NYG)(TE12) | @SF | BYE | 44.5 | TE 25 | $3,600 |
| 84 | Jordan Reed (WAS)(TE13) | @TB | 7.4 | 71 | TE 13 | $4,400 |
| 85 | Jack Doyle (IND)(TE14) | JAX | BYE | 34 | TE 32 | $4,300 |
| 86 | LeSean McCoy (BUF)(RB33) | @NYJ | 6.4 | 68.9 | RB 39 | $4,500 |
| 87 | Chris Carson (SEA)(RB34) | @LAR | 4 | 75.7 | RB 33 | $4,600 |
| 88 | Ito Smith (ATL)(RB35) | @CLE | 13.4 | 64.7 | RB 41 | $3,700 |
| 89 | Jalen Richard (OAK)(RB36) | LAC | 8.9 | 82.8 | RB 30 | $4,800 |
| 90 | TJ Yeldon (JAX)(RB37) | @IND | BYE | 133 | RB 10 | $5,600 |
| 91 | Nyheim Hines (IND)(RB38) | JAX | BYE | 94.5 | RB 23 | $3,700 |
| 92 | Frank Gore (MIA)(RB39) | @GB | 6.9 | 63.6 | RB 42 | $3,500 |
| 93 | Jamaal Williams (GB)(RB40) | MIA | 7.4 | 52.4 | RB 53 | $3,500 |
| 94 | Peyton Barber (TB)(RB41) | WAS | 6 | 62.2 | RB 43 | $3,500 |
| 95 | Chris Ivory (BUF)(RB42) | @NYJ | 8.6 | 62 | RB 44 | $3,900 |
| 96 | Dede Westbrook (JAX)(WR40) | @IND | BYE | 94 | WR 37 | $4,700 |
| 97 | Mike Williams (LAC)(WR41) | @OAK | 10 | 83.4 | WR 49 | $3,800 |
| 98 | Chris Godwin (TB)(WR42) | WAS | 6 | 92 | WR 38 | $4,000 |
| 99 | Jordy Nelson (OAK)(WR43) | LAC | 3.6 | 80.3 | WR 52 | $3,800 |
| 100 | Elijah McGuire (NYJ)(RB43) | @BUF | 9.7 | 9.7 | RB 88 | $3,400 |
Scanning the Week 10 Bargain Bin
The pair of rookie wideouts failed me miserably last week. Lick the wounds and try, try again.
The rookie receiver I will put my nickel on this week is Christain Kirk. Normally I try to stay away from relying on bad QBs, but I just can’t help myself sometimes.
Great team win!! #BeRedSeeRed https://t.co/uT4cBYB1rq
— Christian Kirk (@ChristianDavon2) October 29, 2018
The Cardinals last played Week 8, coming from behind to steal a game from the 49ers in new OC Bryan Leftwich’s debut.
It was Kirk who caught the winning TD.
Though the Cards offense hasn’t shown much of anything this year, Kirk and rookie QB Josh Rosen have had some modest success.
I don’t expect the game script to favor the Cards this week, as they head to Arrowhead to face a Chiefs offense that could put this game out of reach in a hurry. Anyway this game works out, Kirk will get opportunities against a Chiefs D giving up over 300 passing yards a game.
Good luck in Week 10!
The post Fantasy Football Week 10 Quarterback and Top 100 Flex Rankings appeared first on Sports Betting Dime.
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