Fantasy Football Start Sit Week 9: Veteran QB Flacco Defies Age, Delivers Must-Start Performance

The 2025 NFL season reaches its virtual midpoint. Fantasy managers are fighting for playoff positioning. Week 9 lineup decisions are critical for success. Every start and sit choice carries immense weight.

According to Reuters, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco is leading a surprising offensive surge for the Cincinnati Bengals. His recent performance makes him a top-tier start option this week, defying expectations for a player of his age.

Analyzing the Top Start Recommendations for Week 9

Joe Flacco has been exceptional for the Bengals. He scored over 24 fantasy points in two straight games. He threw for 565 yards and five touchdowns in those contests. He did not throw a single interception.

This strong play sets up a favorable matchup. The Chicago Bears allow the ninth-most fantasy points to quarterbacks. Flacco, the NFL’s oldest starting QB, is a confident start in most leagues.

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal is another prime start. He re-established himself as the lead back with a huge Week 8. He rushed for 117 yards and a touchdown on 23 carries. His workload appears secure.

He faces a Tennessee Titans defense that is very generous to running backs. The Titans surrender the third-most fantasy points to the position. Vidal is in must-start territory for this matchup.

Key Sit Warnings and Risky Matchups to Avoid

Some players should be avoided despite recent success. Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix falls into this category. He is coming off strong fantasy outings. However, he faces the league’s best pass defense in Week 9.

The Houston Texans allow a remarkably low 10.51 fantasy points per game to QBs. This is the lowest total in the NFL. Nix is a sit recommendation despite his recent momentum.

Carolina Panthers running back Rico Dowdle is another sit. His offense struggled immensely in Week 8. Game script rendered him ineffective despite efficient running.

He now faces a tough Green Bay Packers run defense. The Packers allow the third-fewest fantasy points to running backs. A difficult matchup and a crowded backfield make Dowdle a risky play.

Wide Receiver and Tight End Landscape for Week 9

Jacksonville Jaguars rookie Travis Hunter is a compelling start. His role expanded significantly before the team’s bye week. He saw 14 targets and scored a touchdown in his last outing.

He faces a Las Vegas Raiders secondary that is vulnerable. The Raiders allow the fourth-most fantasy points to wide receivers. Hunter has strong WR2 upside this week.

At tight end, Atlanta’s Kyle Pitts is a reliable start. He has been a consistent target in the Falcons’ offense. He ranks as a top-10 tight end for the season.

He faces a New England Patriots defense that is soft against the position. The Patriots allow the fifth-most fantasy points to tight ends. Pitts is a confident play in all formats.

Fantasy football start sit Week 9 decisions require careful analysis of matchups and trends. Trusting veteran surges like Joe Flacco’s can lead to crucial victories. Making the right sit calls is equally important for fantasy success.

Thought you’d like to know

Is Joe Flacco a safe start in Week 9?

Joe Flacco is a strong start against the Chicago Bears. The Bears defense allows many points to quarterbacks. Monitor his shoulder injury status, but he is a top option if active.

Why should I sit Bo Nix this week?

Bo Nix faces the Houston Texans’ top-ranked pass defense. The Texans allow the fewest fantasy points to QBs. It is a very unfavorable matchup despite his recent good play.

Is Kimani Vidal a must-start running back?

Yes, Kimani Vidal is a must-start in Week 9. He is the clear lead back for the Chargers. He faces a Titans defense that is weak against the run.

What is the outlook for Travis Hunter?

Travis Hunter’s outlook is very positive. His role is expanding in the Jaguars’ offense. He is a strong fantasy start against a vulnerable Raiders secondary.

Should I bench Jameson Williams?

It is wise to bench Jameson Williams in Week 9. His production has been very inconsistent. A tough matchup with the Vikings makes him a risky play.