si
In the unpredictable realm of fantasy football, only a select few quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Brock Purdy can be reliably started every week. For Week 8, statistical analysis points to four quarterbacks who should be benched: Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Michael Penix Jr., and Patrick Mahomes.
Baker Mayfield's recent 43-point team win might seem impressive, but he is not a viable starting option. In Week 7, Mayfield wore gloves due to a thumb injury, which he admitted affected his grip and throwing mechanics, leading to only 11 pass attempts. The injury is expected to persist throughout the season, and until Mayfield demonstrates effective passing volume, he should remain on the bench despite the Buccaneers' offensive outburst.
Sam Darnold has thrown eight interceptions in six games, tying him with Drake Maye and Justin Herbert for the most in the NFL. He is also sacked 2.3 times per game, the tenth-worst rate among all 32 current starting quarterbacks. This week, Darnold faces a Seattle defense that ranks 10th in EPA per Pass Allowed, 7th in Success Rate, and 7th in Total Sacks. Furthermore, Darnold appears to miss Klint Kubiak as his play-caller, especially considering Kirk Cousins' success in Las Vegas.
Michael Penix Jr. has thrown for seven touchdowns and zero interceptions over his last three games, but he is still not a recommended start. Penix Jr. does not contribute on the ground, with only 12 rushing attempts for 4 yards and three fumbles. Among the top-10 fantasy quarterbacks, only two have fewer than 60 rushing yards this season, and both average at least 2.0 passing touchdowns per game (Jared Goff and Bryce Young). The Buccaneers' defense, which Penix Jr. faces this week, ranks 3rd in EPA per Pass Allowed, 8th in Success Rate, and 5th in Interception Rate, further diminishing his appeal.
Patrick Mahomes finds himself in a Chiefs offense that has leaned heavily on the running game, rushing 27 times per game for 5.3 yards per attempt. In the red zone, they have called 34 running plays compared to 30 pass attempts. Mahomes is averaging just 1.5 passing touchdowns per game and ranks as QB19 in fantasy points per game. The Broncos, who face the Chiefs this weekend, rank 4th in EPA per Pass Allowed and 4th in Success Rate. Additionally, the Chiefs are uncertain about Rashee Rice's return, and no Kansas City wide receiver ranks in the top 40 in Receiving EPA per Target.
Key Analysis
The decision to bench these quarterbacks is rooted in a combination of injuries, turnover issues, and tough matchups. Mayfield's thumb injury limits his throwing volume, Darnold's interception problems and poor offensive line play are concerning, Penix Jr.'s lack of rushing upside caps his fantasy ceiling, and Mahomes' reduced passing role in a run-heavy offense diminishes his weekly value. Fantasy managers should consider alternative options with more favorable circumstances.