With the Jets’ win, the Saints move into a tie for the worst record in the NFL with the Jets and Titans. The plan moving forward is to aim for the No. 1 pick. Fantasy owners, however, still have championship aspirations and Chris Olave may be a part of that campaign.
The Saints wide receiver is unquestionably talented, but he’s dealt with injuries and poor quarterback play throughout his career. The latter is the primary issue this season as New Orleans started the season with Spencer Rattler under center. Tyler Shough took over in Week 8 and could make the start in Week 9.
Shough completed 17-of-30 passes for 128 yards and one interception against the Buccaneers. It was a weak performance and did not give the Saints much confidence going into Week 9 against the Rams. Los Angeles will host and is coming off a bye week.
If Shough is starting, there’s a legitimate concern over Olave’s production. Is he worth starting in fantasy football lineups if the Saints start their rookie quarterback? In the long-term, yes it is. Shough may never be good, but Olave has produced with mediocre quarterbacks for a good chunk of his career. He’ll figure it out.
In Week 9 specifically, it’s a good idea to bench Olave. Shough hasn’t shown enough promise to have confidence in him against a good defense. Los Angeles is allowing the second fewest points and forcing the seventh most turnovers through seven games.
This is a tough game for a rookie quarterback to make his first start. If Shough gets the nod, bench Olave. There’s too much risk, so try to find another option at wide receiver for the week.