Bandwagon Riding - Week 10

As is always the case, the NFL regular season is filled with players who surprised the experts by how well  they played.

So how should you respond to these surprising performances? Should you jump on the bandwagon or allow the opportunity to pick up these players pass you by.

Our fantasy coaches, Trip Smith and Bryce Johnson, share their thoughts below.

The season is heating up, and this week, we’ve got some under-the-radar names to watch, along with a few seasoned vets making waves. If you're wondering who to pick up or keep on your roster, check out the latest bandwagons we're riding and see who might give your lineup a boost.

NFL Week 10: Bandwagon Riding Edition

As we dive into Week 10 of the NFL season, it's time to sort out which bandwagons are worth jumping on and which ones you might want to hop off. With trade deadlines approaching and the fantasy playoffs drawing near, strategic moves could be the difference between a championship run or a seat on the couch. Here's the latest roundup of which players to watch and ride for your playoff push.

On the Bandwagon: San Francisco 49ers

There was a lot of hesitation about the San Francisco 49ers early on, and understandably so. Teams that lose in the Super Bowl often face setbacks, and Christian McCaffrey (CMC) dealing with injuries didn't help. However, the Niners are starting to show why they’re still a powerhouse. With CMC back, George Kittle playing lights out, and an explosive supporting cast, it's a great time to jump on this train. The momentum is building, and this team looks poised for a strong second half of the season.

Ricky Pearsall and Jauan Jennings: Rising Stars

Are we ready to get excited about San Francisco’s young guns, Ricky Pearsall or Jauan Jennings? Pearsall delivered an impressive stat line: 19.8 fantasy points, four receptions for 73 yards, and a touchdown. What stands out even more is how dynamic he looks on the field. With Brandon Aiyuk dealing with injuries, Pearsall has a golden opportunity to shine and could be a breakout candidate for the rest of the season.

Jauan Jennings is serviceable, but if you want upside, Pearsall is the one to stash. He looks like a legitimate NFL talent and could flourish as he gains more experience. Keep an eye on the 49ers’ injury situation because Pearsall could be a sneaky good pickup down the stretch.

Denver’s Confusing Backfield

The Denver Broncos’ running back situation has been a merry-go-round all season. At various points, fantasy managers were hyped about Jaleel McLaughlin, then Javonte Williams, and now it's Audric Estime’s turn. Estime showed promise with 14 carries for 53 yards, and while that doesn’t scream “must-add,” it’s worth noting that performance came against the stout Chiefs defense. Head coach Sean Payton loves to establish a lead back, and Estime could emerge as a 15-20 touch player.

If Estime is still floating around on waivers, this could be your last chance to snag him. He has the potential to be a league-winner or, at the very least, a consistent RB2 or flex option. Javonte Williams' struggles and Denver’s commitment to the run game make Estime a compelling add.

Bench Stashes: Trey Benson and Blake Corum

Sometimes, winning your fantasy league means stashing players with high upside and waiting for the right moment. Trey Benson continues to be one of those guys. If you have the bench space, hold onto him, and if the starting RB in front of him gets hurt, you’ll look like a genius.

Blake Corum, on the other hand, has been largely irrelevant, but there’s still reason for hope. The Rams took him early in the draft, and if they fall out of playoff contention, they might want to see what they have in the rookie. Corum could still surprise, and he’s worth stashing in deeper leagues.

Keep an Eye on: Keaton Mitchell and Cam Akers

Keaton Mitchell might have disappointed some managers last week, but don’t give up on him yet. Ravens head coach John Harbaugh has expressed a desire to get Mitchell more involved. With Derrick Henry needing breathers and Justice Hill being serviceable but not spectacular, Mitchell could get a chance to shine, especially in a high-powered Ravens offense.

Cam Akers is another interesting name to watch. With Aaron Jones banged up, the Vikings might lean on Akers, who has a higher upside than his current usage suggests. Meanwhile, Tyjae Spears in Tennessee is healthy and ready to roll. The Titans are a bad team, but Spears could be a solid contributor, especially if they ease off Derrick Henry's workload.

Getting Off the Bandwagon: Tony Pollard and Javonte Williams

Tony Pollard has been disappointing for fantasy managers, and the emergence of Tyjae Spears only complicates his outlook. It’s time to consider alternatives, especially if Pollard’s struggles continue. The same goes for Javonte Williams. With Estime taking on a bigger role in Denver, Williams' fantasy relevance is fading fast.

A Word on Kareem Hunt and Isaiah Pacheco

Browns fans and fantasy managers alike are curious about the Kareem Hunt-Isaiah Pacheco situation. Pacheco is nearing a return, but Hunt has been excellent in his absence. It’s likely the Chiefs will ease Pacheco back in, meaning Hunt should still hold value. If you’ve held onto Pacheco, this might be the perfect time to trade him while his name still carries weight.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're jumping on or off these bandwagons, Week 10 is the time to set yourself up for success. The fantasy playoffs are coming, and these moves could be what sets you apart from the competition. Keep an eye on the waiver wire, make those strategic adds, and get ready for a strong finish to the season!