The Chargers head to Miami in what could be one of the most exciting offensive matchups of the week. Los Angeles is coming off a disappointing loss to Washington, while the Dolphins look to maintain their offensive rhythm, but all eyes are on Tua Tagovailoa’s health after he missed practice this week. If he’s unable to go, the Dolphins’ offensive outlook takes a hit. Still, there’s plenty of fantasy firepower in this matchup, and several players should light up the scoreboard.
⚡ Starts: Herbert Spreading it Around to All of His Weapons
Justin Herbert (QB, Chargers)
Herbert is off to a hot start with 8 touchdowns already on the season. Even with some inconsistency from the ground game, Herbert has been slinging it with confidence. Against a Dolphins secondary that’s allowed multiple passing scores in three straight games, Herbert is a strong QB1 option this week. Expect him to flirt with 300 yards and a few touchdowns.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Quentin Johnston (WR, Chargers)
The Chargers’ young star has taken full control of the WR1 role. Johnston has established himself as Herbert’s go-to target, and his red zone usage is trending up. Miami’s defense has struggled to contain physical receivers, and Johnston could feast on mismatches outside. Pencil him in for another big day.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Ladd McConkey or Keenan Allen (WR/Flex, Chargers)
Both McConkey and Allen are heavily involved: each saw seven targets last week. McConkey’s emergence adds a spark to this offense, and his touchdown last week showed he can deliver even with limited volume. Allen remains a trusted chain-mover and should see plenty of work underneath. Either can be a solid FLEX depending on league format.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥
🐬 Starts
Jaylen Waddle (WR, Dolphins)
With Tua’s status in question, Waddle remains a strong play regardless. He’s coming off a 100+ yard performance and continues to thrive as Miami’s No. 1 option when Tyreek Hill is limited or drawing double coverage. Expect him to be peppered with targets once again.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥
Darren Waller (TE, Dolphins)
Waller has been on fire, scoring three touchdowns over the past two weeks. He’s clearly earning Tua’s trust (or his backup’s if Tua sits). In a position that lacks consistent production, Waller is a must-start until proven otherwise.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Devon Achane (RB/Flex, Dolphins)
Achane continues to shine as one of the most explosive dual-threat backs in football. With four total touchdowns this season (three through the air), his versatility keeps him relevant even if Miami falls behind. Plug him into your FLEX spot confidently.
Start Meter: 🔥🔥🔥
🚫 Sits
Hassan Haskins (RB, Chargers)
Even if Haskins gets the start, the Chargers’ backfield has been a fantasy wasteland so far. No running back has scored in multiple games, and the Dolphins’ front seven has been solid against the run. Haskins’ volume won’t be enough to justify a start.
Sit Meter: ❄️❄️❄️❄️
📊 Quick Start Table
| Player | Team | Start/Sit | Start Meter |
| Justin Herbert | LAC | Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Quentin Johnston | LAC | Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Ladd McConkey | LAC | Flex | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Keenan Allen | LAC | Flex | 🔥🔥🔥 |
| Hassan Haskins | LAC | Sit | ❄️❄️❄️❄️ |
| Jaylen Waddle | MIA | Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Darren Waller | MIA | Start | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 |
| Devon Achane | MIA | Flex | 🔥🔥🔥 |
🏁 Wrap Up
This game has shootout potential, assuming Tua plays. Herbert should post big fantasy numbers, and his pass-catchers are all viable starts. On the Dolphins’ side, Waddle and Waller headline the must-start list, while Achane continues to be a weekly weapon in all formats. Sit the Chargers’ running backs until someone proves they can find the end zone.
Projected Score: Chargers 31, Dolphins 27
Fantasy Stat Leaders Prediction:
• Justin Herbert: 305 yards, 3 TDs
• Quentin Johnston: 7 receptions, 94 yards, 1 TD
• Jaylen Waddle: 6 receptions, 108 yards, 1 TD
• Devon Achane: 85 total yards, 1 TD
