The Patriots are one of the surprise stories of the season, sitting at 5-2 and riding a hot streak led by rookie QB Drake Maye. Meanwhile, the Browns continue to battle through inconsistency at quarterback but still feature one of the league’s most dangerous young runners in Quinshon Judkins. This AFC matchup could tell us a lot about both teams’ playoff legitimacy — and it carries plenty of fantasy implications.
🔥 Quick Start Table
| Team | Start ‘Em 🔥 | Sit ‘Em 🚫 | Sleeper/Flex 😴 |
| Browns | Quinshon Judkins, David Njoku, Harold Fannin | Dillon Gabriel, Jerry Jeudy, Browns Defense | — |
| Patriots | Drake Maye, Rhamondre Stevenson, Jayson Boutte | — | Stephon Diggs |
🟤 Cleveland Browns
Start — Quinshon Judkins (RB)
Judkins faces a tough matchup against a Patriots run defense that has stiffened over the last three weeks, but the rookie has proven matchup-proof. Expect 70+ rushing yards and a touchdown, with a few receptions sprinkled in. His consistent workload keeps him locked in as a strong RB2.
insert Fannin photo
Start 💪 — David Njoku & Harold Fannin (TEs)
Cleveland’s passing game has funneled through its tight ends recently, with both Njoku and Fannin finding the end zone in recent weeks. If your league allows TE flex, both are worth a start — especially in PPR formats. Expect steady red-zone involvement and short-yardage production again this week.
Harold Fannin Jr. Breaks Out, More Week 8 Bold Predictions -Mark Morales- Smith via SI.com
Sit — Dillon Gabriel (QB)
Since his strong debut, Gabriel has fallen flat. His accuracy has dipped, and his connection with the receivers just isn’t there. Leave him on your bench until the Browns’ passing game stabilizes.
Sit — Jerry Jeudy (WR)
Jeudy continues to struggle with drops and chemistry issues with Gabriel. His target volume isn’t enough to overcome the inefficiency. Keep him out of lineups until further notice.
Sit — Browns Defense
Even with their talent, this isn’t the matchup to trust Cleveland’s defense. Drake Maye has this Patriots offense rolling, and New England’s offensive line has protected him well. Bench them to avoid negative points.
🔵 New England Patriots
Start — Drake Maye (QB)
The rookie is exceeding expectations with 1,700 passing yards and 12 TDs through seven games. After this week, those numbers should climb to 1,800+ yards and 14 scores. Maye continues to show poise, accuracy, and command — start him confidently as a top-10 QB this week.
Start — Rhamondre Stevenson (RB)
Stevenson has regained his rhythm, punching in multiple touchdowns over the past few weeks. He’s the focal point near the goal line and adds enough receiving work to keep his floor safe. Start him as a strong RB2 with RB1 upside.
Mike Vrabel Calls Out Rhamondre Stevenson Ahead of Week 8 – Colby Cowell – czowderandchampions.com
Start 💪 — Kayson Boutte (WR)
Boutte has been on fire, scoring multiple touchdowns across the last three games. His chemistry with Maye is obvious, and he’s getting consistent looks both deep and over the middle. A must-start WR2 with major upside.
Flex — Stephon Diggs (WR)
Diggs continues to lead by example, shifting across formations to create mismatches. His leadership and versatility make him a weekly flex option with touchdown potential. Expect around 5–7 catches and 70 yards in this one.
🔮 Final Takeaway
The Patriots’ rookie-led offense looks sharp and balanced, while the Browns will rely heavily on their ground game to stay competitive. Expect Maye and Boutte to continue their hot streak as New England inches closer to a 6-2 record.
