Week 4 NFL: Your CBS Sports Start 'Em, Sit 'Em Guide

Alright, fantasy football fanatics, are you ready for Week 4? We’re officially past the quarter-mark of the season, and let me tell you, things are getting spicy! This is where the contenders start to separate themselves from the pretenders, and your roster decisions become absolutely crucial. Gone are the days of just riding your draft picks; now, it's all about finding those hidden gems and making cunning roster moves to dominate your league. That's why we at CBS Sports are here to help you navigate the treacherous waters of Week 4 with our comprehensive Start 'Em, Sit 'Em guide. We're talking about putting the right players in your lineup to maximize points and, more importantly, secure those all-important victories. Every single week presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities, whether it's injuries shaking up depth charts, unexpected defensive collapses, or offensive explosions nobody saw coming. Our goal, guys, is to sift through all that noise and give you clear, actionable advice that’s backed by data, trends, and a deep understanding of NFL matchups.

This isn't just about picking popular names; it's about identifying value, exploiting matchups, and understanding the nuances of game flow. Maybe you’ve got a superstar who's got a tough road ahead this week, or perhaps a bench player who’s suddenly thrust into a prime role. We'll dive into all the key positional battles and individual player outlooks so you can confidently set your lineup. We understand the pressure, the anxiety, and the sheer joy (or agony) that comes with every Sunday. So, buckle up, grab a snack, and let’s break down everything you need to know for Week 4. We’re going to look at everything from quarterback matchups that scream “touchdown fiesta” to running back opportunities against porous defensive lines, and even those sneaky wide receiver plays that could win you your week. Making smart, informed decisions is what separates the champions from the rest, and we’re here to arm you with all the insights you need to make those winning calls. Trust us, your league mates will be scratching their heads, wondering how you always seem to make the right move. Let’s get to it and crush Week 4 together! — Judge Ashley Willcott: Age And Career Highlights

Key Matchups & Trends for Week 4

Understanding the landscape for Week 4 is the first step towards fantasy glory. We’re seeing some interesting trends emerge this season, and they’re going to heavily influence our Start 'Em, Sit 'Em calls. First off, keep a close eye on the injury reports – they’re becoming a weekly soap opera, and a key injury to a star player or a crucial offensive lineman can completely alter a team's offensive efficiency. For instance, if a top-tier running back’s primary blocking tight end is out, it might negatively impact his run lanes, or if a star wide receiver misses time, targets shift dramatically. This week, we're seeing a couple of situations brewing where backup players might be thrust into starting roles, and these are often prime opportunities for waiver wire pickups or speculative starts if the matchup is right. Conversely, a few teams are dealing with significant defensive injuries, which immediately elevates the fantasy value of opposing offensive players. You simply cannot ignore the impact of a struggling secondary or a depleted defensive line when evaluating your players. These matchups are like goldmines for quarterbacks and pass-catchers.

Another trend we're monitoring closely is the performance of offensive lines. A strong offensive line can make even an average running back look like a stud, and a weak one can hobble a legitimate talent. Pay attention to how teams are performing in terms of pass protection and run blocking; this information is invaluable for predicting consistent fantasy production. Furthermore, some teams have developed a clear identity early in the season: some are leaning heavily on the run game, others are slinging the ball all over the field, and a few are just plain struggling to find their rhythm. Identifying these offensive tendencies helps us predict volume and opportunity, which are the lifeblood of fantasy points. For example, a team that's consistently playing from behind will likely pass more, benefiting their wide receivers and quarterbacks, while a team that establishes an early lead will often run the ball to chew clock, boosting their running backs. We also need to consider the Vegas over/under lines and spread for each game. Games with high implied point totals are generally more appealing for fantasy players, as they suggest an expected shootout with plenty of scoring opportunities. Conversely, games with low totals and tight spreads might indicate a more defensive, grind-it-out affair, which can be tougher sledding for fantasy production. Don't forget the red zone efficiency of teams; some teams are great at moving the ball but struggle to punch it in, while others are incredibly efficient inside the 20. This impacts touchdown potential, which is the ultimate fantasy booster. By combining all these factors – injuries, offensive line play, team tendencies, Vegas lines, and red zone efficiency – we can paint a clearer picture of who's truly poised for a big Week 4 and who might disappoint. It's all about finding those edges, guys, and we’re here to help you exploit them.

Quarterback Start 'Em/Sit 'Em

Start 'Em QBs

When it comes to quarterbacks for Week 4, we're looking for guys who have both a high floor and a sky-high ceiling, often fueled by a juicy matchup. This week, a couple of signal-callers really stand out. First up, consider Geno Smith of the Seattle Seahawks. Now, I know what some of you are thinking, Geno Smith? Really? But hear me out, guys. He’s been quietly fantastic, operating an efficient and surprisingly dynamic offense. This week, he faces the New York Giants, a team that has shown significant vulnerabilities against the pass, especially when their top cornerbacks aren't 100% or they're missing key pass-rushers. The Giants' defense has given up some big passing performances already, and they rank near the bottom of the league in terms of fantasy points allowed to quarterbacks. Geno’s weapons – DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett – are elite, capable of turning short passes into long gains and winning contested catches in the red zone. Furthermore, the Seahawks' commitment to a balanced offense, which includes a solid run game, often sets up play-action opportunities that Geno excels at. He’s also shown a willingness to scramble for crucial first downs and even a rushing touchdown or two, adding a valuable dimension to his fantasy production. With the potential for a high-scoring affair and Geno's proven accuracy and decision-making against a susceptible secondary, he's a strong start for Week 4, providing a great combination of safety and upside that you'll want in your lineup. He’s not a flashy name perhaps, but his consistent production and favorable matchup make him an excellent play, especially if you’re streaming or have a top QB on bye or facing a nightmare defense. Don't overthink it; trust the matchup and the consistency he's shown. His connection with his receivers is undeniable, and that's exactly what we want to capitalize on this week. The Giants' pass rush has been inconsistent, giving Geno more time in the pocket to deliver accurate throws. Expect him to put up solid numbers, potentially a couple of passing touchdowns, and maybe even chip in some rushing yards, making him a fantastic option for your starting lineup. — Farmington Daily Times: Today's Obituaries

Sit 'Em QBs

On the flip side, sometimes you have to make the tough call and bench a player who might normally be a locked-in starter, especially when the circumstances just aren't favorable. For Week 4, one quarterback who gives me pause is Russell Wilson of the Denver Broncos. I know, I know, it feels weird to sit a guy with his pedigree, but let's be real, his performance this season has been, well, underwhelming at best. The entire Broncos offense has struggled to find any consistent rhythm, and the play-calling has been questionable. This week, they face a truly stifling defense in the Chicago Bears (I know, surprising, right?). While the Bears' defense has had its ups and downs, their ability to generate pressure and create turnovers has improved significantly, and their secondary has some very sticky corners who can shut down outside receivers. Wilson has been prone to holding the ball too long, which is a recipe for disaster against an opportunistic pass rush. The Broncos’ offensive line has also been inconsistent in pass protection, further compounding the issues. He's simply not connecting with his receivers regularly, and the red zone efficiency has been abysmal. Denver's offense just can't seem to get out of its own way, constantly shooting themselves in the foot with penalties and poor execution. While he might flash moments of his old self, the overall picture for Wilson this week against a surprisingly feisty Bears defense is just not promising for fantasy production. He carries a significant downside risk, and there are likely safer, higher-upside options available on the waiver wire or even on your bench if you roster multiple QBs. His ceiling feels incredibly limited right now, and his floor is low enough to sink your week. Until we see consistent improvement from the Broncos' offense as a whole, and Wilson specifically, he's a strong sit for Week 4. It’s tough to bench a big name, but sometimes it’s the smart play to protect your team from a potential dud, and this is one of those weeks where caution is the better part of valor. Don't let name recognition blind you to current performance and a difficult matchup; your fantasy team deserves better than a high-risk, low-reward play this week.

Running Back Start 'Em/Sit 'Em

Start 'Em RBs

When it comes to running backs in Week 4, we're targeting volume, red zone opportunities, and favorable matchups against defenses that struggle to contain the run. This week, one player who absolutely leaps off the page as a must-start is Rhamondre Stevenson of the New England Patriots. Listen up, folks, Stevenson is an absolute workhorse in an offense that, despite its struggles, relies heavily on his versatility. This week, he's squaring off against a Dallas Cowboys defense that, while generally strong, has shown a surprising susceptibility to running backs in both the run and pass game out of the backfield. They've allowed a decent number of fantasy points to the position, and this is exactly where Stevenson thrives. He’s not just a runner; he’s an elite pass-catcher out of the backfield, which provides a fantastic floor in PPR leagues and offers a high ceiling even if the running lanes aren’t always pristine. The Patriots' offense, under Bill Belichick, always tries to establish the run and control the clock, especially against strong opponents, making Stevenson a central figure in their game plan. His ability to break tackles, gain yards after contact, and convert in short-yardage situations makes him a reliable source of touchdowns. With the Patriots often playing in closer games, Stevenson's role remains secure, ensuring consistent touches. We’re talking about a player who gets a significant share of the carries and is heavily involved in the passing game, particularly when the team is trailing or needing to move the chains. The Cowboys can bring pressure, but Stevenson's pass-blocking prowess often keeps him on the field, further solidifying his snap count. He's a true three-down back, which is a rarity in today’s NFL, making him an incredibly valuable asset in fantasy. Given his assured volume, his dual-threat ability, and a matchup against a defense that can be exploited on the ground and through short passes to backs, Rhamondre Stevenson is an absolute must-start for Week 4. Don’t hesitate to plug him in; he’s set up for a big performance that could single-handedly win you your matchup. His consistent involvement in all phases of the offense provides both a high floor and significant touchdown upside, making him one of the safest and most exciting plays this week.

Sit 'Em RBs

Now, for a running back who might be better left on your bench in Week 4, despite his talent, let's talk about Javonte Williams of the Denver Broncos. This is a tough one, because we all love Williams's power and potential, but the current situation in Denver is just not conducive to consistent fantasy production. After returning from a significant injury, he hasn't quite recaptured the explosive form we saw before, and more importantly, the Broncos’ offensive struggles are severely limiting his opportunities and efficiency. This week, he’s facing the Chicago Bears, who, surprisingly, have been quite stout against the run this season. Their defensive front is doing a much better job of plugging gaps and limiting big plays on the ground, making it a very tough matchup for any running back, let alone one still finding his footing. Beyond the difficult opponent, the Broncos' inability to sustain drives and get into the red zone consistently is a major concern. When the offense sputters, it directly impacts the running back's ability to rack up carries and, more critically, find the end zone. Furthermore, the Denver backfield has become a bit of a committee, with other backs like Samaje Perine also getting touches, which further caps Williams's volume and upside. He’s simply not getting the kind of workload that guarantees fantasy relevance against a tough defense. While he might still break a tackle or two, the sheer volume won't be there, and the touchdown opportunities will be scarce. It's a frustrating situation for Williams owners, but sometimes you have to look past the name and acknowledge the circumstances. The combination of a tough defensive matchup, a struggling offense that can't stay on the field, and a shared backfield workload makes Javonte Williams a strong sit for Week 4. You’re better off looking for a running back with a more favorable matchup and a clearer path to significant touches and scoring opportunities. Don't get caught holding the bag on a player who, through no fault of his own, is in a less-than-ideal situation for fantasy success this week. The risk of a low-point total is too high to justify starting him over other options, even if his name carries more weight in general. We want players who are set up to succeed, and unfortunately, Williams isn't in that position this week. — 7movierulz 2025: Your Telugu Movie Download Hub

Wide Receiver Start 'Em/Sit 'Em

Start 'Em WRs

For wide receivers in Week 4, we're zoning in on players who are seeing heavy target shares and have favorable matchups against vulnerable secondaries. One player who’s absolutely primed for a big performance this week is Michael Pittman Jr. of the Indianapolis Colts. Let me tell you, guys, Pittman has been an absolute target hog in this Colts offense, regardless of who's under center. His consistent volume is a massive advantage, especially in PPR formats, but it also gives him a very high ceiling. This week, he faces the Los Angeles Rams, a team that, while boasting some talent, has struggled mightily against opposing wide receivers this season. Their secondary has been susceptible to both outside receivers and slot plays, and they’ve given up some big fantasy performances. Pittman’s size and strength make him a dominant force, especially in contested catch situations and in the red zone, where he's a preferred target. He commands a significant air yard share, meaning he's often running routes downfield, which leads to bigger chunk plays. Even with the Colts' evolving quarterback situation, Pittman remains the clear alpha in this passing game, drawing targets at an impressive rate. The Rams' defense has shown cracks, particularly against physical receivers who can win at the catch point, and that description fits Pittman to a tee. The game script could also favor him; if the Colts find themselves playing from behind, which is always a possibility against a dynamic Rams offense, then Pittman's target volume could explode even further. He’s reliable, gets fed targets consistently, and is facing a defense that has struggled to contain the position. He’s not just a safe play; he’s got legitimate top-10 upside this week given the confluence of target share, talent, and matchup. Do not overthink this one; plug Michael Pittman Jr. into your lineup with confidence for Week 4. His ability to consistently separate and make tough catches, combined with the volume he receives, makes him an indispensable part of your fantasy roster. Expect him to be heavily involved and put up some serious fantasy points, especially in a game that could turn into a bit of a shootout. He's a receiver who can consistently deliver a high floor with game-winning upside.

Sit 'Em WRs

Conversely, a wide receiver who I’m advising you to pump the brakes on and potentially sit for Week 4 is Christian Watson of the Green Bay Packers. Now, I know the allure of his athleticism and big-play potential is strong, but there are several red flags waving for him this week. First and foremost, his usage and target share in the Packers’ offense have been inconsistent to say the least. He’s prone to boom-or-bust outings, and this week, the