Bandwagon Riding - Week 5

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.

Let's do a little bit of bandwagon riding. We'll do a couple of players, whether we're going to jump on or off the bandwagon here we go. Off the bandwagon, it's time for bandwagon riding — getting on, getting off, make up your mind. All right, here we go.

On the Bandwagon: Josh Downs (WR, Colts)

The Indianapolis Colts’ offense has been clicking better than expected with Joe Flacco stepping in. Wide receiver Josh Downs has thrived in this system, averaging over 16 fantasy points per game in his three games since returning from injury. With nine catches for 69 yards in his latest outing, he’s emerging as a consistent option in the Colts' passing game. As long as Flacco is the starter, Downs is a must-start. However, when Anthony Richardson returns from injury, managers may want to temper expectations. For now, we’re fully on the Josh Downs bandwagon.

Off the Bandwagon: Alec Pierce (WR, Colts)

While Downs is flourishing, Alec Pierce hasn’t seen the same success. He remains inconsistent, and with Downs emerging as the clear second option behind Michael Pittman, Pierce’s fantasy value is limited. It’s safe to jump off the Alec Pierce bandwagon for now, especially with uncertainty around who will be the long-term quarterback for the Colts.

On the Bandwagon: Juju Smith-Schuster (WR, Chiefs)

Juju Smith-Schuster made a surprising splash with a strong performance last week. At just 27 years old, he still has potential, especially with Rashee Rice out for the season and Juju stepping into that role. Juju’s connection with Mahomes could make him a viable fantasy starter, especially if the Chiefs look to him more moving forward. However, the Chiefs are on bye this week, so any potential benefits won’t be immediate. If Juju is on waivers, he’s worth the stash—so we’re cautiously on the Juju bandwagon.

Off the Bandwagon: Chiefs Skill Players (WRs & RBs)

When it comes to the Chiefs’ wide receivers and running backs, inconsistency is the name of the game. Outside of the top players like Travis Kelce, the Chiefs offense spreads the ball around too much for any of the other skill players to be reliable fantasy starters. Even exciting talents like Xavier Worthy aren’t putting up dependable numbers. For now, it’s wise to be off the Chiefs’ skill player bandwagon, as their production is just too unpredictable for fantasy managers.

On the Bandwagon: Ty Chandler (RB, Vikings)

With Aaron Jones dealing with injuries, Ty Chandler is a name worth adding to your fantasy radar. Although he hasn’t been heavily involved in the offense so far, Chandler has a track record of success, averaging 16 touches and 82 yards per game during the final stretch of last season. If he can earn more playing time, especially with Jones sidelined, Chandler could become a valuable asset. We’re jumping on the Ty Chandler bandwagon, especially as a waiver wire stash.

On the Bandwagon: Jordan Whittington (WR, Rams)

Jordan Whittington has quietly started to build momentum in the Rams offense, with back-to-back games of at least six catches. While Cooper Kupp’s return might limit Whittington’s upside, his recent production makes him a solid sleeper pick in deeper leagues. He’s on bye this week, so you may have time to grab him on waivers. We’re on the Jordan Whittington bandwagon, especially for managers looking to add depth at wide receiver.

Final Thoughts: Bandwagon Management

Fantasy football is all about finding the right players at the right time, and bandwagons come and go quickly. This week, it’s time to ride with players like Josh Downs, Juju Smith-Schuster, Ty Chandler, and Jordan Whittington, who are emerging as potential game-changers. On the other hand, it may be time to step off the Alec Pierce and Chiefs skill player bandwagons due to inconsistent production. Keep an eye on the waiver wire and plan ahead—this could be the difference as we push toward the playoffs.