Fantasy football advice, Week 4: Who to start/sit for Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers

Dallas Cowboys

Start ‘em

Ezekiel Elliott finally had the game his fantasy owners envisioned for him after spending a first-round pick on the rookie, and he is a no-doubt RB1 against a 49ers defense that was just gashed by Christine Michael and company. No second thought is required to put Elliott in his RB1 slot.

With Dez Bryant out with a hairline fracture in his knee, however, targets will be somewhat displaced in the Cowboys’ offense. Expect a boost to Cole Beasley, who has been a high-floor WR3 in PPR formats and should have a boost to his ceiling now that slot cornerback Jimmie Ward is out of action. Jason Witten is a reliable TE1 in a league that has few of them.

Start ‘em?

The Bryant injury has a fallout that could put a damper on Dak Prescott’s potential output, especially since the rookie already has just one passing touchdown through three weeks, despite playing quite well. Prescott’s running ability and two rushing touchdowns can be the equalizer to this, however, and he presents value as a QB1/QB2 streamer in deeper formats.

Sit ‘em

Brice Butler and Terrance Williams are difficult to trust, even with Bryant’s absence. Fantasy owners can safely keep them out of lineups.

Start ‘em

Carlos Hyde was a garbage time all-star in Week 3 against the Seahawks’ stout run defense, but should see plenty of room to run against a Cowboys defense that has surrendered 5.0 yards per carry. Hyde is a high-end RB2 in this matchup and ought to be leaned on heavily once again in Chip Kelly’s offense.

Sit ‘em

It’s difficult to have much faith in the 49ers’ passing attack, as the Cowboys’ defense has been able to hold receivers like Odell Beckham, Alshon Jeffery and DeSean Jackson in check. As a result, it’s difficult to consider Torrey Smith and Jeremy Kerley as anything other than desperate flex plays with the Eagles and Packers on bye. Blaine Gabbert doesn’t deserve consideration in any format.