As folks spend Tuesday pouring over numerous fantasy football waiver wire options for week nine, they have to deal with four teams on their bye. Week nine will see Detroit, Minnesota, Carolina and Jacksonville on the sidelines. That removes guys like Cam Newton, Calvin Johnson, Adrian Peterson and Maurice Jones-Drew, which means you likely have some tough decisions to make.
The Oakland Raiders provide a variety of interesting fantasy football options beyond just Darren McFadden. The Raiders all-world running back is dealing with a sprained foot and his status remains questionable for the week. Backup running back Michael Bush is a great option as he would get McFadden's carries. Even if McFadden plays, Bush could be in line for a solid number of carries.
If you are really desperate at running back, third string back Taiwan Jones would be the number two running back if Bush starts. Jones would not be looking at a ton of carries, but there is a bit of upside. If you really need a back, he is not the worst option out there.
Carson Palmer remains a big question mark at quarterback. He was picked up in a decent number of leagues, but he showed incredible rust two weeks ago against Kansas City. If you feel the need to grab him off waivers, he is not a guy you should be starting right away. He will get the snaps, but who knows where he is actually at after the bye week. Beware if you feel obligated to grab him.