So we are now entering week 6 of the regular season, and that means we are getting closer and closer to having a perfect representation of how defenses will perform against RBs. If it’s not completely obvious each week, let me tell you that Philadelphia will reward your RB with a kick ass game every time. BUT, this week the Eagles travel to Washington and because Shanahan hates you and your fantasy team, we are not certain which RB will get the bulk of the carries against the most generous defense around. Since Hightower seems to be less than 100%, it looks like Torain might get the start, but you never can tell….
This week, we have added a few more columns to the chart to add some more stats to accurately depict how defenses rank against running backs on the ground and through the air. This is important because your RB will get credit for both type of yards gained. This is helpful when you face a stout run D like Dallas; notice that they are not so stout against the reception yards for RBs. So let’s take it all into account and look at some favorable matchups this week:
[table “47” not found /]Cedric Benson vs. IND
Benson has been having a tough go at it lately, but this should be the week that he turns it around, some. Last week, the Colts allowed 119 yds on the ground to an unknown, 3rd string back, Jackie Battle; not to mention another 55 yds to Thomas Jones. This week, Benson will likely see 20+ carries this week and you can bet that he’ll break a big one against a run D that allows an average of 145 yards a game.
James Starks vs. STL
The Green Bay backfield is definitely not the focal point of the offense, nor is it as clear cut as others in the league. However, because the Packers are practically unstoppable, they will likely be up on the scoreboard for most of the game and that will lead way to more run plays than usual. This coupled with the Rams allowing close to 180 yds rushing a game, Starks is bound to feast on the opportunities he is given.
Felix Jones vs. NE
After a much needed bye week for the Cowboys, Jones is primed for a big day against the Patriots this weekend. Although the Cowboys may be playing catch-up for most of the game, Jones should still see production as the Pats allow 4.6 ypc and only Oakland allows more receiving yards to running backs so far this season.
CAUTION!! CAUTION!! CAUTION!!
As always, the NFL produces exceptions to the rules every week and we see top RBs perform poorly or get completely shut out. No one is ever a guarantee as the injury bug has destroyed many teams out there in Fantasy Land and no one is immune. Not saying that the following will get hurt, but only saying that the matchup could prove to be tough against your precious RB. Just use caution, as the header suggests….
Jahvid Best vs. SF
Coming off a huge game against CHI last week, Best could be in for a rude awakening this week. Before last week, Best was subpar on ypc and most effective in the passing game. However, this week he faces San Francisco who is very very stingy against RBs in all aspects. I don’t foresee Best producing nearly as well unless the Lions take a huge lead and merely use the second yr man to run out the clock.
BenJarvis Green-Ellis vs. DAL
The Law Firm is another RB coming off a very productive week that should not see consecutive weeks of grandeur. Dallas has been only allowing 3.0 ypc to opposing backs this year and I expect Brady to exploit the weaknesses in the Cowboys’ secondary to get the job done this week. BJGE could still see some goal line work as usual, but don’t expect him to tally up the yardage as he did last week. Also keep an eye on his injury status. He has a boo boo on his toe.
Other Questionable Matchups: Rashard Mendenhall vs. Jax, DeAngelo Williams vs. Atl, Steven Jackson vs. GB
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