This week brings one of the harshest schedule of byes for running backs in the world of Fantasy Football. With Freddy Jackson, McCoy, Bradshaw and Gore out this week, it is imperative that you plug in a back that will at least provide the support you need to get you over this slump in the season. Luckily, this week has also brought a plethora of RBs that have great matchups and should perform well against user-friendly defenses.
Last week, we added some more columns to the Rush D Chart in order to produce a better picture of how defenses react to every aspect of RBs. For instance, we have added a column for reception yards allowed to RBs as well as the Pass DVOA to include the stats for how much a defense allows to backs through the air. This helps for overall yardage and also is a great add for PPR leagues. So take a look at this for your best analysis of who to start this week.
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Some notable matchups:
Ryan Matthews vs.NYJ
After getting an extra week to prepare against the Jets, the Chargers should try to shy away from Revis and rely heavily on their ground game with Matthews. Jets have been allowing an astonishing 132 rushing yards a game and a league-high 8 touchdowns as well. With Matthews finally living up to the hype of last season, start him with confidence against the Jets.
DeMarco Murray vs. STL
Murray was one of the hottest picks off the waiver wire this week, and for good reason. Not only is said to be getting the bulk of the carries against the horrid STL defense, Felix looks to be out a few weeks, and there are several favorable matchups ahead for the Cowboys. Tashard Choice will factor in as week this week, but if the Cowboys get ahead on the scoreboard, look for them to stick to the ground to move the chains and that will bode well for the rookie from Oklahoma.
Mark Ingram vs. IND
Ingram has started to show flashes of starting potential in the last few weeks by getting touchdowns in 3 of his last 4 games. Not to mention, he is the go to guy for Sean Payton when he is in need of running out the clock. This could be a big week for Ingram as the Saints will likely gain the lead early and he will be running against a Colts Defense that allows 136 yards a game and has given up 7 total rushing tds thus far. Although he’ll likely never get the 20+ carries that other RBs see, he will definitely get the goal line looks and will be used heavily in this matchup.
CAUTION!! CAUTION!! CAUTION!!
As always, there are questionable matchups for your must start running backs that could easily score less than someone else sitting on your bench. Before you set your lineup for the weekend, take a double-take on the following running backs and do some soul searching before deploying:
Steven Jackson vs. DAL
The Rams in general have been disappointing this year and this week will only continue their trend. Although Sam Bradford might be limited this week and one would think this would mean a heavy load for Jackson, it could turn out to be a huge disaster altogether. Dallas has allowed the fewest yards per game to rushers and the 3rd lowest Fantasy Points to RBs. Another let down is in store for Jackson and the Rams this week. Be Prepared.
DeAngelo Williams vs. WAS
Surprisingly, there are people who are still starting both Carolina RBs in standard and PPR leagues. After a huge week 5, there was some speculation that Williams would be returning to his old self. However, it really has to do with Newton’s addition to the rushing and the passing game. Washington is not the friendliest rush Defense, especially when it comes to reception yards for RBS. Look elsewhere for help this week before starting Williams.
Other Questionable Matchups: Â MJD vs. BAL, Hillis/Hardesty vs. SEA, Mike Turner vs. DET
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