Well, let me start by saying that it is a cruel act to have me dissect running backs for this week... Let's start by talking some injuries real quick, before diving into the analysis. DeAngelo Williams is questionable, but more on the doubtful side to play this week, leaving Fitzgerald Toussaint to handle the bulk load. He rushed for 24 yards on 12 carries against a bad Cleveland defense. So, not a positive sign heading into a matchup against Cincinnati, who rank as the eighth best rushing defense, per Football Outsider. I expect Pittsburgh to throw the ball a ton, using quick slants and screens as their "run game," so this is a situation I am avoiding. Marshawn Lynch is taking part in practice this week, and it looks like he could be in line to play against Minnesota. This is a situation to monitor leading up to the weekend, as Seattle sit as five-point favorites against an average run defense (18th). I will talk about Lynch a little more below, prepping as if he is going to play. Matt Jones is questionable for this week, and Alfred Morris has taken on his old ground-and-pound role lately. If Jones plays, he is worth a look, especially if both defenses can't contain the opposing offenses. Jones is used in passing downs, and red-zone touches have been split.
Eddie Lacy
Green Bay's offense has looked pitiful the last two weeks, and the offensive line is the biggest concern here, not the matchup. Washington has allowed 122 rushing yards per game, ranking 26th. They have also allowed 4.8 YPC to opposing backs this season, which is tied with San Diego, you know the team we picked on all season. Eddie Lacy put together some successful games down the stretch, and he even managed to put up a nice stat line against Arizona. He had three 100 yard rushing games in the last seven games, totaling three touchdowns. Sadly, these are better numbers than the first half of the season. Lacy's price makes him a safe play in all formats, due to you not paying up then being destroyed by a dud. There are drawbacks with all these running backs, so here is Lacy's. The offensive line was so bad this past week, John Kuhn was brought in to be an extra offensive lineman in the backfield. This limited snaps for both Lacy and James Starks. If Green Bay can keep this game remotely close, and the line can generate some movement, Lacy should be able to accumulate some offense.
If you want to go with a contrarian move, James Starks is an option. Washington could very well jump out two a two-touchdown lead, forcing Aaron Rodgers to try and rally the troops in the passing game. Also, the o-line will force some check-downs to Starks. Game flow will determine the fantasy production from the backs on both sides. Starks has 43 receptions on the season, 392 receiving yards and three scores.
Charcandrick West
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