Quinshon Judkins, Cleveland BrownsJudkins has been steadily improving week after week until last week, and might be suffering from a little hard feelings after a rough outing against the Steelers last game. Now he faces the Miami Dolphins, who have been worse than a screen door against the run, allowing a whopping 1,011 rushing yards this season, which averages out to 169 yards per game. If Judkins was saving his best moves for a big moment, this is it, and his increased workload suggests he’s ready to explode onto the scene again.
Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia EaglesSaquon Barkley looks like the man he was last year so far this season. It’s due this week, and this week the Vikings are on the menu. Minnesota’s defense has been surprisingly generous against the run, allowing running backs to pick up yards with ease, making this a great opportunity for Barkley to shine. Both history and statistics say running backs have fared well against the Vikings, so expect Saquon to find plenty of room to roam.
Jacory Croskey-Merritt (JCM), Washington CommandersJCM, as he is affectionately known, might have failed last week with a fumble, but his consistent usage shows the coaches believe in him. They face arguably the worst defense in the league this week, the Dallas Cowboys, who have allowed the most yards and points across the board. If there was ever a time to rely on JCM to rack up fantasy points, it’s now.
Sit:
Nick Chubb, Houston TexansAgainst the Seahawks, who are rock solid against the run, stopping even some of the league’s best running backs, Chubb better cheer from the sideline this week. Seattle allows just 79 rushing yards per game, which doesn’t bode well for Chubb’s expected production.
De’Von Achane, Miami DolphinsAchane is in a tough situation, facing a Browns defense known for making life miserable for running backs. The Browns hold opposing running backs to under 79 rushing yards per game and have a league-leading rushing stop percentage. This is not the environment for Achane to excel at fantasy points.
Cam Skattebo, New York GiantsThe Giants rookie faces the Denver Broncos, whose defense has tightened the screws on running backs recently. They’re allowing less than 4.1 yards per carry over their last five games, meaning Skattebo will likely struggle to make an impact this week.
So when setting your lineup this week, start Judkins, Barkley, and JCM for the best chance at fantasy glory, and keep Chubb, Achane, and Skattebo out of the spotlight until more favorable opportunities arise. Good luck