Running Backs

Start 'Em:
Running Backs Who Will Outperform Relative To Their Draft Position And Recent Hype

Fred Jackson @ New England
Action Jackson makes for a great flex play this week especially in PPR leagues. While it might not be an ideal matchup, Jackson rushed for 136 yards on the ground the last time he faced the Pats (2008 - Week 17). He is an underrated runner and a great pass-catching back. With the release of Dominic Rhodes, Buffalo shows the confidence they have in FJax to carry the load while Marshawn Lynch serves his suspension.

Mike Bell vs. Detroit
If (and only if) Pierre Thomas does not play, Mike Bell has a great shot to step up and perform well against a Lions unit that last season allowed more points per game (32.3) than any other NFL team. With Reggie Bush dinged up, Mike Bell should see the majority of the carries, and possibly the goal-line duty, in a Saints offense that is operating like a well-oiled machine. The Lions allowed a ridiculous 31 rushing TDs last year. Until Pierre Thomas is ready to go, ring that bell.

Cedric Benson vs. Denver
Benson and the scrappy Bengals get a shot to face the leaky Denver defense. Forget the party boat and the failed Chicago years. He is the primary running option in what should be a decent Bengals attack and he is worthy of a spot start if you’re without Pierre Thomas or Marshawn Lynch and weren’t fortunate enough to grab the aforementioned Mike Bell or Fred Jackson.

Ray Rice vs. Kansas City
Rice continues to fly just beneath the radar. The former Scarlet Knight will play a prominent role for the Ravens this season. He isn’t big and he may not be flashy, but he is the best runner on the team and a threat to catch the ball out of the backfield. QB Joe Flacco will keep him involved in the passing game which should serve to keep his numbers respectable all season.

Kevin Smith @ New Orleans
I’m high on Kevin Smith this year. While the Saints seem to have improved their defense, Smith, the primary ball carrier and will be an integral part of the Lions attack. Sure, defenses may stack the line with rookie QB Matthew Stafford getting the nod behind center, but Stafford’s big arm and Calvin Johnson’s ability to get open downfield should soften up the Saints defense to create some opportunity for Smith.

Bench 'Em:
Running Backs Who Will Under Perform Relative To Their Draft Position And Recent Hype

Larry Johnson @ Baltimore
First off, I don’t know what to expect from LJ this year. I know what he is capable of, but I am not sold on his role in the new (and improved?) KC offense. Additionally, I envision Jamal Charles stealing more touches than is being reported. Let’s also factor in that Matt Cassell could be limited due to a strained MCL. Most importantly, however, is the fact that the 2008 the Ravens defense gave up an average of 81.4 rushing yards per game and allowed just 4 rushing TDs all season, tops in the NFL.

Derrick Ward vs. Dallas
When Derrick Ward signed with the Bucs the fantasy world was abuzz with thoughts of this versatile, pass-catching back making an immediate and large impact on the Tampa Bay offense. While this may eventually be the case, new Head Coach Raheem Morris shook things up with his announcement of a 3-way, 2-2-1 series split in running back carries. Even worse for Ward, Cadillac Williams will get the first 2 series, with Ward as the primary back-up.

Pierre Thomas vs. Detroit
Thomas virtually lost his sleeper status as the summer rolled along, and you likely drafted him as an RB2, but unfortunately you’ll have to let the sprained MCL injury work itself out before inserting him into your lineups. While he has not yet officially been ruled out for Sunday’s game, he did not practice on Wednesday and has been walking with a noticeable limp. Unless a dramatic and speedy recovery ensues, stay away this week.

Addai is losing his fantasy luster.

Joseph Addai vs. Jacksonville
After two 1,000 yard seasons to start his career, Addai has lost his fantasy luster after a bleak 2008 in which he averaged only 3.5 yards per carry and scored 5 rushing TDs in 12 games. I would not be comfortable starting him at RB2, flex maybe, but I really need to see something first. With Addai’s penchant for getting dinged up, Donald Brown is ready and waiting and will likely push Addai for playing time.

Knowshon Moreno @ Cincinnati
Knowshon was a no-show for much of the preseason; a sprained MCL limited him to just 18 yards on 3 carries. While his role figures to increases (to feature back status?) as the season progresses, he said this week that he is not 100% healthy. I believe Head Coach Josh McDaniels will use his noodle and limit the prized rookie. Denver will also rotate in 3 other RBs, meaning Moreno is better off left on your bench this week.

Wide Receivers