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Start 'Em:
Running Backs Who Will Outperform Relative
To Their Draft Position And Recent Hype
Julius Jones @ NYG
JJ has been a stud the last two weeks against the Rams and the
Niners. While that in itself isn’t enough reason to recommend
any running back, the ‘Hawks’ powered-up passing game
will open lanes for the slithery Jones. Expect double-digit fantasy
points.
Earnest Graham @ DEN
Chicago absolutely stuffed Graham a couple of weeks ago, but no
one else has been able to stop him. The Broncos, in addition to
having no pass rush, have no rush rush. The most forgotten starting
running back on draft day is putting together a season far outsized
in relation to his ADP. Those of faith will be rewarded this weekend.
Michael Turner @ GB
The Burner’s performances ebb and flow with the quality of his
opposition. With strong safety Atari Bigby out, a poor Packers
run d suffers even more, and Turner should be in for a big day.
Start him with confidence.
Joseph Addai @ HOU
Addai has been a bust for a stud drafted in the top seven, but
there are signs of life. Center Jeff Saturday is back to stabilize
the line and Manning is looking sharper. Houston sports one of
the worst run defenses in the league, giving up 27 ff points to
opposing running backs. What this means is that this could the
second game in a row to further the redemption of Mr. Addai.
Larry Johnson @ CAR
Too many carries, weak offense, creaky o-line, piss-poor attitude—that’s
why they play the game on the field and not on paper. LJ is back,
or at least the last two games would suggest so. I’m not
going to hedge this, nope, no how. Start him.
Steve Slaton v. IND
If the super rook isn’t piling up the yards rushing, he’s catching
passes out of the backfield. It’s him, Chris Johnson, and Matt
Forte neck-and-neck-and-neck for best ff rookie running back.
Slaton will have success against the Colts.
Bench 'Em:
Running Backs Who Will Under Perform
Relative To Their Draft Position And Recent Hype
Clinton Portis @ PHI
Portis only just posted his first 100-yd game this season but
has been a points-getter nonetheless. The Eagles, on the other
hand, have absolutely stoned running backs, only allowing one
td on the ground thus far. Portis won’t double that number.
Brian Westbrook v. WAS
The stellar multi-purpose back has a hitch in his giddyup, and
that will hinder him this week against a top-notch defense. Borderline
RB#2 numbers at best.
Edgerrin James v. BUF
Against one of the tougher defenses he will face, look for the
surprisingly productive James to have an off week.
Willis McGahee v. TEN
Iffy for this week and the coaches are very comfortable with backup
McClain (whither Ray Rice…dammit?).
Wide Receivers
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