The Chargers’ run defense has been mostly non-existent
this season allowing 24.9 FPts/G to opposing backs (ranked 31st).
That includes an average of 132 rushing yards and 1.5 touchdowns
per game. Harris is on a roll with consecutive 100-yard days for
the first time in his career and touchdown runs in three straight.
The continuing health issues to Antonio Gibson should allow McKissic
to play at least 60% of the snaps and with the WFT mostly playing
from behind due to the failure of its defense, the game script
should also be in his favor. He’s averaged eight targets a game
the past two weekends and that should continue as the Broncos
are top-10 against opposing QBs and WRs, but middle-of-the-pack
versus running backs.
With the injury to Miles Sanders, Gainwell should take over as
lead dog with Boston Scott as the backup. Gainwell has run well
when given the chance (4.6 ypc) and is a very good receiver out
of the backfield. The Lions’ rank 30th against opposing backs
and have been particularly vulnerable to receiving backs having
allowed a league-high six touchdown receptions.
Fournette has been a top-15 back this season, averaging 16.4
FPts/G, but the Saints simply don’t allow many running backs
to beat them. New Orleans is No. 5 against opposing backs yielding
just 14.2 FPts/G and rank No. 1 in rushing yards allowed, just
333 all season. This is likely a TB12-featured game.
One of Cordarrelle Patterson’s primary method of production
is as a receiving back and the Panther’s simply don’t
allow it. Patterson has caught 27 balls for 296 yards and four
scores, but Carolina has allowed just 89 yards and no scores in
seven games to opposing backs. Take away that part of Patterson’s
game and he’s just an average back (55-233-2).
The Bills don’t like to run, preferring the passing game
and the Dolphins are horrible against the pass. The result is
likely that Moss and Devin Singletary won’t be used much
while Josh Allen and the receiving corps tear up the Miami secondary.
Don’t be fooled by Moss’ two touchdown game against
the Dolphins in their first contest this season, both were in
garbage time at the end of a 35-0 blowout in which Dolphins quarterback
Tua Tagovailoa was injured. This game should be much closer.
