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Raiders running back Latavius Murray has a favorable matchup vs. the Browns. (Getty)
Before getting to what running backs should be in your lineup and on your bench for Week 3 of the NFL season, let’s take a look at some recent player developments at the position.
The Steelers — and fantasy owners, of course — welcome back Le’Veon Bell, who was reinstated early in the week after serving a 2-game suspension. Yes, you start him vs. the Rams. All DeAngelo Williams did in his absence was run for 204 yards (2nd in the NFL) and 3 touchdowns (1st). Williams certainly carved himself a role in the offense. How much remains to be seen, but it’s going to be Bell’s show.
The Redskins have two running backs ranked in the top 10 of rushing yards — Alfred Morris (6th with 180 yards) and rookie Matt Jones (8th, 151). This could turn into a fantasy nightmare. Two very capable backs splitting carries. Let’s see what happens in Week 3 vs. the Giants.
There is a possibility Todd Gurley (knee) makes his much-anticipated debut for the Rams this Sunday vs. Pittsburgh. Gurley says he’s ready, coach Jeff Fisher isn’t so sure. Again, when Gurley does get on the field, it’ll be interesting to see how many touches he gets. Chances are, it won’t be many off the bat. Looks like a timeshare with Tre Mason in the early going.
Remember to bookmark our fantasy football rankings 2015 page to keep up-to-date on the latest projections and rankings for each NFL week throughout the season. All of my Week 3 rankings are up.
Here’s our version of start and sit: “He Will Shine” and “Show Him the Pine.”
He Will Shine
Latavius Murray, Raiders, at Browns
The Browns haven’t been the easiest team to pass on, but rushing is a different story. Cleveland’s rush defense enters the game against the Raiders in a familiar spot — dead last in the NFL. The Brownies crumbled vs. the run last year (finished last) and are now allowing 160 yards per game over the first two. Murray has a chance to run wild.
Joseph Randle, Cowboys, vs. Falcons
Randle hasn’t been all that impressive thus far, but that could change in Week 3. The Cowboys are down their No. 1 quarterback and receiver and will look to slow the game down vs. the high-powered Falcons. That means more carries for Randle, the head of Dallas’ running back by committee. I hate RBBCs — as we all should — but the ‘Boys are in such a spot where it could pay off.
Isaiah Crowell, Browns, vs. Raiders
Despite Crowell’s solid Week 2, Browns coach Mike Pettine said he’d like to get rookie Duke Johnson more carries. Why? He’s averaging only 3.4 per tote. This is probably more of a motivation ploy to get Crowell going. Either way, Crowell is going to get goal line touches and a meeting with the rather soft Raiders make him absolutely playable.
Also start:
Danny Woodhead, Chargers, at Vikings
Davonta Freeman, Falcons, at Cowboys
Justin Forsett, Ravens, vs. Bengals
Show Him the Pine
DeMarco Murray, Eagles, at Jets
Murray’s dismal season just got worse when he came up with a hamstring injury in practice. An MRI has been performed and now we’ll just wait for the results. Speaking of results, even if Murray does play vs. the Jets, don’t expect him to have positive ones. Last year’s leading rushers ranks 94th so far in 2015. Awesome. Thanks.
Frank Gore, Colts, at Titans
Like Murray, Gore’s been a bust with his new team so far. Under 4 yards per carry and no TDs. The Titans’ front 7 will never be confused with the Steel Curtain, but they’re playing well enough and the Colts’ offense is playing badly enough to warrant a Gore sit.
Alfred Blue, Texans, vs. Buccaneers
This just goes to show running backs are in fact NOT a dime a dozen. I hate when people say you can throw anyone back there and they’ll get yards. Actually, Blue is getting yards — it’s just he’s only getting a paltry 24 per game. Tampa is allowing under 4 yards per carry and Blue won’t get enough touches to use. In fact, Arian Foster is coming back (perhaps this weekend? Likely not, though), so feel free to let Blue hang out in the free agent pool.
Also sit:
Lamar Miller, Dolphins, vs. Bills
DeAngelo Williams, Steelers, at Rams
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