Orleans Darkwa had his first eight carries of the season Sunday, one of which went for a 15-yard TD. (Getty)
Rashad Jennings owners watched in horror Sunday evening, as Giants backup Orleans Darkwa barreled into the endzone for a second quarter touchdown. It’s been bad enough watching Shane Vereen dominate touches in the fourth quarter, but Sunday looked like the beginning of the end of Jennings’ time as feature back.
Each back touched the ball at least four times on Sunday, but Darkwa led all Giants rushers with eight carries. He impressed in his limited action, and he should factor in the rotation from here out. But with four established backs getting touches, are any of them worth a spot on your fantasy roster?
Depending on the rules you’re playing in, Vereen and Darkwa should be solid waiver pickups. Vereen is a regular target in the pass game, with 34 targets this season. He’s a solid PPR flex play.
The darkhorse is Darkwa. The former Tulane back led the Giants in rushing during the preseason, and earned praise from Tom Coughlin after Sunday’s win. The key will be maintaining his pace without making any crucial mistakes. Coughlin will have no problem feeding the rookie, especially if he continues his direct rushing style and can convert short-yardage situations. But all it will take is one fumble or one missed block, and Coughlin will yank the rookie for someone more reliable.
If you’re hurting for a RB, Darkwa is worth a waiver pickup this week.