Week 13 Running Back Sit and Start Report

Donald Brown should run all over the Titans run defense

Week 13 is here and that means the last week of the fantasy regular season for most owners. If you’re one win away from that last playoff spot, every roster decision is extremely important. Check out this week’s sit/start report for the running back position.

Start:

Andre Brown, New York Giants – Since coming back from injury in Week 10, Andre Brown has absolutely dominated the touches out of the New York Giants backfield. He’s racked up at least 93 total yards during each of his three games since coming back and has rushed for 100 or more yards in two of the three. With the Giants facing the Washington Redskins this week, Brown may have his best matchup yet. The Redskins have surrendered the most rushing touchdowns in the league and give up the third most fantasy points to opposing running backs. Start the Giants workhorse back with confidence this week.

Donald Brown, Indianapolis Colts – With Trent Richardson competing with Ray Rice as fantasy’s biggest bust, Donald Brown has become a decent fantasy play when the matchup is right. That is the case this week as the Colts take on the Tennessee Titans. When the two teams faced off back in Week 11, Brown turned in his most productive fantasy performance of the season, posting 94 total yards and two touchdowns. Look for Brown to come close to these totals once again against a team that ranks in the bottom half of the league against the run.

Sit:

Lamar Miller, Miami Dolphins – While Miller may finally get his chance due to Daniel Thomas’s recent injury, this is not the week to take a chance with Miller. Facing the NFL’s number one ranked rush defense, Miller is going to have a tough time finding any success against the New York Jets this week. Add that to the fact that the Jets play much better at home, and you have a recipe for disaster for Miami’s rushing attack on Sunday.

Bobby Rainey, Tampa Bay Buccaneers – The clock struck midnight for Bobby Rainey’s Cinderella story last week and the matchup gets even tougher this week against the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers give up a measly 81 yards a game on the ground and have given up only 1 rushing touchdown in the past seven weeks. Don’t expect much from Rainey against one of the NFL’s best front sevens.

Peyton Hillis, Andre Brown to Lead Week 10 Rushing Attack

It’s only a matter of time before Brown overshadows Hillis

The Giants are expected to give Peyton Hillis most of the workload at tailback for Week 10. Hillis will look to keep his starting role, but he’s facing some very stiff competition. Hillis will have to battle Andre Brown returning from injury in order to keep the starting job, but Brown is expected to only be eased back into action. Coach Tom Coughlin says of Brown, “He’s ready to help.”

Peyton Hillis has run for only 2.78 yards per carry in his 2 games with the Giants this season, leaving the running back situation to be determined by performance. Brandon Jacobs is also expected to be given some carries making the Giants backfield situation even more of a mess.

Brown is unquestionably the back with the most to offer this Giants team, and will most likely emerge as the starter. What is yet to be determined, is how soon the transition will occur. If Brown is healthy and suffers no setbacks, expect him to take over during New York’s Week 10 contest or to at least get equal touches to those of Peyton Hillis.

Brown and Hillis can both be used as low Rb2 or flex options, but Brown has a higher chance for a breakout performance. Brandon Jacobs is not an advised starting option in most fantasy formats.

Giants Andre Brown Slotted for Week 10 Return

Andre Brown is finally ready to roll for Week 10

At long last, Giants running back Andre Brown is finally ready to make his 2013 regular season debut during Week 10 against the Raiders. Brown showed promise coming into the season, but broke his leg during a preseason practice and missed every game up until this point.

Expect Brown to hold onto the starting job even after David Wilson returns from injury. Wilson can be dropped in most standard fantasy leagues, while Brown should be locked down as an intriguing flex option with RB2 potential moving forward.

A month after suffering a herniated disc, Wilson still isn’t ready to participate in football activities. He’s shown marked improvement, but will continue to play the waiting game as Andre Brown will step up in his absence.

The decision was made Monday after evaluating David Wilson that he is still unable to continue activities, and they are now targeting a return in late December.

The Giants running game has featured many tailbacks thus far due to David Wilson’s dreadful season. Wilson rushed for 146 total yards in the 5 games he was healthy for, adding only one touchdown.

Other backs who have been brought in to help carry the load since David Wilson’s injury include Brandon Jacobs and Peyton Hillis.

 

 

Week 10 Running Back Waiver Wire PickUp Report

Andre Brown could provide a huge spark down the stretch

Week 10 is upon us and with injuries still plaguing the NFL and four teams (Cleveland, Kansas City, New England and the New York Jets) on a bye week, it’s time to get some much needed running back help off the waivers.

Running back has been one of the most unpredictable and inconsistent positions this season, but there are surprisingly some decent options out there that are widely available and ready to help your fantasy team. Zac Stacy, Andre Ellington, Mike James and Andre Brown lead the crop of Week 10 running back waiver wire pick-ups.

Zac Stacy (RB – STL)

It’s amazing that Zac Stacy is on this list and isn’t 100% owned in all leagues. Surprisingly, Stacy is only owned in 72% of Yahoo and 64% of ESPN Fantasy leagues so it’s worth mentioning that he is still available in several leagues and is a must-add player for Week 10.

Since being handed the starting job, Stacy has been nothing short of sensational. Stacy has eclipsed double-digit fantasy points in four straight games and is coming off a Week 9 explosion of 127 rushing yards, two touchdowns and six catches for 51 yards. Stacy is the new focal point of the Rams offense and could very easily be a top 10 running back from here on out.

Andre Ellington (RB – AZ)

It’s a shame that Andre Ellington is on this list as well. Ellington should be owned in all leagues but it looks like owners have been skeptical to add him for some reason and it appears that some owners may have even dropped him during his bye week.

Ellington earned the starting running back job in Week 8 and did not disappoint. He racked up 154 yards and a touchdown while also tacking on two catches for eight yards. The Arizona coaching staff loves Ellington and are trying to get him in space as much as possible.

Expect good things from Ellington coming off a bye week and he has a favorable schedule until week 15 and 16 when he takes on Seattle and San Francisco. Ellington is only owned in 63% of Yahoo and 37% of ESPN Fantasy leagues, so scoop him up if he’s still available.

Mike James (RB – TB)

Mike James got thrust into Tampa Bays starting lineup when Doug Martin went down with an injury and he’s been doing more than holding his own as a starter. James had a relatively quiet first week as a starter but with his second chance in Week 9, he absolutely exploded against Seattle on Sunday rushing for 158 yards and catching two passes for eight yards. James even threw a touchdown pass as well on a trick play early in the game.

James may not have top 10 RB potential the rest of the season, but there is nothing not to like about a player that’s getting twenty-plus carries a game in a run first offense. James has a great match-up this week against Miami which makes him a high end RB2 and Flex play this week. Depending on your running back depth, James could provide a nice spark for the rest of the season.

Andre Brown (RB – NYG)

Andre Bwown has confirmed that he will make his 2013 debut during in Week 10. Brown practiced on Monday in what he called some “special plays” and could very easily lead all Giant running backs in touches in week 10.

It’s still very unclear how much playing time Brown will get this week, so owners should not feel comfortable starting him. However, Brown could provide a nice spark in Week 11 and beyond once it’s clear how healthy he is. In a year when many owners are struggling to find a solid RB2 and in some cases, RB1, Brown could be the savior for a lot of owners down the stretch.

Andre Brown Could Return by Week 10

Andre Brown could be front and center for Big Blue by Week 10

Nothing is official yet, but the New York Giants coaching staff is suggesting that running back Andre Brown could return to the lineup as soon as Week 10. Brown has been out all season with a fractured left leg, but appears to be closing in on a full recovery.

The Giants also have a bye for Week 9, giving Brown an extra week for rehab and conditioning work. Head coach Tom Coughlin says they will be taking a “wait and see” approach on the 26 year old’s recovery. He also says he’s been impressed with him the last few weeks and is expecting continued progress leading up to the Week 10 matchup against the Raiders.

Brown joined the Giants in 2009 as a 4th round draft pick (129th overall) out of North Carolina State. He played in 10 games in 2012 and rushed for 385 yards on 73 touches, for an average of 5.1 yards per carry. He also added 8 touchdowns without a single fumble.

The Giants are in need of some new firepower for the 2013 season, as they find themselves last in their division entering their bye week. They are only 2 games out of first place and there will be plenty of opportunity if Brown is able to perform.

When asked about his potential return, Brown said he will be ready when the Giants “unleash” him. The young back is clearly anxious to get back on the field, and could provide some emphatic burst for the G-men in Week 10 when the Raiders come to the Meadowlands.

Returning Running Backs Who Could Spark Your Team to Victory

Steven Jackson expected to play Week 8

As the midway point of the season approaches, fantasy owners and NFL teams alike will be looking for that one player that may push them into the playoffs. For fantasy owners, the answer may lie in one of these three big name running backs who are nearing their returns from extended injury absences.

David Wilson, New York Giants

Giants running back David Wilson was injured during Week 5 against the Eagles, but avoided season ending neck surgery and is now expected to miss around 2-3 more weeks. With the Giants bye coming in Week 9, Wilson may be ready to suit up by Week 10. Before injuring his neck, Wilson was finally showing the type of talent that had caused owners to draft him in the second round of many fantasy drafts. If he can retain his lead back role when he returns, Wilson can be a sneaky pickup in leagues where he is available.

Andre Brown, New York Giants

Staying in the New York backfield, Andre Brown’s stint on the Physically Unable to Perform list is almost over. A back that was expected to play a very big role in the Giants offense, Brown broke his leg during the preseason and has yet to see the field this season. That will change soon as Brown has begun practicing with the team and is expected to return as soon as he is eligible to come off the PUP list on November 10^th against the Oakland Raiders. Brown is one of the most trusted backs on the team and may see extended work due to the team’s lack of production out of the backfield so far. A monster at the goal line, Brown has top 20 upside when he returns.

Steven Jackson, Atlanta Falcons

Jackson is the closest of the three backs to returning as he is expected back at practice on Wednesday after a 5 week absence. Jackson injured his hamstring in Week 2 and has had lingering issues which has caused him to miss much more time than originally expected. Even though he may practice this week, he will likely be less than 100% by Sunday and may need one more week of rest. When he returns, Jackson should be counted on as a number 2 back once again, but faces stiff tests against Carolina and Seattle in Weeks 9 and 10.

Returning Running Backs Who Could Spark Your Team to Victory

Steven Jackson expected to play Week 8

As the midway point of the season approaches, fantasy owners and NFL teams alike will be looking for that one player that may push them into the playoffs. For fantasy owners, the answer may lie in one of these three big name running backs who are nearing their returns from extended injury absences.

David Wilson, New York Giants

Giants running back David Wilson was injured during Week 5 against the Eagles, but avoided season ending neck surgery and is now expected to miss around 2-3 more weeks. With the Giants bye coming in Week 9, Wilson may be ready to suit up by Week 10. Before injuring his neck, Wilson was finally showing the type of talent that had caused owners to draft him in the second round of many fantasy drafts. If he can retain his lead back role when he returns, Wilson can be a sneaky pickup in leagues where he is available.

Andre Brown, New York Giants

Staying in the New York backfield, Andre Brown’s stint on the Physically Unable to Perform list is almost over. A back that was expected to play a very big role in the Giants offense, Brown broke his leg during the preseason and has yet to see the field this season. That will change soon as Brown has begun practicing with the team and is expected to return as soon as he is eligible to come off the PUP list on November 10^th against the Oakland Raiders. Brown is one of the most trusted backs on the team and may see extended work due to the team’s lack of production out of the backfield so far. A monster at the goal line, Brown has top 20 upside when he returns.

Steven Jackson, Atlanta Falcons

Jackson is the closest of the three backs to returning as he is expected back at practice on Wednesday after a 5 week absence. Jackson injured his hamstring in Week 2 and has had lingering issues which has caused him to miss much more time than originally expected. Even though he may practice this week, he will likely be less than 100% by Sunday and may need one more week of rest. When he returns, Jackson should be counted on as a number 2 back once again, but faces stiff tests against Carolina and Seattle in Weeks 9 and 10.

Giants David Wilson’s Return Still Up in the Air

For Wilson fantasy owners, the nightmare never ends

New York Giants running back David Wilson is going to be out at least 3-4 weeks with a disc injury in his neck. This is just more bad news for fantasy owners who have Wilson on their team as he is averaging a below-par 3.3 yards per carry.

This injury is going to cause Wilson to miss some valuable playing time against a pair of very mediocre defense including the Minnesota Vikings and Philadelphia Eagles. That brings us to week 9 in the season and luckily the Giants have their bye. This should give Wilson some added recovery time to try and stage a comeback against Oakland during Week 10.

Fellow running back Andre Brown is also eyeing a Week 10 return after suffering a broken leg during the preseason. The Giants will look to give Brown a decent amount of carries when he is back, seeing that Wilson hasn’t done much to satisfy them.

This has not been a good stretch for Wilson, with Andre Brown and Brandon Jacobs still in the mix to eat away at Wilson’s carries. Fantasy owners in need of some roster space might have to consider letting Wilson go.

Veteran Running Back Brandon Jacobs Rejoins Giants

The Giants brought back 31-year-old Brandon Jacobs, but don’t go rushing to the waiver wire just yet.

He’s a shell of his former self, but the Giants are obviously desperate and are looking for Jacobs to provide some leadership to the young and fumble-prone David Wilson.

Da’Rel Scott is still the number 2 back behind Wilson, but Jacobs could see some goal line carries against the Broncos. Remember to temper your expectations as the Giants are reaching for straws at this point.

Giants Desperate for Depth at Running Back

Brandon Jacobs hoping for a return to Big Blue

The New York Giants are attempting to bring in another tailback in from free agency. Today they plan on working out Willis McGahee, former Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, as well as Joe McKnight. After a poor performance from lead running back David Wilson in Sunday’s loss to the Cowboys, the Giants are desperate to revive what was expected to be a promising backfield this season.

New York sees an opportunity to fortify a shallow backfield with some help from an experienced veteran. Goal line help is mandatory at this point, as well as someone who can push David Wilson to work harder in order to secure his starting spot.

31-year-old Brandon Jacobs is excited at the chance to return to the team he helped lead to 2 Super Bowls, stating his desire to be “back with Big Blue” on Twitter. Jacobs did not have a productive season with the 49ers a year ago, but has confidence in his chances to come back to New York and make an impact.

The 32-year-old Willis McGahee will also get another shot at glory working out for the Giants on Tuesday. McGahee had a solid year for the Broncos going last season before missing the last 6 games due to a knee injury.

The Giants will be better off with McGahee or Jacobs to help out in goal line situations, but for now, there is no clear frontrunner for the job. Stay posted to see if one of the two candidates gets signed and consider taking a risk on one of them in touchdown heavy leagues.