RADIO
The running back position continues to get more frustrating as each week passes by. The already limited options at the position have diminished as Devonta Freeman has been ruled out, and Charcandrick West is expected to miss his game in Week 12.
There are three fantasy relevant running backs that should be benched at any cost this week due to the variable surrounding each despite the lack of options.
Miami Dolphins standout Lamar Miller has quietly cooled off following his short hot streak. Miller has not rushed for more than fifty yards in any of his last four games. His fantasy value has not been hit as hard due to making up for it with receiving yards and touchdown scores.
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With a player like Miller, those outcomes are fluky and last week’s disappointing game showed how badly he can harm a fantasy lineup with a lackluster performance. Backup running back Jay Ajayi has been eating into Miller’s carries and shows great potential. This could become a bigger problem for Miller going forward.
The matchup also ruins his chances this week as he faces the New York Jets. Despite the team falling back to earth, the Jets still field one of the best run defenses in the league and they shut down Miller for his worst game of the season in Week 4.
The rejuvenation of DeAngelo Williams has been a gift for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Following the injury to Le’Veon Bell ruling him out for the remainder of the season, Williams emerged as a reliable running back. Williams has dominated in every game as starter until Week 10’s debacle against the Cleveland Browns.
But Williams was shut down heading into the bye and showed he’s not a clear-cut RB1. This week’s matchup against the Seahawks in Seattle is not ideal. The Seahawks have given up the least fantasy points to opposing running backs, and are in a must win situation.
Latavius Murray of the Oakland Raiders has quietly cooled off with three lackluster fantasy performances in a row. The Raiders will face an underrated Tennessee Titans run defense, as Tennessee has given up the third least fantasy points to opposing running backs.
The combination will lead to another tough day in the office for Murray. Oakland’s offense has been slowing down, and Murray is the least trustworthy of the fantasy relevant Raiders. Between the matchups and overall momentum, you can’t bank on Lamar Miller, DeAngelo Williams or Latavius Murray this week.
