Lance Dunbar (RB, DAL) - Waiver Wire Pickups

BALLER MOVE: Add in 12+ team leagues.

OWNED IN: 15% of Fleaflicker Leagues

ANALYSIS: While the running back battle rages on in Dallas, it seems that a certain split has come about regarding Lance Dunbar. Can this guy even be considered a tail back anymore? Through two weeks, Dunbar has rushed the ball only one time for an eight yard gain. It seems that all of the touches from the backfield, for now, will be split between apparent starter Joseph Randle and backup RB Darren McFadden. So, why pick up Dunbar? The third-string back has become a legitimate threat in the spread formations of the passing game. In two weeks, he has been targeted 12 times, reeled in 11 catches, to the tune of 115 yards. He narrowly missed a deep shot in the end zone last week against Philadelphia. At this point, Dunbar is playing a completely different position from Randle and McFadden. He could make for a sneaky pickup in PPR formats, as his role only figures to increase in the absence of Tony Romo. Brandon Weeden, whose arm strength pales in comparison to Romo, will likely make good use of a speedy, dump-off option out of the backfield. Not to mention, the team is already missing Dez Bryant, while Jason Witten has been bruised and battered in the season's early going. The Cowboys have a friendly matchup with the Falcons Week 3 against a defense that has, thus far, allowed the highest amount of fantasy points to running backs in the NFL. Dunbar could go off this week and for many weeks to come in the Cowboys new, makeshift offense.