First let’s acknowledge that this is the first time the Chiefs’ offense has looked off since 2017. It’s clear teams have gotten enough of a look at Patrick Mahomes to devise a game plan around limiting the amount of big plays Kansas City can rack up in a given game. Because of this, it’s hard to get a gauge on how to attack the run game, given it’s upside was always tied to the effectiveness of the passing game.

In last week’s loss to the Texans, the RB snaps were split 29-22 in favor of LeSean McCoy over Damien Williams. McCoy racked up 44 yards on eight carries while also adding two catches with zero yards. Williams only saw one carry for six yards, but also caught a 14-yard TD pass. The Chiefs were forced to throw the ball vertically most of the game to keep up with Houston’s offense and Mahomes looked mostly at Tyreek Hill, who had 10 targets in his return from a shoulder injury. We also have to account for Darrel Williams, who had seven snaps and just two targets, but took one of them 52 yards.

Fantasy Football Analysis, Kansas City Chiefs RBs Damien Williams and LeSean McCoy

Looking at the past two weeks, it’s difficult to figure out what Andy Reid is doing. One week, Damien Williams is the lead back, the next, it’s Shady. Now, the Chiefs are on a short week on the road vs. the Broncos, who are always tough against the run and difficult to play against in Denver. The Broncos are middle of the pack in terms of rushing yards allowed, but are allowing just 17.7 points per game, plus haven’t allowed a team to go for more than 27 points in a game this season.

The matchup isn’t ideal and it’s hard to trust either back given the nature of the offense and how the ball is being spread around. Sure, there’s a chance Mahomes gets back to lighting up the scoreboard, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Damien Williams or Shady McCoy will come through in fantasy. If I had to pick between the two, I’d probably lean McCoy given he’s been more consistent and reliable than Damien. But I don’t think I’d roll either out there on Thursday night. Wait to see what develops up until Sunday and don’t risk a poor performance early in the week.

Start/Sit Recommendation

Sit both.

“All views expressed are my own. I am an employee of DraftKings and am ineligible to play in public DFS contests.”