You’d think in a game in which your team scored 55 points you’d end up with better production, but we’ve set a low bar for Ronald Jones II and the Bucs this season. After an inconsistent and injury-plagued 2018, the RB out of USC has produced back-to-back 70-yard performances on the ground, reaching 13 or more carries in three of four games this season.
While Jones isn’t active in the passing game and remains in a three-headed dragon attack with Peyton Barber and Dare Ogunbowale, he’s been incredibly efficient on the ground, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. That ranks eighth among RBs with at least 50 attempts this season, though his TD production leaves plenty to be desired. Despite only scoring once this season, though, Jones is getting most of the goal line work with seven touches inside the red zone the past two weeks.
Fantasy football analysis, Tampa Bay Buccaneers RB Ronald Jones
At this point it’s clear Jones has an upper-hand on Barber for the bulk of the early-down work in the Buccaneers’ backfield. Because of his history we need to proceed with some caution, but there are plenty of positives heading into Week 5 vs. the Saints. With that said, New Orleans has been decent against the run this season, allowing 112 rushing yards per game. The Saints also did a nice job shutting down Ezekiel Elliott in Week 4, limiting the stud back to just 35 yards on 18 carries. I’d feel better about Jones if he were getting work on third down and passing situations, but he isn’t. The Bucs are better than advertised on offense, but could be playing from behind a bit on the road, which wouldn’t play well for Jones’ game script. I’d say he’s nothing more than a FLEX play in most season-long formats, and you most likely have better options in 8- or 10-team leagues. If you don’t, you could do worse than Jones. But otherwise, I’d probably leave him on the sideline this week.
Start/Sit recommendation
Sit
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