Giovani Bernard: Early waiver wire option in Week 8

Cincinnati Bengals running back Giovani Bernard was bound to see a spike in production when Joe Mixon was ruled of Week 7 and put together a quality performance against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday while filling in as a starter. While he tallied just 37 rushing yards on 13 carries against the Browns, he caught five passes for 59 yards and a score. If you’re looking for a waiver wire running back ahead of Week 8 Bernard should be toward the top of your wish list.

Bernard hadn’t done much before Week 7 but only he and Mixon tallied carries through the first six games of the season. He should continue to monopolize on backfield touches and has a track record of performing at a high level when Mixon is out of commission. Bernard is 49 percent owned in Yahoo fantasy leagues and is worth picking up as a short-term option while Mixon is on the mend.

Up next: CLE, TEN, bye, @PIT, @WAS