It seems to be a guessing game on a weekly basis when trying to figure out who to start from the Baltimore backfield. Each of these players seems to be siphoning value from the others, making it risky to start any of them with confidence. Are any of these backs worth gambling on in Week 4 against a stout Washington rushing defense? We break down the fantasy implications below.
Fantasy Football analysis: Ravens RBs Mark Ingram, Gus Edwards, JK Dobbins
Mark Ingram has seen his share of the workload decline each week from ten carries in Week 1 to nine carries in Week 2, to only seven carries in Week 3. Week 3 could have been an anomaly for the Ravens as they scored a special teams TD and were forced to throw often while having a hard time keeping the offense on the field in an attempt to keep up with the explosive Kansas City offense. Ingram’s timeshare in this offense does not give him the volume that is required to make him a bonafide starter in fantasy lineups. He is highly touchdown dependent, but his value is saved by the high scoring upside of the Baltimore offense. He should only be considered flex play in Week 4 .
J.K. Dobbins only received one carry in Week 3, but he was more involved in the passing game as he had four receptions for 38 yards. This increased usage in the passing game is promising for Dobbins’ value, but expectations must be tempered due to the three way timeshare that has formed in Baltimore. Dobbins provides low end flex appeal in PPR leagues, but until he sees an increase in workload he shouldn’t be considered more than a weekly flier.
Gus Edwards saw an uptick in his workload in Week 2, before returning to the minor role he usually has in Week 3. Edwards is averaging an impressive 7.2 yards per carry this season, yet this has yet to earn him any extra work. While there is always the chance that Edwards sees double digit carries and finds the endzone for a good fantasy day, the same chance exists that he only receives three or four carries for less than 10 yards. That’s not a chance most fantasy owners should be willing to take and Gus Edwards should remain on the bench this week.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Start Mark Ingram as a touchdown dependent flex play
Start J.K. Dobbins only as a low end flex play
Sit Gus Edwards