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Game day update: With the Patriots becoming a more run-based offense over the last few weeks, second-year running back Damien Harris has become a valuable play in fantasy football and NFL DFS. In his last three games, Harris has recorded 47 carries for 235 yards and a touchdown. Over that same period, he scored 12.10 and 11.40 fantasy points in back-to-back games.
The former Alabama standout will try to reach double-digits on Sunday against a Cardinals’ defense that is only allowing an impressive 16.4 fantasy points per game to opposing running backs. Also, do not forget about James White in the passing game to help offset Harris. ESPN projects Harris to score 9.8 fantasy points, while White and Sony Michel to score 6.8 and 3.2 points, respectively.
We finally have a little clarity when it comes to the New England Patriots backfield, sort of. The three players here all have fairly well defined roles, and while that is always subject to change when it comes to New England’s offense, that gives us some sense of how/if they’re worth using in fantasy football this week when they play the Cardinals.
Fantasy Football analysis: Patriots RBs Damien Harris, James White, Sony Michel
Harris has settled into the main rusher, the first and second down guy. He led the team with 11 carries last week, rolling up 43 yards and a touchdown. That’s down from the 22-carry, 121-yard effort in the game before that one, but it makes him a usable fantasy asset.
With Rex Burkhead out with a knee injury, James White settles into the primary third down, pass catching back. He was targeted nine times last week, catching six passes for 64 yards. Michel, a healthy scratch last week, will most likely move into a supplementary role, not yet worth a spot in fantasy lineups.
The Cardinals give up an average of 124 rushing yards per game. Opposing running backs have also scored three touchdowns in Arizona’s last four games. Harris is a low-end RB2 this week, and White can be a useful flex option.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Start Damien Harris and James White. Sit Sony Michel.