Some running backs are coming into Week 12 with ideal matchups while others seem likely to underperform. We’ve identified two backs who are ideal starters in fantasy football and two who could bust ahead of the action. Let’s go over some of the top options and fades.
Running Back Starts
James White, New England Patriots vs. Arizona Cardinals
White led all Patriots running backs with 28 snaps against a weak Houston Texans run defense despite Damien Harris’s recent success, Rex Burkhead is set to miss the remainder of the season with a knee injury so I expect White to be New England’s primary pass catcher out of the backfield. Arizona’s defense has thrived against running backs and that could cause the Patriots to drop back more often than usual.
Wayne Gallman Jr., New York Giants vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Gallman has a nose for the end zone and has scored five touchdowns in his last four games. He’s reached double-digits in carries consistently as of late and continues to get the go-ahead around the goal line. The Bengals haven’t given up a ton of rushing scores but are among the worst in the league when it comes to forking up yardage. Only three teams have given up more rushing yards than Cincinnati this season.
Running Back Sits
Jerrick McKinnon, San Francisco 49ers vs. Los Angeles Rams
Although McKinnon has established himself as San Francisco’s top running back over the past two weeks but Tevin Coleman has returned to practice and could cut into his usage. When there are other options available the 49ers prefer not to give McKinnon too many carries. Banking on a receiving touchdown from a backup isn’t ideal.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kansas City Chiefs vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Edwards-Helaire finally notched a multi-touchdown game in Week 10 and cracked 10 carries for the first time in three weeks. Only the New Orleans Saints have given up fewer rushing yards than the Buccaneers this year so CEH would likely need a touchdown or two to be worth playing.