:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68504404/1289935613.0.jpg)
Some running backs are coming into Week 14 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 starting options and fades.
Running Back Starts
David Montgomery, Chicago Bears vs. Houston Texans
Montgomery scored twice in a game for the first time all year against a Detroit Lions defense that’s given up the most rushing touchdowns (20) in the NFL. Now he’ll face a Texans squad that’s given up more rushing yards than any other team. Montgomery has caught at least a pass in every game he’s played in this year and won’t lose much work to Cordarelle Patterson.
Wayne Gallman, New York Giants vs. Arizona Cardinals
The Giants face a Cardinals defense that is middle of the pack against the run. Daniel Jones is expected back, so the passing game gains some value, but Gallman has become a steady presence on the ground and is coming off his best game as a pro. Gallman rushed for 135 yards in the Giants upset of Seattle and will likely be leaned on again vs. Arizona.
Running Back Sits
Miles Sanders, Philadelphia Eagles vs. New Orleans Saints
The Saints have been elite all year when it comes to stopping the run and Sanders played less than 60 percent of the Eagles’ snaps for the second time this season in Week 13. He’s losing work to Jordan Howard and Boston Scott early in games and isn’t being used as a feature back. It’s unclear how much of a focal point Sanders will be with Jalen Hurts set to make his first career NFL start, so I’d stay away from him against a sturdy defensive front.
Dalvin Cook, Minnesota Vikings vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Cook is far from the average running back but Tampa Bay has been spectacular at stuffing the run. The Buccaneers are giving up a league-low 74.2 yards per game. You’ll likely have to depend on multiple touchdowns for Cook to return significant value in DFS but you probably have no choice but to start him in season-long fantasy leagues, as he’s a clear RB1 against most teams.