What to do with Josh Jacobs in Week 16 of the fantasy football playoffs

Josh Jacobs didn’t have an easy time of it last week against the Chargers. The Las Vegas Raiders running back carried the ball 26 times—the highest number of rushing attempts in a single game he’s had since Week 8—and piled up just 76 yards. He did score a touchdown and added another 38 yards on three catches to salvage his stat line. This week, the Raiders draw the Dolphins, an even tougher defense, and that could have big implications for Jacobs in fantasy football.

Fantasy Football analysis: Raiders RB Josh Jacobs

Jacobs hasn’t cracked the 100-yard mark since Week 10. More notably, he’s averaging less than four yards per rushing attempt since then.

The Dolphins have a pretty stout run defense too. They haven’t allowed an opposing running back to score on the ground over their last four games, and they’ve allowed it to happen eight times all season. No running back has amassed 100 rushing yards against Miami all season.

Jacobs’ fantasy value is tied up with his usage rates. The Raiders lean heavily on his legs, which were looking tired last week. He’s still worth a spot in your lineup, but only as a second running back.

Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation

Start Josh Jacobs at RB2.