Entering the first week of action, match ups and injuries will play a key role in how owners figure out who to start on their rosters. Here’s an updated look at the running back rankings for this weekend and how these players can help get any owner off to a quick start.
Todd Gurley burst onto the scene as a rookie last year and the LA Rams will count on the youngster to handle most of the carries this season. With the team traveling to play San Francisco, who doesn’t have a particularly strong rushing defense, look for the former Georgia star to get plenty of touches, 20+ points is a reasonable estimate, especially if the game is close and by all predictions, it should be decided in the fourth quarter.
Adrain Peterson has been a stellar back for years and with the Minnesota Vikings losing starting quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, look for the veteran to have an expanded role, at least until Sam Bradford gets some chemistry with the wide outs. Opening on the road against Tennessee isn’t the worst scenario for this team and if the game stays tight, Peterson could get 25+ carries in week 1.
Rookie Ezekiel Elliott was outstanding in the limited action he saw in the preseason with the Dallas Cowboys and now with a rookie quarterback leading the offense in the opening week, the young running back could see a heavy workload. With a home contest against NFC East rival New York on the cards for this weekend, the excitement should carryover to the young backfield and a 100 yard performance to open his career is possible.
There are a number of backs that could miss the opener and fantasy football owners would be wise to watch the injury report until kick-off. Carlos Hyde of San Francisco and Jamaal Charles of Kansas City are both players that are important to their respective teams, must questionable to play. Having a good backup is essential, but if available, both of these players are solid options to open the season.
