Running backs were impressive in week 7 as eight backs scored at least 20 fantasy points. Jay Ajayi was probably the most surprising of the bunch as he had his second 200 yard rushing day in a row. As defenses wear down later in the season, these big rushing days should become more commonplace. Let’s take to the wire and look for the next big thing in the world of running backs.
Week 7 Recommendations Results (Standard League Scoring):
· Jay Ajayi MIA – 28 carries 214 yards 1 touchdown 27 Fantasy Points
· Matt Asiata MIN – 12 carries 55 yards 6 receptions 25 yards 7 Fantasy Points
· C.J. Spiller SEA – DNP
· James White NE – 0 carries 0 yards 2 receptions 32 yards 1 touchdown 9 Fantasy Points
The Dolphins suddenly have a workhorse running back in Ajayi and fantasy owners that grabbed him are very happy. Asiata produced his normal mediocre, but usable effort. Spiller should be cut in all leagues as it looks like C.J. Procise is ahead of him for passing down touches. James White continues to have some utility as a pass catching back.
Week 8 Waiver Wire Picks
Jacquizz Rodgers TB 34.5% owned
Owners have been waiting for Doug Martin to come back from injury and he keeps getting pushed back. Meanwhile Rodgers has been more than filling in for Martin. In his last game, Rodgers rushed for over 150 yards and a touchdown. Regardless of the health status of Doug Martin, it may be getting to the point that Rodgers is the running back to own for the moment. As long as the offense keeps rolling, it is difficult to envision the coaches completely handing the rushing duties back to Martin.
The Rest Of The Waiver Wire Picks
Ty Montgomery GB 20.2% owned
This pick may or may not apply depending on league, but in ESPN leagues Montgomery now qualifies at WR and RB. This designation makes the versatile player’s value even higher as he has carved out a niche for himself in the Green Bay offense. Montgomery is seeing a decent number or carries out of the backfield in addition to grabbing some short passes at running back and wide receiver. PPR leagues are no brainers for Montgomery, but even in standard leagues he should have decent value ROS.
Chris Thompson WAS 14.2% owned
The Redskins backfield is a tough one to predict, but it seems like Thompson is coming into favor a bit. Starter Matt Jones has struggled with inconsistency and fumbling, leading to more Chris Thompson. Now the rumor is that Jones could see reduced carries going forward. This would only benefit the versatile Thompson as he has seen his volume increase when Jones does not find success.
Back From Injury
Dwayne Washington DET 9.6% owned
The rushing attack of the Lions has struggled to get anything going but some injuries are healing. Zach Zenner and Justin Forsett saw most of the carries last week and did not make much of them. With Washington likely to return for week 8, it is a good bet that the coaches will give him a decent number of touches. The raw talent of Washington trumps the run of the mill Zenner and Forsett. One thing to watch is the health of Theo Riddick as his return could lower the ceiling for Washington’s production.
