The fantasy football playoffs are heating up, with Week 16 marking the semifinal round for many leagues. With crucial decisions on lineups looming, here’s advice on which running backs to start and sit.
Start: James Conner (Arizona Cardinals at Carolina Panthers), Tony Pollard (Tennessee Titans at Indianapolis Colts), Aaron Jones (Minnesota Vikings at Seattle Seahawks), Chase Brown (Cincinnati Bengals vs. Cleveland Browns), and Rhamondre Stevenson (New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills).
Conner faces a Panthers defense that’s particularly vulnerable at home, where they’re allowing 191.8 yards per game. Pollard could exploit the Colts’ struggles against running backs, while Jones has a favorable matchup against the Seahawks. Brown’s success on the ground and in the passing game makes him an attractive option, and Stevenson’s pass-catching abilities out of the backfield could help him shine in Buffalo.
Sit: Kenneth Walker III (Seattle Seahawks vs. Minnesota Vikings), Isiah Pacheco (Kansas City Chiefs vs. Houston Texans), Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens), Rico Dowdle (Dallas Cowboys vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers), and Brian Robinson Jr. (Washington Commanders vs. Philadelphia Eagles).
Walker’s calf injury raises concerns about his availability, while the Vikings’ strong run defense makes him a less appealing option. Pacheco has struggled in recent games, and Houston’s stout defense could limit his production. Harris faces a Ravens defense that’s excelling against the run, and Dowdle’s matchup against Tampa Bay’s strong defense on the road could be challenging. Robinson Jr. had a decent game last week but faces a tough test against the Eagles’ dominant run defense.
These start ’em and sit ’em recommendations should help you make informed decisions for your Week 16 fantasy football lineup.
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/fantasy/2024/12/19/nfl-fantasy-football-start-sit-running-backs-week-16/77076188007