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Week 6 fantasy football player analysis: running backs

October 9, 2008 @ 08:33:25

By Bryce McRae and KFFL Staff
Edited by KFFL Staff

We introduce our positional player analysis for the 2008 season. In past years, KFFL always evaluated each game matchup to explore the value of players to make your life easier. This year, we are launching a new format that we feel will be easier for fantasy owners. Instead of having to view many different team report articles, you can come to a one-stop shop for your positional questions.

Editor's note: All statistics in this article are from Week 2 to Week 5 of the 2008 season, unless otherwise noted. Statistics appearing in each table are per-game averages.

Fantasy value: No. 1 Running backs

Clinton Portis, Washington Redskins vs. St. Louis Rams

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	25.00	4.25	0.75	107.5	1.00	2.00	12.2	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	32.7	177.3	1.67	4.00	23.3	0.33

Portis has moved into second place in the league for total rushing yards (514) with 266 yards and one touchdown over his last two games.
He ranks third among running backs with 100 utilizations over the last four weeks.
The Rams haven't come close to stopping anyone all season, allowing the third-most rushing yards per game to the position in the past month.
Portis is a strong play this week.

Le'Ron McClain, Baltimore Ravens at Indianapolis Colts

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	17.33	4.33	2.33	60.0	1.33	2.00	14.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	17.33	4.33	2.33	60.0	1.33	2.00

Running back Willis McGahee's (chest) backup is the better play this week. He has received six more utilizations in the red zone and five more inside the 5-yard line than McGahee over the last four weeks.
The bruising back has scored four times over the last three weeks.
For the first time this season, McGahee got most of the overall utilizations with 23 to McClain's 13 last week. However, against a weak Colts run defense there should be plenty of touches to go around.
McClain is a strong play against the Colts.

Julius Jones, Seattle Seahawks vs. Green Bay Packers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	25.00	2.33	0.33	109.3	0.67	1.67	10.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	28.0	144.0	1.00	3.75	19.2	0.00

Against soft run defenses in Week 2 and Week 3, Jones ran for 267 yards and two touchdowns while catching four passes for 18 yards. He didn't do much last week (17 carries, 61 yards) but faces another porous run defense this Sunday.
The Packers are struggling with injuries and were gashed for 142 rushing yards by the Atlanta Falcons backs last week. In Week 4, they allowed 174 rushing yards to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Jones managed just 26 yards on nine carries against the Packers last year, but he was a member of the Dallas Cowboys then and wasn't as involved in the offense.
Owners should view Jones as a strong play this week.

Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	25.50	2.75	0.50	87.2	0.50	2.25	12.5	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	28.3	106.0	1.00	5.00	32.7	0.33

Peterson should be able to make amends for his Week 5 dud (32 rushing yards on 21 carries) as he faces a Lions defense allowing the 11th most rushing yards per game to the position over the last four weeks.
In two games against the Lions last year, Peterson ran for 182 yards and two touchdowns while catching five passes for 62 yards.

Matt Forte, Chicago Bears at Atlanta Falcons

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	26.75	2.75	0.25	65.0	0.25	4.75	38.5	0.50
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	27.2	133.5	1.00	4.50	21.8	0.00

Forte struggled on the ground for the second straight week (15 carries for 36 yards in Week 5), but he scored two touchdowns - one rushing, one receiving - and added 25 yards through the air.
The Falcons are giving up the sixth most rushing yards per game to the position over the last four weeks.

Ronnie Brown, Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	20.00	4.67	2.67	87.7	2.00	1.33	12.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	23.0	97.7	1.33	3.67	23.3	0.00

Brown turned in his second straight game with 110-plus rushing yards in Week 5, carrying the ball 24 times for 125 yards and a touchdown against the San Diego Chargers. He also caught one pass for eight yards.
Running back Ricky Williams is still a factor with 33 utilizations over the last two games.
Brown amassed 153 total yards and a touchdown versus the Texans in 2007. He totaled 111 yards but did not score against them in 2006.

Frank Gore, San Francisco 49ers vs. Philadelphia Eagles

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	23.25	5.00	1.75	81.8	0.50	3.75	31.2	0.25
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	24.2	87.2	0.50	3.50	31.2	0.25

In Week 5, Gore was the only running back on the 49ers roster to receive any utilizations. Backups DeShaun Foster and Zak Keasey have received just eight utilizations combined over the last four weeks.
Gore is tied for first in the league with 20 red zone utilizations since Week 2. He's also tied for second with seven utilizations inside the 5-yard line.
He ran for a season-low 54 yards last week but still managed to find the end zone for the fourth time this season.
Gore is considered a weak play this weekend.

Brandon Jacobs, New York Giants at Cleveland Browns

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	15.67	1.67	1.33	88.0	1.00	0.67	3.7	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	26.3	96.0	1.00	2.33	10.0	0.00

Jacobs enjoyed his finest effort this season as he ran the ball 15 times for 136 yards and two touchdowns last week. He also caught one pass for nine yards.
The Giants have been extremely judicious with Jacobs' carries this season, but thus far he has been able to produce quality fantasy totals in relatively limited action.
Jacobs should be considered a weak play against a solid Browns defense.

Steven Jackson, St. Louis Rams at Washington Redskins

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	26.00	1.33	0.00	76.3	0.33	5.67	59.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	16.0	56.8	0.50	6.25	54.0	0.00

Jackson finally broke out this year with 110 yards and a touchdown on 24 carries in Week 4. He added 78 yards on five receptions.
He hasn't faced the Redskins since 2006 when he accumulated a career-high 252 total yards (150 rushing, 102 receiving) and two touchdowns.
The Rams aren't nearly as potent offensively anymore, and Jackson is a weak play against a Redskins defense allowing just 2.9 yards per carry over the past month.

Joseph Addai, Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravens

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	18.33	3.00	1.67	56.3	1.33	1.33	8.7	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	20.0	59.0	0.00	5.00	38.3	0.33

Only one other running back has received any utilizations over the last three games on the Colts; Addai has 55 utilizations in that time.
Owners should be aware Addai is a weak play against a defense allowing the third fewest rushing yards per game to this position since Week 2.
Addai cruised to a huge game against the Ravens last season, racking up 81 yards and three touchdowns in an abbreviated evening of work.

Steve Slaton, Houston Texans vs. Miami Dolphins

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	19.33	5.33	1.67	80.7	1.00	4.33	31.3	0.33
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	20.7	64.3	0.33	3.67	23.7	0.00

Running back Ahman Green's (ankle) return didn't diminish Slaton's workload in Week 5 as the first-year back received 18 utilizations, the same number he saw in Week 4. However, head coach Gary Kubiak said he liked the way Green ran and would like to utilize them as a one-two punch.
The Dolphins held the San Diego Chargers backs to just 59 yards on 18 carries last week.
Slaton is a weak play against a defense that is allowing the fifth fewest rushing yards per game to this position.

Fantasy value: No. 1 or No. 2 Running backs

Maurice Jones-Drew, Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	9.50	1.50	0.75	40.8	0.75	3.75	31.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	23.8	128.8	1.25	10.00	70.0	0.50

Jones-Drew (ankle) aggravated a lingering ankle injury in Week 5, but he was able to remain in the game. He had only five carries for seven yards but did score his third touchdown of the season. He also caught six passes for 23 yards.
The Broncos held MJD in check last year as he managed just 55 total yards on 17 touches.
Jones-Drew is a strong play this week with the Broncos giving up the seventh most rushing yards and most receptions and receiving yards per game to the position over the past four weeks.

Willis McGahee, Baltimore Ravens at Indianapolis Colts

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	18.67	2.33	0.67	56.7	0.33	1.67	10.7	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	35.3	182.0	1.00	5.67	40.7	0.00

McGahee (chest) is set to start in Week 6, but he has been bothered by various injuries this season. He seems to be rounding into shape, though, registering a season-high 23 touches last Sunday.
Running back Le'Ron McClain has been the primary option around the goal line, which is one reason McGahee has scored just once this year.
Against the Colts last year, McGahee had 17 carries for 45 yards and caught five passes for seven yards.
He is a strong play this week with the Colts allowing the second most rushing yards per game to the position over the past four weeks.

LaDainian Tomlinson, San Diego Chargers vs. New England Patriots

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	21.50	4.25	1.00	58.5	1.00	3.00	16.2	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	22.3	122.7	1.33	4.67	28.3	0.33

Tomlinson (toe) aggravated his turf toe injury in Week 5 as he ran for just 35 yards on 12 carries. He chipped in with five catches for 22 yards in the receiving game.
The Patriots held LT in check last year as the former MVP managed just 43 rushing yards on 18 attempts during their Week 2 game. He did gain 187 total yards and two touchdowns against them in a 2006 playoff game.
Tomlinson is a strong play against a Patriots defense that has really struggled against opposing backs in the last month, allowing a league-worst 5.5 yards per carry during that time.

Reggie Bush, New Orleans Saints vs. Oakland Raiders

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	23.00	1.75	0.00	40.2	0.25	7.50	51.8	0.25
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	23.7	89.3	1.33	5.33	42.7	0.00

From a rushing perspective, Bush suffered through another disappointing game with just 29 yards on 12 carries this past Monday. However, he caught seven passes for 64 yards and returned two punts for touchdowns.
The Raiders are allowing the eighth most receptions per game to the position over the last four weeks.
That's not enough to make Bush a strong play, but one of his strengths does coincide with an Oakland weakness.

Michael Turner, Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	21.25	4.25	1.25	80.8	1.00	0.50	1.2	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	19.0	71.2	1.00	5.75	37.5	0.00

The Bears have yet to allow a 100-yard rusher this year; Turner has run for more than 100 yards in three of his five games this year.
Turner is coming off a solid effort as he ran for 121 yards and one touchdown on 26 carries against the Green Bay Packers last week. He was utilized a season-high 26 times in that game.
The Falcons could look to challenge the Bears through the air this week, which could lower Turner's utilizations, though he should still be an integral part of the offense.

Edgerrin James, Arizona Cardinals vs. Dallas Cowboys

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	19.25	3.00	1.00	58.5	0.75	2.50	18.2	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.2	86.5	0.50	4.00	29.2	0.25

Edge continues to see most of the work as the team's main back with 21 carries for 57 yards and one touchdown in Week 5. He has been splitting the goal line carries with running back Tim Hightower, though.
James ran for 69 yards on 15 carries and caught two passes for 11 yards during his game against the Cowboys in 2006.
Most of Dallas' problems defensively this season have come against the pass, making James a weak play against the Cowboys.

Fantasy value: No. 2 Running backs

Marion Barber III, Dallas Cowboys at Arizona Cardinals

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	22.50	4.50	1.25	78.8	0.50	2.75	21.2	0.25
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	21.8	69.8	0.50	4.75	32.5	0.00

The team went away from Barber in Week 4 (10 utilizations), but without that game, he is averaging 25.3 utilizations per game this season. He racked up 92 total yards last week.
Barber hasn't faced the Cardinals since 2006 when he ran 13 times for 65 yards and a touchdown while catching one pass for eight yards.
The Cardinals are giving up the sixth fewest rushing yards to the position over the last four weeks, making Barber a weak play.

Earnest Graham, Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	16.75	3.00	0.50	75.5	0.50	1.75	9.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.0	86.8	0.25	5.25	25.0	0.00

Graham ran effectively last week but got limited opportunities, carrying the ball 10 times for 59 yards.
Coming on in relief after running back Cadillac Williams (knee) suffered a terrible knee injury, Graham ran the ball 17 times for 48 yards and a touchdown against the Panthers last year.
Graham has received slightly more utilizations (67) over the past month than his backfield mate Warrick Dunn (62).
Owners should consider Graham a weak play against the Panthers.

Jonathan Stewart, Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	13.75	1.75	0.75	54.0	1.00	0.25	2.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.0	76.8	0.00	5.25	40.0	0.25

Don't read too much into DeAngelo Williams' three touchdowns last week; both of Williams' rushing touchdowns were from 10 yards out or further, and Stewart is still the team's primary short-yardage back.
Although he failed to score for the first time since Week 1, Stewart still racked up 72 yards on 19 carries last Sunday.
Facing the Buccaneers this week, Stewart should be considered a weak play.

DeAngelo Williams, Carolina Panthers at Tampa Bay Buccaneers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	16.25	1.00	0.00	59.5	0.50	1.50	11.2	0.25
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.0	76.8	0.00	5.25	40.0	0.25

The absence of offensive tackles Jeff Otah (ankle) and Jordan Gross (head) in Week 5 wasn't enough to keep Williams from running for a career-high 123 yards on 20 carries. He added a 25-yard touchdown reception and scored three times overall. Both linemen could return this week.
Williams has the slight edge over Jonathan Stewart with 65 utilizations to 55 utilizations for Stewart during the last four weeks.
Against the Buccaneers last year, Williams ran for 121 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries in Week 17. He had just two carries for five yards but added three receptions for 37 yards and a touchdown against them in Week 4.
Williams should be viewed a weak play in Week 6.

Jamal Lewis, Cleveland Browns vs. New York Giants

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	21.67	4.00	1.33	57.7	0.33	2.67	21.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	19.7	70.0	0.33	3.67	22.3	0.00

Cleveland's offense has struggled all season long, but Lewis hasn't been the problem, gaining more than 75 total yards three times in four games.
He is coming off his best game in Week 4 when he totaled 94 yards and scored his first touchdown of the season.
Lewis is a weak play facing the Giants, who have given up the seventh fewest rushing yards per game to the position over the last four weeks.

Fred Taylor, Jacksonville Jaguars at Denver Broncos

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	17.25	2.25	0.25	53.5	0.00	2.00	10.2	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	23.8	128.8	1.25	10.00	70.0	0.50

Against the Pittsburgh Steelers last week, Taylor received just 13 utilizations for the second week in a row. Jaguars running backs as a whole were utilized just 19 times, down from 23 in Week 4.
The veteran back ran the ball 17 times for 84 yards in a Week 3 matchup against the Broncos last year.
Taylor should be utilized as a strong play in Denver.

Chris Perry, Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	21.00	3.25	0.25	49.2	0.50	3.00	11.2	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	26.0	82.3	2.00	7.33	60.3	0.33

The Bengals acquired running back Cedric Benson (Chicago Bears) last week and gave him 10 utilizations against the Dallas Cowboys. He could eat into Perry's carries as he becomes more familiar with the Bengals offense.
Perry has had problems securing the ball with five fumbles this year (three lost), and he could end up in the coaches doghouse if he can't correct his problems.
The Jets are giving up a league-leading two touchdowns to this position per game over the last four weeks (three games), and the 7.33 receptions they are allowing to backs per game over that period is the third most during that time. These trends make Perry a strong play.

Fantasy value: No. 2 or No. 3 Running backs

Correll Buckhalter, Philadelphia Eagles at San Francisco 49ers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	10.25	1.75	1.00	27.2	0.25	2.50	20.8	0.25
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	29.8	124.0	1.25	4.75	30.5	0.25

Buckhalter's value will depend largely on running back Brian Westbrook's (ribs) availability this week. Westbrook fractured two ribs in Week 5, and his status is uncertain this week.
Replacing Westbrook in Week 4, Buckhalter ran for 66 yards on 16 carries while catching two passes for 24 yards.
Buckhalter has a strong-play matchup against the 49ers, and he should be acquired immediately if he's on the wire given Westbrook's injury problems this year.

Ryan Grant, Green Bay Packers at Seattle Seahawks

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	16.00	1.50	0.25	44.2	0.00	0.50	-1.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	25.3	122.3	1.00	5.00	46.3	0.00

Grant (hamstring) finally appears over his nagging hamstring injury as he ran for 83 yards on 18 carries in Week 5. His contributions in the receiving game have been minimal with only two receptions for a loss of four yards over the last four weeks.
Grant was a monster in the 2007 NFC Divisional round matchup against the Seahawks, gaining 201 rushing yards on 27 attempts for three rushing touchdowns in a stout comeback victory.
Owners should view Grant as a strong play against the Seahawks, who are giving up the 10th most rushing yards per game to this position in the last four weeks.

Thomas Jones, New York Jets vs. Cincinnati Bengals

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	18.00	3.33	1.67	51.0	0.00	2.00	15.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	33.2	150.0	1.00	3.75	26.2	0.00

Jones' efficiency is dropping after averaging just 2.6 yards per carry last week (18 attempts, 46 yards). He has 3.8 yards per carry for the season.
Running back Leon Washington's 12 utilizations in Week 4 were a season high, though the Jets' big lead in the game allowed them to use the speedy back more often.
Jones posted 67 rushing yards on 19 carries against the Bengals in Week 8 last season.
The Bengals' porous run defense makes Jones a strong play this week.

Sammy Morris, New England Patriots at San Diego Chargers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	12.67	3.00	0.67	30.0	0.33	1.00	2.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.8	101.8	0.50	4.25	38.8	0.00

Morris was the choice back for the Patriots last week with 17 utilizations. However, head coach Bill Belichick will not say whether Morris or running back Kevin Faulk will receive more time than running back Laurence Maroney.
Against the Chargers last year, Morris ran for 51 yards on 10 carries during their regular season matchup.
Morris is considered a weak play against the Chargers this week.

Tim Hightower, Arizona Cardinals vs. Dallas Cowboys

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	9.75	2.75	1.25	24.2	1.00	1.75	17.8	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.2	86.5	0.50	4.00	29.2	0.25

Hightower ran for 37 yards and two touchdowns on seven carries last week, the highest totals of his young career.
Running back Edgerrin James received a season-high 23 utilizations in Week 5 as Hightower saw nine.
The rookie back is a weak play against the Cowboys, but he should be acquired by those looking for running back depth as he is usually on the field in goal line situations.

Darren McFadden, Oakland Raiders at New Orleans Saints

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	16.67	2.67	0.00	75.3	0.33	2.00	10.7	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.5	86.0	0.75	3.25	20.8	0.00

McFadden (toe) continues to be bothered by a nagging toe injury. He was limited to just 10 utilizations in Week 4, which included seven totes for 20 yards and two receptions for 17 yards.
Running back Michael Bush received the lion's share of the utilizations in Week 4 (22).
Running back Justin Fargas (groin) is expected to start this week, though he is not quite 100 percent.
McFadden is a weak play against the Saints.

Warrick Dunn, Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	15.50	2.50	0.25	54.2	0.25	3.00	21.0	0.0
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.0	86.8	0.25	5.25	25.0	0.00

Dunn turned in his best effort against the Broncos' poor run defense in Week 5 with 74 yards on 11 attempts and three receptions for 13 yards.
In the last four weeks, Dunn has averaged just 1.25 fewer utilizations per game (15.50) than fellow back Earnest Graham (16.75). Head coach Jon Gruden likes Dunn's presence in the offense.
Dunn is considered a weak play this week.

Fantasy value: No. 3 running backs

Cedric Benson, Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
1	10.00	0.00	0.00	30.0	0.00	0.00	0.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	26.0	82.3	2.00	7.33	60.3	0.33

Benson earned 30 yards on 10 carries in his 2008 debut in Week 5 against the Dallas Cowboys.
New York has only played three games in the last month, but the Jets' average of ground touchdowns allowed is the highest in the NFL in the last four weeks.
The Jets built a large lead on the Arizona Cardinals in Week 4, prompting Arizona to abandon the run (42 rushing yards) and focus heavily on the pass. This slightly skews the Jets' average of rushing yards allowed.
A strong play this week, Benson should be acquired as a speculative pickup. Starting running back Chris Perry's fumbling problems resurfaced last Sunday, and Benson could see a bigger workload as a result.

Ricky Williams, Miami Dolphins at Houston Texans

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	15.33	1.33	0.33	55.0	0.00	1.33	7.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	23.0	97.7	1.33	3.67	23.3	0.00

After being named the starter for Week 1, Williams is all but relegated to change-of-pace duty with the emergence of starting running back Ronnie Brown. He ran for just 39 yards on 13 carries in Week 5.
The Texans have allowed rushing yardage totals of 98 (Jacksonville Jaguars) and 71 (Indianapolis Colts) to running backs in their last two contests.
Miami is still a run-first team, meaning Williams should still see double-digit utilizations per game and should be in on wildcat formations alongside Brown.

Andre Hall, Denver Broncos vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	6.00	1.00	0.00	20.8	0.00	0.50	4.2	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	21.2	90.0	0.75	5.50	50.8	0.25

With running back Selvin Young (groin) out for Week 6, Hall should see plenty of work, but he is expected to share carries with tailback Michael Pittman.
Young has averaged 10 carries per game in his last four, so don't expect a heavy dosage of Hall this week.
Hall hasn't been utilized much in recent weeks, but fantasy owners would be smart to pick him up immediately if he's available. Currently, he is available in about 88 percent of leagues polled.

Derrick Ward, New York Giants at Cleveland Browns

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	10.33	2.00	0.00	59.3	0.00	2.00	14.7	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	26.3	96.0	1.00	2.33	10.0	0.00

Despite a 136-yard, two-touchdown performance from starting back Brandon Jacobs, Ward posted a mild contribution with 40 rushing yards, two receptions and 10 receiving yards.
Ward has seen at least nine utilizations in each of his four contests this year while sharing with Jacobs and fellow back Ahmad Bradshaw. Bradshaw saw 11 second-half utilizations in Week 5 after the Giants built a 27-6 lead by halftime.
The Browns allowed an average of 160.5 rushing yards per game in 2008 matchups against the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens backfields; these teams typically feature two (sometimes three) running backs. Nevertheless, Ward is a weak play because Cleveland has been tougher on the position lately.
Giants quarterback Eli Manning is airing it out this year, but New York likes to grind opponents down with the run, meaning Ward makes a feasible bye week or injury replacement as the G-Men's change-of-pace option. They have leaned toward Ward more often, so it's a safe bet Ward is still the No. 2 option.

Ahmad Bradshaw, New York Giants at Cleveland Browns

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	6.67	1.33	0.00	39.7	0.33	0.67	7.7	0.33
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	26.3	96.0	1.00	2.33	10.0	0.00

Bradshaw tallied a season-best 65 rushing yards on 11 carries - all in the second half - during a 44-6 blowout of the Seattle Seahawks.
Bradshaw was utilized just nine times before Sunday, so it's not advisable to expect a big workload from him this week unless the Giants once again have a comfortable lead.
One positive for Bradshaw: The Browns allowed an average of 160.5 rushing yards per game in 2008 matchups against the Dallas Cowboys and Baltimore Ravens backfields; these teams heavily feature two running backs in the offense.
Bradshaw is a weak play for Week 6, and you shouldn't count on a repeat of last week. Although the Giants have said they would feed the hot hand in the backfield, Bradshaw was leaned on in the second half due to a blowout.

Kevin Faulk, New England Patriots at San Diego Chargers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	7.00	2.33	1.00	18.0	0.67	3.33	28.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.8	101.8	0.50	4.25	38.8	0.00

Faulk found the end zone twice in Week 5 while also gaining 32 rushing yards and catching four passes for 29 yards.
Tailback LaMont Jordan's (leg) exit from the game opened up some time for Faulk to earn 11 utilizations, which ranked second on the team at the position last week. Running backs Sammy Morris (17 utilizations) and a returning Laurence Maroney (10) muddled the touch picture.
Faulk wasn't involved much on the ground against the Chargers in two meetings last year, including the AFC Championship game, totaling just two carries for 11 yards. However, he caught eight passes for 82 yards in their postseason matchup.
Playing a Pats running back is a crapshoot heading into Week 6, but the Chargers welcome backs that can also catch passes. This favors Faulk's game.
Faulk should only be used as a bye week or injury replacement in point-per-reception leagues, but he carries a weak-play matchup to the West Coast.

Rudi Johnson, Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	9.00	0.00	0.00	36.0	0.00	2.00	19.0	0.33
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	20.5	47.0	1.25	4.75	30.8	0.00

After the team spoke as if he would start in Week 5, Johnson backed up starting back Kevin Smith and had eight utilizations to Smith's 12. Rudi finished with just five carries for 23 yards along with three receptions for nine yards.
Detroit wanted to pass more early in the game so they didn't fall behind; they stuck to their word in the first half as Smith saw just four carries, with Johnson seeing only two. They originally wanted to be a run-first offense this year, but their deficits have prevented them from doing so.
Despite Johnson backing up, he still saw a near split in touches with Smith, but this is another backfield guessing game. Regardless, fantasy owners should consider Johnson a weak play against the Vikings' run D.

Felix Jones, Dallas Cowboys at Arizona Cardinals

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	5.00	0.25	0.00	45.5	0.50	0.50	2.5	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	21.8	69.8	0.50	4.75	32.5	0.00

After not touching the ball in a Week 4 loss, Jones was used 10 times while earning 96 rushing yards and a touchdown on nine carries in Dallas' Week 5 victory.
Jones has proven he can still be a fantasy option on limited utilizations as a potent changeup option to starting back Marion Barber III.
It's still risky to play Jones as anything more than a No. 3 fantasy back most weeks given his lack of playing time
He has a weak-play matchup for Week 5. After surrendering 96 ground yards to San Francisco 49ers back Frank Gore in Week 1, the Cards have not let an opposing back surpass 68 rushing yards in a game.

Fantasy value: No. 3 or flex running backs

Darren Sproles, San Diego Chargers vs. New England Patriots

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	8.00	0.50	0.00	31.8	0.00	1.50	34.8	0.25
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	22.3	122.7	1.33	4.67	28.3	0.33

Lead back LaDainian Tomlinson (toe) was thought to be past his turf toe problem, but he aggravated it in Week 5; he admits it has hampered his production, and that may lead the team to rely on Sproles a bit more.
In the 2007 AFC championship game, Sproles rushed three times for 34 yards and caught two passes for five yards; he fumbled once but didn't lose it.
The 5-foot-6 dynamo is a strong play against a Patriots defense that isn't as stout against backs as it has been in the past.

Brandon Jackson, Green Bay Packers at Seattle Seahawks

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	6.75	0.25	0.00	23.0	0.25	2.25	12.8	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	25.3	122.3	1.00	5.00	46.3	0.00

Starting back Ryan Grant has struggled; at first he could lay blame on a nagging hamstring injury, but now he is close to 100 percent. There might be a small window of opportunity for Jackson.
Seattle has been victimized by running backs a great deal in the past three weeks, making Jackson a strong play.
In the 2007 NFC Divisional Round game, Jackson rushed eight times for 34 yards and caught a 13-yard pass for a score.

Deuce McAllister, New Orleans Saints vs. Oakland Raiders

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	9.67	2.67	0.67	32.0	0.33	0.33	3.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	23.7	89.3	1.33	5.33	42.7	0.00

After a strong Week 4 (20 carries, 73 yards, one touchdown; one catch, 10 yards), McAllister was going to be more involved in the offense, per Saints head coach Sean Payton.
The 6-foot-1, 232-pounder rushed a mere six times, for 13 yards, in Week 5, although the Minnesota Vikings are strong against the run, and the nature of the game may have dictated a lesser role for McAllister.
Oakland's run defense has been porous in recent seasons; it's not stellar this year, but they have improved in that aspect somewhat.

Michael Pittman, Denver Broncos vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	7.00	2.00	1.50	26.8	0.50	1.25	18.8	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	21.2	90.0	0.75	5.50	50.8	0.25

After a solid Week 5 performance (six carries, 39 yards; two receptions, 22 yards), during which Pittman was said to be Denver's most impressive back, Pittman said he wants to get the ball more.
With running back Selvin Young (groin) out for Week 6, it's conceivable that the 33-year-old will. Head coach Mike Shanahan has been impressed by Pittman's play; however, Shanahan has never hesitated to go with the hot hand in a game.
Pittman will probably continue to split utilizations relatively evenly with Andre Hall and eventually Young when he returns; touted rookie Ryan Torain (elbow) could return after the team's bye in Week 8, too.

Laurence Maroney, New England Patriots at San Diego Chargers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
2	9.00	0.50	0.50	21.0	0.00	0.00	0.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.8	101.8	0.50	4.25	38.8	0.00

Maroney continues to get lost in the shuffle of the Medusa-like monster in New England known as the running back committee.
Against the Chargers in Week 2 of 2007, Maroney rushed 15 times for 77 yards; in the AFC Championship game later that season, he toted it 25 times for 122 yards and a touchdown, with a catch for nine yards tacked on.
The Chargers have given up some real estate to backs, but it's not often that they let them in the end zone, which makes Maroney a weak play.

Jerious Norwood, Atlanta Falcons vs. Chicago Bears

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	9.50	1.25	0.00	39.0	0.00	2.25	12.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	19.0	71.2	1.00	5.75	37.5	0.00

Michael Turner's backup is still registering significant utilizations as the change-of-pace option; Norwood has done most of his damage against weak run defenses.
It will be interesting to see if the Falcons deploy more sets with Norwood lined up at quarterback, as they did a few times in Week 3 and as the Miami Dolphins have done extensively with running back Ronnie Brown.
Chicago has been pretty tough on running backs, so Norwood is weak play.

Ahman Green, Houston Texans vs. Miami Dolphins

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
1	12.00	3.00	0.00	47.0	0.00	0.00	0.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	--	--	20.7	64.3	0.33	3.67	23.7	0.00

In Week 5, Green was active for the first time since Week 1; head coach Gary Kubiak said that he liked the way Green performed.
Green was the backup to rookie Steve Slaton for that contest; even if Chris Taylor (quadriceps) was healthy enough to play, Green would likely have been the No. 2 man.
Green is a definite weak play in Week 5 - the Dolphins rank in the top five in rushing yards and total touchdowns allowed to running backs per game in the last four weeks (three games); they're in the top 10 in receiving yards allowed per game to the position.
Fantasy owners should look to acquire Green if they need a depth option at running back. If healthy, he should continue to approach double-digit touches per game for Houston.

Fantasy value: Flex or bench Running backs

T.J. Duckett, Seattle Seahawks vs. Green Bay Packers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	8.67	3.33	1.33	32.0	1.00	0.00	0.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	28.0	144.0	1.00	3.75	19.2	0.00

Duckett doesn't receive a lot of work, but he has managed to score once every 8.33 rushing attempts.
Seattle tailback Maurice Morris (knee) is expected to play this week, which likely won't impact Duckett, who is utilized mainly in short-yardage situations.
Green Bay's defensive line has been decimated by injury, and every level of their defense has suffered an injury to a key player, thus greatly affecting their ability to stop the run.
The Packers provide Duckett a strong-play matchup in Week 6.

Leon Washington, New York Jets vs. Cincinnati Bengals

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	7.00	1.67	0.33	17.7	0.00	3.33	19.7	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	33.2	150.0	1.00	3.75	26.2	0.00

Washington enjoyed a season-high 11 touches (seven rushes) in a Week 4 blowout win versus the Arizona Cardinals after no more than eight total touches in any previous game this year. This suggests the team utilized him more than usual when the team is playing in garbage time, which could happen against the hapless Bengals defense.
Play Washington only if you are desperate and in a point-per-reception format.
Washington has a strong-play matchup this week.

LaMont Jordan, New England Patriots at San Diego Chargers

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	7.33	1.33	0.00	33.3	0.00	0.00	0.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.8	101.8	0.50	4.25	38.8	0.00

The pass-catching Jordan of old is an afterthought with his total of zero receptions in a New England uniform. Obviously, counting on him in a point-per-reception format isn't advised, so don't get sucked in based on perception.
He is part of what seems to be a 53-headed monster in the ground game, making him a risky play any given week.
Jordan is a weak play for this matchup.

Justin Fargas, Oakland Raiders at New Orleans Saints

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
1	10.00	0.00	0.00	43.0	0.00	0.00	0.0	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.5	86.0	0.75	3.25	20.8	0.00

Fargas (groin) returns after missing the two games before the bye week. He has averaged an impressive 5.2 yards per carry in his two games this year.
A weak play, Fargas should be benched in the ideal situation until he shows that his game legs are once again beneath him.

Michael Bush, Oakland Raiders at New Orleans Saints

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	17.00	2.00	0.33	64.3	0.33	2.67	28.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	22.5	86.0	0.75	3.25	20.8	0.00

The return of tailback Justin Fargas (groin) doesn't bode well for Bush's playing time, but until Fargas shows that he is in game shape, view Bush as a desperation play. He could be worth the risk due to his goal line role.

Kevin Smith, Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings

G	Pls	RZ Pls	IN5	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
3	10.00	0.33	0.00	28.3	0.33	2.67	15.3	0.00
Vs. running back position
G	Pls	RZ Pls	Att	Run Yds	Run TD	Rec	Rec Yds	Rec TD
4	--	--	20.5	47.0	1.25	4.75	30.8	0.00

Smith has lost his starting job to running back Rudi Johnson, but the rookie actually earned more carries than Johnson in Week 5 (eight to five).
In Week 2 and Week 5, Smith hauled in four passes apiece, which makes him an intriguing option in formats that reward receptions.

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Author Bio

Bryce McRae
Bryce McRae is a Managing Editor with KFFL and has been involved in fantasy sports since 1999. He joined KFFL as a volunteer writer in March 2005 before becoming a Hot off the Wire Analyst in March 2006. He began working in his current capacity in September 2008. His work has appeared on fantasy sports sites such as Yahoo! and CBS Sportsline as well as in print. He graduated from the University of British Columbia in 2008 with a B.A. in History and U.S. Studies.