Considering Bo Scarbrough vs. Ty Johnson vs. JD McKissic in Week 12

The Detroit Lions backfield has been problematic in recent weeks. Running back Kerryon Johnson suffered a knee injury in Week 7 that put him on injured reserve. Ty Johnson took over the starting role but didn’t get anything going over the next three weeks. JD McKissic and Paul Perkins got opportunities as well, but none of the three backs impressed.

The Lions decided to make a change in Week 11, promoting Bo Scarbrough from the practice squad. The 2018 seventh round pick made his debut against the Dallas Cowboys and got the bulk of the work. He rushed 14 times for 55 yards and one touchdown, and led the team with 32 snaps to Johnson’s 19 and McKissic’s 15.

Jeff Driskel was the more effective rusher, scrambling for 51 yards on eight carries. His legs will be a key part of his game, which impacts the work the running backs will get in.

Nonetheless, Scarbrough likely earned another start. Johnson and McKissic will probably get some snaps, but it would be an upset if Scarbrough did not get a similar percentage of the work load in Week 12. McKissic holds some modest PPR value in the passing game, but not much else.

It’s not an ideal backfield, but they face an atrocious Washington defense. They’ve given up the eighth most fantasy points to running backs and ranks 21st in run defense efficiency. Whomever gets the start for Detroit is in line for a quality performance, and there’s no reason to think it won’t be Scarbrough.

If you’re considering his longer-term value, Week 13 provides an opportunity. The Chicago Bears once vaunted defense has been more inconsistent of late, giving up the 11th most fantasy points to running backs. You might be able to get two solid weeks out of Bo Scarbrough if you can land him with your waiver wire priority.