Gameday update: Nyheim Hines is the cut-clear favorite in the Colts’ backfield that will provide you the most value in fantasy and DFS. Last week against the Tennessee Titans, he scored a season-high 23.5 fantasy points. NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport is reporting we can expect Hines to get the most carries of this backfield group.
While Hines has found success, rookie Jonathan Taylor has struggled this season. The rookie out of Wisconsin hasn’t been able to find his footing and been almost an afterthought in this draft class. ESPN projects Hines, Taylor, and Jordan Wilkins to score 7.7, 8.0, and 7.0 fantasy points separately.
For a team that lives and dies with its running game, the Indianapolis Colts backfield is a three-headed monster when it comes to making fantasy football decisions. Despite being a clear early season favorite, Jonathan Taylor now looks to be the third option among this trio of players. The most valuable one for fantasy purposes is Nyheim Hines.
Fantasy Football analysis: Colts RBs Jonathan Taylor, Nyheim Hines, Jordan Wilkins
Taylor looked terrible last week against the Titans. He mustered just 12 yards on seven carries for a meager average of less than two yards per attempt. He caught two passes for another 25 yards. Despite scoring a rushing touchdown last week, Taylor hasn’t mustered more than 40 total yards in a game in his last three.
That’s because Hines has since emerged as the favorite here, though it’s not anything like a clear cut No. 1 running back role. Hines had a great game last week, leading this group with 12 carries. He produced 70 yards and a touchdown on the ground and added another 45 yards and a score on five receptions.
Wilkins had 28 yards on eight carries. He’s struggled to produce much with the attempts he’s getting. Interestingly enough, he has had more carries than Taylor for the last three weeks now, giving him a little upside as a RB3.
The Packers don’t defend the run very well. James Robinson of the Jaguars produced 109 rushing yards last week. Hines is a decent choice for a RB2 this week.
Fantasy Start/Sit Recommendation
Start Nyheim Hines and Jordan Wilkins. Sit Jonathan Taylor.