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Some running backs stand out as must-start fantasy football options every week while others come and go depending on matchups and other factors. Hitting on under-the-radar plays is big in season-long fantasy and DFS. We’ve identified two running backs worth starting and two to consider sitting ahead of Week 9 to help you achieve fantasy success this weekend.
Running Back Starts
Chase Edmonds, Arizona Cardinals vs. Miami Dolphins
Edmonds might have faded into the abyss because of Arizona’s bye in Week 8 but he could emerge as a top-notch fantasy option in Week 9. Kenyan Drake is working back from the ankle injury he suffered against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 7 and could forfeit a ton of touches to Edmonds if he’s not in shape to play on Sunday. Edmonds and Drake are the only Cardinals running backs with carries this season and Drake averaged 18 touches per game while splitting time with his backup. If Arizona keeps its usual game plan, Edmonds could see more than 20 touches. Edmonds is averaging 6.1 yards per carry and has excelled as the Cardinal’s best receiving threat out of the backfield.
Clyde Edwards-Helaire, Kansas City Chiefs vs. Carolina Panthers
Carolina has been gashed on the ground all season. Edwards-Helaire will be less popular now that he’s tallied just 14 carries since Le’Veon Bell joined the Chiefs but still ranks third in rushing yards. The rookie is the cheapest he’s been all season and could bolster his low touchdown count against a Panthers squad that can’t seem to stop running backs from reaching the end zone.
Running Back Sits
Nyheim Hines, Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravens
There might be more opportunities for Hines and Jordan Wilkins to contribute if Jonathan Taylor is limited or ruled out because of his ankle injury. Wilkins appears to be the preferred option between the tackles while Hines is a receiving back. Hines scored two receiving touchdowns in his last outing but that will be difficult to replicate against one of the best run defenses in football.
Zack Moss, Buffalo Bills vs. Seattle Seahawks
Moss had his best game of the year in Week 8 when he ran for 81 yards and two scores on 14 carries, but he’s still not the top option out of the backfield for Buffalo. Devin Singletary matched the rookie in carries last game and has played more snaps in every game this season. Seattle has a top 10 run defense so far this season and has only forked up more than 60 rushing yards to a single back once this season. It’s not likely that Moss will become the second back to accomplish that feat while splitting touches evenly with Singletary. His involvement in the passing game isn’t consistent enough to depend in.