The Cowboys and Packers, two of the NFL’s oldest rivals, will meet this weekend for a primetime clash at Lambeau Field. Green Bay, despite some disastrous performances this season, is one win away from a stellar 4-2 record. A date with Dallas’ abysmal defense could provide a boost on offense. Among the players poised for a stellar stat line, MarShawn Lloyd stands out. Filling in for Josh Jacobs, the third-year pro impressed last weekend against the Bears.
Will Lloyd keep the good times rolling in Week 6? Let’s break down the running back’s fantasy football outlook heading into Sunday night’s marquee matchup.
Should you start MarShawn Lloyd in fantasy football?
This Packers offense has been frustrating, to say the least. That’s especially true on the ground, where Jacobs’ absence is noticeable. Green Bay is averaging just 3.0 yards per carry, tied with the Raiders for last in the NFL. Head coach Matt LaFleur has opted for a committee approach, utilizing names such as Chris Brooks, Kaleb Johnson and Pierre Strong Jr. out of the backfield. However, it’s becoming apparent that Lloyd is the best option on the active roster.
Granted, the 25-year-old’s numbers don’t jump off the page. Through five games, he’s only gained 112 rushing yards (2.8 YPC) and two touchdowns. However, he’s also managed to snag ten catches for 55 yards and an additional score. Last Sunday, Lloyd delivered a 31-yard, two-touchdown performance vs. the Bears. In the process, he managed to rack up 16.7 fantasy points. It’s not the most efficient showing, but it’s clear that the USC alum has this coaching staff’s trust inside the red zone. Besides, it’s not as if any of his fellow running backs have been better.
Lloyd has led Green Bay’s backfield in snaps over the past two weeks, albeit by a small margin. Against certain opponents, there would be some cause for concern. Touchdowns are nice, but it’s never ideal starting someone that’s dependent on them. With that being said, there should be ample opportunity for Lloyd to contribute this weekend.
The Cowboys are an absolute mess on defense, as displayed last Thursday vs. the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay, on the road, ran for a whopping 241 yards and two touchdowns during its 24-16 victory. It’s yet another disappointing effort inside the trenches for Dallas. The ‘Boys are allowing 5.1 yards per carry, fourth-most in the league. Some of those numbers are due in part to the team’s offense. Opponents are more likely to run the ball and chew clock in an effort to keep Dak Prescott and company off the field.
Is Lloyd a player with league-winning upside? Probably not, but that shouldn’t dissuade fantasy managers in Week 6. Green Bay’s current RB1 has a golden opportunity on tap. The Cowboys can’t stop a nose bleed, and there’s no reason to believe they’ll figure things out on the road. Even if Dallas jumps out to a lead, the Packers have no issue getting their running back involved as a pass catcher. For those in need of RB2/flex-level production, start Lloyd.
