[Fantasy Footblog] Fantasy backfields a downright mess
In Week 11, the list of fantasy backs either out, doubtful or questionable is longer than an Adrian Peterson scoring scamper. In addition to Peterson, arguably fantasy’s most valuable back this season, Larry Johnson and Ahman Green have already been ruled out. Marshawn Lynch, Travis Henry, and Shaun Alexander look pretty much unusable, as do question marks such as Kevin Jones and Earnest Graham. Lineup stalwarts Brian Westbrook, Reggie Bush, Willie Parker and LenDale White all look like they’ll suit up, although they all missed workouts this week with their respective ailments.
What does it all mean for fantasy owners in must-win situations in Week 11? In most case, I’ll opt for the safe play, unless there’s a dramatic difference between the two options. That is, if I’m deciding between Earnest Graham and Jesse Chatman, I’ll play the healthier player, even if Graham’s matchup or offense is better. On the other hand, if it’s Westbrook vs. Chatman, that’s a different story. If Westbrook is active, his upside is just too significant to pass on.
Also consider your exact situation: your record, your opponent, the rest of your lineup, etc. That is, if you’re playing the league’s worst team and know you don’t need a monster day from your back, playing it safe and penciling in a handful of points from a guy like Chatman or Warrick Dunn is the prescription. If you’re playing the highest-scoring team in your league and your matchups at receiver and quarterback look terrible, well then it may just take a herculean effort from Westbrook to earn the W.