As Week 3 of the fantasy football season approaches, identifying the right running backs to start or sit can significantly impact your team’s performance. The landscape of the NFL has seen various shifts in usage and opportunities, making it essential to analyze matchups, player form, and injury updates. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the running backs you should consider starting or sitting this week.
Start: Top Running Backs to Consider
Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers)
Christian McCaffrey is the gold standard at the running back position. He plays a crucial role in the 49ers’ offense, contributing significantly in both the running and passing game. This week, San Francisco faces the New York Giants, who have shown vulnerabilities against the run. Expect McCaffrey to dominate the touches, and he should be a cornerstone of your lineup.
Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers)
Austin Ekeler is another elite option for Week 3. Despite some injury concerns, he has been effective in the Chargers’ high-octane offense. This week, they face the Minnesota Vikings, a team that has struggled to contain dual-threat running backs. Ekeler’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield adds significant value, making him a must-start if he’s healthy.
Derrick Henry (Tennessee Titans)
Derrick Henry is known for his power and ability to break tackles. The Titans will take on the Cleveland Browns this week, who have had mixed results against the run. Henry’s workload is typically heavy, especially in critical situations. If you have him on your roster, starting him is a strong move.
Saquon Barkley (New York Giants)
Saquon Barkley is a dynamic playmaker for the Giants. As they face the San Francisco 49ers, expect the Giants to rely heavily on Barkley’s skills, especially in the passing game. He has the potential to be a game-changer, making him a valuable start this week.
Tony Pollard (Dallas Cowboys)
Tony Pollard has taken on a more prominent role in the Cowboys’ offense this season. Against the Arizona Cardinals, Pollard is expected to see plenty of touches. His speed and ability to catch passes make him an excellent start for Week 3. Expect him to have ample opportunities to score.
Rhamondre Stevenson (New England Patriots)
Rhamondre Stevenson has been a reliable option in the Patriots’ backfield. Facing the New York Jets, a team that has struggled against the run, Stevenson could see increased touches. His ability to gain yards after contact and contribute in the passing game makes him a strong candidate to start this week.
Joe Mixon (Cincinnati Bengals)
Joe Mixon is a cornerstone of the Bengals’ offense. This week, they face the Los Angeles Rams, who have shown vulnerabilities against the run. Mixon’s ability to find the end zone makes him a valuable start, particularly in a game where the Bengals may look to control the clock.
Sit: Running Backs to Consider Benching
Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers)
Najee Harris has been inconsistent this season, and this week he faces a tough matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. The Raiders have shown they can contain opposing running backs, and with the Steelers’ offensive line struggling, it may be wise to sit Harris this week in favor of more reliable options.
Miles Sanders (Carolina Panthers)
Miles Sanders has not lived up to expectations in the Panthers’ offense. With a matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, who have improved their run defense, Sanders may struggle to find running lanes. If you have better options on your bench, consider sitting him this week.
David Montgomery (Detroit Lions)
David Montgomery has had a solid start to the season, but this week’s matchup against the Atlanta Falcons could be challenging. The Falcons’ defense has been effective in limiting opposing running backs, making Montgomery a risky start. Monitor the game flow, but he may not be worth the risk this week.
Cam Akers (Los Angeles Rams)
Cam Akers has had a rocky start to the season, and with the Rams facing the Cincinnati Bengals, his role may be limited. The Bengals have a strong defense, making it difficult for Akers to find success. If you have other reliable options, it’s advisable to bench him this week.
Brian Robinson Jr. (Washington Commanders)
Brian Robinson Jr. has had moments of success, but with a matchup against the Buffalo Bills, it may be best to sit him. The Bills have a strong defensive front, and Robinson could struggle to find running room. Consider other options if you want to maximize your points.
Analyzing the Matchups
When considering which running backs to start or sit, analyzing matchups is crucial. Teams that have struggled against the run often make for great opportunities for running backs to excel. Conversely, matchups against strong defensive fronts can lead to disappointing performances.
Conclusion
Selecting the right running backs to start or sit in Week 3 can be a pivotal decision for your fantasy football team. Players like Christian McCaffrey, Austin Ekeler, and Derrick Henry are must-start options, while others like Najee Harris and Miles Sanders may not be worth the risk. Always stay updated on injury reports and game flow to make the best decisions for your lineup. Good luck this week!