Get ready for an exciting Week 10 of Fantasy Football, where the running back position takes center stage! In this preview, we'll dive into the latest rankings adjustments, uncover hidden gems on the waiver wire, and explore some intriguing stashes that could pay off big time.
The Dowdle Dilemma: A Tale of Two Backs
Last week, we witnessed a fascinating turn of events with Rico Dowdle and Chubba Hubbard. Despite clear evidence of Dowdle's superiority, Head Coach Dave Canales persisted in playing Hubbard every other drive. However, Dowdle's performance in Week 9 against the Green Bay Packers was a game-changer. He racked up an impressive 28.1 Fantasy points with 25 carries, while Hubbard saw minimal action. Dowdle's stock is on the rise, ranking at RB6 in my full PPR Projections for Week 10, and he might even be undervalued.
In just three games, Dowdle has rushed for over 60% of the snaps, accumulating an impressive 519 yards and scoring four touchdowns. What's even more remarkable is that he achieved these numbers against tough defenses like the Dolphins and Cowboys, and now he's set to face the Saints in Week 9.
The Monangai Mystery: A Dowdle-esque Story?
Enter Kyle Monangai, who could be following in Dowdle's footsteps. Monangai had an outstanding performance in Week 9, rushing for 198 yards against the Bengals. With D'Andre Swift's status uncertain as of Tuesday, Monangai's role could be impacted. If Swift plays, we might see a 50/50 split similar to what happened when Hubbard returned. However, Swift was on a hot streak before his injury, so he's not likely to fade away easily.
The Bears' schedule also gets tougher down the stretch, so if you can convince someone that Monangai is the new Dowdle, it might be a good time to sell high.
Week 9 RB Preview: Numbers to Know
Here are some key stats to keep an eye on:
- Alvin Kamara: Six rush attempts in each of the Saints' last two games. Bench him if you can.
- Jacory Croskey-Merritt: Hasn't surpassed 41 scrimmage yards since Week 6.
- Jahmyr Gibbs: Had a season-low 12 touches in Week 9. Hopefully, it's just a blip.
- James Cook: Led the NFL with a 77% rush share in Week 9. Let's hope the Bills continue this trend.
- Derrick Henry: Averaging six yards per carry with Lamar Jackson on the field. He could be a league winner.
- Trey Benson: Has a 41.2% avoid rate, higher than Emari Demercado (4.5%) and Zonovan Knight (10.5%).
- Kyle Monangai: 44.1% of his runs have gone for at least five yards, second only to James Cook and Aaron Jones among starting running backs.
- Patriots: No running back has rushed for more than 49 yards against them this season.
Waiver Wire Targets: Week 10 Adds
- NYG N.Y. Giants: Age 28, 7 years of experience. Devin Singletary saw more snaps and touches last week, but he's still not the primary back. If you need a Giants running back, Singletary is your best bet, especially in short-yardage situations.
- ARI Arizona: Age 26, 3 years of experience. If Trey Benson is out, Emari Demercado could be the top Cardinals running back in Week 10. He had a strong performance in Week 9, averaging 5.6 yards per carry. However, he's not recommended as more than a flex against Seattle.
Stashes: Potential Breakout Candidates
- PHI Philadelphia: Age 23, 3 years of experience. Saquon Barkley's groin injury could open the door for Kenneth Bigsby. He's shown promise, turning 10 carries into 115 yards in limited action with the Eagles.
DFS Plays: Top Picks for Week 10
- CHI Chicago: Age 23, Rookie. Assuming Swift is out, Monangai is the top running back play with a $6,500 price tag. He's projected as a top-10 back against a Giants defense that's been generous to opposing running backs.
- MIA Miami: Age 24, 3 years of experience. Raheem Achane is a contrarian play against the Bills. He's $500 more than Dowdle but has a similar projection. The Bills' run defense is vulnerable, and Achane is a top target in Miami's passing game. He had 19 touches for 91 yards against the Bills earlier this year and is a threat to score long touchdowns.
Conclusion: Check Out My Projections
For a deeper dive into Week 10, check out my full set of Fantasy Football projections on SportsLine. Find out which players are projected to outperform consensus rankings and which might fall short of expectations. Get the full scoop on all starting running backs and make those crucial lineup decisions with confidence!
