Due to the importance of running backs in fantasy football, you would think it’d be near impossible for one to fly under the radar. However, Oakland Raiders’ Latavius Murray has done just that.
You rarely hear any of the big-named sports media outlets name Murray alongside some of the best backs in the league, but he has been a workhorse for the Raiders and his fantasy owners. Through eight games he has rushed for 630 yards on 132 carries for an average of 4.8 yards per carry. He has three touchdowns on the ground. In addition, he has hauled in 21 passes for another 104 yards.
Murray’s fantasy owners know he’s a must start RB1 every week, regardless of matchup. But if he’s not cleared to play, obviously he can’t be started. And unfortunately, Murray still has not been cleared to play after suffering a concussion against the Steelers in Week 9.
If Murray is cleared, head coach Jack Del Rio has made it clear that he will play. But keep a close eye on his status as his Week 10 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings approaches. I love his matchup if he suits up.
In other news, I have some depressing news to report for Dallas Cowboys fans. Matt Cassel is expected to get at least one more start under center for the team. Despite dealing with a knee injury, Cassel participated in a full practice on Wednesday.
The Cowboys’ losses can’t necessarily be blamed on Cassel, but he hasn’t done anything to help the team win either. He has completed 44 of his 90 passing attempts for a completion percentage of 61.1 and he has thrown for 623 yards. But he’s also thrown for four interceptions and just four touchdowns.
The biggest problem with Cassel is the fact that he struggles to make big plays in the passing game. Opposing defenses do not take him seriously and only cover the short passing game. This has made it extremely hard for the Cowboys to get anything going on offense.
Luckily for Dallas though, Tony Romo is expected to make his return in Week 11. Cowboys fans are just hoping that his return won’t be too late for them to make a playoff push.
The Cowboys, led by Cassel, will take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 10. Although the Bucs are always a great matchup for opposing quarterbacks, you would be a fool to start Cassel.