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As the fantasy playoffs heat up, James Cook managers may question his reliability against the Detroit Lions' stout run defense this week. The running back's recent performance was underwhelming, and his Week 15 contest makes him a risky play.
The Lions have conceded the second-fewest fantasy points per game to running backs this season, shutting down many of the top players in recent weeks.
While Cook has shown flashes of upside throughout the season, you may wonder if you should start or bench him this week. Let's look at his situation heading into Week 15's matchup.
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Should I Bench James Cook for Fantasy Football?
The Georgia product has been a dependable contributor for much of the season and is currently ranked as RB17 in RotoBaller's Half-PPR rankings. His Week 14 performance left much to be desired.
In that contest, the third-year player rushed for just 20 yards on six totes and added nine receiving yards on two catches in the Bills' loss to the Los Angeles Rams. Cook's ceiling is limited versus a Lions defense that has been dominant against running backs.
LET JAMES COOK!!!!
📺: #SFvsBUF on NBC/Peacock
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/7j68JPz6Nl— NFL (@NFL) December 2, 2024
Over their last four games, the Lions have given up the fewest fantasy points per game to running backs. While Josh Jacobs went off for three scores and 24.6 PPR points when facing Detroit in Week 14, players like Jonathan Taylor, Travis Etienne Jr., and D'Andre Swift have all been held under 10 PPR points in recent matchups. Cook can be considered a low-end RB2 or a flex option, but he is unlikely to deliver a big performance.
Who Should I Pickup in Week 15 Fantasy Football?
If you are searching for alternatives or insurance, a few running backs on waivers could provide value. Kendre Miller of the New Orleans Saints is a sneaky pickup. He rushed for 32 yards and a score on 10 rush attempts in Week 14. Braelon Allen and Isaiah Davis of the New York Jets are also intriguing options, especially with Breece Hall sidelined.
I’m very excited for post-Dennis Allen Kendre Miller.pic.twitter.com/S2H3zeqNSI
— Dave Kluge (@DaveKluge) December 8, 2024
Sincere McCormick is another running back worth considering. Named the lead back for the Las Vegas Raiders, McCormick faces an Atlanta Falcons defense that surrenders the seventh-fewest fantasy points per game to running backs. While the matchup may appear challenging, his role as a lead back makes him a valuable depth piece.
Cook remains a start for many managers, but he is best used as a flex, as he will not provide you with the RB1 numbers you are looking for this week. If you are in an 8-10 team league, you may find better options available on waivers.
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