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The running back position remains challenging in Week 12, especially with six teams on bye.
Many managers are forced to rely on players in tough matchups or those with limited roles. However, some backs still offer enough upside to justify starting.
Let's dive into three running backs: J.K. Dobbins, Tony Pollard, and Austin Ekeler. Here's how they stack up for Week 12.
Should I Start J.K. Dobbins for Fantasy Football?
J.K. Dobbins delivered a productive Week 11 performance, scoring twice while rushing 11 times for 56 yards and adding a three-yard reception. He played 73% of the snaps, cementing himself as the lead back for the Los Angeles Chargers.
J.K. Dobbins TD#BoltUp pic.twitter.com/2cjf0MkE85
— Chargers Central (@BoltCentral) November 18, 2024
While Gus Edwards remains a minor threat to vulture touches, Dobbins' role and recent production make him a valuable asset.
This week, however, the Ohio State product faces the Baltimore Ravens, his former team, who surrender the eighth-fewest fantasy points to running backs. The Ravens are far more vulnerable to wide receivers, so Dobbins' ceiling is limited.
Despite the tough matchup, the running back's recent touchdown streak and steady workload make him a viable RB2 or flex selection, especially with the bye-week crunch.
Should I Start Tony Pollard for Fantasy Football?
Tony Pollard has struggled to meet expectations in the Tennessee Titans offense, and Week 11 was no different. The Memphis alum managed just 15 rushing yards on nine carries and added two receptions for 14 yards in a 23-13 loss to the Minnesota Vikings.
It's been 5️⃣‼️ weeks since Tony Pollard hit the endzone. The #TitanUp RB had been seeing true work 🐴 volume, but with Spears return his workload decreased.
If Spears misses week 1️⃣2️⃣ with a concussion, are we 🛫 wheels up for Pollard again⁉️pic.twitter.com/mSDkTz9biU
— PlayerProfiler NFL (@Profiler_NFL) November 19, 2024
This week's matchup against the Houston Texans is less than ideal, as the Texans give up the sixth-fewest fantasy points per game to running backs.
The Titans' tendency to play from behind limits Pollard's rushing opportunities, but his involvement in the passing game offers a slight boost. While the 27-year-old is unlikely to post a breakout performance, managers may need to start him due to bye-week constraints -- approach with tempered expectations.
He is a mid-tier RB2 this week. If running back Tyjae Spears cannot go due to a concussion, Pollard's fantasy value will increase.
Should I Start Austin Ekeler for Fantasy Football?
A bright spot in Washington's offense, particularly in the passing game, has been Austin Ekeler. In Week 11, he led the team in targets, receptions, and receiving yards, grabbing eight passes for 89 yards in a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Is Austin Ekeler back?!! pic.twitter.com/vdqi6d16hp
— Brady Hamilton (@BradyH_216) November 15, 2024
Though the veteran back only rushed twice for seven yards, his involvement as a receiver keeps his floor high, especially in PPR formats.
This week, he takes on the Dallas Cowboys, a unit conceding the third-most fantasy points per game to running backs. With Brian Robinson Jr. handling the ground game, Ekeler's role as the Commanders' primary pass-catching back positions him for another productive outing. Feel confident starting the 29-year-old in all formats, with even greater value in PPR leagues. Slot him into your RB2 or flex spot with ease.
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