Monday Morning Memo: Riding Jonathan Stewart

On Sunday, the Carolina Panthers rode on the back of running-back Jonathan Stewart to a 41-9 beatdown of the New York Giants. Fantasy owners across the nation rode on the back of Stewart to a probable win in the final game of the 2009 fantasy season. Stewart was playing without his backfield partner, DeAngelo Williams, so he took the lion’s share of carries during the game. Stewart ended up with a stat line reading 28 carries for 206 yards and one TD. He also tossed in two catches for 16 yards. Fine work from a workhorse back.

Now the debate shifts to next year, especially for keeper-leagues. DeAngelo Williams is a quality back, will the Panthers continue to use him as the starter, when healthy, and subbing Stewart in? Or will the roles reverse next year. Tristan Cockcroft weighs in: