Running backs are always a key to fantasy football wins. But, with backfield by committees and teams committing to the passing game more and more, just how do you handle those backs? We take a look at few situations, and we re-visit the "hang on" or "dump" Kevin Kolb issue.
Fantasy Football Mailbag Q&A, Week 4: Thomas Jones And Jamaal Charles Share The Load
Week 4 brings us a few confusing running back scenarios, and another look at the Eagles quarterback position.
Will Thomas Jones continue to get more carries than Jamaal Charles? -Alex, KS
I imagine that will be the case for at least the first half of the season. The Chiefs have shown no signs of changing the way they operate with Jones and Charles but why should they? They're 3-0 at this point and Todd Haley doesn't seem like he's ready to switch it up. Moving forward, though, the Chiefs have indicated that they're aware of the grind of a 16-game schedule perhaps suggesting that Charles' role will increase in the second half of the season. But if the Chiefs keep winning, don't expect much to change with the running backs.
Is it worth carrying Matt Forte or Chester Taylor in Chicago? -John, IL
Chicago is an interesting situation. I think Forte is a solid play but not because of his rushing abilities. He has over 200 receiving yards at this point and the Bears, with Mike Martz, are going to be passing the ball more. So, yes, I think Forte is worth keeping on the roster because he'll rack up some receiving yards but he's no longer the type of fantasy back he was in year one of his career.
Is it time to dump Kevin Kolb? -Sean, PA
I wouldn't dump him just yet if you don't desperately need the roster spot. While Michael Vick has been playing out of his mind, his career is littered with inconsistency. I think Andy Reid has made his decision for the 2010 season as to who will play quarterback but what if Vick, who exposes himself via the run, gets hurt? What if Reid changes his mind again? I wouldn't say you should do that with a normal backup quarterback but the situation in Philly could be fluid moving forward.
How would you handle the Steve Breaston injury? -Thomas, AZ
I can speak from personal experience on this one. I went ahead and stuck Breaston on the bench and picked up Stephen Williams, who seems likely to replace Breaston in Arizona. He won’t get me the points Breaston may have but he’s still worth it to get by these few weeks. It looks like Breaston will potentially be back around Week 7. Williams may be able to get you by for a few weeks.











