Stevan Ridley entered his second NFL season with high expectations as the presumed featured back for the Patriots. After a few bad games and a week missed due to injury, Ridley has finally started to hit a bit of a stride recently, scoring three touchdowns since Week 6.
Fantasy football start/sit advice, Week 8: Stevan Ridley
After a miserable start to 2013, Stevan Ridley has come on strong the last two weeks. What does his matchup look like for Week 8? We break down the fantasy implications.
Maddie Meyer
Ridley is averaging 4.7 yards per carry in his last three outings. He only saw 11 carries against the Jets last week, but he was able to practically walk into the end zone for a short-yardage score, putting a positive note on his stat line. This week Ridley faces a Dolphins defense that has given up four touchdowns to opposing running backs over their last three games.
Fantasy impact: While it would be nice to see Ridley receive 20+ carries per game, the fact that he’s getting touches at the goal line bodes well for his stock going forward. He hasn’t fumbled since his early blunder, and assuming he can continue to hold onto the ball, Bill Belichick should keep relying on him in the red zone.
Rob Gronkowski’s return also helps Ridley’s value, as the passing game is now opened up. Plus, Gronk is a great blocker. Once Danny Amendola gets healthy, the Patriots run game should be even more potent. Ridley is locked in the RB2 range for Week 8.
• Week 8 fantasy football rankings: QB | RB | WR | TE | D/ST
• Week 8 fantasy football waiver wire: QB | RB | WR | TE | D/ST
