Gio Bernard ran for 38 yards on eight carries and a touchdown, and also added a 27-yard touchdown reception versus the Steelers on Monday night.
Gio Bernard scores 2 touchdowns versus Steelers, but backfield timeshare trumps his short-term fantasy value
The Bengals rookie running back scored twice despite just nine touches versus the Steelers on Monday night. We break down the fantasy implications.
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It was Bernard’s coming out party, and it started with his first career touchdown run in the first half. It was an impressive display between the tackles, and the shifty running back showed the agility and elusiveness that warranted his second-round draft stock in every . His reception came from 27 yards out on an option route from the backfield, and the rookie from North Carolina found another gear to run it all the way into the end zone.
Fantasy Spin: Based on his superior running and the visible spark that Bernard provided to the offense, the rookie still found himself on the wrong side of the disparity of touches between himself and BenJarvus Green-Ellis(23-9). Furthermore, the team hindered his value with a pass-heavy game plan that dialed-up 32 pass attempts at the half and 45 total. Bernard is a talented player with plenty of potential, and it's clear that he is the Bengals back who can maximize his opportunities the most. But as long as he is playing second-fiddle in this offense, his value is strictly long-term.
