Cleveland Browns running backs Terrance West and Isaiah Crowell had proven to be a formidable tandem the last month-plus, combining to average more than 17 fantasy points a game. On Sunday against the stout run defense of the Buffalo Bills, that all stopped, as the tandem managed only six total fantasy points in the Browns' 26-10 loss at the hands of the Bills.
Fantasy football waiver wire, Week 14: Terrance West, Isaiah Crowell quiet
The Cleveland running backs were shut down by that Buffalo defense. We break down the fantasy implications.
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Crowell, who had 20 fantasy points a week ago, had 29 rushing yards on 17 carries Sunday, adding 15 receiving yards on a catch. West had only seven carries, but bested Crowell to go for 32 rushing yards. He added a catch for four more yards.
Fantasy impact: The easy takeaway from Sunday’s game is to just say that the Buffalo run defense is very strong, and West and Crowell will be better going forward. And ultimately, that was the biggest factor affecting the performance of the two running backs Sunday.
That said, the Browns now have Josh Gordon back in the fold, and could theoretically have Jordan Cameron as well. And Johnny Manziel saw game action Sunday and looked competent. The team hasn't said who will start at quarterback next week, but Manziel is on the table, and if he gets the job, he'll take away some of the runs Crowell and West had been getting.
The Browns do face Indianapolis next week, meaning there should be some running opportunities. But until the Manziel/Brian Hoyer decision is announced, it's premature to give much of a prognosis on the running backs.
