We knew heading into the season that the New England Patriots’ running game would be a convoluted committee, and it’s played out about as expected. Mike Gillislee, James White, Rex Burkhead, and Dion Lewis have all played a role in the offense at one point or another, with none of them really getting a true featured workload.
Fantasy football 2017 Week 11: Dion Lewis, start or sit?
Lewis is settling in as one of the Patriots’ lead backs. We break down the fantasy implications.
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At least things appear to be clearing up now. Lewis has operated as the lead back with 53 carries in the past four games, while Burkhead took a larger role and Gillislee got benched. Last week, Lewis dominated the Denver Broncos with a kickoff return touchdown and an additional score on the ground, finishing with 55 yards on 14 carries.
Fantasy impact: Lewis is getting the volume, which is what counts in a Patriots backfield that’s always been a week-to-week proposition. Even with Burkhead stealing touches, Lewis figures to be the man on early downs going forward. His big-play ability will make him an upside player more often than not, and he has a great matchup with an Oakland Raiders team allowing the fifth-most fantasy points to running backs. Lewis is a worthy flex play in 12-team leagues.
Recommendation: Start
