Week 16 of the fantasy football season is here, and we’re back with another crop of start/sit options. With that in mind, we’ll pick running backs who should exceed expectations in Week 16, along with three you should probably sit.
Fantasy football start/sit advice, Week 16 Running backs
We break down the top starting options at running back this week, along with some players who should be avoided.
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Start
The Packers were knocked out of playoff contention on Monday night, so expect the see them rest some of their key players on both sides of the ball with nothing to play for. Even when they were trying, the Packers are second-to-last in the league in allowing points to pass-catching backs. McKinnon caught seven of eight targets for 114 yards last week against Cincinnati and had 24 fantasy points against the Packers in Week 6, the game where Aaron Rodgers left early with his collarbone injury. Expect a repeat performance here.
McCaffrey has only had one game with fewer than five passing targets all season, and this week faces a Tampa Bay defense ranked 26th in fantasy points allowed to running backs in PPR leagues, 22nd in run DVOA and 23rd in DVOA to pass-catching backs. The Bucs are also playing on a short week after Devonta Freeman had big game against them on Monday night. It’s a great spot for McCaffrey, who has hit double-digit fantasy points in five of his past six games.
The Bills rank dead last in fantasy points allowed to pass-catching running backs, and with Rex Burkhead out this week with a knee injury, Lewis’ usage should spike. James White should also see an increase in production, and his pass-catching ability makes him viable for owners looking to replace Burkhead, but Lewis is the No. 1 target against this terrible run defense.
Sit
The Eagles are ranked third in fewest fantasy points allowed to running backs, and the Eagles’ offense has not missed a beat with Nick Foles under center. The Raiders will be hard pressed to stay competitive in this game, especially playing on the east coast, where they traditionally struggle, which could limit Lynch’s usage in a crippling way for his fantasy outlook.
Jamaal Williams, Packers vs. Vikings
The Vikings are No. 1 in the league in fewest fantasy points allowed to running backs, and although Williams has had his moments with Brett Hundley under center, he is now back to splitting time with Aaron Jones, which further diminishes his fantasy appeal.
Samaje Perine, Washington vs. Denver Broncos
Perine is banged up and might not play. Even if he does suit up, he faces one of the toughest run defenses in the league and like Williams, has seen some of his usage usurped by Kapri Bibbs, who might wind up the lead back if Perine can’t go. Stay clear of this situation at all costs.
