Fantasy football, Week 3: Who to start and sit at running back

Week 3 of the fantasy football season is here, and we’re back with another crop of start/sit options. We’re starting to collect a small sample size of data about each team and can start making somewhat more-informed decisions on good plays and traps. With that in mind, we’ll pick running backs who should exceed expectations in Week 3, along with three you should probably sit.

If Terrance West is ruled out, then this becomes a no-brainer, as Allen has been terrific both weeks to start the year in a time-share. Allen is doing it both as a runner and receiver, making him extra valuable in PPR leagues. The Jags defense is tough, but their offense is not going to give the Ravens any reason to abandon the run game. Allen is going to be a busy, busy man.

Don’t believe the negative hype. Yes, McCaffrey has not lived up to lofty expectations after two weeks. That should all change this week against a Saints defense that is worst in the league thus far against pass-catching running backs. Put it this way: If McCaffrey doesn’t go off this week at home, then there’s a real problem here.

It is not looking good for DeMarco Murray to play in this game, having not practiced Wednesday or Thursday. Even if he does suit up, expect Henry to get the bulk of the work against a defense that struggled to contain Ty Montgomery in the opener and Carlos Hyde last week. Henry has excelled as a backup and could really pop with a full workload. Check on Murray’s status come Sunday morning.

For all the reasons above, it is impossible to trust Murray right now. He could easily be ruled out before Sunday, or after warm-ups Sunday morning. If he dresses, there’s no guarantee he plays anything close to a normal workload. And even when he has played through two weeks, he looks like a guy who’s injured. Murray should be benched until he’s free of this injury, at a minimum.

Another injured running back with a backup who has outplayed him in the early going. Howard has been limited in practice all week and unlike the Seahawks, the Steelers have been stingy against the run game in the early going. This game has Tarik Cohen written all over it. Check Howard’s status on Sunday to be sure he’s even active.

Rodgers had a decent game last week against the Bears, but nothing spectacular, and now he draws a defense playing at home that hasn’t allowed a touchdown to a running back after two weeks, including Le’Veon Bell. You could maybe make a case for Rodgers as a flex, but there should be better options on your roster.