Who Should I Start? Alvin Kamara or Omarion Hampton

Friday, December 12, 2:41 PM

New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara (knee, ankle) has been ruled out for the third straight week with injuries to his knee and ankle. 6th-round rookie Devin Neal (abdomen), coming off an RB12 finish in a Week 14 win over the Buccaneers, has been limited at practice with an abdomen issue of his own. The Saints' final practice report of the week bears watching, because if Neal is unable to suit up for a Week 15 divisional matchup with the Panthers, New Orleans is left with Audric Estime and Evan Hull atop the running back depth chart. Carolina's defense has been a plus matchup for opposing running backs, so if Neal is able to go on Sunday, he should be viewed as a safe floor RB2/flex play.

Saturday, December 13, 12:03 AM

Los Angeles Chargers rookie running back Omarion Hampton returned from IR last week after missing seven games with a fractured ankle. He carried the ball 13 times for 56 yards (4.3 YPC) and scored a receiving touchdown in the team's overtime win against the Philadelphia Eagles. The carries were split almost evenly with Kimani Vidal, and it's uncertain if this division will continue or if the Chargers are still gradually reintegrating Hampton into his starting role. OC Greg Roman recently said he prefers a hot-hand approach, but right now is "seeing two guys with the hot hand," which is "a good problem to have." Hampton faces the Kansas City Chiefs, who are among the top teams in rushing yards allowed. Chiefs DC Steve Spagnuolo will aim to shut down the run and force the injured Justin Herbert to pass. Considering Herbert's recent limitations and the team's reliance on the ground game, Hampton will be a crucial part of the offense. RotoBaller ranks him as RB27 this week. Hampton is a strong, albeit volume-limited, high-end RB3 with touchdown potential in a run-heavy game plan.