Who Should I Start? Bijan Robinson or Jacory Croskey-Merritt

Saturday, November 1, 10:33 AM

Atlanta Falcons running back Bijan Robinson will look to bounce back in Week 9 after falling flat in what should have been a bountiful fantasy day against the Dolphins in Week 8. Both Michael Penix Jr. (knee) and Drake London (hip) will be back this week, so the offense should look more like what we've been accustomed to this season, which is a healthy dose of Robinson in both the run game and the passing attack. The 23-year-old will take on the Patriots in Foxborough on Sunday, a run defense that has been one of the stingiest in terms of fantasy points allowed to running backs (fifth-fewest), and has allowed just 76 rush yards per contest and 3.5 yards per rush (both second-fewest). Regardless, the third-year pro has one of the highest floors in the game with his involvement in the passing game, averaging over six targets and four catches per game, making him a high-end RB1 again in Week 9 despite the tough matchup.

Friday, October 31, 5:53 PM

Washington Commanders rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt has struggled since his Week 5 breakout against the Chargers, where he racked up 150 total yards and two touchdowns, finishing as the RB5 in PPR points for the week. Croskey-Merritt has recorded 39 carries for 119 yards to go with only two receptions for six yards on four targets and no touchdowns in the last three games. The rookie seventh-rounder has maintained a healthy snap share at 57.3%, but No. 2 running back Jeremy McNichols has served as the pass-down back and performed well in his opportunities. Croskey-Merritt is clearly the preferred option on early downs, but the lack of receiving is a hit to the ways he can produce for fantasy. The return of star quarterback Jayden Daniels will certainly help open up some rushing lanes, but Croskey-Merritt has a tough matchup against a Seahawks defense that is allowing the fewest yards per carry (3.3) and tied for the fewest rushing touchdowns (two) in the league through seven games. He is ranked as RotoBaller's RB30 in PPR formats for Sunday Night Football.