Who Should I Start? Bucky Irving or AJ Barner

Sunday, November 24, 5:22 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving turned in another stellar performance during Sunday's game against the New York Giants. Irving rushed 12 times for 87 yards and scored a touchdown during the blowout victory. The rookie back also hauled in all six of his targets for 64 yards through the air. The rushing and receiving yardage were both season highs for Irving. Unfortunately for fantasy managers, Irving remains stuck in a running back committee with Rachaad White. Irving has been the much better option between the two and should continue gaining more trust from the organization. Fantasy managers should put Irving in the RB2 conversation for next week's matchup against the Carolina Panthers. The 22-year-old has been excellent lately and should succeed in that favorable matchup.

Friday, November 22, 7:22 PM

Seattle Seahawks tight end AJ Barner has enjoyed a few weeks as the starter, but fellow tight end Noah Fant (groin) was a full participant in practice on Friday and is trending toward playing in Week 12 against the Arizona Cardinals. Barner did not do much with his opportunities, but he earned at least four targets in each of his last two games. As a rookie tight end, Barner is better suited as a blocker for now. During his time as a starter, he displayed solid pass-catching chops and escape ability so he could emerge later in his career. If Fant is a surprise inactive on Sunday, then Barner would still not likely deserve much attention in fantasy. His best outing was a 6.7-point game in Week 9 against the Los Angeles Rams. That does not exactly get it done in fantasy. If you have Fant, then pay close attention to Barner just in case you need a last-minute dart throw. Otherwise, Barner should be on waivers.