Who Should I Start? Bucky Irving or Kimani Vidal

Wednesday, October 22, 1:04 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles said on Wednesday that running back Bucky Irving (foot, shoulder) will not make it back for Sunday's divisional contest against the New Orleans Saints in Week 8, according to Greg Auman of FOX Sports. Irving will be missing his fourth straight game due to a foot sprain and a subluxation of his shoulder. However, with Tampa's bye coming in Week 9, perhaps he'll be ready to make his return in Week 10 when the team takes on the New England Patriots on Nov. 9. With the 23-year-old set to miss yet another game, Rachaad White will be in play as an RB2 in all fantasy formats while making his fourth straight start as the lead back for the Buccaneers, with Sean Tucker handling backup duties again.

Thursday, October 30, 10:11 AM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal has taken over the starting role in Omarion Hampton's absence and made the most of it. Over his three starts, Vidal has logged 50 carries for 261 yards (5.2 YPC) and a touchdown, adding 39 yards and another score through the air. During that span, he's averaged 16.7 PPR points per game, ranking as the RB7. Vidal has handled roughly 70% of the snaps, with Hassan Haskins filling in on about 30%. That kind of workload in the Chargers' explosive offense gives the 2024 sixth-round pick significant upside. The Week 9 matchup is especially appealing, as the Titans have surrendered the second-most fantasy points to running backs this season. With no clear timetable for Hampton's return, Vidal should continue to command the backfield and deliver strong fantasy production.