Who Should I Start? Cam Akers or Zach Charbonnet

Sunday, October 1, 1:09 PM

Minnesota Vikings running back Cam Akers is making his debut for the team in Week 4 against the Carolina Panthers, and the NFL Network's Tom Pelissero says that we could see a lot of him on Sunday. Alexander Mattison is still the starter, but the Vikings are going to ride the hot hand in the backfield against the Panthers this weekend, especially if Akers shows something and is able to hold onto the football. Akers was acquired from the Los Angeles Rams before Week 3, but he didn't make his debut last weekend in the loss to the Los Angeles Chargers. Mattison has had a rough start in 2023, carrying the ball 39 times for 155 yards (4.0 yards per carry). Akers wasn't good at all in the season opener with the Rams, but a change of scenery could do him well and raise his fantasy value if Mattison continues to be mediocre.

Saturday, September 30, 3:34 AM

Fantasy managers are still awaiting Zach Charbonnet's big breakout but in Week 3 the rookie running back gave us a taste of what is to come. The second-round pick had the most productive day of his young career against the Carolina Panthers last Sunday, toting the ball nine times for 46 yards. The line was modest but it was underscored by his snap share which leaped to 44%, nearly matching Kenneth Walker III's 49% share. In Week 4, the Seahawks head to New York to face the Giants, who are giving up 101 rushing yards per game. Charbonnet's stock is rising but he still projects as an RB4 in Week 4, though he may benefit most if the game against the struggling Giants turns into a blowout. He can be started in deep league formats but should be treated as a bench stash in 10- and 12-team leagues.