Who Should I Start? Chris Brooks or Brashard Smith

Friday, September 19, 5:25 PM

Green Bay Packers running back Chris Brooks looks to build on his minor role within the Packers' offense as they travel to Cleveland to play the Browns in Week 3. Brooks has played well above fellow running back Emanuel Wilson this season and has gained more snaps from Week 1 (9) to Week 2's 13. Brooks could see a little more time on the field with Josh Jacobs (ankle) a bit banged up, though Jacobs came off the injury report after three limited practice sessions. While Brooks remains a clear role player for the Packers, Brooks' role would increase if something were to happen to Jacobs. Brooks' situational role with the Packers keeps him well away from starting consideration for fantasy in Week 3.

Wednesday, October 15, 9:42 AM

Kansas City Chiefs rookie running back Brashard Smith from SMU took a step backward in Week 6 against the Detroit Lions, not seeing a single carry, playing a lower snap percentage, and making only three receptions in the passing game during the Chiefs' 30-17 win over the Lions. However, due to the matchup against the Lions, head coach Andy Reid wanted to lean on his veterans, as the game was crucial to the Kansas City Chiefs, who were sitting at (2-3). With the Las Vegas Raiders on deck in Week 7, and most sportsbooks labeling the Chiefs as 11.5-point favorites, Smith should get some additional work and snaps in this one, making him a long-shot play in Week 7 and a value-add in deeper leagues if it's a breakout game for him. The other Chiefs running backs, Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt, have both been relatively inefficient with their opportunities, averaging 4.2 and 3.82 YPC, respectively.