Who Should I Start? Chris Rodriguez Jr. or Brashard Smith

Friday, October 3, 9:42 PM

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. has led the backfield in carries and rushing yards over the last two weeks, compiling 98 yards on 18 attempts. Rodriguez has served as an early down hammer back this season, with him being brought up to the active roster after Austin Ekeler was lost for the season in Week 2. Rodriguez has tied for the lead in snaps with rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt in the past two weeks and should continue to be involved on early downs and in short distances. He faces a tough test against a Chargers defense that has given up the fewest amount of fantasy points to running backs this season. Rodriguez is best left out of lineups for Week 5.

Saturday, October 4, 10:29 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Brashard Smith will take on the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 5. Smith saw his snap rate and touches reach season-highs in Week 4 against the Baltimore Ravens. The rookie running back handled four carries for nine yards (2.3 yards per carry) and three catches for 27 receiving yards. Smith converted to running back from wide receiver in college, making receiving a huge part of his game. The 22-year-old also ran a 4.39 40-yard dash, making him a speedy option to get the ball to in space. There has been a lot of buzz about getting Smith more involved in the offense each week, and that should be the case against the Jaguars, who allow the eighth-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs. If fellow backs Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt struggle to find success on the ground, Smith could make things happen through the air. Smith is ranked RB46 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings, putting him in desperation flex territory. It would be advisable to take a wait-and-see approach with Smith this week.