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

Wednesday, December 3, 10:50 AM

Washington Commanders running back Chris Rodriguez Jr. has taken over the RB1 duties in Washington. Despite the preseason hype that surrounded seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, Rodriguez has been the RB1 as of late, totaling 201 rushing yards and three touchdowns in his last four games. Rodriguez played 44% of the snaps in their past two games, with receiving back Jeremy McNichols playing 35%, while Croskey-Merritt played just 20%. With the return of Jayden Daniels imminent, the Commanders' offense could be explosive down the stretch, which means good things are coming for the third-year back from Kentucky. In 2024, Daniels led the Commanders to the fifth-ranked scoring offense and an NFC Championship appearance. If Daniels returns, Rodriguez should have more scoring opportunities and can make an impact in the fantasy playoffs.

Friday, November 21, 3:03 PM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Brashard Smith will face the Indianapolis Colts in Week 12. Smith had zero carries and two catches for eight yards in last week's loss to the Denver Broncos. Even with Isiah Pacheco missing the game, Smith did not have a single opportunity in the run game. The same should be expected this week with Pacheco ruled out again for the Colts matchup. Veteran back Kareem Hunt is the most trusted back on the roster and should be leaned on in a crucial AFC matchup. The Chiefs are currently sitting at 5-5 and third in their division, so they need to start stacking wins if they want to make the playoffs. Given the lack of involvement on the ground and sparse usage through the air, Smith should not be trusted in fantasy lineups this week.