Who Should I Start? Christian McCaffrey or Chase Brown

Sunday, October 26, 8:20 PM

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey rushed for just 25 yards on eight carries during Sunday's Week 8 loss against the Houston Texans. He also caught three of his six targets for an additional 43 receiving yards. McCaffrey had his worst game of the season; his 9.8 points in PPR leagues marked the first time he scored fewer than 22 points in a single game this year. This was a rare dud for McCaffrey, and part of the blame can be attributed to the quarterback position, as Mac Jones (59.4% completion rate, 193 yards, two touchdowns, one interception) struggled to put together many quality drives in place of Brock Purdy (toe). McCaffrey is still one of the most talented running backs in recent NFL history, and he should have no trouble bouncing back against a struggling Giants squad in Week 9.

Saturday, October 25, 11:48 AM

Cincinnati Bengals running back Chase Brown hasn't had the year most had anticipated heading into the 2025 campaign. He scored a touchdown in the Week 1 win over the Cleveland Browns. Unfortunately, the 25-year-old hasn't visited the end zone since. However, Brown at least displayed signs of life in the Thursday night win over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 7, finishing with 11 carries for 108 yards, marking his first game in nearly a year with over 100 yards on the ground. Rightfully so, fantasy participants remain skeptical. Still, Brown was selected early in fantasy drafts leading up to the season, so will managers feel comfortable keeping him on the bench? Some will continue to take that approach, and that's understandable. On the other hand, injuries have been a common issue for teams around the National Football League, meaning others may not have anywhere else to turn. All things considered, Brown has one of the highest ceilings at the running back position. Despite some imposing run-stoppers for the Jets, specifically Quinnen Williams and Brandon Stephens, Brown's pass-catching acumen gives him more than enough upside to warrant starting consideration in all fantasy setups.