Who Should I Start? Chuba Hubbard or Ashton Jeanty

Friday, December 19, 11:27 PM

Carolina Panthers running back Chuba Hubbard had just eight carries for 29 rushing yards in last week's loss to the New Orleans Saints. He also caught just one of his two targets for nine receiving yards. Fantasy managers were hoping that Hubbard would replicate his previous performance, in which he had 19 touches, 124 scrimmage yards, and one touchdown, but that wasn't the case. He mustered just 3.6 yards per carry, which was his lowest mark since Week 9, and only played 42% of the offensive snaps. The 26-year-old could be headed for a similar role this week against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as Rico Dowdle projects to lead Carolina's backfield once again. The Bucs have allowed the seventh-fewest rushing yards to running backs in 2025, and while they've been porous against running backs in the passing game, Hubbard will likely share passing-down work with Dowdle. Hubbard has dropped to the overall RB43 spot in RotoBaller's fantasy rankings for Week 16. He can be benched in most leagues.

Saturday, December 13, 12:27 AM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty could handle increased volume in Week 15 against the Philadelphia Eagles, and he should benefit from this favorable matchup against a below-average run defense. The Raiders will be starting quarterback Kenny Pickett over Geno Smith (back, shoulder) this week, and this quarterback downgrade could prompt Las Vegas to throw the ball less and run the ball more. It could also lead to more checkdowns and fewer passes deep downfield. All of this bodes well for Jeanty, who is averaging 14.7 carries and 3.5 catches per game while ranking as the overall RB14 in PPR leagues. Not only do we think he could handle more than 20 touches in an offensive game plan centered around rushing attempts and short passes, but Jeanty should also benefit from a favorable matchup. Philadelphia has allowed the eighth-most fantasy points, fifth-most receiving yards, and second-most receiving touchdowns to opposing running backs in 2025. This promising opportunity gives Jeanty top-12 running back upside for Week 15.