Who Should I Start? Dalvin Cook or Jeremy McNichols

Saturday, November 9, 6:56 PM

Dallas Cowboys running back Dalvin Cook won't be elevated from the practice squad ahead of the Week 10 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles. Cook has been on the active roster for each of the last two games, but hasn't done much damage on the field. He has rushed eight times for 20 yards over his past two appearances. The Cowboys have decided to go a different route this weekend. Instead, Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn will split up the carries in the backfield. Out of the trio, Dowdle is the most reliable option with a 75-yard performance during last week's loss to the Atlanta Falcons. Fantasy managers still holding onto Cook are probably safe to look elsewhere for help.

Friday, October 31, 9:57 PM

Washington Commanders running back Jeremy McNichols led the team in receiving in their Week 8 loss to the Chiefs, catching five of his six targets for 64 yards and adding one carry for four yards. McNichols has arguably been Washington's most effective back recently, consistently making plays when his number is called. The 29-year-old is tied for the eighth most receiving first downs (seven) despite ranking just 31st in routes run (82) among 54 running backs with at least 50 routes. His 4.58 yards after contact per reception is the third best behind only Jaylen Warren and James Cook. McNichols has been one of the best third-down backs in the league this season and should benefit from the return of star quarterback Jayden Daniels. The veteran still plays predominantly on third downs with rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt filling the early down role. It'll be tough to move the ball on the ground on Sunday Night Football against a Seahawks defense that has allowed a league-best 3.3 yards per carry and tied for the second fewest rushing touchdowns (two) in the league. However, they are tied for the most receptions allowed to opposing running backs (47), which could play in McNichols' favor. McNichols has flex appeal in PPR formats in deeper leagues for Week 9.