Who Should I Start? D'Andre Swift or Chuba Hubbard

Saturday, November 23, 5:34 AM

Chicago Bears running back D'Andre Swift is shaping up to be a risky RB2 option in Week 12 as he faces one of the most formidable run defenses in the NFL the Minnesota Vikings. Swift had an efficient Week 11 performance, rushing for 71 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries, but big plays have buoyed mainly his fantasy value in recent weeks. With Minnesota's defense ranking 4th in points allowed per game and 1st in EPA per rush, it will be challenging for Swift to replicate those explosive moments on the ground. The Vikings' defense, led by defensive coordinator Brian Flores, has stifled opposing rushing attacks, making it hard to expect significant yardage gains or a multi-touchdown outing. Swift (groin) has been dealing with a minor injury, but he practiced fully on Friday and should be ready for Sunday's game. With many fantasy teams dealing with bye weeks, sitting Swift is difficult, but fantasy managers should temper expectations. He's still a solid flex or low-end RB2 play, but the matchup should give you pause before locking him in as an automatic starter.

Wednesday, November 20, 3:04 PM

Carolina Panthers head coach Dave Canales said he wants to see rookie running back Jonathon Brooks (knee) play confident and fast when he makes his NFL debut, and he will be working behind Chuba Hubbard when he plays in his first NFL contest this Sunday against the Kansas City Chiefs. Meanwhile, Miles Sanders (ankle, foot) isn't expected to play in Week 12, so Brooks should serve as the backup to Hubbard. The 21-year-old Brooks hasn't played all year while recovering from an ACL tear he suffered last year in college, but he's practicing in full on Wednesday and should be active this Sunday. Hubbard has earned lead-back duties for Carolina with another strong season in 2024, which means Brooks will probably be in line for backup duties the rest of the way in his rookie season, making him mostly a bench stash and handcuff in fantasy.