Who Should I Start? D'Andre Swift or Tyjae Spears

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.

Friday, November 22, 1:43 PM

Tennessee Titans head coach Brian Callahan said that running back Tyjae Spears (concussion) will not play in Week 12 against the division-rival Houston Texans on Sunday after missing practice all week. Spears suffered a concussion in the Week 11 loss to the Minnesota Vikings and was unable to clear the league's concussion protocol in time to play this weekend. His absence means that lead runner Tony Pollard will have some more fantasy upside in a bad matchup against Houston. Meanwhile, Julius Chestnut will have a more substantial role as the change-of-pace option behind Pollard in Tennessee's backfield. It remains to be seen if Spears will be able to clear the concussion protocol next week in time to play the Washington Commanders in Week 13. The 23-year-old has mostly taken a back seat to Pollard in 2024, seeing 43 carries for 161 yards and a TD while catching 17 passes for 88 yards.