Who Should I Start? Dare Ogunbowale or Antonio Gibson

Friday, August 2, 4:02 AM

Houston Texans running back Dare Ogunbowale started and recorded 14 yards on three carries while catching two passes for 21 yards on two receptions in Thursday's Hall of Game against the Chicago Bears. Following him, J.J. Taylor gained 16 yards on six carries without involvement in the passing game. Both Ogunbowale and Taylor took the field ahead of Cam Akers, who has been with the team for only a week. As Akers continues to acclimate, he could move up the depth chart. The Texans' new starting running back, Joe Mixon (quad), is dealing with a soft tissue injury that has kept him out of practice. Even if he were fully healthy, Mixon wouldn't have played in the game, and there are no concerns about his readiness for the regular season. The Texans also rested backup halfback Dameon Pierce, which suggests the team considers him a strong candidate to keep his role as the primary backup. Ogunbowale will continue to battle Taylor and Akers this preseason for a roster spot. None have fantasy value without injuries to both Mixon and Pierce.

Saturday, October 5, 1:47 AM

New England Patriots running back Antonio Gibson is expected to start at running back in Week 5 after head coach Jerod Mayo announced that Rhamondre Stevenson had lost the starting job. Stevenson has fumbled four times through four games this season while Gibson has demonstrated impressive burst and productivity with 219 scrimmage yards over his last three contests. The increased role comes at an opportune time for Gibson; this weekend, the Patriots face the Miami Dolphins, who have allowed the most fantasy points and the most touchdowns to opposing running backs this year. While we can still expect some growing pains from Gibson as he adjusts to an increased role within a poor offense, he has a real chance to rank as a low-end fantasy RB2 this week. He's particularly appealing as someone who can leave an impact on the ground and through the air.