Who Should I Start? David Montgomery or Antonio Gibson

Saturday, September 7, 9:54 PM

Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery will square off against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday evening in the team's home opener. The Lions' offense will be at full strength heading into a matchup with the highest projected point total of the weekend (52.5). Detroit has an implied team total of 28 points, and Montgomery has a fantastic chance to get in on the action. Despite running mate Jahmyr Gibbs returning to health leading up to Week 1, it is fair to expect that his workload might be monitored. This would leave the lion's share of backfield touches in the sixth-year back's hands for at least one more week. It is believed by some in the fantasy community that Gibbs may supersede the veteran in the pecking order this season. Whether that is the case or not -- only time will tell. Regardless, both Detroit RBs are excellent plays this week and season-long. Additionally, they both hold baked-in upside if either one were to miss any time. Montgomery is RotoBaller's RB22 in this week's rankings.

Wednesday, September 11, 8:20 PM

New England Patriots running back Antonio Gibson (hip) was listed as a limited participant for the first practice of the week on Wednesday. Starter Rhamondre Stevenson was also limited, but that was for rest purposes and not an injury. Gibson was also limited in two practices last week but he eventually suited up in his Patriots debut in the surprising Week 1 win over the Cincinnati Bengals. He had a small role behind Stevenson, playing only 22% of the offensive snaps while seeing seven carries for 18 yards. Gibson wasn't targeted in the passing game. Barring a setback later this week, Gibson should be fine to play in Week 2 at home against the Seattle Seahawks. However, in a low-volume, low-upside offense currently being game managed by veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, we can't realistically recommend Gibson as even a flex play in most fantasy setups.