Who Should I Start? David Montgomery or Dameon Pierce

Saturday, September 14, 3:48 PM

Detroit Lions running back David Montgomery will look to continue his strong performance in Week 2 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who boast a tough run defense. In Week 1, Montgomery impressed with 91 rushing yards on 17 attempts, averaging 5.4 yards per carry, and scored the game-winning touchdown. He again led in touches over Jahmyr Gibbs, with a 20-15 split, though Gibbs scored earlier in the game on a rare goal-line carry. The Buccaneers' defense is anchored by elite run-stopper Vita Vea, and only seven running backs surpassed 60 rushing yards against Tampa Bay last season, with three needing at least 20 carries to do so. Given the strength of the Buccaneers' run defense, the Lions will likely implement a pass-heavy game plan targeting Tampa Bay's banged-up secondary. While it's promising that quarterback Jayden Daniels and running back Brian Robinson found success on the ground against the Buccaneers last week, Montgomery may find it challenging to replicate such a performance. As a running back who isn't heavily involved in the passing game, Montgomery should be considered a low-end RB2 or Flex option. Start him with caution and manage expectations, given the difficult matchup.

Friday, September 13, 4:54 PM

Houston Texans running back Dameon Pierce (hamstring) was listed as questionable on Friday's injury report with a hamstring injury according to Jonathan M. Alexander of NFL.com. The 24-year-old hit the injury report on Thursday after logging a limited practice. He was kept entirely sidelined on Friday, which does not bode well for his status over the weekend. In Week 1, Pierce saw just three rushing attempts on nine snaps while Joe Mixon held the lion's share of work. If Pierce were to sit out on Sunday night, Cam Akers or Dare Ogunbowale should compete for the No.2 role behind Mixon but should not be relied upon in any fantasy setting.