Who Should I Start? Devin Neal or Brashard Smith

Saturday, November 8, 12:41 PM

New Orleans Saints running back Devin Neal logged three carries for 11 yards and caught his lone target for one yard in the Week 9 loss to the Rams. With Alvin Kamara officially questionable due to an ankle injury ahead of Week 10, Neal could be in line for additional work. The rookie was a sixth-round pick after an impressive career at Kansas, where he set program records with 4,343 rushing yards and 49 touchdowns. However, he's seen limited action in the NFL, totalling just six carries for 21 yards and four receptions for 12 yards. Even if he draws the start against the Panthers, Neal should remain on waivers in most formats, though he could hold deep-league appeal if Kamara is sidelined.

Saturday, November 15, 4:35 AM

Kansas City Chiefs running back Brashard Smith will face the Denver Broncos in Week 11. Smith should step into the RB2 role for the Chiefs this week with Isiah Pacheco ruled out with a knee injury. Despite a suspected bump in usage, Smith's statistical outputs before their bye in Week 10 were concerning. In Weeks 8 and 9, the rookie failed to eclipse 10 rushing yards, and his passing game usage was practically non-existent. Smith went from catching at least three passes in four games from Weeks 4 through 7, to catching zero passes in Weeks 8 and 9. The converted wide receiver has not been used much between the tackles this season due to his size and inexperience at the position, so if his receiving usage dries up, there is not much to be excited about. Smith will also have to face the Broncos this week. The Denver defense has allowed the fifth-fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. Smith is ranked RB55 in our RotoBaller Half-PPR rankings, putting him deep in desperate flex range this week. Smith is explosive, but his floor is zero points. Fantasy managers should avoid Smith this week against one of the best defenses in football.