Who Should I Start? Dylan Sampson or Woody Marks

Tuesday, November 25, 4:30 PM

Cleveland Browns rookie running back Dylan Sampson had arguably the best game of his career in Week 12's win over the Las Vegas Raiders, handling seven carries for 23 yards with two receptions (three targets) for 59 yards and a touchdown. It was Sampson's second career touchdown; his first also came on a reception back in Week 2, and he posted his second-most yards from scrimmage in a game, trailing only his 93-yard performance in Week 1. The rookie fourth-rounder totaled 27 touches in the first two weeks, but his role in Cleveland's offense decreased after fellow rookie Quinshon Judkins returned to the team in Week 2. From Weeks 3 through 11, Sampson played just 18.7% of the snaps with 25 total touches. He was dynamic in Cleveland's Week 12 win, however, taking a simple screen pass from Shedeur Sanders 66 yards for a touchdown. Judkins is still the clear lead back, but Sampson's pass-catching ability could make him fantasy viable in deeper PPR leagues moving forward.

Thursday, November 20, 11:40 PM

Houston Texans running back Woody Marks rushed for 74 yards on 16 carries during Thursday's Week 12 win over the Buffalo Bills. He also caught his lone target for a loss of five yards. Marks led the Texans' backfield in the victory, notably logging 10 more carries than Nick Chubb. He averaged 4.6 yards per carry and was productive in short-yardage scenarios, rushing for a handful of first downs. Although Marks' lack of touchdowns and receptions resulted in him finishing below his fantasy projection in most formats, it was encouraging to see him handle the lead-back role with efficiency once again. He remains a mid-to-low RB2 with high volume heading into Week 13 against the Indianapolis Colts.