Who Should I Start? James Conner or Jordan Mason

Monday, September 22, 6:34 PM

Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (ankle) underwent season-ending surgery on Monday after suffering a significant right ankle injury in the third quarter of Sunday's game. Conner was carted off with his ankle immobilized, and head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed he won't return this season. With Conner sidelined, the Cardinals will turn to second-year back Trey Benson, who has been highly efficient, averaging 6.0 yards per carry (second among RBs). Gannon praised Benson before the season, noting he viewed both Conner and Benson as capable starters. Benson now projects as the lead option in Arizona's backfield, while Emari Demercado is expected to mix in behind him.

Friday, October 24, 9:54 AM

Minnesota Vikings running back Jordan Mason had only four carries for three yards and one catch for three yards in Thursday night's blowout loss to the Chargers. Mason was outcarried by Aaon Jones as he made his return off injured reserve from a hamstring injury. Jones wasn't overly efficient on his touches either, handling five carries for 15 yards and adding two catches for 15 yards. It was a good matchup on paper coming into the game for the Vikings' ground game with the Chargers being ranked 28th in yards per carry and 31st in rushing touchdowns allowed, but Minnesota averaged just 3.1 yards per carry in the game. Mason and Jones will likely see a pretty even split moving forward, with Jones handling most of the pass-down duties. They will head on the road again in Week 9 for another tough matchup in Detroit.