Who Should I Start? James Conner or TreVeyon Henderson

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.

Monday, January 5, 2:13 PM

Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson carried the ball 13 times for 53 yards in Sunday's blowout win over the Dolphins, finding the end zone twice in a game that saw most of New England's starters sidelined early in the fourth quarter. Henderson finishes his rookie campaign with 911 rushing yards, 221 receiving yards, and 10 total touchdowns. The Patriots face a stingy Chargers defense in Wild Card Weekend, but Henderson's homerun ability and steadily increasing usage near the goal line make him a strong opening play in playoff fantasy leagues of all formats. New England has averaged 35 rush attempts over their last two games and will likely look to stick to that formula in a game in which they open as 3.5-point favorites at home.