Who Should I Start? Javonte Williams or James Cook

Friday, December 20, 12:27 AM

Denver Broncos running back Javonte Williams certainly had a bigger role in the offense with Jaleel McLaughlin (quadriceps) out in the Thursday night loss to the division-rival Los Angeles Chargers, but not in the way that many would have predicted. Williams took a back seat to rookie Audric Estime on the ground in the 34-27 loss with only four carries for 24 yards (6.0 yards per tote), but he surprisingly led the team in targets (11), securing a team-high and season-high seven catches for 29 yards through the air. Rookie QB Bo Nix was content to check it down most of the night, with Williams benefitting. The 24-year-old came into Thursday's game with a disappointing 3.5 yard-per-carry average on the ground, although he was much more efficient on limited touches against LA. It's unlikely he'll be this involved in the passing game again, but if McLaughlin misses another game, Williams will have RB3/flex appeal in a plus matchup against Cincinnati in Week 17.

Friday, December 20, 3:57 PM

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook is a must-start RB1 for this weekend's fantasy football playoffs. The 25-year-old bounced back against Detroit last week (133 yards, two touchdowns) after a disappointing affair two weeks ago in Los Angeles (29 yards). Cook takes his momentum into a home matchup against New England. The Patriots have fielded a below-average rush defense all season. The Bills are favored by 14 points, which could lead to more rushing attempts for Cook and his backfield mates, Ray Davis and Ty Johnson.