Who Should I Start? Jeremy McNichols or Kenneth Gainwell

Saturday, December 13, 12:39 PM

Washington Commanders running back Jeremy McNichols recorded only one reception for two yards in last week's blowout loss to the Minnesota Vikings. It marked the third game this season where he's had fewer than two touches in a game. The 29-year-old had compiled 20 total touches for 88 yards in the three games leading up to Week 14, and even in a negative game script, McNichols didn't see much work. The veteran has held down the pass-down duties in Washington's backfield for most of the season since Austin Ekeler (Achilles) went down in Week 2. McNichols should see similar usage on Sunday against the New York Giants with the possibility for more touches if Chris Rodriguez Jr. (groin), who is listed as questionable, is unable to play. He profiles as a deep league flex option at best in Week 15.

Tuesday, December 16, 12:54 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell continues to be a PPR machine, racking up seven receptions for 46 yards while adding 13 carries for 80 yards on the ground in the Monday night win over the Miami Dolphins. Gainwell led the team in catches, with four other Steelers tied for second with three, and outgained Jaylen Warren by 47 yards on the ground on one more carry. The 26-year-old remains a vital piece of the Steelers offense and a player that quarterback Aaron Rodgers relies on for easy dump-off passes to pick up yards after the catch. Gainwell has recorded at least six receptions in four of the past five games and has emerged as a weekly option in PPR leagues. He'll project favorably again as an RB2/flex option next week against the Detroit Lions.