Who Should I Start? Jeremy McNichols or Kimani Vidal

Wednesday, December 24, 9:23 AM

Washington Commanders running back Jeremy McNichols has had a solid season as the team's primary third-down back, recording 42 carries for 220 yards and a touchdown to go with 21 catches (27 targets) for 176 yards in 15 games. The veteran handled a season-high 10 touches in Week 15 with Chris Rodriguez Jr. inactive, but he had only three touches with Rodriguez back last week against the Eagles. It will likely be a similar situation for McNichols on Christmas Day against the division-rival Dallas Cowboys, where the Commanders could be starting journeyman quarterback Josh Johnson with the status of Marcus Mariota (hand, quadriceps) in doubt. McNichols shouldn't be considered as a fantasy option in Week 17.

Friday, December 26, 10:19 AM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Kimani Vidal is in a precarious position heading into a Week 17 matchup against the Houston Texans. Vidal is officially questionable after sustaining a neck strain last week. He managed a limited practice on Friday but was largely ineffective before exiting the game, posting just 2.2 yards per carry. He continues to be outshined by rookie Omarion Hampton, who has shown far superior explosiveness and vision. The Texans boast a top-seven rush defense that allows the fifth-fewest rushing yards in the league, making this a brutal environment for a struggling, banged-up back. Even if Vidal is active, his plummeting volume and lack of production make him an impossible start with fantasy titles on the line. He should remain on your bench this week.