Who Should I Start? Jeremy McNichols or Nyheim Hines

Friday, October 31, 9:57 PM

Washington Commanders running back Jeremy McNichols led the team in receiving in their Week 8 loss to the Chiefs, catching five of his six targets for 64 yards and adding one carry for four yards. McNichols has arguably been Washington's most effective back recently, consistently making plays when his number is called. The 29-year-old is tied for the eighth most receiving first downs (seven) despite ranking just 31st in routes run (82) among 54 running backs with at least 50 routes. His 4.58 yards after contact per reception is the third best behind only Jaylen Warren and James Cook. McNichols has been one of the best third-down backs in the league this season and should benefit from the return of star quarterback Jayden Daniels. The veteran still plays predominantly on third downs with rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt filling the early down role. It'll be tough to move the ball on the ground on Sunday Night Football against a Seahawks defense that has allowed a league-best 3.3 yards per carry and tied for the second fewest rushing touchdowns (two) in the league. However, they are tied for the most receptions allowed to opposing running backs (47), which could play in McNichols' favor. McNichols has flex appeal in PPR formats in deeper leagues for Week 9.

Monday, October 27, 7:01 PM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Nyheim Hines was elevated from the practice squad for the third time this season but made little impact in Thursday's 37-10 win over the Minnesota Vikings. Hines saw only seven snaps, four on offense and three on special teams, and finished with two carries for minus 2 yards. He was clearly behind Kimani Vidal and Jaret Patterson on the depth chart and has since returned to the practice squad. Now that Hines has reached the maximum number of elevations allowed from the practice squad, the Chargers must decide whether to sign him to the active roster to keep him available, as per NFL rules. With Hassan Haskins (hamstring) and Omarion Hampton (ankle) still sidelined, there's a possibility Hines gets signed. However, his limited usage on Thursday might suggest otherwise. Either way, he's off the fantasy radar heading into Week 9 against a struggling Tennessee Titans defense.