Who Should I Start? MarShawn Lloyd or Braelon Allen

Wednesday, September 17, 2:48 PM

Green Bay Packers running back MarShawn Lloyd (hamstring) remains on Injured Reserve but is eligible to return in Week 6 against a vulnerable Bengals defense. The Packers' backfield has leaned heavily on Josh Jacobs, who has accounted for 42 of the team's 55 rushing attempts through two games. That kind of workload will be difficult to sustain, and the lack of usage for reserves Chris Brooks and Emanuel Wilson--each with just one carry--suggests the coaching staff isn't comfortable leaning on them in meaningful situations. Lloyd's eventual return could provide Green Bay with a much-needed spark, as his speed and big-play ability were evident during the preseason. Fantasy managers in deeper formats should monitor Lloyd's progress, as he could quickly carve out a change-of-pace role and potentially spell Jacobs to keep him fresh.

Tuesday, September 16, 11:39 AM

New York Jets second-year running back Braelon Allen took a step back in Week 2 regarding his share of offensive snaps. The Buffalo Bills manhandled the Jets to the tune of 30-10 at home, and whether it was due to game script or by design, Allen handled a significantly smaller snap total than in Week 1. This past weekend, the 21-year-old saw the field just nine times -- one fewer than teammate Isaiah Davis -- a stark contrast to the 20-8 lead he boasted in their matchup with Pittsburgh. The situation regarding the duo could ultimately come down to a hot-hand approach, making it murky precisely which one to own for handcuff purposes. One thing is clear, and it's that this is Breece Hall's backfield to lose. The Jets' offense seems less stable than it did a week ago, but keeping tabs on the backup here is a worthwhile endeavor.