Who Should I Start? Patrick Taylor or Hassan Haskins

Friday, December 20, 10:01 PM

San Francisco 49ers running back Patrick Taylor Jr. is expected to draw his first career start filling in for the ruled-out rookie Isaac Guerendo (foot, hamstring) in Miami on Sunday. With Guerendo healthy enough to play, the undrafted 26-year-old Taylor Jr. received neither touch nor target in last week's loss to the Los Angeles Rams. The last time Taylor was involved was in Week 14 versus Chicago when he took seven carries for 25 yards, one touchdown, and one unfulfilled target. On the surface, Taylor Jr. may seem like a must-start since head coach Kyle Shanahan always rides his lead back heavily, but it's appropriate to temper expectations. If one includes Elijah Mitchell -- who was ruled out for the year in the preseason -- San Francisco is down to their fifth-string running back whose career YPC (3.9) is significantly below all four backs ahead of him. As a result, Shanahan may be compelled to use some combination of Taylor Jr., Israel Abanikanda, and Ke'Shawn Vaughn. Taylor Jr. is also less likely than his injured teammates to produce as a receiver. Miami's D is ranked 14th in running back half-PPR points against. The talent and usage questions place Taylor Jr. firmly in RB3/FLEX territory, even in a decent matchup.

Friday, December 20, 12:12 AM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Hassan Haskins scored a touchdown in a Week 16 win over the Denver Broncos on Thursday Night Football. Haskins did not record a rushing attempt, but he was targeted twice in the passing game, making two catches for a total of 39 yards. His touchdown came on a shovel pass from quarterback Justin Herbert that turned into a 34-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. Haskins will continue playing an important role on the real life Chargers, but he's unlikely to do much in fantasy leagues despite his exciting play in this game.