Who Should I Start? Raheem Mostert or Rico Dowdle

Friday, October 10, 7:33 PM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Raheem Mostert struggled to make an impact in his change-of-pace role during Week 5, totaling just 22 yards on a season-high seven touches. While the 33-year-old veteran still flashes big-play ability--highlighted by a 37-yard run against the Bears earlier this year--his current workload leaves him well outside fantasy relevance. Mostert should be viewed strictly as a handcuff to rookie standout Ashton Jeanty, who has firmly established himself as the lead back. Still, with Dylan Laube and Zamir White buried on the depth chart, Mostert remains the clear next man up if Jeanty were to miss time. For now, he's best left on the waiver wire outside of deeper leagues or as insurance for Jeanty managers looking to protect one of fantasy's rising assets.

Friday, October 24, 9:00 PM

Rico Dowdle is in line for a potentially favorable matchup in Week 8 against the Bills. Over the last four weeks, Buffalo ranked 30th in fantasy points per game allowed to running backs. The Bills have a vulnerable run defense, allowing 31.1 fantasy points per game to RBs during that span. Expect Carolina to rely on their running game in Week 8 to stay in the game. Head coach Dave Canales mentioned that the workload between Dowdle and Chuba Hubbard will be split between the two running backs this week. Last week, Dowdle had a snap share of 46% compared to Hubbard, with 54%. Despite Hubbard having the advantage in snaps, Dowdle outrushed him 79 to 31 rushing yards. If the Panthers don't fall far behind, the running game can be productive because of the matchup. With six teams on a bye in fantasy football Week 8, lock Dowdle in as an RB2 start.