Who Should I Start? Rashod Bateman or De'Von Achane

Saturday, October 4, 2:28 PM

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman had just one catch in Week 4 against the Kansas City Chiefs, bringing his season-long totals to 10 receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown on 17 targets. Baltimore's passing game will be shorthanded in Week 5, as Cooper Rush will replace Lamar Jackson (hamstring) at quarterback in a tough matchup against the Houston Texans. Houston's defense has allowed the seventh-fewest passing yards (790) and second-fewest number of passing touchdowns (three) in the NFL. Bateman is typically reliant on downfield targets for production, which may be tough to come by with Rush under center. At best, Bateman profiles as a desperation deep-league flex option in Week 5.

Saturday, October 4, 10:31 AM

Miami Dolphins running back De'Von Achane should be very busy in an extremely favorable matchup in Week 5, when his team rolls into Carolina. Achane is coming off a season-high 20 carries on Monday night against the Jets in Week 4, totaling a season-high 99 rushing yards and scoring his first rushing touchdown. His targets were down dramatically because the Dolphins played from ahead, but he could get more work as a receiver with Tyreek Hill (knee) done for the season. Coach Mike McDaniel knows that Achane is a key playmaker in the offense ans always is sure to get him his volume. The Panthers have been a good matchup for running backs, giving up three running back touchdowns in four weeks along with 110 rushing yards and 30.3 receiving yards per game to the position. Achane should continue to serve as the primary back in Miami, and even though he is sharing a little work with rookie Ollie Gordon II, he remains a great play in all formats. His big-play ability, consistent volume, and favorable matchup combine to place him at No. 5 in the RotoBaller RB rankings for this week.