Who Should I Start? Saquon Barkley or Kenneth Gainwell

Thursday, November 27, 1:03 AM

Philadelphia Eagles running back Tank Bigsby could get his breakout moment this Friday if Saquon Barkley (groin) is unable to suit up. Bigsby is the only Philly RB besides Barkley to get any carries in the last two weeks, and would likely get his number called as the next man up should the Eagles' primary backfield option miss the game against Chicago. While the former Jaguar hasn't seen a ton of action since being traded to Philadelphia earlier this season, he has shown promise with his limited opportunities. In 10 games, Bigsby has carried the ball 18 times for 164 yards for an average of 9.1 yards per carry. The Eagles offensive live is always going to be a huge benefactor to whoever gets the handoffs, and fellow RB Will Shipley would probably be used more in the passing game. If he does get the starting nod, Bigsby should be seen as at least a mid-level RB2 against a Bears defense allowing the 14th-most fantasy points to RBs.

Thursday, November 27, 1:07 AM

Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell delivered another productive performance in Week 12 against the Chicago Bears, posting 10 carries for 92 yards while adding six receptions (six targets) for 30 yards. Gainwell's receiving workload in recent weeks has made him a viable fantasy option in PPR leagues. It's also been a consistent part of the former Philadelphia Eagle's scoring profile on the season, with four games of at least six receptions, tied with Bijan Robinson for the third most by a running back this season and only trailing De'Von Achane (five games) and Christian McCaffrey (nine). The Pittsburgh backfield has essentially been an even split between Jaylen Warren and Gainwell over the past three weeks. Gainwell holds a slight edge in snap share at 54.7% compared to Warren's 41.9%, though it's worth noting Warren left Week 11 early with an ankle injury. Gainwell has maintained his role in the passing game and could be the preferred option moving forward between the two.