Who Should I Start? Tony Pollard or Ashton Jeanty

Saturday, December 13, 10:33 AM

Tennessee Titans running back Tony Pollard had been an underwhelming fantasy contributor ever since Tyjae Spears returned from injured reserve, but that all changed last week as Pollard exploded for 161 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the Titans' Week 14 win over the Cleveland Browns. The 28-year-old will look to carry the momentum from last weekend into this Sunday's Week 15 contest against the San Francisco 49ers. Tennessee seems to be riding the hot hand at running back, so Pollard will likely get the first crack at handling the every-down role this week. If he starts strong, he could have a shot at replicating last week's huge game. If Pollard can excel against a strong Browns run defense, he's capable of finding similar success against the Niners, who rank near the middle of the league in terms of fantasy points allowed to opposing running backs this year. With that being said, we can't guarantee that Pollard will explode just because of one big, unexpected performance. There's still some risk here, making Pollard a low-floor, high-ceiling option for Week 15. He ranks as the overall RB34 in this week's RotoBaller fantasy rankings and can be deployed as a flex in most formats.

Saturday, December 13, 12:27 AM

Las Vegas Raiders running back Ashton Jeanty could handle increased volume in Week 15 against the Philadelphia Eagles, and he should benefit from this favorable matchup against a below-average run defense. The Raiders will be starting quarterback Kenny Pickett over Geno Smith (back, shoulder) this week, and this quarterback downgrade could prompt Las Vegas to throw the ball less and run the ball more. It could also lead to more checkdowns and fewer passes deep downfield. All of this bodes well for Jeanty, who is averaging 14.7 carries and 3.5 catches per game while ranking as the overall RB14 in PPR leagues. Not only do we think he could handle more than 20 touches in an offensive game plan centered around rushing attempts and short passes, but Jeanty should also benefit from a favorable matchup. Philadelphia has allowed the eighth-most fantasy points, fifth-most receiving yards, and second-most receiving touchdowns to opposing running backs in 2025. This promising opportunity gives Jeanty top-12 running back upside for Week 15.