Who Should I Start? Tyler Allgeier or Bucky Irving

Monday, October 21, 2:10 PM

Atlanta Falcons running back Tyler Allgeier returned his usual backup role in Sunday's 34-14 loss to the Seahawks, ceding a full workhorse load to backfield mate Bijan Robinson. It seemed the 24-year-old's role was expanding, culminating with an 18-carry, 105-yard outburst in Week 6, but finished Week 7 with just five carries compared to Robinson's season-high 21 rush attempts, totaling 36 yards on the ground while adding one catch for nine yards. He was never destined to out-touch Robinson, but his efficiency (5.5 YPC) and proven ability to carry the load pointed to more opportunities that ultimately did not come to pass this week. Despite averaging 7.2 YPC in Sunday's contest, Allgeier still looks like a volatile, game-script-dependent fantasy asset right now, but remains a strong handcuff to Robinson should anything happen to Atlanta's lead back. The Falcons' Week 8 opponent, Tampa Bay, has generally been stout against the run, which doesn't bode well for Allgeier's near-term prospects.

Tuesday, October 22, 10:38 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie running back Bucky Irving had another productive performance in the team's Monday night loss to the Baltimore Ravens despite the return of Rachaad White to this crowded backfield. Irving had nine carries for 23 yards and a touchdown while adding three receptions (three targets) for 54 yards through the air. It's the second straight week the impressive rookie RB has scored on the ground. However, White led the backfield with 10 carries for a team-high 40 rushing yards and also caught six passes for 71 yards and two touchdowns in his first game back from injury. Meanwhile, Sean Tucker also had six touches as the Bucs involved all three backs in the 41-31 loss. White's return surely will cap the 22-year-old Irving's fantasy upside, but as long as he remains involved on the ground and through the air, he'll at least have RB3/flex appeal on a weekly basis.