Who Should I Start? Tyler Allgeier or Trey Benson

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.

Monday, October 21, 8:12 PM

Arizona Cardinals rookie running back Trey Benson (illness) is officially active for the Cardinals on Monday night against the Los Angeles Chargers. Benson did not practice on Saturday due to an illness and was listed as questionable on the final injury report, but he will be active and continue to serve as James Conner's backup. The 22-year-old's role has been limited so far in his first NFL season while working behind Conner, as he has only received 30 rushing attempts for 107 yards (3.6 yards per carry) and no touchdowns while adding two receptions on his two targets for 12 yards. Benson has seen double-digit rushing attempts just once, and that was back in Week 2. Expect a similar limited workload on Monday night against a tough defense. In most fantasy leagues, Benson is merely a handcuff for Conner.