As we hit the seventh week of the fantasy football season, running back continues to be one of the shallowest positions that’s tough to fill each week. Fantasy owners know how hard it is to get depth at running back and how few options there are in some leagues.
Even though things get thin at this important position in a hurry, there are some ways you can fill in your roster this week that could pay off. These players aren’t ones that I would bench stars for, but they can serve as fill-ins or emergency plays to help you through this week 7.
Joseph Randle-Dallas Cowboys
The back everyone has been chasing all week is Joseph Randle, but if you were able to get him off waivers or he’s somehow still available start him with confidence against the Eagles. DeMarco Murray and Lance Dunbar aren’t expected to play meaning Randle will get feature-back work against a susceptible D. He’s a RB2 this week with some upside since Dallas should be able to pile on some points against the Eagles.
Stevan Ridley-New England Patriots
I’ve heard some buzz that Ridley isn’t a good option this week, but I’m not sure I get why. True, the Jets have been good against the run and haven’t allowed 100 yards rushing yet this season. However, Ridley looked back to his old self with a solid week last week and should be the #1 back this week with LeGarrette Blount fading and Brandon Bolden in a third-down role. The Patriots runner is definitely still worth a RB2 play in my mind unless you have two studly options.
Zac Stacy-St. Louis Rams
I don’t love the matchup for Stacy against the Panthers who have also been good against the run. He’s still getting very little attention for a running back that’s emerging as his team’s #1 option. Stacy is a flex option and should definitely be rostered for when matchups are more in his favor.
Chris Ogbonnaya-Cleveland Browns
Ogbonnaya isn’t a great long-term pickup, but if you’re looking for a one-game filler he’s got some upside in PPR leagues. Ogbonnaya will get more work Sunday since the Browns will be playing catch-up and he could be targeted often out of the backfield. In PPR leagues, he’s a flex play option if you’re searching.
Peyton Hillis-New York Giants
If you’re really up against it, be like the Giants and grab Peyton Hillis off the street and start him which they may have to do after Brandon Jacobs had a setback and is now just questionable and not practicing heading into Monday Night’s game against the Vikings. Minnesota’s defense isn’t anything special, so take this gigantic risk if you’re forced to roll the dice.
If you have any questions about who I’d start/sit for week 7, you can find me on twitter @ZT_Sports or drop the question in the comments at the bottom of the page. For information on other positions, starter rankings, waiver wire pickups, and plenty of fantasy football goodness, check out our Fansided fantasy football page.