10 RB sleepers to target for fantasy football week 1

CINCINNATI, OH - OCTOBER 23, 2016: Running back Giovani Bernard
CINCINNATI, OH - OCTOBER 23, 2016: Running back Giovani Bernard /
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CINCINNATI, OH – OCTOBER 23, 2016: Running back Giovani Bernard
CINCINNATI, OH – OCTOBER 23, 2016: Running back Giovani Bernard /

7. Giovani Bernard

Yes, I’m well aware the first name on my list of fantasy football “sits” this week was the Bengals starting runner, Joe Mixon. However, what do teams turn to when their ground and pound runners are shut down and taken out of the game? The passing attack. And when the Bengals pass the ball, Giovani Bernard is the man by Andy Dalton’s side in the backfield.

The Bengals’ backfield is a bit of a muddled mess for fantasy owners right now. The team seems to be convinced Jeremy Hill is still worthy of a starting position, as according to their depth chart he’s number one, Bernard is at two, and their rookie brings up the rear as number three. At some point, I believe that will be flipped on its head, as Mixon is one of the many running backs leading a resurgence at the position and will take over the full-time role due to his superior talent.

For now, we’re focusing on Week 1. The Baltimore Ravens defense is dominant. While they may have the least exciting offense in the league, they are going to shut opponents down and keep games low-scoring. A.J. Green and Joe Mixon will be the top two players the Ravens aim to limit, and that leaves room for the players around them to see more targets and involvement. In PPR leagues, Bernard should have a solid output.