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Injuries can derail a fantasy football season. At this point in the season an injury to a player could mean the difference between getting that extra few yards needed to win or not, which could translate into better playoff seeding or missing out entirely. With that in mind, here is a look in on a few running backs who suffered injuries during week 11.
Adrian Peterson has mentioned that he was bothered by a groin injury, noting that it impacted his chances of breaking off a few big yardage plays. If he plays, you are always starting Peterson, but I wouldn’t be expecting a huge day in week 12 against the Green Bay Packers. Toby Gerhart is not a reliable fantasy option.
LeSean McCoy suffered a hamstring injury, causing him to miss a few series. When he was able to return, he ran well enough for fantasy owners. The Philadelphia Eagles are on bye this week, but cautious owners might want to consider adding Bryce Brown, who went on a tear around this time last season.
Fred Jackson gave owners a scare when he came up with another left knee injury, but it was short lived as he was able to return without missing any significant time. Like the Eagles, the Buffalo Bills are on bye this week, so his week 13 status against the Atlanta Falcons does not appear to be in any danger.
Joique Bell was having a monster game this week with 97 yards and a touchdown before he left the game with an ankle injury near the end of the fourth quarter. Coach Jim Schwartz has stated that Bell has avoided a long term injury, but owners should not expect much in week 12 against a stout Tampa Bay Buccaneers run defense. Reggie Bush gets a bump up due to the increased workload. Bell should remained owned in all formats.
Darren Sproles tweaked his ankle early but did return to action later, but did not look to have his trademark burst and cutting ability. With the New Orleans Saints on a short week, (they travel to play the Atlanta Falcons on Thursday night), owners might need to have another option ready to roll in case of any setbacks this week in practice. Atlanta is allowing the 11th most fantasy points against to running backs so if Sproles can’t go, then Pierre Thomas and Mark Ingram both get boosts.
As always, I welcome your comments. If you think I’m wrong, I’m willing to listen. Just back it up with some facts and solid evidence. Thanks for reading and good luck this season.
Dustin Manko is an author at Rant Sports.com. Follow him on Twitter @DustinManko, ”Like” him on Facebook or add him to your network on Google
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