Running Backs: Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em for Week 17 of Fantasy Football

As we enter Week 17 of the 2024 fantasy football season, the stakes are at their highest with championship titles on the line. Making informed decisions about your running back lineup is crucial. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate your start ’em and sit ’em choices for this pivotal week.

Start ‘Em: Running Backs

1. Zach Charbonnet (Seattle Seahawks) at Chicago Bears

   With Kenneth Walker III sidelined due to an ankle injury, Charbonnet is set to take on a featured role against the Bears. Chicago’s defense has been vulnerable, allowing 10 touchdowns and 4.9 yards per rush to running backs over the last eight weeks. This favorable matchup positions Charbonnet as a strong start for Week 17.

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2. Bucky Irving (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) vs. Carolina Panthers

   Irving has been consistent, posting 18.2 points in his recent game against the Cowboys. Facing the Panthers, who have allowed 17-plus PPR points to running backs 10 times this season, Irving is poised for another productive outing.

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3. Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns) vs. Miami Dolphins

   Ford delivered 24.1 points in a loss to the Bengals and continues to see significant usage in the Browns’ backfield. The Dolphins’ defense has been susceptible, making Ford a viable starting option this week.

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4. Tyrone Tracy Jr. (Green Bay Packers) vs. Indianapolis Colts

   Tracy Jr. has scored 14-plus points in three of his last four games. The Colts’ defense has been generous to running backs, allowing nine total touchdowns over the past eight weeks, making Tracy Jr. a solid flex play.

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5. Tyjae Spears (Tennessee Titans) at Jacksonville Jaguars

   Spears has been on fire, scoring 48.8 fantasy points over the last two weeks. With a matchup against the Jaguars, who have allowed the third-most points to running backs since Week 8, Spears is a strong flex option.

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Sit ‘Em: Running Backs

1. Najee Harris (Pittsburgh Steelers) vs. Kansas City Chiefs

   Harris managed only 4.2 points last week and now faces the Chiefs, whose defense has been stout against running backs, allowing the third-fewest points over the last eight weeks. It’s advisable to look for alternative options.

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2. Gus Edwards (Baltimore Ravens) at New England Patriots

   Despite a strong performance last week, Edwards has been inconsistent. The Patriots’ defense doesn’t present a particularly tough matchup, but Edwards’ low floor makes him a risky play during championship week.

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3. Javonte Williams (Denver Broncos) at Cincinnati Bengals

   Williams had limited carries last week and faces a Bengals defense that has been effective against the run. Given Denver’s unpredictable backfield, it’s best to avoid this potential trap.

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4. D’Andre Swift (Philadelphia Eagles) vs. Dallas Cowboys

   Swift faces a tough matchup against the Cowboys, whose defense has been formidable against running backs. Considering the stakes, it might be wise to explore other options with more favorable matchups.

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5. Isiah Pacheco (Kansas City Chiefs) at Pittsburgh Steelers

   Pacheco faces a challenging matchup against the Steelers’ defense, which has been effective in containing running backs. Given the circumstances, it would be prudent to consider alternative options for your lineup.

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Additional Considerations

• Injury Updates: Monitor the status of key players like Alvin Kamara, who is expected to miss the remainder of the season due to a groin injury. In his absence, Kendre Miller is expected to lead the backfield for the New Orleans Saints.
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• Weather Conditions: With winter in full swing, weather can significantly impact game play, especially for running backs. Keep an eye on forecasts for outdoor games, as inclement weather can lead to a heavier reliance on the running game.
• Matchup Analysis: Always consider the defensive strengths and weaknesses of your players’ opponents. Utilizing tools like the NFL’s fantasy matchup data can provide valuable insights.

Navigating Week 17 requires a strategic approach, especially with championship aspirations on the line. By carefully considering matchups, recent performances, and potential game scripts, you can make informed decisions to optimize your running back selections. Stay updated with the latest news and be prepared to adjust your lineup as necessary to secure that coveted fantasy football championship.