Running Back Resurgence: Waiver Wire Targets for Week 13
The NFL landscape is constantly shifting, and Week 13 is no exception. Injuries have sidelined star running backs like Christian McCaffrey, Dalvin Cook, and D’Andre Swift, leaving fantasy football managers scrambling for replacements. Compounding the issue, the Cleveland Browns and Green Bay Packers are on bye weeks, benching Nick Chubb, Kareem Hunt, and Aaron Jones.Fear not,fantasy warriors! The waiver wire is teeming with potential replacements ready to step up and deliver. Here are seven running backs to consider adding to your roster:
1. Alexander Mattison – Minnesota Vikings (48% Available in Yahoo! Leagues)
With Dalvin Cook sidelined, Mattison becomes the Vikings’ lead back. the third-year pro has a proven track record of success, excelling in Weeks 3 and 5 when Cook was previously injured. Mattison should be your top waiver priority.
2. Boston Scott – Philadelphia Eagles (80% Available in Yahoo! Leagues)
The Eagles’ run-heavy offense presents a valuable opportunity for fantasy managers. While the backfield distribution remains somewhat unclear, Scott emerged as the preferred option last week, racking up 72 yards and a touchdown. Facing the struggling New York Jets this Sunday further bolsters his appeal.
3. Jamaal Williams – Detroit Lions (59% Available in Yahoo! Leagues)
If D’Andre Swift’s shoulder injury lingers, Williams is poised for a critically important workload against the Vikings. Last week, when Swift exited the game, Williams received 15 carries, amassing 65 yards and adding 18 receiving yards on five receptions.
4. Matt Breida – Buffalo Bills (77% Available in Yahoo! Leagues)
Breida appears to have ascended to the Bills’ lead back role after spending most of the season as the third option. With Zack Moss inactive and Devin Singletary primarily used in garbage time last Thursday against the Saints, Breida’s opportunity is clear. While the Bills’ upcoming schedule isn’t favorable, Breida is worth considering for managers in need.
5. Dontrell Hilliard – Tennessee Titans (71% Available in Yahoo! Leagues)
Hilliard isn’t an immediate solution, as the Titans are on bye this week. however, he’s emerged as the Titans’ primary back in Derrick Henry’s absence, showcasing his potential with 131 yards and a touchdown last Sunday.His receiving ability adds another dimension to his fantasy value.
6. Chuba Hubbard – Carolina Panthers (60% Available in Yahoo! Leagues)
Similar to Hilliard, Hubbard won’t play this week due to the Panthers’ bye. However, he’s expected to shoulder the load for the remainder of the season in McCaffrey’s absence. Earlier this season, Hubbard averaged over 20 carries per game when McCaffrey was sidelined.
7. Tony pollard – Dallas Cowboys (17% Available in Yahoo! Leagues)
Pollard’s availability is limited, but if he’s on your waiver wire, snatch him up instantly. Reports indicate the Cowboys plan to rest Ezekiel Elliott this week, paving the way for Pollard to dominate touches against the New Orleans Saints on Thursday.
Fantasy Football Running Backs: A Waiver Wire Deep Dive with Coach Johnson
Welcome back, fantasy fanatics! This week throws us another curveball with injuries too some fantasy studs. Christian McCaffrey, Dalvin Cook, and D’Andre Swift are all sidelined, leaving many of us scrambling for replacements.
To get some expert insight on navigating this tumultuous waiver wire landscape, I’m joined today by coach Johnson, former NFL running backs coach and current fantasy football guru. Welcome to the show, Coach!
Coach Johnson: Thanks for having me.Always happy to talk football,especially fantasy football!
Moderator: Coach,let’s jump right in. This article highlights seven running backs who could be game-changers for fantasy teams this week. What’s your take on Alexander Mattison stepping into the Vikings’ lead back role with Dalvin Cook out?
Coach Johnson: Mattison’s a solid pick. We’ve seen him produce when given the opportunity, and the Vikings’ offense should give him plenty of chances to shine. He’s definitely my top target this week.
Moderator: I see Boston Scott listed as a potential pickup. He had a decent showing last week against the Broncos.Do you think he can maintain that momentum against the Jets’ defense?
coach Johnson: The Jets’ defense has been vulnerable against the run, so Scott has a good chance to put up some points. Though, I’d be cautious. The Eagles’ backfield can be a bit unpredictable, so make sure you have other options.
Moderator: Jamaal Williams seems like a good bet if Swift’s shoulder issues persist. He seems to be carving out a role in Detroit.
Coach Johnson: You’re right. Williams is a reliable player who can handle a heavy workload. If Swift is out for any significant amount of time, Williams could become a valuable fantasy asset.
Moderator: Matt Breida is another interesting name. He appears to have taken over the lead back role in Buffalo.
Coach Johnson: It’s definitely a risky play, especially considering their impending schedule. Though, if you need a desperate flex option, Breida could be worth a gamble.
Moderator: Now, about Dontrell Hilliard and Chuba Hubbard. both are on bye this week, but they could be valuable assets down the line.
Coach Johnson: Absolutely. Hilliard showed his potential filling in for Derrick Henry, and hubbard proved himself capable of handling a lead back role earlier this season.
Moderator: There’s a lot of buzz around Tony Pollard with Zeke likely resting this week.
Coach Johnson: If Pollard is available in your league, snatch him up! This could be a rare opportunity to start a truly explosive back without using a high draft pick.
Moderator: These are some great insights, Coach! Thanks for sharing your expertise. Readers, what do you think? Are you planning on targeting any of these running backs?
Let us know in the comments below and don’t forget to subscribe for more in-depth fantasy football analysis and expert advice.
