RUNNING BACKS
Start — Kimani Vidal (LAC @ TEN)
Los Angeles projects a positive game script, and Vidal’s early-down work plus goal-line equity fits that scenario. Tennessee has been vulnerable to power/duo concepts that the Chargers leaned into last week. Vidal’s tackle-breaking has translated to steady success rates on first and second down. A high-end RB2 profile with RB1 access if the Chargers jump out early.
Start — D’Andre Swift (CHI @ CIN)
Chicago gets back to the thunder and lightning formula (Swift and Monangai) in this one, restoring offensive identity after last week’s chaos. A high total and rising rushing efficiency also make this attractive. Cincinnati has been susceptible to chunk runs, opening lanes for perimeter and cutback schemes. Multi-touchdown pathways exist in this pace-up spot.
Sit — Chase Brown (CIN vs. CHI)
Workload volatility (Samaje Perine’s arrow is pointing up) keeps the week-to-week floor fragile. In higher-scoring games, Cincinnati often tilts pass-heavy in neutral/negative scripts, squeezing early-down carries. Chicago’s front has been disruptive to RB rhythm, making opposing ball carriers’ totals TD-dependent. Don’t like the growing timeshare, don’t like the matchup.
Sit — David Montgomery (DET vs. MIN)
My weekly “make me regret sitting you” spot. He’s here until he proves me wrong. Detroit has leaned wayyyy into Gibbs lately, and Montgomery just hasn’t been as effective with his touches. The Vikings run defense is pretty decent, and I don’t see a big game for both backs here. Monty is another TD-dependent back this week, and I’m looking elsewhere.
