Backfield question marks starting to clear up
Very nice of the Giants to declare Brandon Jacobs out for Sunday's game so early. For Jacobs, this is a disappointing turn in a great season. He really wanted to play 16 games, but has missed two and a half of the last four. It's the smart move, though: Jacobs' most important football is ahead of him.
This allows Derrick Ward owners to start the usual backup with confidence. Ward is the type of back I love: he can do everything. His receiving ability makes him more complete of a back than Jacobs. He's not as explosive or powerful as the The Train, but he's not lacking for short-yardage ability at 235 pounds.
What a great test of strengths between Dallas' improved rush defense and the Giants offensive line. When push comes to shove, I'd still bet on New York's historical running game winning the battle. That's why Ward is ranked 14th on the updated rankings, just behind Dominic Rhodes of the Colts. Joseph Addai looks very unlikely to play. That leaves Frank Gore and Marion Barber as the biggest question marks for Sunday, with both players looking iffy at best. My gut says MBIII has the best chance to play, but he's got a tough matchup and could lose carries to "Rashard" Choice even if he plays.
Comments
How many touches do you think Bradshaw will get? I'm in quite a bind in my league with Jacobs declared out. My other choices at FLEX are Sproles, Betts, or Carlson. Right now, I'm leaning towards Sproles. Thanks for any input.
Posted by: Sam | December 12, 2008 02:47 PM
I need to know about Choice as well. I have to start 1 of Gore, Choice and sproles. Obviously if Gore goes i am good. But if not ill have to deicide between sproles and choice.
Posted by: Jeremy | December 12, 2008 03:04 PM
Ward FTW!
Thanks Tom Coughlin, Thanks for making my day.
Posted by: Mike | December 12, 2008 03:49 PM
I have LJ going this week, Ward is available...is it worth scooping Ward(dropping someone other than LJ)?
Posted by: Nick | December 12, 2008 07:45 PM
I sat PT b/c I have Ward, Rhodes, Turner, and MJD. I'm definitely going MJD and Rhodes (assuming Addai is out). The question becomes, in a PPR league, is Ward a better start than Turner against what could/should be a very angry, motivated TB D? Am I crazy? Any advice would be very appreciated. Thanks guys.
I'd go with Carlson in the flex spot Sam - I think he he'll have a nice outing against St. Louis.
Posted by: Joe | December 12, 2008 09:15 PM
I have Chris Johnson as my #1 Rb this week. I was going to start Ryan Grant with him. With the news of Ward starting, would he be the better option. It is Championship week and would appreciate the advise. TD and yardage only league.
Posted by: Jeff | December 12, 2008 10:14 PM
I have to make a choice at my flex between D.Ward at Dallas or L.White at Houston? I need help on this one..
Posted by: Jon | December 13, 2008 11:43 AM