Top 5 Fantasy Sleeper Running Backs: Week 3

As the season progresses, many running backs have dissapointed, been injured, and pleasently suprised fantasy owners. Based on how the season's outcomes thus far, lets see which backs can surpass expectations this week based on particular matchups.


Daniel Thomas Projection: 14, RT Projection: 17
Thomas is facing up against a Cleveland Browns team that has let over 100 yards on the ground the last two weeks, after Thomas' 107 yard performance last week against Houston, I can see him running for 100 again with a score. Thomas isn't a burner or a bruiser as far as standards, but he has the speed to make some miss, and the size to break tackles. As Reggie Bush's further regression takes place, lets watch the rookie become studly as the season progresses.





 Shonn Greene Projection: 12, RT Projection 14
This is tough, because Greene is a perennial fantasy disappointment, but if he's on your bench and you have a flex play option open, start him. The Raiders defense gave up 180 yards and 2 Touchdowns last week against the Bills, and Fred Jackson is comparable to Shonn Greene as far as running style and speed. I expect Greene to get in the 15-20 carry range, and that bodes well as the Jets are the clear favorite in this match up.






Marshawn Lynch Projection 8, RT Projection 13
Marshawn, Marshawn, Marshawn, how you and your team has been annoyingly disappointing thus far. The only reason I have Lynch here was because of how putrid the Cardinals defense was last week against the Washington Redskins (31 attempts, 177 yards). Sure Lynch hasn't produced a solid fantasy score this season, but against the 49ers week one, a comparable opponent to the Cardinals, he had 13 carries. I expect this game to be ugly and close, but that bodes well for Lynch who I expect to score a touchdown. If you have few options as a flex and he's on your bench, I'd start him.




Brandon Jacobs Projection 3, RT Projection 12
Jocobs make the list again, as he disappointed week one, but blew up for 13 points in week 2 against St. Louis. He head to Philadelphia this week against the 31st worst run defense of the Eagles. The Eagles have given up 30 plus points on the ground each game this season, both by bruisers in Michael Turner, and Steven Jackson. Jacobs is still in a time-share, but he will not disappoint, he may even win you your match up if you start him as your flex.










DeMarco Murray Projection 2, RT Projection 10
DeMarco is better than Tashard Choice, period. With Felix Jone's doubtful after missing practice this week, and Tony Romo, Miles Austin, and Dez Bryant banged up, Murray is the lead candidate to step up and beat a skaky 2-0 Redskins team. If your team is depleted and in need of life-support, start him as your flex, if not, hold off until he proves himself.