Welcome to Week 3, everyone! It’s time to finalize those fantasy lineups! The Start ‘Em, Sit ‘Em segment highlights the best and worst matchups for fantasy football leagues each week. I won’t address top-tier players like Breece Hall or Bijan Robinson because you’re already set to start them! Instead, I’ll focus on other running backs who might either outperform or underperform expectations based on their matchup, such as Rachaad White in Week 2!
For your final lineup choices, be sure to look at my fantasy player rankings, which I update daily! Additionally, don’t forget to subscribe to Fantasy Dirt, hosted by Lindsay Rhodes and me, as we analyze everything related to fantasy football five days a week!
Remember to check my start ’em, sit ’em picks for all other positions as well before you finalize your lineup: QB | WR | TE | K & D/ST
1. Breece Hall vs. Patriots (Thurs.)
2. Saquon Barkley at Saints
3. Bijan Robinson vs. Chiefs
4. Alvin Kamara vs. Eagles
5. Jordan Mason at Rams
6. De’Vone Achane at Seahawks
7. Kyren Williams vs. 49ers
8. Jahmyr Gibbs at Cardinals
9. Jonathan Taylor vs. Bears
10. Zach Charbonnet vs. Dolphins
Check out the complete running back rankings for Week 3!
Start of the Week
Zach Charbonnet vs. Dolphins (4:05 p.m. ET, CBS): Charbonnet had an impressive performance in last week’s victory against the Patriots, scoring 17.9 points. He dominated the backfield touches in Kenneth Walker’s absence, handling all 19 of Seattle’s carries. If Walker remains sidelined, Charbonnet is likely to have another strong showing in a favorable matchup against the Dolphins, who have surrendered the sixth-most fantasy points to running backs over the first two weeks.
Start ‘Em
Rachaad White vs. Broncos (1 p.m. ET, Fox): After being labeled a sit ‘em last week, White struggled significantly, recording just 3.3 points in a victory against the Lions. Nonetheless, I’m optimistic about this talented pass catcher as he faces the Broncos this week, a matchup that could be precisely what he needs. Since last season’s beginning, no away defense has conceded more fantasy points to running backs than Denver’s. Therefore, White is poised to bounce back.
J.K. Dobbins at Steelers (1 p.m. ET, CBS): Dobbins has been excelling with the Chargers, amassing a remarkable 43 fantasy points while averaging 9.6 yards per run. He should remain in the RB2 discussions this week as he takes on a Steelers defense that has allowed the fifth-most fantasy points to visiting running backs since last season. Anticipate Dobbins to deliver another impressive performance this weekend.
David Montgomery at Cardinals (4:25 p.m. ET, Fox): Montgomery has had a strong start to the season, averaging 16.7 fantasy points in his first two games. He should be a reliable fantasy asset again this week as the Lions head to Arizona for their game against the Cardinals. Since last season began, no defense has yielded more fantasy points to visiting running backs than Arizona. Additionally, running backs have averaged 4.7 yards per rush in the desert.
Zack Moss vs. Commanders (Mon. 8:15 p.m. ET, ABC/ESPN+): After a disappointing 5.7-point outing against the Chiefs, there is a silver lining for Moss. He remains the Bengals’ starting running back, with more snaps and touches compared to teammate Chase Brown. Furthermore, he faces a favorable matchup this week against a Commanders defense that has allowed the third-most points to home running backs since last season. Moss is a solid flex consideration.
RBs With Good Matchups
Sep 8, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Minnesota Vikings running back Aaron Jones (33) celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the New York Giants during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Jones-Imagn Images / John Jones-Imagn Images
Sit of the Week
Aaron Jones vs. Texans (1 p.m. ET, CBS): Although Jones is a challenging player to bench, I suggest moderating your expectations for this week. Despite playing more snaps, he was outcarried by Ty Chandler in the previous game. While this may not indicate a clear committee approach, it is certainly noteworthy. Moreover, Jones will be up against a formidable opponent, as the Texans have permitted just 2.3 yards per rush and have allowed the third-fewest fantasy points to running backs this season. Therefore, it’s wise to be cautious with Jones.
Sit ‘Em
Najee Harris vs. Chargers (1 p.m. ET, CBS): Harris had a disappointing performance last week, managing only 8.4 points despite a favorable matchup in Denver. Additionally, he played fewer snaps than his teammate Jaylen Warren. Considering he faces a Chargers defense that has allowed backs an average of less than 19 fantasy points over the first two games, it’s clear that Harris poses a flex risk at best for this weekend.
D’Andre Swift at Colts (1 p.m. ET, CBS): Swift’s season has started off poorly. In his first two games, he has averaged just two yards per rush and only 6.6 fantasy points. Furthermore, his Rush EPA stands at minus-11.1, ranking him as one of the bottom five running backs in the league. Although this week’s matchup against the Colts appears decent on paper, trusting Swift is a gamble. At most, he presents a risk-reward flex option in this interconference matchup.
Devin Singletary at Browns (1 p.m. ET, Fox): After being recommended as a start last week, Singletary found the end zone and scored 14.5 fantasy points in a loss to the Commanders. However, I would exercise caution with him this week due to a significantly tougher matchup against the Browns. In their last 10 home games, the Browns’ defense has conceded only four rushing touchdowns and an average of 68.6 rushing yards per game. Thus, Singletary might only be a risk-reward flex choice.
Javonte Williams at Buccaneers (1 p.m. ET, Fox): Williams recorded a respectable 11.5 PPR points in last week’s loss to the Steelers; however, he averaged a disappointing 1.6 yards per rush and primarily contributed as a pass catcher. This week, he faces the Buccaneers, who have struggled against running backs so far this season but went up against the dynamic duo of Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs last week. Given the likely negative game script, I would opt to bench Williams.
RBs Facing Tough Matchups
Additionally, I’ve provided guidance for start ’em, sit ’em recommendations for Week 3 across all other positions as well:
Fantasy Football Week 3: Essential Start ‘Em and Sit ‘Em Running Back Strategies
Understanding the Running Back Landscape
As we dive into Week 3 of the Fantasy Football season, understanding the running back landscape is vital for making informed start ’em and sit ’em decisions. Running backs are often the backbone of your fantasy team, impacting your weekly score significantly. Here’s a closer look at strategies you can employ for the upcoming week.
Start ‘Em Running Backs
Here are some running backs you should consider starting in Week 3:
- Christian McCaffrey (San Francisco 49ers)
- Matchup: New York Giants
- Analysis: McCaffrey has been a dominant force, consistently producing high yardage and touchdown numbers. The Giants’ defense struggles against dual-threat running backs.
- Austin Ekeler (Los Angeles Chargers)
- Matchup: Minnesota Vikings
- Analysis: Ekeler’s ability to catch passes out of the backfield gives him a high floor in PPR leagues. The Vikings’ defense has been leaky, allowing big plays to running backs.
- Saquon Barkley (New York Giants)
- Matchup: San Francisco 49ers
- Analysis: Barkley has a favorable matchup and is expected to receive a high volume of touches, especially if the Giants fall behind.
Table: Week 3 Running Back Start Recommendations
| Player | Team | Matchup | Projected Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Christian McCaffrey | 49ers | Giants | 25 |
| Austin Ekeler | Chargers | Vikings | 22 |
| Saquon Barkley | Giants | 49ers | 20 |
Factors to Consider When Starting Running Backs
Before you finalize your start ’em choices, consider these key factors:
Matchup Analysis
- Evaluate the opposing defense’s strengths and weaknesses.
- Look for trends in how defenses perform against running backs, especially in terms of yards allowed and touchdowns given up.
Volume and Opportunity
- Consider the running back’s role in the team’s game plan. A high-volume back is essential for a successful fantasy week.
- Monitor injury reports to determine if a running back will see increased carries due to an injury to a teammate.
Utilizing Advanced Metrics
- Examine advanced statistics like yards after contact and target share.
- Use metrics such as expected points added (EPA) to gauge a running back’s potential impact.
Sit ‘Em Running Backs
Now let’s look at some running backs you should consider sitting in Week 3:
- David Montgomery (Detroit Lions)
- Matchup: Atlanta Falcons
- Analysis: With a tough matchup against a solid Falcons defense, Montgomery’s workload may not result in fantasy points.
- James Robinson (New England Patriots)
- Matchup: New York Jets
- Analysis: Robinson’s role has diminished, and he may not receive enough touches to warrant a start.
- Travis Etienne (Jacksonville Jaguars)
- Matchup: Houston Texans
- Analysis: Etienne has been inconsistent, and with a crowded backfield, his touches may be limited.
Table: Week 3 Running Back Sit Recommendations
| Player | Team | Matchup | Projected Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Montgomery | Lions | Falcons | 8 |
| James Robinson | Patriots | Jets | 5 |
| Travis Etienne | Jaguars | Texans | 7 |
Benefits of Proper Start ‘Em and Sit ‘Em Decisions
Making the right choices on running backs can provide several benefits:
- Maximized Points: Starting the right players can significantly increase your weekly score.
- Strategic Advantage: Understanding matchups can give you a competitive edge over your opponents.
- Informed Decisions: Regularly analyzing trends and player performance helps in making better choices throughout the season.
Practical Tips for Week 3
Here are some practical tips to consider as you finalize your roster:
- Stay updated on injury reports to adjust your lineup as needed.
- Check the weather conditions, especially for outdoor games, as they can impact performance.
- Consider the offensive line’s performance, as a strong line can elevate a running back’s success.
Case Studies: Successful Start ’Em Decisions
Reflecting on past performances can help guide your decisions. Here are a couple of successful case studies from previous weeks:
- Week 1 Highlight: Starting Tony Pollard against the Giants proved successful as he racked up both rushing yards and receptions.
- Week 2 Insight: Sitting Ezekiel Elliott was beneficial as he underperformed against a tough defense.
Conclusion: Navigate Fantasy Football Week 3 with Confidence
By focusing on matchups, player volume, and advanced metrics, you can make informed start ’em and sit ’em decisions for your running backs in Week 3. Remember to stay flexible and adjust based on the latest team news and player conditions.
