2023 Fantasy Football Week 5: Start Em’ or Sit Em’ Running Backs – The Jonathan Taylor Dilemma

Each week we’ll break down one player that should start in your fantasy lineup and one that would be better left on the bench per position. There are players like Christian McCaffrrey and Derrick Henry who are matchup proof and should be in your starting lineups every week barring a major circumstance.

Running Backs to Start:

Bijan Robinson

The Houston Texans have been known for having a weak run defense over the last couple seasons. It hasn’t improved much and they are going to face the dynamic rookie Bijan Robinson. With Ridder and the pass offense not doing anything, Bijan is in for a high volume day. Bijan is going to get a lot of work and is going to thrive with this opportunity. 

De’Von Achane

The 4 touchdown performance against the Broncos wasn’t a fluke as despite losing against the Bills, Achane still was a focal point of the Dolphins offense. The rookie should become the starter by the end of the season. The rookie back is in for another big game as the Dolphins should handle the Giants with ease and he should get plenty of red zone opportunities. 

Breece Hall

The Denver Broncos defense has been one of the worst defenses in the NFL this year. They gave up over 700 yards of offense to the Dolphins. Last week, they gave up 28 points to the Bears. This week, they get an opponent that isn’t strong like the Bears, but they are so bad, they are going to make the Jets look like a contender. Breece Hall finally has his best game of the year after having a couple tough games early on.

Running Backs to Sit:

Rhamondre Stevenson

We love Rhamondre Stevenson and he’s a criminally underrated running back, but the Patriots offense is limiting his potential. They just aren’t a serious threat and with Stevenson playing through injury, his potential is even more limited. The Saints defense is going to be too much for Stevenson and the Pats offense. 

Jonathan Taylor

After a month of not playing football, Jonathan Taylor is finally off the PUP list and has returned to the team at practice. Whether or not he’s activated for the game this weekend is a different story. If he is activated, it is very tempting to start him with how dominant he has been in his career. However, even if he is listed as active, the Colts might not play him or if he does play, it could be in limited fashion. We’re holding off on starting JT until we get more clarity on the situation. 

Miles Sanders

The Detroit Lions are giving up the fewest rushing yards per game and the 0-4 Panthers face them. It’s not going to be pretty for the Panthers offense who have already struggled. It also doesn’t help for Miles Sanders’ case that he has been losing touches to Chuba Hubbard. Miles Sanders is only startable in deeper leagues.