2024 Fantasy Football Week 9: Start or Sit Running Backs

Each week we’ll break down running backs that should start in your fantasy lineup and running backs that would be better left on your bench. There are just a few players like Saquon Barkley or Derrick Henry who are matchup proof and should be in your starting lineups every week barring a major circumstance.

Running Backs to Start in Week 9:

Tony Pollard & Rhamondre Stevenson

Both the Titans and Patriots are likely to have their backup quarterbacks play. Both teams have terrible run defenses. Both teams have featured their running backs heavily when they don’t know what else to do. We’re expecting both Pollard and Stevenson to have 100+ yard days. 

Brian Robinson Jr

If B Rob suits up for the Commanders, he has a very favorable matchup against a 2-6 Giants team. The Commanders are going to get up big early and the game script is going to call for lots of ground & pound the rest of the game for Robinson Jr to rack up the stat sheet. 

Running Backs to Sit in Week 9:

Nick Chubb

For the second week in a row, Nick Chubb plays a tough run defense. The Browns are going to be throwing the ball against the Chargers and Chubb is a touchdown dependent start. 

Javonte Williams

Baltimore’s pass defense might be struggling, but their run defense is top-tier. The Ravens have been one of the toughest opponents for opposing running backs all season. Last week, Williams was our must start of the week and bombed in that spot. We’re moving him to the fade side where he’ll likely be for most of the year. 

Rico Dowdle

With Ezekiel Elliott not playing, this means more touches for Rico Dowdle. We aren’t rushing to start him however as he’s been a bit of a letdown this season and the Cowboys are playing on the road in a game they’ll likely be behind for most of it. It’s going to be a pass heavy game script and Dowdle is going to have another mediocre performance for one of the worst running offenses in the league.