Targets and goal line carries are the lifeblood of quality fantasy production for the running back position. The starting role and receiving a high volume of carries is nice, but not near the end zone makes those touches empty-calorie opportunities. In short, they do not mean much. However, being a starter and high-volume back generally points to receiving more targets and goal-line chances for high fantasy-scoring plays. This weekly feature analyzes all 32 NFL depth charts for underrated and overrated running backs.
- Current RK: Team Ranking in Expected High-Leverage Opportunity PPR Points
- HLO: High-Leverage Opportunity Score Average Per Week
- GL: Rank in Goal-Line Carries (Inside the Five-Yard-Line)
- TGT: Rank in Team Running Back Targets
THE GOOD
Falcons
Atlanta had their best HLO weekly finish since Week 9 this past game. Bijan Robinson being utilized heavily in the passing game is a boon for the Falcons and also fantasy teams. They were 82% better than their weekly average and are now up to No.6 in running back targets on the season. Tyler Allgeier and Cordarrelle Patterson are in a full-blown committee on the rushing side of the backfield. The Falcons have one of the best aSOS running back matchups in Week 17 against Chicago.
Jets
New York rebounded from their season-worst No.29 HLO finish in Week 15 with a dominant showing and the top overall Week 16 finish, 99% higher than their weekly average. Breece Hall had a wide receiver-like receiving stat line this past week, fueling plenty of title game appearances in fantasy leagues. Israel Abanikanda has been elevated to the RB2 role over Dalvin Cook and could see extended time in Week 18 with the Jets out of the playoff race.
Cardinals
Arizona is surging with three top-five HLO finishes over their past four games. Emari Demercado has collected receiving production during the span. James Conner has 17.9 PPR points or more in each of the games as well. With another strong week, Arizona will climb out of the No.32 ranking on the season. Demercado is a quality dynasty stash for the offseason.